Laos Weather and Climate

Laos’s climate can be described as tropical monsoon in most of the plains and subtropical in the far north and mountainous regions. It is strongly influenced by the monsoon, resulting in two distinct seasons: the winter monsoon, which brings pleasant weather and cooler nights from November to February, and the summer monsoon, which brings heavy rainfall, high humidity, and plenty of sunshine from May to early or mid-October, sometimes causing discomfort.

However, the monsoon patterns are quite irregular; they don't always arrive at the same time each year or with the same intensity. The average temperature ranges from 22°C to 27°C year-round, with warm and sunny days almost throughout the year. The climate during the wet season varies across regions in Laos.

For example, the lowlands experience higher temperatures around 29°C, while the average temperature in the higher mountain valleys is about 23°C. During the cooler months, nighttime temperatures often drop to 15-20°C (58-68°F), and in lower areas like Vientiane, temperatures can even fall below freezing in the mountainous regions.

What is the best time to visit Laos? 

The high tourist season in Laos falls during the dry, cool period from late October to February, when the air is clearer and temperatures are lower, especially in November and December.

Additionally, the higher water levels in the rivers during this time offer excellent opportunities for river trips, allowing you to explore some of the best destinations in Laos in a truly remarkable way.

While the cool season is a fantastic time to visit, the brief hot season from March to April is less enjoyable for travel. The months from March to May are generally not the most appealing time to visit Laos.

Another factor that can make travel during the hot season less attractive is the smoke produced when farmers burn degraded forests and rice stubble to prepare the land for the next crop cycle, which can sometimes be quite uncomfortable.

However, the shoulder season in July and August is worth considering if you prefer smaller crowds, fewer tourists, and lower hotel prices. Although the weather can be wet with high humidity across most of Laos, the rains are more consistent, and the landscapes are breathtaking, covered in lush emerald green.

If you plan to visit areas like Luang Prabang during this period, you can still expect to encounter some great weather.