Best Time To Visit Laos : I almost didn’t visit Laos because I kept getting different advice about when to go. Some said the dry season was perfect, others loved the green season. After spending two months traveling from north to south, I finally figured it out. Here’s my real, no-filter experience to help you decide when to experience this amazing country.
Understanding Laos’ Real Weather
Let me tell you something — Laos doesn’t have four seasons like back home. It’s basically wet or dry, but even that’s not straightforward. The north feels completely different from the south, and the mountains aren’t like the Mekong riverside. I learned this when I packed for beach weather and ended up shivering in Luang Prabang’s mountains!
What Really Matters for Your Trip
The best time to visit Laos depends entirely on what you want to do. Are you here for trekking? Temple hopping? River adventures? Or just to relax? Each season offers something different, and I’ve tried them all.
Dry Season: November – Aprill
My December Experience
I first visited in December, and wow — the weather was perfect! Clear blue skies, comfortable temperatures, and ideal conditions for everything I wanted to do.
Weather Truth
- November–February: Cool and dry (15–28°C). Mornings can be surprisingly chilly in the mountains
- March–April: Hot and dry (often above 30°C). Gets hazy from farming fires
Best Activities
- Exploring Luang Prabang’s beautiful temples
- Mekong River boat trips
- Trekking in northern hills
- Attending festivals
- Visiting the Plain of Jars
What No One Tells You
This is the peak tourist season. I had to book my hotels weeks in advance. Popular spots like Kuang Si Falls get packed with people. If you hate heat, avoid March-April — it gets seriously warm!
Green Season: May – October
My September Return
I came back in September and fell in love all over again. Yes, it rained — usually quick, heavy showers — but the landscapes were emerald green, waterfalls were roaring, and I often had places to myself.
Real Weather Conditions
- May–June: Rains begin. Hot, humid with increasing showers
- July–August: Heaviest rain (usually afternoon downpours)
- September–October: Rains decrease. Everything incredibly lush
Awesome Green Season Activities
- Chasing massive waterfalls
- River kayaking and tubing
- Visiting coffee farms
- Local festivals
- Photography (incredible green scenery)
Important Notes
Some remote roads get muddy. River levels change constantly. You’ll need quick-dry clothes and rain gear. But you’ll get fewer tourists and better prices!
Different Areas, Different Weather
Northern Laos
Coolest region. November–February can be quite cold in the mountains. Best trekking October–March.
Central Laos
Hotter than north. March–April can be uncomfortable. Best river activities November–February.
Southern Laos
Hottest area. Most rainfall. Waterfalls are most impressive in July–October.
Month-by-Month Breakdown
From my experience living there:
- January: Peak season. Perfect weather. Book everything early
- February: Still ideal. Slightly warmer
- March: Getting hot. Good for rivers
- April: Hottest month. Lao New Year — fun but crazy
- May: First rains. Landscapes green up. Fewer tourists
- June: Rainy season proper. Lush scenery. Good deals
- July: Heavy rain. The waterfalls are amazing. Rural roads difficult
- August: Similar to July. Green everywhere. Few crowds
- September: Rains decreasing. Still lush. Great photos
- October: Transition month. Some rain but improving
- November: Dry season begins. Ideal conditions return
- December: Peak season again. Perfect weather. Christmas busy
Awesome Festivals
Time your visit with these:
- Bun Pha That Luang (November): Major religious festival
- Pi Mai Lao (April): Lao New Year — water fights everywhere!
- Boun Ok Phansa (October): End of Buddhist lent with boat races
- Hmong New Year (December): Colorful minority celebrations
What I Learned the Hard Way
Packing Essentials
- Dry season: Light layers, sunscreen, swimwear
- Wet season: Quick-dry clothes, rain jacket, waterproof bags
- Always: Mosquito spray, good shoes, temple-appropriate clothes
Health Stuff
- Malaria risk in remote areas during wet season
- Dengue fever year-round — bug spray essential
- Heat risk during hot season
- Drink bottled water only
Transport Tips
- Dry season: All roads usually good
- Wet season: Check road conditions, especially north
- River travel changes with seasons
- Flights work year-round
Money Tips
- Dry season: Highest prices (especially December–January)
- Wet season: Best deals (30–50% cheaper)
- Shoulder months (October, May): Good value
So When Should You Really Go? Best Time To Visit Laos
After all my trips, here’s my honest advice:
- First timers: November–February for easiest travel
- Photographers: September–October for amazing landscapes
- Adventure lovers: July–August for challenging trekking
- Budget travelers: May–June or September–October for best deals
- Culture seekers: Plan around festivals you like
Remember — there’s no terrible time to visit Laos. Each season has its own magic. The people stay wonderfully friendly year-round, the food is always incredible, and the scenery changes but stays beautiful.
Pack right for your chosen season, stay flexible with plans, and get ready to love one of Southeast Asia’s most special places.
