☀️ Weather in Sapa
👍 When to go to Sapa
🔎 Weather in Months
❓ Questions + Answers
🎫 Excursion + Tickets
🎫 Book Tickets Online
What is the weather in Sapa in northern Vietnam?
Sapa, located in northern Vietnam, experiences a subtropical highland climate with four distinct seasons. The weather in Sapa (Lao Cai province) can vary greatly depending on the season and the elevation of the area. In general, the summer months from May to August are warm and humid, with average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F) during the day and cooling down to around 15°C (59°F) at night. This is also the rainy season in Sapa, with frequent showers and occasional thunderstorms. From September to November, the weather in Sapa becomes cooler and drier, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F) during the day and dropping to around 10°C (50°F) at night. This is considered the best time to visit Sapa, as the weather is mild and the rice terraces are at their most beautiful. Finally, from March to April, the weather in Sapa starts to warm up and become more humid, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F) during the day and cooling down to around 12°C (54°F) at night.
☀️ The dry season in Sapa typically starts from October and lasts until March. During this time, the weather is generally cool and dry, with lower humidity and less rainfall compared to the wet season. This makes it an excellent time for trekking and outdoor activities as the trails are less muddy, and the weather is generally comfortable for hiking.
⛈️ The rainy season Sapa typically starts in April and lasts until September. During this time, the weather is generally warm and wet, with high humidity and frequent rainfall. The rainfall peaks in July and August, which are considered the wettest months in Sapa. The wet season can make trekking and outdoor activities more challenging, as the trails can be muddy and slippery. The wet season also brings lush greenery and beautiful waterfalls to the region, making it a good time for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
🎫 Book tickets / car from Hanoi to Sapa + Schedule:
(You can change your departure, arrival, e.g. Sapa to Hanoi, Ninh Binh to Sapa…)
What is the best time to visit Sapa in Vietnam?
The best time to visit Sapa in Vietnam is from March to May or from September to November. During these months, the weather is relatively dry, and the temperature is pleasant, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring the rice terraces. In March and April, the landscape is particularly beautiful as the rice terraces are full of water, creating a reflective surface that adds to the stunning scenery. September and October are also great months to visit as it is the rice harvest season, and you can witness the local people busy with the harvest.
However, it’s worth noting that Sapa is a popular tourist destination, and the town can get crowded during peak season. If you prefer to avoid the crowds, consider visiting Sapa during the offseason months, but be prepared for colder temperatures and occasional rain. The average temperature is approximately the same as in Ha Giang or Lai Chau mountain province. You can check the current weather ➜ Current weather in Sapa.
BOOK a TOUR / ACTIVITY in Sapa ➜
Weather in Sapa throughout the year:
| Month | Weather Description |
|---|---|
| January in Sapa | In Sapa, January is one of the coldest months of the year. The average high temperature is around 14°C (57°F) and the average low temperature is around 2°C (36°F). It can get even colder at night, dropping below freezing temperatures. Visitors can expect frequent fog, mist, and drizzle during this month. It’s important to bring warm clothing and appropriate footwear for the chilly and potentially wet conditions. You can read this article: What to pack to Vietnam. |
| February in Sapa | In Sapa, February is still considered as winter with cool temperatures and occasional light rain. The average high temperature is around 15°C (59°F) and the average low temperature is around 9°C (48°F). It is recommended to bring warm clothes and rain gear when visiting Sapa during this time. The weather is generally cloudy and foggy, which can limit visibility of the beautiful landscapes. However, the cooler temperatures make it a great time for trekking and outdoor activities. |
| March in Sapa | In Sapa, March is still considered a winter month with average high temperatures of around 18°C and average low temperatures of around 10°C. The month sees a significant decrease in rainfall compared to the previous months, with an average of 95mm of precipitation. However, visitors should still bring warm clothing as temperatures can drop to below 5°C at night. The weather is generally cloudy with occasional sunny breaks. |
| April in Sapa | In Sapa, April marks the beginning of the warmer season with an average high temperature of around 22°C and an average low temperature of around 13°C. The weather is generally pleasant with occasional showers and cloudy skies. Visitors should bring light clothing for warm days and a light jacket for cooler nights. It’s a great time to explore the surrounding nature and hike through the beautiful landscapes of Sapa. |
| May in Sapa | Mild and humid with occasional temperature is 23°C and average low temperature is 13°C. The rainy season continues in May, but temperatures continue to rise. Visitors should bring both warm and cool clothing, as well as rain gear. The weather is generally cloudy with occasional sunny breaks. The rice terraces start to turn green in May, making it a popular time to visit for photography and hiking. |
| June in Sapa | In Sapa, June marks the beginning of the summer season with temperatures ranging from 16°C (61°F) to 25°C (77°F). It is a relatively warm and wet month, with an average of 286mm of rainfall spread out over 20 days, making it one of the rainiest months of the year. The humidity is high, averaging around 85%. However, despite the rainy conditions, June can still be a good time to visit Sapa as the rice terraces are lush and green, and there are plenty of opportunities for trekking and exploring the surrounding areas. It’s important to pack rain gear and waterproof shoes if visiting Sapa in June. |
| July in Sapa | July is one of the wettest months in Sapa with an average of 435mm of rainfall over 22 days. The temperatures are similar to June, ranging from 16°C (61°F) to 25°C (77°F), and the humidity remains high at around 85%. Trekking and outdoor activities can be challenging during this month due to the heavy rainfall, but the scenery can be spectacular with the rice terraces at their greenest. |
| August in Sapa | August is similar to July with warm temperatures ranging from 16°C (61°F) to 25°C (77°F). It is the wettest month in Sapa with an average of 490mm of rainfall spread over 23 days. The humidity remains high, averaging around 85%. The rainy conditions can make it challenging to explore the town and surrounding areas, but it can also be a great time to witness the lush greenery of the rice terraces. |
| September in Sapa | September marks the transition from the rainy season to the dry season in Sapa. The temperatures range from 15°C (59°F) to 23°C (73°F), and the rainfall decreases to an average of 288mm spread over 17 days. The humidity levels start to decrease as well, making it a more comfortable time to visit Sapa. The rice terraces start to turn golden as the harvest approaches, creating a beautiful contrast to the blue skies and green mountains. |
| October in Sapa | In October, Sapa is in the dry season with temperatures ranging from 13°C (55°F) to 22°C (72°F). The rainfall decreases significantly to an average of 98mm over 11 days. The humidity is lower, averaging around 75%, making it a comfortable time to explore the area. The rice terraces are at their golden best, making it a popular time to visit Sapa for photography enthusiasts. It can get chilly at night, so it’s important to pack warm clothes. |
| November in Sapa | November is a great time to visit Sapa as the weather is mild, and the rice terraces are still golden. The average temperature during this month ranges from 10°C (50°F) to 21°C (70°F), making it a comfortable time for outdoor activities such as trekking and exploring the surrounding areas. The average humidity is around 70%, making the air feel less humid than during the summer months. The rainfall increases slightly to an average of 75mm over 8 days, but it is still relatively dry. The highlight of November in Sapa is the rice harvest season. The rice terraces turn into a golden-yellow hue, creating a beautiful and picturesque landscape. The harvest season usually starts in mid-September and lasts until the end of November. |
| December in Sapa | December is the start of the winter season in Sapa. Temperatures range from 7°C (45°F) to 18°C (64°F), and the humidity is around 70%. The average rainfall increases to 45mm over 6 days. December can be a beautiful time to visit Sapa as the rice terraces turn into a frosty white wonderland, and the scenery is stunning. However, it can get quite cold, and it’s important to pack warm clothes to stay comfortable. It’s also a good time for cultural experiences, as the local ethnic minorities celebrate various festivals and rituals. |
The Current weather in Sapa (Lao Cai):
Max, Min and Average Temperature in Sapa:
Max Temperature in Sapa: During the warmer months, Sapa experiences maximum temperatures that typically range from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius (68 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit). From April to September, the town basks in the warmth of the sun, offering pleasant conditions for outdoor activities such as trekking through terraced rice fields or exploring ethnic minority villages. The peak of summer, particularly June and July, sees temperatures at their highest, creating a comfortable environment for adventure enthusiasts seeking to conquer the surrounding peaks or simply soak in the natural beauty.
Min Temperature in Sapa: Conversely, Sapa’s temperature takes a dip during the cooler months, with minimum temperatures dropping to as low as 0 degrees Celsius (32 degrees Fahrenheit) or even below freezing point. From November to February, the town experiences its coldest period, characterized by chilly mornings and evenings. Winter brings with it a magical atmosphere as mist blankets the valleys and frost adorns the landscape, transforming Sapa into a winter wonderland. Despite the cold, this time of year holds its own charm, offering visitors the opportunity to cozy up by the fireplace or witness the rare sight of snow-capped mountains in Vietnam.
Average Temperature in Sapa: The average temperature in Sapa reflects the diverse climatic conditions that prevail throughout the year. Across all seasons, the town maintains a temperate climate, with an annual average temperature ranging from 15 to 18 degrees Celsius (59 to 64 degrees Fahrenheit). This moderate climate contributes to Sapa’s allure as a destination suitable for exploration at any time of the year, offering a refreshing escape from the sweltering heat of lowland regions in the summer and a refreshing retreat from urban bustle in the winter.
| Month | Max Temp (°C) | Min Temp (°C) | Aver. Temp (°C) |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 13 | 6 | 9.5 |
| February | 14 | 7 | 10.5 |
| March | 17 | 9 | 13 |
| April | 22 | 13 | 17.5 |
| May | 23 | 15 | 19 |
| June | 23 | 16 | 19.5 |
| July | 23 | 16 | 19.5 |
| August | 23 | 16 | 19.5 |
| Sep | 22 | 15 | 18.5 |
| October | 19 | 12 | 15.5 |
| Nov | 16 | 9 | 12.5 |
| Dec | 13 | 6 | 9.5 |
Rainfall and Rainy Days in Sapa:
Rainfall in Sapa: Sapa receives the bulk of its rainfall during two distinct periods: from May to September and from December to March. During these months, precipitation levels are at their peak, with heavy downpours often occurring in the afternoons and evenings. The average annual rainfall in Sapa ranges from 1,800 to 2,200 millimeters, nourishing the region’s terraced rice fields, dense forests, and cascading waterfalls. Despite the occasional deluge, the rain adds a refreshing vibrancy to the landscape, enhancing the allure of Sapa’s natural beauty.
Rainy Days in Sapa: Throughout the year, Sapa experiences a considerable number of rainy days, particularly during the wet seasons. From May to September, rainy days are frequent, with afternoon showers punctuating the days and providing relief from the summer heat. Similarly, from December to March, rainy days are common as cold fronts sweep through the region, bringing with them drizzles and mists that shroud the hills in an ethereal veil. Despite the rain, Sapa’s charm remains undiminished, offering visitors the opportunity to witness the beauty of its landscapes in all weather conditions.
| Month | Rainfall (mm) | Rainy Days |
|---|---|---|
| January | 59 | 9 |
| February | 93 | 13 |
| March | 135 | 17 |
| April | 263 | 22 |
| May | 476 | 27 |
| June | 652 | 27 |
| July | 871 | 27 |
| August | 857 | 27 |
| September | 563 | 23 |
| October | 245 | 16 |
| November | 107 | 10 |
| December | 46 | 8 |
| Total | 2,700 | 178 |
Snowfall and Snow Days in Sapa:
Sapa experiences occasional snowfall during the winter months, typically from December to February. However, the amount of snowfall can vary greatly from year to year, and it is not uncommon for some winters to have no snow at all. On average, Sapa receives around 10 to 15 snow days per year, with the heaviest snowfall occurring in January and February. Snow can make the already stunning landscape even more breathtaking, making it a popular time for tourists to visit Sapa. You can also read this article: Weather in Fansipan Mountain.
| Month | Snowfall (cm) | Snow Days |
|---|---|---|
| December | 5 | 2 |
| January | 15 | 5 |
| February | 10 | 4 |
| Total | 30 | 11 |
Max and Average Wind Speed and Wind Gust in Sapa:
Sapa has moderate to strong winds throughout the year, with the average maximum wind speed of 7-8 meters per second. The strongest winds occur during the winter months (November-February), while wind gusts can reach up to 25 meters per second during typhoon season (July-September). Average wind speed is around 3-4 meters per second, with variations in different locations and elevations.
| Month | Average Wind Speed (m/s) | Max Wind Gust (m/s) | Max Wind Gust (m/s) |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 8 | 3.5 | 20 |
| February | 8 | 3.5 | 22 |
| March | 8 | 3.5 | 22 |
| April | 7 | 3.2 | 18 |
| May | 7 | 3.2 | 18 |
| June | 6 | 2.5 | 15 |
| July | 6 | 2.5 | 15 |
| August | 6 | 2.5 | 15 |
| September | 7 | 3.0 | 18 |
| October | 7 | 3.0 | 20 |
| November | 8 | 3.5 | 22 |
| December | 8 | 3.5 | 20 |
Cloud and Humidity in Sapa:
Cloud Cover in Sapa: Throughout the year, Sapa experiences an array of cloud formations that dance across its mountainous terrain, creating mesmerizing vistas for onlookers. From wispy cirrus clouds that adorn the sky on clear days to thick blankets of cumulus clouds that roll in with the afternoon mist, Sapa’s cloud cover adds depth and drama to its landscape. Particularly during the wet season from May to September, low-lying clouds often envelop the hills, shrouding them in a mystical veil and lending an ethereal quality to the scenery. The interplay of light and shadow amidst the clouds creates ever-changing panoramas that captivate the imagination of all who behold them.
Humidity in Sapa: Sapa’s humidity levels vary seasonally, influenced by its proximity to the tropics and its mountainous terrain. During the wet season, humidity levels tend to be higher, ranging from 80% to 90%, as moisture-laden air flows into the region, nourishing the lush vegetation and sustaining the diverse ecosystems. In contrast, the dry season, which spans from October to April, sees humidity levels decrease to around 60% to 70%, creating a more comfortable and refreshing atmosphere for outdoor activities such as trekking and exploring the surrounding landscapes. Despite fluctuations in humidity, Sapa’s climate remains mild and pleasant year-round, offering visitors an ideal escape from the sweltering heat of lowland regions.
| Month | Cloud Cover (%) | Average Relative Humidity (%) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 30 | 75 |
| February | 36 | 80 |
| March | 44 | 82 |
| April | 47 | 80 |
| May | 51 | 79 |
| June | 60 | 80 |
| July | 61 | 78 |
| August | 60 | 78 |
| September | 56 | 76 |
| October | 48 | 75 |
| November | 38 | 74 |
| December | 29 | 72 |
Sun Hours and Sun Days in Sapa:
Sun Hours in Sapa: Sapa’s sun hours vary seasonally, with the highest concentrations occurring during the dry season from October to April. During this time, the town enjoys an average of 5 to 7 hours of sunlight per day, illuminating the lush hillsides, terraced rice fields, and cascading waterfalls that define the region’s natural beauty. The clear skies and abundant sunshine create ideal conditions for outdoor activities such as trekking, photography, and sightseeing, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the splendor of Sapa’s landscapes.
Sun Days in Sapa: Throughout the year, Sapa experiences a mix of sunny and cloudy days, influenced by its mountainous terrain and proximity to seasonal weather patterns. During the dry season, sunny days are more prevalent, with clear skies dominating the landscape and providing ample opportunities for exploration and adventure. However, the wet season, which spans from May to September, brings with it an increase in cloud cover and occasional rainfall, resulting in fewer sun days. Despite this, Sapa’s charm remains undiminished, offering visitors the chance to witness the beauty of its landscapes in all weather conditions.
| Month | Average Sun Hours per Day | Average Sun Days per Month |
|---|---|---|
| January | 2 | 97 |
| February | 3 | 97 |
| March | 4 | 98 |
| April | 6 | 101 |
| May | 5 | 100 |
| June | 4 | 98 |
| July | 2 | 89 |
| August | 2 | 92 |
| September | 3 | 96 |
| October | 4 | 98 |
| November | 3 | 97 |
| December | 2 | 96 |
Visibility in Sapa:
Visibility in Sapa: Sapa, nestled amidst the misty mountains of northern Vietnam, experiences varying levels of visibility that add to the town’s ethereal charm and allure. These fluctuations in visibility, influenced by seasonal weather patterns and mountainous terrain, contribute to the unique atmosphere of Sapa, captivating visitors with its ever-changing vistas.
Visibility Dynamics: Visibility in Sapa is subject to change throughout the year, with conditions ranging from crystal-clear panoramas to mist-shrouded landscapes. During the dry season, from October to April, visibility tends to be clearer, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys, terraced rice fields, and distant peaks. The crisp mountain air and minimal cloud cover create ideal conditions for sightseeing and outdoor exploration, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the splendor of Sapa’s natural beauty.
Misty Ambiance: Conversely, the wet season, spanning from May to September, brings with it an increase in mist and fog that envelops the hillsides in an enchanting veil. While this misty ambiance may occasionally limit visibility, it adds a sense of mystery and romance to the landscape, transforming Sapa into a surreal and otherworldly destination. The interplay of light and shadow amidst the mist creates captivating scenes that evoke a sense of wonder and awe, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the magic of Sapa’s misty mountains.
| Month | Visibility (km) |
|---|---|
| January | 5 km |
| February | 6 km |
| March | 8 km |
| April | 9 km |
| May | 8 km |
| June | 7 km |
| July | 7 km |
| August | 7 km |
| September | 8 km |
| October | 9 km |
| November | 8 km |
| December | 6 km |
❓ Frequently Asked Questions – Weather in Sapa:
1. What is the weather in Sapa?
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- Sapa has a subtropical highland climate, with cool and dry winters, and warm and wet summers. The average temperature ranges from 15°C to 29°C, depending on the season. The best time to visit Sapa is from September to November when the weather is cool and dry, and the rice terraces turn into a beautiful golden hue. However, it’s important to note that weather conditions can be unpredictable, and it’s advisable to check the weather forecast.
2. What is the best time to visit Sapa?
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- The best time to visit Sapa, a mountainous town in northern Vietnam, depends on your preferences and what you want to experience. If you prefer cool weather and want to see the rice terraces at their most vibrant, then the best time to visit Sapa is from September to November. During this period, the rice terraces are at their most picturesque with golden hues as the rice crops near harvest time.
3. How you can get to Sapa from Hanoi?
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- You can travel from Hanoi to Sapa by tourist bus, minivan, private car or train + bus via Lao Cai. There is no domestic flight to Sapa, Sapa has no airport.
4. What about winter months in Sapa?
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- December, January, February are winter months in Sapa. Weather is not bad, but it could be very cold and foggy, sometimes there is a snow. If you want to travel in Sapa in these months, take a warmer waterproof clothing.
5. Is there a snow in Sapa?
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- Yes, there is a chance of snow in Sapa during the winter months, typically from December to February. However, snowfall is not very common in Sapa and it doesn’t happen every year. When it does snow, it usually only lasts for a day or two, and the snowfall is not heavy, e.g. on Fansipan Mountain.
6. What are the most rainy months in Sapa?
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- The rainy season in Sapa typically lasts from May to September, with July and August being the wettest months. During this time, the town and surrounding areas receive the highest amount of rainfall, and it’s not uncommon to experience heavy downpours that can last for several hours.
7. What to take if you want to hike in Sapa?
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- If you’re planning to hike in Sapa, Vietnam, here are some essentials you should consider bringing: hiking shoes or boots with good traction, comfortable and breathable clothing suitable for hiking, a waterproof and lightweight jacket or raincoat, a hat and sunglasses for sun protection, sunscreen with a high SPF rating to protect your skin from the sun, insect repellent to protect you from mosquitoes and other insects, a backpack to carry your essentials and snacks, a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated, a first-aid kit with basic supplies like band-aids, antiseptic, pain relievers.
8. What is not a good time to visit Sapa?
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- The rainy season in Sapa runs from May to September, and during this time, the weather can be unpredictable and the trails can become muddy and slippery, making trekking more difficult. Additionally, the views may be obscured by clouds and mist, reducing visibility. Furthermore, Sapa experiences a cold winter from December to February, with temperatures dropping below freezing and occasional snowfall. The cold and damp weather may not be suitable for some travelers, especially those who are not used to such conditions.
9. Is it possible to visit Sapa during the rainy season?
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- Yes, it is possible to visit Sapa during the rainy season, but be prepared for slippery roads and muddy trails. The scenery can still be beautiful during this time, but it’s not the ideal time to visit.
10. What is the average humidity in Sapa?
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- The average humidity in Sapa varies throughout the year, but generally, it is relatively high due to the town’s location in a mountainous area with plenty of rainfall. During the rainy season, which runs from May to September, the average humidity can be as high as 90% or more. In the dry season, which runs from October to April, the humidity tends to be lower, averaging around 70%.
11. Can I see the rice terraces in Sapa all year round?
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- The rice terraces in Sapa can be seen all year round, but their appearance varies depending on the season. During summer, the terraces are lush and green, while during autumn, the rice plants turn yellow, creating a stunning golden color. In winter, the terraces are dry and brown, and in spring, new rice plants are planted, creating a beautiful green carpet across the terraces.
12. Where you can go from Sapa?
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- From Sapa you can travel to Dien Bien Phu via Lai Chau or you can go by bus, car or motorbike to Ha Giang Province. You can also travel by bus or motorbike to Mu Cang Chai or you can go to Hanoi.
13. Where you can book a tour to Sapa?
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- You can book a tour for several days in Sapa – Vietnam easily online with KLOOK. It is also possible to buy various tickets for attractions or rent a motorbike, scooter with Klook.
