Best time to visit Laos

2 min summary When to go Map & highlights Things to do Luang Prabang Mekong cruises Plain of Jars Vientiane Si Phan Don Families Tips Responsible Tourism

Best time to visit Laos

The best time to visit Laos depends on your cardinal point; the temperature differs from north to south and from mountains to riverside life

Laos’s weather system is straightforward when compared to the rest of Asia and has two distinct periods – the dry season (Nov to Apr) and the wet season (May-Oct); March-June are the hottest months of the year. When considering the best time to visit Laos, be aware that the northern, central and eastern regions are at a higher altitude than those in the south, where humidity is high and temperatures can be in excess of 35°C in March and April.

Call us for the best time to go to Laos

Luang Prabang Weather Chart

MIN °C

MAX °C

RAIN (mm)

JAN

FEB

MAR

APR

110

MAY

161

JUN

257

JUL

241

AUG

299

SEP

182

OCT

121

NOV

DEC

Laos, month by month

The rainy season in Laos, which runs from May until late October, makes a real mess of the country’s already difficult dirt roads; although this brings life and lushness to the countryside, you’ll struggle to get around and see it. March, April, May and June are very hot months with temperatures soaring to 35°C and above, so if you do find yourself in Laos at either end of the hot season, head north for slightly cooler climes. January and February are dry months with comfortable, warm temperatures. It can get quite cold in the north of the country though, so it's best to wrap up during early mornings and late evenings, or if you’re traveling on the river. July sees the wet season in full swing and temperatures sitting at around 30°C, except further south in the Bolaven Plateau, where it’s notably cooler. As it becomes wetter, lush green foliage begins to swathe the landscape in central Laos, while in the south, waterfalls begin to cascade dramatically again. August is the peak of the rainy season and a bit of a washout in Laos, plus travel to remote areas can be troublesome, but by September, the sun starts to shine again – this, combined with glistening waterfalls and leafy, green landscapes helps to make September an optimum month for travelers seeking stunning natural scenery. November and December are all about life on the river – river levels are at their highest and conditions are dry and warm throughout the country making it an ideal time to journey along the mighty Mekong, taking in all of the incredible flora and fauna that line its banks.

Travel Team

If you'd like to chat about Laos or need help finding a vacation to suit you we're very happy to help.

1-866-821-6866

Call toll free

Calling from outside the USA

rosy@responsibletravel.com

1-866-821-6866

Call toll free

Calling from outside the USA

rosy@responsibletravel.com

Responsible Travel recommends

Amy Poulton from our supplier, Wayfairer Travel, shares her opinion on the best time to visit Laos: "Dry season is November to May, then the wet season lasts from May to October. The dry season is the most popular (particularly December to February) and also the most practical time to visit Laos, as the country’s modest dirt roads are much more manageable when dry. However, remember that the rainy season does not mean 24/7 rain – usually there is just one downpour a day (and locals are often able to time it to a tee!), which actually helps to break up the humidity. A great time to visit Laos is when the rainy season has just finished, around October and November, as Laos’ landscapes are green and lush, plus the nation’s famous waterfalls are at their most impressive. If traveling during March and April, which are also the hottest months, keep in mind that this is “burning season” for Lao farmers, who burn their fields to prepare the used ground for the rains. This results in an ugly, smoggy haze throughout the country and may also affect those with respiratory problems."

Festivals & events in Laos

Pi Mai

A real benefit to visiting Laos in the dry season is Pi Mai, the Laos New Year celebrations that happen in April. It’s a huge week long party in the street celebrating the end of the dry season and the start of the rainy season. Everyone has a water gun, so there’s no hiding behind anyone to escape from getting wet; they’ll definitely have a water gun and will soak you through while belly laughing. A 90-year-old grandma in the street – don’t trust her.

More Laos articles

Laos travel guide

Your in-depth guide to how to travel like a local on your vacation, and what to expect from this amazing destination.

Where to go in Laos

From the Nam Ou River in the north to Vientiane down south, here's where you should visit, and what itineraries to follow.

Things to do in Laos

Step beyond Southeast Asia's well-worn backpacker trail, and into beautiful Laos, where you'll discover hidden riches.

Si Phan Don, Laos

Si Phan Don, which translates to ‘4000 Islands’, is an area of stunning natural beauty and tranquillity.

Things to see & do in Luang Prabang

Luang Prabang, ancient capital of Laos, is considered the best-preserved city in Southeast Asia.

Mekong cruises in Laos

Mekong cruises are a major highlight of many Laos vacations, perhaps an overnight voyage, or a 10-day cruise upstream.

Plain of Jars in Laos

Are these huge urns the remnants of a burial rite, or were they a vital water source on an ancient trade route?

Things to see & do in Vientiane

Vientiane, the Laotian capital, has a pleasingly languid atmosphere to beguile its visitors.

Multi country tours in Southeast Asia

It's very easy to travel between countries in Southeast Asia, so look beyond the border.

Traveling in Laos with kids

From river tubing to flavoursome cookery lessons, traveling Laos is great for families.

Laos travel advice

We've put together some useful Laos travel advice with recommendations from our experts.

Responsible tourism in Laos

It's crucial to learn how to travel right in Laos, a country with immense poverty problems.

More relevant guides

Written by Polly Humphris

Best time to visit Laos