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What is the weather and climate in Vientiane in Laos?
If you’re planning a trip to Vientiane, Laos, it’s important to know what to expect when it comes to the weather. Vientiane has a tropical savanna climate, which means that it has two distinct seasons: a wet season and a dry season. The wet season in Vientiane typically runs from May to October, and during this time, the city experiences heavy rainfall and high levels of humidity. If you’re someone who doesn’t enjoy getting caught in the rain or feeling sticky and uncomfortable due to humidity, it might be best to plan your trip during the dry season instead.
The dry season in Vientiane lasts from November to April and is characterized by hot and humid weather. While the temperatures during the day can soar to around 30°C (86°F), it cools down to a more comfortable 20°C (68°F) at night. If you’re someone who loves the heat and wants to enjoy some sunshine, the dry season might be the perfect time for you to visit. That being said, it’s important to note that Vientiane is known for its hot and humid weather all year round. The months of March, April, and May are particularly hot and humid, so make sure to pack plenty of light and breathable clothing to stay cool and comfortable during your visit.
What is the best time – season to visit Vientiane?
The best time to visit Vientiane, Laos, is during the dry season, which typically runs from November to April. During this time, the weather is hot and humid, but there is less rainfall compared to the wet season, making it a great time to explore the city and take part in outdoor activities. The months of December and January are particularly pleasant, with cooler temperatures and a lower level of humidity. This time of year is also popular with visitors due to the festive atmosphere and celebrations surrounding the Christmas and New Year holidays.
However, it’s worth noting that the dry season is also peak tourist season, so you can expect crowds and higher prices for accommodation and activities. If you prefer to avoid the crowds, you may want to consider visiting Vientiane during the shoulder season, which runs from May to October, or even during the wet season if you don’t mind the rain.
What is the current weather in Vientiane? ➜ Current weather in Vientiane
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Weather in Vientiane throughout the year:
| Month | Weather Description |
|---|---|
| January in Vientiane | In January, Vientiane, the capital city of Laos, experiences cool and dry weather with an average temperature range of 15°C (59°F) to 27°C (81°F). The days are mostly sunny with very little rain, making it a great time to explore the city and its attractions. However, the nights can be chilly, so it’s recommended to carry some warm clothes. Overall, January is considered a pleasant time to visit Vientiane. |
| February in Vientiane | While February is still considered part of the dry season in Vientiane, there may be occasional brief showers, especially towards the end of the month. The weather remains cool and comfortable, with low humidity and plenty of sunshine. It’s a great time to explore the city’s many temples, markets, and museums, as well as take day trips to nearby attractions like the Buddha Park. |
| March in Vientiane | As the dry season comes to an end in March, the weather starts to get hotter and more humid. The temperature can be quite pleasant in the mornings and evenings, but it can reach uncomfortable levels during the middle of the day. However, there is still very little rainfall, so it’s a good time to explore outdoor attractions like the Xieng Khouang Buddha Park and the Pak Ou Caves. |
| April in Vientiane | April is the hottest month in Vientiane, with temperatures reaching well above 30°C (86°F) on most days. The humidity can also be quite high, making it feel even hotter. While there is still very little rainfall, occasional thunderstorms can occur, bringing some relief from the heat. It’s a good time to visit the city’s indoor attractions like the Lao National Museum and the Wat Si Saket temple, or take a break from the heat by visiting one of the city’s many cafes or restaurants. |
| May in Vientiane | May marks the beginning of the rainy season in Vientiane, with increasing humidity and more frequent rainfall. The average temperature ranges from 24°C (75°F) to 34°C (93°F), with occasional thunderstorms and heavy downpours. The city is less crowded during this time, and it’s a good time to explore the Mekong River and take part in water activities like kayaking and river cruising. |
| June in Vientiane | In June, the rainy season continues, with even higher humidity and more frequent rainfall. The temperature remains high, with average highs reaching up to 34°C (93°F). While it may not be the best time to explore the outdoors, it’s a good time to visit the city’s indoor attractions like the Talat Sao Market and the Vientiane Night Market. |
| July in Vientiane | July is one of the wettest months in Vientiane, with heavy rainfall and occasional thunderstorms. The temperature remains high, with average highs reaching up to 33°C (91°F). It’s a good time to take part in indoor activities like cooking classes, spa treatments, or traditional Lao massages. However, it’s important to be prepared for the weather by carrying an umbrella or raincoat. |
| August in Vientiane | August is still part of the rainy season in Vientiane, with high humidity and frequent rain showers. The average temperature ranges from 24°C (75°F) to 32°C (90°F). Despite the rain, there are still plenty of indoor and outdoor activities to enjoy in Vientiane, such as visiting the Pha That Luang temple or exploring the city’s art galleries and museums. |
| September in Vientiane | September falls within the wet season in Vientiane, Laos. During this time, the city experiences high levels of rainfall and humidity, with temperatures ranging from around 24°C (75°F) to 32°C (90°F). While the wet season can make some outdoor activities challenging, it can also be a great time to experience the lush greenery and vibrant scenery that comes with the rainy season. Additionally, September is towards the end of the wet season, which means that the rainfall may be less intense compared to earlier in the season. |
| October in Vientiane | October in Vientiane, Laos, is still considered part of the wet season, although the rainfall tends to decrease as the month progresses. Temperatures during this time of year typically range from around 24°C (75°F) to 32°C (90°F), with high levels of humidity. If you’re planning a trip to Vientiane in October, you can expect to see some rain, but it may be less intense compared to earlier in the wet season. This can be a good time to explore the city and surrounding areas, as the rain can help to cool down the temperatures and create a lush, green environment. |
| November in Vientiane | November marks the beginning of the dry season in Vientiane, with cooler and drier weather. The average temperature ranges from 17°C (63°F) to 30°C (86°F), with low humidity and plenty of sunshine. This is a great time to explore the city’s outdoor attractions, such as the That Dam stupa or the Mekong River promenade, without the crowds of the high season. |
| December in Vientiane | December is considered one of the best times to visit Vientiane, Laos. It falls within the dry season, which runs from November to April, and is known for its comfortable temperatures and lower levels of humidity. During this time of year, temperatures in Vientiane typically range from around 18°C (64°F) to 28°C (82°F). It’s worth noting that December is peak tourist season in Vientiane, so you can expect crowds and higher prices for accommodation and activities. However, the city’s vibrant atmosphere and holiday festivities can make it a worthwhile experience for visitors who don’t mind the crowds. |
The Current weather in Vientiane:
Max, Min and Average Temperature in Vientiane:
Vientiane has a tropical climate with high temperatures and humidity throughout the year. The hottest months are from March to May with average maximum temperatures of 35°C (95°F) or higher. The rainy season is from May to October with high humidity and occasional rain showers. The cooler months of November to February have average maximum temperatures around 27°C (81°F) and minimum temperatures as low as 15°C (59°F). Visitors should bring appropriate clothing and stay hydrated to stay comfortable in the Vientiane climate.
| Month | Aver. Max. Temp. (°C) | Aver. Min. Temp. (°C) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 27 | 17 |
| February | 31 | 19 |
| March | 35 | 23 |
| April | 35 | 25 |
| May | 32 | 25 |
| June | 31 | 24 |
| July | 31 | 24 |
| August | 31 | 24 |
| September | 31 | 23 |
| October | 31 | 22 |
| November | 27 | 17 |
| December | 27 | 15 |
Rainfall and Rainy Days in Vientiane:
The rainy season in Vientiane typically runs from May to October, with the heaviest rainfall occurring in August and September. During this time, visitors can expect occasional rain showers and thunderstorms, with the possibility of flooding in some areas. It’s important for visitors to be prepared with appropriate rain gear and footwear. On average, Vientiane receives around 1,500 mm of rainfall per year. The wettest months are August and September, with an average of around 300 mm of rainfall per month. The driest months are December to February, with an average of around 10 mm of rainfall per month.
| Month | Aver. Rainfall (mm) | Aver. Rainy Days |
|---|---|---|
| January | 10 | 1 |
| February | 10 | 1 |
| March | 30 | 3 |
| April | 90 | 8 |
| May | 190 | 16 |
| June | 240 | 19 |
| July | 250 | 20 |
| August | 300 | 20 |
| September | 300 | 20 |
| October | 120 | 9 |
| November | 20 | 2 |
| December | 10 | 1 |
Max and Average Wind Speed and Wind Gust in Vientiane:
The average wind speed ranges from 2-5 km/h, with slightly higher speeds during the dry season. The maximum wind speed in Vientiane is typically around 20-30 km/h during the dry season, which runs from December to March. Wind gusts can occasionally reach up to 40-50 km/h during this time. In terms of wind gusts, Vientiane typically experiences gusts of up to 25-35 km/h during the dry season, with occasional gusts reaching up to 40-50 km/h. It’s important to note that while winds in Vientiane are generally mild, gusts can occasionally cause damage to trees and buildings, particularly during the dry season when the soil is dry and loose.
| Month | Max Wind Speed (m/s) | Average Wind Speed (m/s) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 3.2 | 1.6 |
| February | 3.4 | 1.7 |
| March | 3.8 | 1.9 |
| April | 4.2 | 2.1 |
| May | 4.6 | 2.3 |
| June | 4.6 | 2.3 |
| July | 4.3 | 2.2 |
| August | 4.0 | 2.0 |
| September | 3.7 | 1.8 |
| October | 3.5 | 1.7 |
| November | 3.1 | 1.6 |
| December | 2.9 | 1.4 |
Cloud and Humidity in Vientiane:
Vientiane has high humidity levels ranging from 60% to 90% throughout the year, with the highest levels occurring during the wet season. Cloud cover also varies depending on the season, with an increase in the wet season and minimal cloud cover in the dry season. These weather conditions can lead to increased chances of rain and thunderstorms, particularly during the wet season.
| Month | Aver. Cloud Cover | Aver. Humidity |
|---|---|---|
| January | Low cloud cover | 50-70% |
| February | Low cloud cover | 50-70% |
| March | Low cloud cover | 50-70% |
| April | Low cloud cover | 50-70% |
| May | Increased cloud cover | 70-90% |
| June | Increased cloud cover | 80-90% |
| July | Increased cloud cover | 80-90% |
| August | Increased cloud cover | 80-90% |
| September | Increased cloud cover | 80-90% |
| October | Increased cloud cover | 70-90% |
| November | Low cloud cover | 60-80% |
| December | Low cloud cover | 60-80% |
Sun Hours and Sun Days in Vientiane:
The city receives a significant amount of sunshine throughout the year. On average, Vientiane receives around 2,800 hours of sunshine annually, which is about 7.7 hours of sunshine per day. The sunniest months in Vientiane are typically from February to May, where the city experiences an average of 9 to 10 hours of sunshine per day. During the wet season, which lasts from May to October, Vientiane can still expect to see about 4 to 6 hours of sunshine per day. In terms of sun days, Vientiane generally experiences between 200 to 230 clear or partly cloudy days in a year, which means that there are about 55 to 63 days with cloudy or overcast conditions.
| Month | Aver. Sun Hours per Day | Aver. Sunny Days per Month |
|---|---|---|
| January | 7.5 | 20 |
| February | 9.5 | 22 |
| March | 9.5 | 23 |
| April | 9.5 | 23 |
| May | 9.5 | 23 |
| June | 6 | 20 |
| July | 6 | 20 |
| August | 6 | 20 |
| September | 6 | 19 |
| October | 6 | 19 |
| November | 8 | 21 |
| December | 7 | 20 |
Visibility in Vientiane:
Visibility in Vientiane is generally good throughout the year. However, during the dry season, which lasts from November to April, the city can experience episodes of haze and reduced visibility due to air pollution from forest fires, agricultural burning, and vehicle emissions. The worst months for air quality in Vientiane are typically February and March. On average, the visibility in Vientiane ranges from 10 to 20 kilometers, depending on the time of year and weather conditions. During the wet season, which lasts from May to October, visibility can be slightly reduced due to the presence of moisture in the air.
| Month | Aver. Visibility (km) |
|---|---|
| January | 15 |
| February | 10 |
| March | 10 |
| April | 15 |
| May | 20 |
| June | 20 |
| July | 20 |
| August | 20 |
| September | 20 |
| October | 20 |
| November | 15 |
| December | 15 |
❓ Frequently Asked Questions – Weather in Vientiane:
1. What is the weather like in Vientiane?
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- Vientiane has a tropical climate with two distinct seasons: a wet season from May to October and a dry season from November to April.
2. What is the average temperature in Vientiane?
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- The average temperature in Vientiane is around 28°C (82°F) throughout the year, with slightly cooler temperatures during the dry season and slightly warmer temperatures during the wet season.
3. When is the best time to visit Vientiane?
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- The best time to visit Vientiane is during the dry season from November to April when the weather is cooler and there is less rainfall. However, this is also peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and more crowds.
4. What is the wet season like in Vientiane?
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- During the wet season, Vientiane experiences heavy rainfall and high humidity. It can be quite hot and sticky, with temperatures ranging from 25-30°C (77-86°F).
5. What is the dry season like in Vientiane?
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- The dry season in Vientiane is characterized by cooler temperatures, low humidity, and minimal rainfall. Temperatures range from 20-28°C (68-82°F).
6. Does Vientiane ever experience extreme weather events?
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- Vientiane is relatively safe from natural disasters like hurricanes or earthquakes. However, the city can experience occasional flooding during the wet season.
7. What is the air quality like in Vientiane?
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- Vientiane has poor air quality due to high levels of pollution from vehicle emissions, forest fires, and agricultural burning. The worst months for air quality are typically February and March.
8. What is the humidity like in Vientiane?
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- Humidity in Vientiane is generally high throughout the year, but it is most pronounced during the wet season. Expect humidity levels of 70-90% during this time.
9. What is the rainfall like in Vientiane?
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- Vientiane receives the most rainfall during the wet season, with an average of 200-300mm per month. During the dry season, rainfall is minimal, with only a few millimeters per month.
10. What is the wind like in Vientiane?
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- Winds in Vientiane are generally light to moderate throughout the year. During the dry season, winds can be stronger, with occasional gusts up to 20km/h.
11. What is the sun exposure like in Vientiane?
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- Vientiane receives plenty of sunshine throughout the year, with an average of 8-9 hours of sunlight per day. However, UV radiation levels can be high, so it’s important to wear sunscreen and protective clothing.
12. What should I pack for a trip to Vientiane?
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- Pack lightweight, breathable clothing that is appropriate for hot and humid weather. Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.
13. Are there any weather-related safety tips for travelers in Vientiane?
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- During the wet season, be aware of the risk of flooding and avoid driving or walking through floodwaters. During the dry season, be mindful of the risk of wildfires and avoid lighting fires or smoking in forested areas. Additionally, be sure to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun to avoid heat exhaustion or sunstroke.
14. Where you can travel from Vientiane?
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- From Vientiane you can travel to various places in Laos or you can go to Thailand, e.g. to Bangkok. The most popular travel routes in Laos are from Vientiane to Vang Vieng, to Luang Prabang or you can also travel to Pakse.
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