Laos in January

Dry, clear, cool mornings in the north; peak season in Luang Prabang.

• North · Luang Prabang, Nong Khiaw, Luang Namtha, Phonsavancool

  Cool, misty mornings Dec–Jan (near 10 °C at altitude); the burning season (Feb–Apr) brings thick smoke; rains wash roads May–Oct.

• Centre · Vientiane, Vang Vieng, Thakhekbest weather

  Dry and pleasant Nov–Feb; April tops 37 °C; the Thakhek Loop is hard in the rains.

• South · Pakse, Bolaven Plateau, 4,000 Islandsbest weather

  Hottest region in April; the Bolaven Plateau is cooler and wettest; river islands flood partly at high water.

Dates as our data lists them. Moving holidays (lunar and Islamic calendars, Easter) shift every year: check the date for your year before you build a trip on it.

• International New Year

  1 Jan

  Public holiday.

• Chinese and Vietnamese New Year

  Jan–Feb (lunar — check)

  Some shops in Vientiane and Pakse close.

Crowds · Laos

High

Prices · Laos

High

High-price month: see what to book ahead.

• Layers: a fleece or light jacket

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Rated best or good this month

• Centre

  Best weather of the year (Vientiane, Vang Vieng, Thakhek)

• South

  Best weather of the year (Pakse, Bolaven Plateau, 4,000 Islands)

• Luang Prabang

  Cool mornings, dry and clear; bring a layer.

• Vientiane

  Best months: Nov–Feb (cooler, dry, low humidity)

• Pakse

  Best months: Nov–Feb (dry, cooler on the plateau)