When to go to Laos

1, Typical weather in Laos:

Like its neighbours, the country has a tropical monsoon climate and the climatic conditions experienced are largely classified into the experiences in the north and the experiences in the central and southern regions.The monsoons govern the seasons, with the winter monsoon bringing good weather and cool nights between November and February, and the summer monsoon, bringing rainfall and high humidity from May to October.  Prior to these summer rains, the hottest period (around March to May) brings temperatures that reach into the mid 40°Cs.  Winter months, however, also see temperatures that mostly sit in the 30°Cs.

Monsoon winds blow through the country twice a year. From May to October, monsoon winds from the Indian Ocean bring heavy rains that wash over the warm, tropical country. Then the wind changes direction and brings a hot, dry wind from China to Laos from November to April. The humid tropical weather, rugged terrain, and thick forest provide an undisturbed habitat for many animals. The red panda, which is related to raccoons and not giant pandas, lives in the forests of northern Laos.

2, Weather in North Laos:

Northern Laos has a tropical climate with two distinct weather seasons; a wet season (May-October) and dry season (November to April). The northern and eastern areas will see the coolest weather, down to as low as -1.2 degrees. The mean annual temperatures of 20°C was observed in the northern and eastern mountainous areas and the plateaus.

The best time to visit Laos is between October and April when the weather is warm and dry throughout. River travel is best between November and January when high water levels make passage easy along Laos’ main waterway, the Mekong River. 

If you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy the lush green scenery, you may consider visiting North Laos during the rainy season from May to October. The rain usually falls in short bursts in the afternoon or evening, leaving plenty of time to explore the countryside and the cultural attractions. However, be prepared for some road closures and landslides, especially in remote areas. You may also need to pack some insect repellent and waterproof clothing. No matter when you visit North Laos, you will be rewarded with stunning landscapes, rich culture and friendly people.

The weather in Northern Laos will affect your experience so it’s worth taking note of the season that you’ll be visiting. Dry season is from November to May. Rainy season is from May to October. September to November is possibly the perfect balance between good weather and fewer visitors.

3, Weather in Central Laos:

Central Laos has a monsoon climate with three overlapping seasons. The rainy season is about 5 months, June-September. In October, rains start to taper off, and the cool season begins in November, lasting through February. In March “mango rains” occur. March, April, and May are hot and humid. The climate in Laos is very warm, with an annual average of 32 degrees.

The best time to visit central Laos depends on your preferences and activities. If you want to enjoy warm and dry weather, river travel, and cultural festivals, the ideal months are November to January. This is also the peak tourist season, so you may need to book your accommodation and transportation in advance. If you don't mind some rain and humidity, you can visit central Laos from May to October, when the scenery is lush and green, and there are fewer crowds. However, some rural roads may be muddy and impassable, and some attractions may be closed. 

You can also experience some variations in temperature and rainfall depending on the altitude and location of the places you visit. Central Laos has many attractions to offer, such as the ancient capital of Luang Prabang, the karst landscape of Vang Vieng, and the mysterious Plain of Jars. Whatever time of year you choose to visit, you will find something to enjoy in this diverse and fascinating region.

4, Weather in South Laos:

The best time to visit Southern Laos depends on your preferences and activities. Generally, the dry season from November to February is the most popular and comfortable time, as the weather is cooler and less humid.

If you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy lower prices, you may consider visiting in the wet season from May to October. The rain usually comes in short bursts and does not affect the overall experience. The wet season also brings lush greenery and waterfalls to life, making it ideal for nature lovers. However, some roads may be muddy and some attractions may be closed due to flooding. The shoulder seasons of March-April and October-November are good alternatives, as they offer a balance between weather and crowds. You can also enjoy some festivals and events during these months, such as Lao New Year in April and the Boat Racing Festival in October.