Best time to visit Laos

1. Laos weather overview

Laos has a tropical climate with two distinct seasons: from May to October is the hot and rainy season (August is the wettest and most humid month), and from November to April is the cool and dry season. Within this general framework, there are regional differences, which can be summarized as: the further south you go, the hotter it gets. For example, in January, during the middle of the dry season, the average high temperature in Pakse and southern areas is 29°C, dropping to 27°C in Vientiane, and a relatively cool 24°C in Luang Prabang.

Additionally, the climate in some northeastern areas – particularly Phongsali and Hua Phan (Sam Neua) – can surprise with its unpredictability, even during the hot season. You might experience a scorching sunny day followed by a cold and wet one, making you wonder if you are still in Southeast Asia.

1.1. Laos Dry Season

In Laos's dry season, the months differ, as there is cool and dry weather (from November to February) and hot and dry weather (from March to April). Obviously, the cool and dry weather is much more pleasant, making this the ideal time to visit the country. The temperatures are relatively low, and the air is cleaner. Particularly in November and December, the river levels are high enough for river cruises. It's no surprise that this period is the peak tourist season in Laos.

Luang Prabang, surrounded by forests and with the Mekong River running through it, has typical tropical weather. This area tends to be cooler than regions to the south. In the coldest dry months, such as December and January, temperatures can drop to 17°C at night. Early in the morning before the sun rises, you might feel chilly. Therefore, preparing a light jacket for the morning is wise in this weather.

In some mountainous regions of Laos, such as Nong Khiaw and the Bolaven Plateau, there can be a significant temperature difference between day and night. At night, it's cool enough that you don't even need a fan to sleep.

1.2. Laos Wet Season

Laos's rainy season lasts from May to October, also known as the "green season," when rains revive the landscape after the prolonged dryness of the previous months. You can expect high humidity across the country.

The first few weeks of the rainy season are still sweltering, with brief showers at night and in the early morning. Lush vegetation reappears, and majestic waterfalls flow freely again by July. As the rainy season continues into August and September, the rains become heavier and more frequent. Traveling to remote areas can be difficult during this time as many roads become impassable. October is significantly drier and is an ideal time to visit Laos before the tourist season begins, thanks to the mild weather and beautiful landscapes.

During the rainy season, major festivals include the Lao Rocket Festival (May, June, and July), the Boun Ok Phansa’s Lai Heau Fai (Festival of Lights), and the Boat Racing Festival (October).

2. Laos weather by month

Regardless of when you travel to Laos, you’ll find that each season paints a different picture of this country. With attractions year-round, there is no wrong time to visit Laos.

3. Which month is best to visit Laos? 

Although there are two distinct weather seasons in Laos, you can visit the country year-round with the advantages of each season. However, November to February is considered the best time to travel to Laos when the weather is most pleasant, especially for trekking activities. If you plan to visit the far north of Laos, the weather in the evening can become quite cold, so it's advisable to bring appropriate clothing.

In case you can't schedule your trip at the ideal time, don't worry, as the rest of the year is still suitable for visiting. From May to October, when the rains return to the country, short and intense showers may affect your exploration more or less, but Laos's life revives with waterfalls flowing and lush landscapes attracting more wildlife.

Whatever time you choose for your trip to Laos, this country is worth exploring thanks to its rich history, diverse culture, and many beautiful sights waiting for you to experience. Although it lacks beaches, you can easily spend at least a week, or even longer, in Laos, depending on your travel preferences. Laos's attractions, along with its peaceful and relaxed atmosphere, may leave you longing to return after your first visit.

4. When to go to Laos for festivals? 

Laos is home to many ethnic groups and hosts a variety of festivals, although the biggest event is Boun Pi Mai Lao (the water festival) held in mid-April to celebrate Lao New Year. This festival officially lasts three days but usually continues for an entire week, with parades and massive water battles in the streets. Everyone is welcome to join, but be prepared to get soaked!

As the Lao calendar is determined by both solar and lunar rhythms, festival dates change from year to year, and even just a few days before a parade or boat race, there may still be confusion about the exact timing of the event. For locals, this is not a big issue, as the days before and just after major festivals are also filled with celebratory activities. Here are some major festivals you should experience:

• Makkha Busa Festival (February): Held on the full moon in February, this festival commemorates a legendary sermon of the Buddha after 1,250 of his disciples voluntarily gathered around him.

• Lao New Year (April): Celebrated nationwide in mid-April, especially in Luang Prabang, where the city's Buddha statue is ritually bathed.

• Boun Bang Fai Festival (May): Crude rockets made from sturdy bamboo tubes filled with explosives are shot into the sky. Their loud sound is hoped to encourage the spirits to bring rain after months of drought.

• Lai Heau Fai Festival (Full moon in October): This is the festival of lights. The ceremonies are especially lively in Luang Prabang. In the days before the festival, people build large boats and decorate them with lights.

• Boun Souang Heua Festival (October): There are many boat festivals throughout the year, but this is the biggest. The Mekong River in Vientiane is the main venue, but other riverside towns also host their own races.

• That Luang Festival (November): In the days leading up to the full moon, the great That Luang stupa in Vientiane becomes the focal point of a fair, with vendors setting up stalls in the surrounding areas. The week-long festival begins with a large almsgiving ceremony for hundreds of monks.

• Bun Pha Wet Festival (December – January): The Bun Pha Wet festival commemorates the Jataka tale of the Buddha's penultimate incarnation as Pha Wet, or Prince Vessantara, and takes place at local temples on various days throughout December or January. In larger towns, you'll find live music and dancing.

5. Laos other useful tips

When planning your trip to Laos, understanding the seasonal characteristics and weather will greatly enhance your experience. Each month brings a unique atmosphere, but preparing appropriate clothing and personal items is essential for a smooth trip. Whether you're facing the heat of March and April or taking advantage of low-season deals during the rainy season, knowing what to expect will help you enjoy your adventure in this beautiful country:

• Check the weather carefully for the month you're planning to visit to prepare your clothing and personal items accordingly for a smooth trip.

• March or April is the hottest time of the year and also the time for field burning, so the air can be both dry and humid.

• The best time to visit in the dry season also coincides with the peak tourist season. Especially during Christmas/New Year's Eve or Lao New Year in mid-April, travel costs are expected to rise. Therefore, we recommend booking travel services as early as possible to avoid sold-out conditions or poor service quality.

• The low season falls during the rainy season, but you can find better deals with fewer crowds.