Laos in April: Weather, Crowds & What to Expect
Climate Map for April
Average temperature across Laos in April.
City Weather in April
| City | High | Low | Rain | UV | Feels |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vientiane | 35° | 23° | 84 mm | extreme | Hot |
| Savannakhet | 35° | 24° | 86 mm | extreme | Hot |
| Pakse | 35° | 25° | 74 mm | extreme | Hot |
| Thakhek | 34° | 24° | 94 mm | extreme | Hot |
| Ban Khoan | 35° | 21° | 91 mm | extreme | Hot |
| Ban Napè | 28° | 20° | 91 mm | very high | Mild |
| Luang Prabang | 34° | 21° | 91 mm | very high | Hot |
High / low are average daily temperatures (°C). “Feels” reflects how hot or cold it feels, allowing for humidity.
Northern Highlands (Luang Prabang, Phongsaly, Oudomxay)
April is the hot season and can be quite steamy in lower-elevation towns such as Oudomxay, with residents and travelers welcoming any breeze that reaches the river valleys. Pi Mai (Lao New Year) falls in mid-April and brings lively water-throwing celebrations in Luang Prabang and smaller towns - great for experiencing local culture but also messy and wet. Trails higher up remain pleasant for early starts, but afternoons are best spent near shaded rivers or waterfalls and you should plan for crowded weekend markets.
Xiangkhouang Plateau / Plain of Jars (Phonsavan)
April turns quite hot and dry on the plateau, with mid-April marking Pi Mai (Lao New Year) celebrations - expect local processions and water-based festivities in towns though the daytime heat discourages long walks. Pre-monsoon winds can stir dust across open fields, so sunglasses and a bandana can help; some travelers prefer to slow their pace and take shorter site visits. Note that this month often brings the strongest sunshine of the year, so hydration matters.
Central Lowlands & Vientiane Region (Vientiane, Vang Vieng, the Mekong plain)
April is the hottest month in the central lowlands and the countrywide Pi Mai (Lao New Year) celebrations make it one of the liveliest times to be in Vientiane or Vang Vieng. Water fights spill into the streets and riverside areas see big crowds enjoying the festivities; it’s festive but also hot, so bring a waterproof bag and expect wet, crowded streets. Travel can be slower because of celebratory events and road closures, but the cultural experience is unmatched if you enjoy lively local traditions.
Bolaven Plateau & Southern Highlands (Pakse, Tad Fane, coffee country)
April becomes noticeably warmer and more humid in the southern lowlands, though the Bolaven Plateau still offers respite with cooler evenings; Pi Mai water festivities are celebrated locally, particularly in towns like Paksé. This month is lively but hot, so schedule waterfall visits and coffee tours for mornings and late afternoons. Roadside markets swell during festival days and travel can be slower around public holidays.
Lower Mekong & 4000 Islands (Si Phan Don, Khong, Don Det/Don Khon)
April is hot and lively with Pi Mai celebrations bringing water-throwing and communal events to island communities; travelling during the festival is rewarding for cultural immersion but expect wet, crowded public spaces. Heat and humidity peak in late April; if you’re sensitive to heat, schedule boat trips for early mornings and late afternoons. Ferry and boat traffic increases around holidays so allow extra time for connections.