I’m a photography enthusiast, and the landscapes in Northwest Vietnam seem incredible for capturing scenic views. Are there any specific spots that are particularly photogenic...
The best time to visit Laos depends quite a lot on the weather. In this post, I am gonna give you some information on Lao weather and also festival period. Make sure you read until the end and pick out the right time for your upcoming vacation in Laos.
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Weather in Laos generally
Laos has a relatively simple climate in comparison to the rest of Asia, with only two distinct seasons: typical dry season and wet season of a tropical monsoon climate. Although the timing of the annual monsoon may vary greatly from year to year, it typically occurs at the same time all over the country. There is also no coastline in Laos. That is why you can see that Lao weather is pretty straight forward.
The northeast monsoon brings dry weather from November to April, while the southwest monsoon brings rain from May to October. March and April (the dry months preceding the wet season) and May and June (the early wet season) are the hottest time of the year, but temperatures fluctuate throughout the year.
Laos experiences a temperature drop of about 1.7°C per 1000 feet in altitude (or 300m). The plateau and mountains in the highlands are cooler than the lowlands around Vientiane. The Mekong River is 70m below sea level, while Phou Bia is 2,817m above it.
As a result of global warming, nearly every province in Laos is at high risk of experiencing severe weather events.
Laos in wet season
Laos's "green season" or the wet monsoon months of May through October, are when the country's landscape is revitalized after a dry spell. It is normal to expect nationwide high humidity.
Even though when the rainy season begins, the first few weeks will be extremely hot with only brief periods of rain at night and dawn. By July, the lush vegetation emerges, and the mighty waterfalls are flowing freely once more. August and September are the heaviest and most frequent rain months of the year. During this time, many roads become impassable, making it difficult to travel to outlying areas. Since October is significantly drier, it is a great time to visit Laos before the tourists rush, when the weather is pleasant and the landscapes are flourishing.
The main celebrations of the wet season are the Lao Rocket Festival (held in May, June, and July), the Lai Heau Fai (Fire Boat Festival) at Boun Ok Phansa, and the Boat Racing Festival (held in October).
Laos in dry season
From November through April, Laos experiences its dry season, with temperatures rising gradually from the rainy season's milder lows until the hottest month of the year in April. For example, temperatures in Vientiane typically range from the 70°F (21°C) in January to around 80°F (27°C) in April. Temperatures can even reach 100°F (38°C) or higher in the south.
The southern part of Laos is most pleasant to visit from November to February because of the cooler weather. High-altitude destinations, such as the Bolaven Plateau, offer relief from the sweltering heat of the south.
Meanwhile, in the north, temperatures drop and can even drop below freezing in the mountains. Keep an eye out for hazy skies in and around Luang Prabang from March until the start of the monsoon season in May, as this is when slash-and-burn agriculture is most common.
During the dry season, the weather is perfect for exploring new territory and engaging in physically demanding outdoor activities like hiking, rock climbing, and cycling. The best time to go on a river tour or cruise is between November and January, when the Mekong River is at its fullest. Whitewater rafting and kayaking tours are also highly recommended in Vientiane, Luang Prabang, and Luang Namtha.
While river journeys may still be possible in February, by March and April the water levels will likely be low.
The That Luang Festival (November), the Wat Phou Festival (January/February), and the Lao New Year (April) all take place during the dry season in Laos.
That Luang festival in November
What is the best time to visit Laos?
Laos has two distinct seasons, but visitors can enjoy the country at any time of year thanks to its many attractions. However, the months of November through February offer the best weather in Laos, making those months an ideal time to visit Laos and, in particular, trekking. In the far north of Laos, where you should go if you want to experience cold evenings, you should pack accordingly.
Even if you are unable to visit during the most popular time of year, you should not let this deter you from planning a trip. The return of the rains in the months of May through October can have a more or less significant impact on your travel plans, but the country comes back to life with waterfalls beginning to flow and the lush scenery attracting a variety of wildlife.
Regardless of when you'd like to visit Laos, you won't regret it because of the country's rich history, culture, and many stunning landscapes. Despite its lack of beaches, Laos is a flexible destination that can be explored in as little as a week or as much as several months. The attractions of Laos and the general atmosphere of serenity and bliss may make even first-time visitors want to come back.
TIPS WHEN TRAVELING TO LAOS
The best time to visit Laos depends pretty much on your availability, however, no matter when you go, please note down these traveling tips below when you come to Laos for the best experience:
- Check the average temperatures and precipitation for the month you plan to travel so you can pack appropriately;
- When the fields are being burned in March or April, the air can be just as smoky as it is humid.
- The dry season's peak season coincides with the most popular time to visit. Particularly on the eve of Christmas/New Year's or around the middle of April, when the Lao New Year is celebrated, when travel costs are traditionally higher. Therefore, it's better to book travel services as far in advance as possible to avoid disappointment due to high demand or a lack of availability;
- Wet season is also low season, which means cheaper prices and fewer tourists.
- Packing suitable clothes for the hot and humid weather. However, consider the culture of Laos as well, make sure you dress properly.
- If you'll be traveling during the cool season, pack a sweatshirt or light jacket; if you'll be traveling during the wet season, pack a rain jacket. The tap water in Laos is not generally safe to drink, so water bottle is a good idea to bring if you'll be doing any trekking or visiting rural areas.
