When to go · Laos
Laos in May
Mixed month. First rains clear the smoke; Boun Bang Fai rocket festivals in villages.
Key facts
- Verdict
- Mixed
- Crowds
- Low
- Laos
- Prices
- Low
- Laos
Verdict
First rains clear the smoke; Boun Bang Fai rocket festivals in villages.
Weather in May
- North · Luang Prabang, Nong Khiaw, Luang Namtha, Phonsavanhot
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, Thakhekhot
Dry and pleasant Nov–Feb; April tops 37 °C; the Thakhek Loop is hard in the rains.
- South · Pakse, Bolaven Plateau, 4,000 Islandshot
Hottest region in April; the Bolaven Plateau is cooler and wettest; river islands flood partly at high water.
Festivals and holidays
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.
Boun Bang Fai (rocket festival)
May (lunar — check)
Village rocket launches to call the rains.
Crowds and prices
- Crowds · Laos
- Low
- Prices · Laos
- Low
What to pack
- Light, breathable clothes, a sun hat and sunscreen