☀️ Weather and Seasons
👍 When to Visit Laos
🔎 Individual Months
❓Questions + Answers
🗾 Specific Destinations
🎫 Excursion + Tickets
🎫 Book Tickets Online
What is the weather in Laos?
Laos experiences a tropical climate, characterized by two distinct seasons – the dry season and the wet season. The dry season in Laos typically runs from November to April, while the wet season occurs from May to October. It is better to visit this country in southeast Asia during the dry season.
⛈️ The wet season in Laos is marked by heavy rainfall and higher humidity levels, making it a less popular time for tourists. The rainfall can be particularly intense in August and September, leading to flooding in some areas. Temperatures during the wet season remain relatively high, ranging from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius. Despite the increased rainfall, the wet season can also have its own charms, with lush greenery and waterfalls in full flow. It can also be a good time for those interested in cultural events, as many festivals take place during this season.
☀️ The dry season in Laos is generally sunny and hot, with temperatures ranging from 25 to 35 degrees Celsius. This season is also characterized by lower humidity levels, making it a popular time for visitors to explore the country’s many outdoor attractions. However, in some parts of Laos, particularly the northern mountainous regions, the temperature can drop to around 10 degrees Celsius, especially in the evenings. In summary, the weather in Laos is generally hot and sunny during the dry season, with lower humidity levels, while the wet season is characterized by heavy rainfall and higher humidity levels, with lush greenery and waterfalls in full flow.
What is the best time to visit Laos?
The best time to visit Laos depends on your preferences and the activities you plan to do. Still it is better to avoid the rainy season and visit Laos in dry season. But you can travel to Laos thourghout the year.
☀️ The dry season in Laos runs from November to February and it is the best time to visit Laos. During this time, the weather is pleasant, with clear skies and comfortable temperatures ranging from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius. It is also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices.
⛈️ The wet season in Laos runs from May to October. You can experience Laos‘ vibrant festivals and cultural events, visit during the wet season, which runs from May to October.The rainy season brings cooler temperatures and lush greenery, making it an ideal time for trekking and exploring the countryside. However, be prepared for occasional downpours and potential flooding.
If you are on a budget and prefer fewer crowds, the shoulder seasons of March to April and September to October are a good option. These months offer relatively dry weather, lower prices, and fewer tourists compared to the peak season. In summary, the best time to visit Laos depends on your preferences and interests. The cool and dry season from November to February is ideal for comfortable temperatures and clear skies, while the wet season from May to October offers lush greenery and cultural festivals. The shoulder seasons of March to April and September to October offer a balance of good weather and lower prices. What is the current weather in Laos? ➜ Current weather in Laos.
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Weather in Laos throughout the year:
| Month | Weather Description |
|---|---|
| January | In January, Laos experiences dry and pleasant weather, making it one of the best months to visit the country. The temperature during the day is generally warm, ranging from 20 to 25 degrees Celsius, while the evenings can be slightly cooler. The skies are generally clear, with plenty of sunshine, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities such as trekking, cycling, and sightseeing. However, some areas in northern Laos can be cooler, particularly at night, so it is advisable to bring warm clothing. Overall, January is a great time to visit Laos to enjoy its natural beauty and cultural attractions, with comfortable weather conditions and minimal rainfall. |
| February | February is one of the best months to visit Laos, with dry and comfortable weather conditions throughout the country. The temperature during the day ranges from 20 to 25 degrees Celsius, with low humidity levels and plenty of sunshine. The weather is perfect for outdoor activities such as trekking, cycling, and sightseeing, with clear skies and minimal rainfall. However, some areas in the north can be cooler, particularly at night, so bring warm clothing if you’re planning to stay out late. Overall, February is a great time to enjoy the natural and cultural attractions of Laos, with pleasant weather conditions and minimal crowds. |
| March | In March, Laos transitions from the cool and dry season to the hot and dry season. The temperature starts to rise, with daytime temperatures ranging from 25 to 30 degrees Celsius, and the humidity level begins to increase. Occasional rain showers are not uncommon, especially towards the end of the month, but the weather is generally pleasant. March is a good time to explore Laos’s natural and cultural attractions, with comfortable weather conditions and fewer tourists compared to the peak season. |
| April | April is the hottest month in Laos, with temperatures ranging from 30 to 35 degrees Celsius during the day. The humidity level can be quite high, making the weather feel even hotter. However, the weather is generally dry, with minimal rainfall, making it a good time for outdoor activities. April is also the month of the Lao New Year festival, known as Pi Mai, which is celebrated with water fights and other festive activities. Expect large crowds during this time, especially in popular tourist destinations like Luang Prabang and Vientiane. |
| May | May marks the start of the wet season in Laos, with more frequent rain showers and higher humidity levels. The temperature ranges from 25 to 30 degrees Celsius during the day, but it can feel hotter due to the high humidity. The countryside becomes lush and green, making it an ideal time for trekking and exploring the natural beauty of Laos. However, be prepared for occasional downpours and muddy trails, as the rain can be heavy at times. May is also a good time to enjoy some of the lesser-known cultural festivals in Laos, such as the Rocket Festival in the northeastern region. |
| June | June is the beginning of the rainy season in Laos, with rainfall becoming more frequent and heavier throughout the month. The temperature ranges from 25 to 30 degrees Celsius during the day, with high humidity levels. The countryside becomes lush and green, but the rain can make outdoor activities challenging. Some trekking trails may be closed due to flooding, and landslides can occur. June is generally considered a low season for tourism in Laos, with fewer crowds and lower prices. |
| July | July is one of the wettest months in Laos, with frequent rain showers and high humidity levels. The temperature ranges from 25 to 30 degrees Celsius during the day, but it can feel hotter due to the high humidity. The rain can be heavy and prolonged, making outdoor activities challenging. Some roads and trekking trails may be closed due to flooding and landslides. July is a low season for tourism in Laos, with fewer crowds and lower prices, but it’s not the best time to visit if you plan to do a lot of outdoor activities. |
| August | In August, the rainy season continues in Laos, with frequent rain showers and high humidity levels. The temperature ranges from 25 to 30 degrees Celsius during the day, but it can feel hotter due to the high humidity. The rain can be heavy and prolonged, making outdoor activities challenging. However, some areas, such as the Bolaven Plateau, can be particularly beautiful during the rainy season, with lush greenery and waterfalls. August is generally considered a low season for tourism in Laos, with fewer crowds and lower prices. |
| September | September is the last month of the rainy season in Laos, with rainfall starting to taper off towards the end of the month. The temperature ranges from 25 to 30 degrees Celsius during the day, with high humidity levels. The countryside is lush and green, but the rain can make outdoor activities challenging. Some trekking trails may still be closed due to flooding and landslides. September is a low season for tourism in Laos, with fewer crowds and lower prices, but it’s not the best time to visit if you plan to do a lot of outdoor activities. |
| October | October marks the end of the rainy season in Laos, with rainfall decreasing throughout the month. The temperature ranges from 22 to 30 degrees Celsius during the day, with lower humidity levels than the previous months. The countryside is still lush and green from the rainy season, making it a great time for outdoor activities such as trekking and cycling. October is a good time to visit Laos if you prefer cooler weather and fewer crowds compared to the peak tourist season. |
| November | November is one of the best months to visit Laos, with comfortable temperatures and relatively dry weather. The temperature ranges from 18 to 28 degrees Celsius during the day, with lower humidity levels than the previous months. The countryside is still green from the rainy season, making it a great time for outdoor activities such as trekking and cycling. November is a popular month for tourists, so expect to see more crowds and higher prices compared to October. |
| December | December marks the beginning of the dry season in Laos, with little to no rainfall. The temperature ranges from 15 to 27 degrees Celsius during the day, with cooler temperatures at night. The countryside is still green from the rainy season, but the vegetation starts to dry out towards the end of the month. December is a popular month for tourists, with high season prices and crowds, especially around Christmas and New Year’s Eve. |
The Current weather in Laos:
Max, Min and Average Temperature in Laos:
The temperature in Laos varies depending on the season and location within the country. In the dry season (November to February), the temperature ranges from 15 to 28 degrees Celsius. In the hot season (March to May), the temperature can reach up to 40 degrees Celsius in some areas. In the rainy season (June to October), the temperature ranges from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius. The average temperature in Laos throughout the year is around 25 degrees Celsius. It’s important to check the weather forecast before traveling to Laos to be prepared for the conditions in the region you’ll be visiting.
| Month | Dry Season (Nov – Feb) | Hot Season (Mar – May) | Rainy Season (Jun – Oct) |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 15-28°C | 25-35°C | 20-30°C |
| February | 15-28°C | 25-35°C | 20-30°C |
| March | 18-33°C | 30-40°C | 25-35°C |
| April | 22-35°C | 30-40°C | 25-35°C |
| May | 22-35°C | 30-40°C | 25-35°C |
| June | 20-32°C | 25-35°C | 20-30°C |
| July | 20-32°C | 25-35°C | 20-30°C |
| August | 20-32°C | 25-35°C | 20-30°C |
| September | 20-32°C | 25-35°C | 20-30°C |
| October | 18-33°C | 25-35°C | 20-30°C |
| November | 15-28°C | 25-35°C | 20-30°C |
| December | 15-27°C | 25-35°C | 20-30°C |
Rainfall and Rainy Days in Laos:
Laos experiences heavy rainfall during the rainy season which lasts from May or June until October. On average, Laos receives around 1,500 to 2,500 millimeters of rainfall per year, with the highest amount of rainfall occurring in the central and northern regions. The number of rainy days in Laos varies depending on the season and region, with an average of 20 to 25 rainy days per month during the rainy season. Heavy rainfall can lead to flooding and landslides, particularly in mountainous regions, so travelers should check the weather forecast and be prepared for potential disruptions.
| Month | Aver. Rainfall (mm) | Aver. Rainy Days |
|---|---|---|
| January | 5 | 1 |
| February | 13 | 2 |
| March | 50 | 5 |
| April | 130 | 10 |
| May | 240 | 17 |
| June | 330 | 20 |
| July | 320 | 19 |
| August | 290 | 18 |
| September | 250 | 16 |
| October | 100 | 6 |
| November | 30 | 2 |
| December | 10 | 1 |
Cloud and Humidity in Laos:
Laos is located in Southeast Asia and experiences a tropical climate characterized by high humidity and occasional cloud cover. Humidity levels can range from 60% to 90% throughout the year, with the wet season from May to October typically being the most humid. During this period, cloud cover can be quite thick, especially in mountainous areas, and can lead to reduced visibility. In contrast, the dry season from November to April tends to have relatively clear skies with occasional clouds. Overall, visitors to Laos should be prepared for the country’s high humidity levels and occasional cloud cover, particularly during the wet season.
| Month | Cloud | Humidity |
|---|---|---|
| January | 31% | 64% |
| February | 32% | 66% |
| March | 34% | 70% |
| April | 39% | 74% |
| May | 46% | 78% |
| June | 52% | 80% |
| July | 56% | 81% |
| August | 55% | 80% |
| September | 51% | 77% |
| October | 45% | 72% |
| November | 37% | 66% |
| December | 31% | 63% |
Sun Hours and Sun Days in Laos:
The country experiences two distinct seasons: a rainy season and a dry season. The amount of sunlight that Laos receives varies depending on the time of year. Sun hours refer to the amount of time that the sun is visible in a day. In Laos, the number of sun hours varies depending on the season. During the dry season, which runs from November to April, Laos experiences a high number of sun hours. In some areas, the sun can be visible for up to 10 hours a day. During the rainy season, which runs from May to October, the number of sun hours decreases, and the country experiences more cloudy and overcast days.
| Month | Aver. Sun Hours per Day | Aver. Sunny Days per Month |
|---|---|---|
| January | 8 | 25 |
| February | 9 | 26 |
| March | 9 | 28 |
| April | 9 | 29 |
| May | 7 | 24 |
| June | 6 | 20 |
| July | 6 | 20 |
| August | 6 | 19 |
| September | 6 | 18 |
| October | 7 | 21 |
| November | 8 | 24 |
| December | 8 | 24 |
Visibility in Laos:
In Laos, visibility can be affected by a number of factors such as weather conditions, air pollution, and geographical features. During the dry season in Laos, which runs from November to April, the country experiences clear skies and generally good visibility. However, during the rainy season, which runs from May to October, visibility can be affected by the presence of fog and haze. In addition, air pollution from traffic, agriculture burning, and industrial activities can also reduce visibility in some urban areas. Laos is a mountainous country, and its terrain can also affect visibility. For example, in the northern part of the country, mist and fog can often form in valleys, which can reduce visibility in those areas.
| Month | Aver. Visibility (km) |
|---|---|
| Dry Season | 10 |
| Wet Season | 6 |
❓ Frequently Asked Questions – Weather in Laos:
1. What is the best time of year to visit Laos?
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- The best time to visit Laos is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During this time, the weather is sunny and dry, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. However, it is worth noting that this is also the peak tourist season, so prices for accommodation and transportation can be higher.
2. What is the temperature range in Laos?
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- The temperature in Laos varies depending on the season and location. In the lowlands, temperatures can reach up to 40°C (104°F) during the hottest months of April and May, while in the cooler mountainous regions of the north, temperatures can drop to around 10°C (50°F) during the winter months.
3. Is Laos a rainy country?
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- Laos has a distinct wet and dry season. During the wet season, which runs from May to October, there can be heavy rainfall and occasional flooding in some areas. However, the wet season can also be a good time to visit as the countryside is lush and green, and waterfalls and rivers are at their most impressive.
4. Are there any areas in Laos that are cooler than others?
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- The mountainous areas of northern Laos tend to be cooler than the lowlands in the south, with temperatures dropping to around 10°C (50°F) in some areas during the winter months. The town of Luang Prabang, which is located in the north, is known for its pleasant climate and is a popular destination year-round.
5. What is the humidity like in Laos?
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- Laos has a humid subtropical climate, with high levels of humidity all year round. However, the humidity is generally highest during the wet season, which can make it feel uncomfortably sticky and humid at times.
6. Is there a lot of air pollution in Laos?
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- Air pollution can be a problem in some urban areas of Laos, particularly during the dry season when burning of agricultural waste can lead to smog and haze. It is worth checking air quality indexes and taking precautions if you are sensitive to poor air quality.
7. Are there any natural disasters that affect the weather in Laos?
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- Laos can be affected by tropical storms and typhoons, particularly during the rainy season. Flooding and landslides can also occur during heavy rainfall, and it is important to stay informed about weather conditions and potential hazards if traveling during this time.
8. Can I expect clear skies during the dry season?
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- Yes, the dry season in Laos is known for its clear blue skies, making it a popular time for outdoor activities and sightseeing. However, it is worth noting that there can still be occasional rain showers during this time, particularly in the early and late parts of the dry season.
9. What is the visibility like in Laos?
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- Laos generally has good visibility throughout the year, although it can be affected by factors such as haze from burning crops and pollution in urban areas. In rural areas, visibility can be particularly affected during the dry season due to dust and smoke from agricultural fires. It is important to be aware of these factors when planning outdoor activities or travel in Laos.
10. Are there any areas in Laos that are prone to drought?
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- Yes, some areas in Laos are prone to drought, particularly during the dry season. The southern part of the country, including the provinces of Savannakhet, Salavan, and Sekong, are particularly susceptible to drought conditions. This can have a significant impact on local communities and agriculture, and can lead to water shortages, other problems.
11. Can I expect a lot of sunshine in Laos?
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- Yes, Laos receives plenty of sunshine throughout the year, with an average of 8 hours of sunshine per day during the dry season. However, it is still important to take precautions to protect against sunburn and dehydration, particularly during the hottest months of April and May.
12. Is it safe to travel to Laos during the rainy season?
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- While traveling to Laos during the rainy season can offer unique experiences and lush scenery, it is important to be aware of potential hazards such as flooding and landslides. It is recommended to check weather forecasts and stay informed about any warnings or alerts from local authorities before traveling during this time.
13. What should I pack for a trip to Laos?
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- If you are traveling to Laos during the dry season, it is recommended to pack lightweight and breathable clothing, as well as a hat and sunscreen to protect against the sun. If you are visiting during the wet season, it is recommended to bring waterproof shoes and a rain jacket or umbrella. It is also a good idea to bring insect repellent and medication for common travel illnesses such as diarrhea and malaria.
14. Where you can travel from Laos?
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- From Laos you can travel to the border countris, from Laos to Vietnam, Cambodia or Thailand. There are direct flights between these countries or you can travel by tourist bus or minivan.
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Weather in Different Regions of Laos:
| Destination in Laos | Best Time to Visit |
|---|---|
| Vientiane: |
Vientiane, the capital of Laos, offers the best experience from November to February when the weather is dry and pleasant. During this period, explore rich history, visit temples, and enjoy the serene atmosphere along the Mekong River. Temperatures range around 25-30 °C, ideal for strolls and cultural discoveries. Avoid the rainy season from June to September. |
| Luang Prabang: |
Luang Prabang, a UNESCO-listed historic city, is best visited from November to February. During this time, you can avoid rains and enjoy the beauty of royal palaces, markets, and monasteries uninterrupted by weather. Temperatures are pleasant, often around 20 °C. Don’t forget to layer clothing as evenings may be cooler. During the rainy months from June to September, you can experience lush green scenery but with higher rainfall. |
| Vang Vieng: |
For a visit to Vang Vieng, the dry period from November to February is recommended. During this time, you can avoid hot temperatures and enjoy beautiful landscapes, rivers, and adventures in the surroundings. Temperatures range between 15-25 °C, ideal for outdoor activities. During the rainy months from June to September, you may experience lush vegetation but also an increase in mosquitoes. |
| Pakse: |
The ideal time to visit Pakse is from November to February. During this time, you can enjoy the beauty of cafes, local culture, and natural wonders, including numerous waterfalls in the area. Temperatures are pleasant, around 25 °C. During the dry period, you avoid hot temperatures and minimize the risk of rains that can rejuvenate the green landscapes during the rainy months from June to September. |
| Savannakhet: |
Savannakhet, the second-largest city in Laos, captivates the most from November to February. During this time, you can explore colonial architecture, local markets, and taste traditional Laotian cuisine without concerns about rain. Temperatures range between 20-30 °C, creating a pleasant environment for city strolls. During the rainy months from June to September, you can experience more intense green landscapes but with occasional rains. |
| Don Det: |
For a visit to Don Det in the 4000 Islands area, the period from November to February is recommended. During this time, you can avoid rains and enjoy a peaceful stay on the banks of the Mekong River. Temperatures are pleasant, around 25 °C. During the rainy months from June to September, you may experience higher river levels and a greener environment, but with occasional rains. |
| Luang Namtha: |
Luang Namtha, the gateway to northern Laos, is most appealing from November to February. During this time, you can avoid rains and immerse yourself in natural beauty, treks, and visits to ethnic villages. Temperatures range around 15-25 °C, ideal for hiking. During the rainy months from June to September, you can experience lush vegetation and higher river levels. |
| Phonsavan: |
The ideal time to visit Phonsavan is from November to February. During this time, you can avoid rains and explore interesting stone structures and history related to the Vietnam War. Temperatures are pleasant, ranging around 15-25 °C. During the rainy months from June to September, you can experience a more extensive green landscape, but with occasional rains. |
| Pak Beng: |
For a visit to Pak Beng, a town on the banks of the Mekong River, it is advisable to choose the period from November to February. During this time, you can avoid rains and enjoy a peaceful stay with beautiful river views. Temperatures range around 15-25 °C, creating pleasant conditions for relaxation by the river. During the rainy months from June to September, you may experience higher river levels and more intense green landscapes. |
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