Right, so you’ve probably heard that you should avoid Laos during the wet season. Continuing my green season theme this month, let me tell you why the “green season” – as many prefer to call it – is actually one of the most magical times to experience this incredible country.
The wet season runs roughly from May to October, and yes, it does rain. In the past week we had a lot of rain and the dams released water at the same time causing a flash flood. Many travel was cancelled and it was at times scary for many.
Sometimes it absolutely buckets down. But here’s what the guidebooks don’t tell you: the main festivals are the Lao Rocket Festival (May, June, and July), the Boun Ok Phansa’s Lai Heau Fai (Festival of Lights), and the Boat Racing Festival (October), making this season culturally rich and vibrant. Sometimes it rains for days, other times 20 mins and some days not at all.
Things to Do During Laos’ Wet Season
Visit the Waterfalls at Their Peak The waterfalls during wet season are absolutely spectacular. Kuang Si Falls transforms from pretty cascades to thundering torrents of turquoise water. The volume is incredible, and the pools at the bottom are perfect for a refreshing swim between downpours. I’ve visited in both dry and wet seasons, and honestly, wet season wins hands down for waterfall experiences.
Temple Hopping Between Showers Buddhist Temple Life: Experience the tranquility of local temples and witness daily rituals, providing a deeper understanding of Lao culture. There’s something particularly peaceful about visiting temples during light rain – the sound of water on traditional roofs creates this incredibly meditative atmosphere. Plus, you’ll often have these sacred spaces largely to yourself.
River Adventures Contrary to popular belief, you can still enjoy water activities such as tubing and kayaking on the Nam Song River during wet season in Vang Vieng and day or sunset cruises in Luang Prabang. The rivers are fuller, the current is stronger (but manageable), and the landscape around you is absolutely lush and green.
Photography Paradise The light during wet season is incredible. Those dramatic storm clouds create the most amazing backdrops, and when the sun breaks through after rain, everything has this fresh, vibrant quality that’s impossible to capture during dry season. The rice paddies are emerald green, the jungle is thick and mysterious, and the whole country feels alive.
Market Adventures The wet season brings incredible fresh produce to local markets. This is mango season! You’ll find fruits you’ve never heard of, and everything is cheaper because it’s peak growing season. I recommend timing your market visits for early morning – you’ll beat both the afternoon rains and the midday heat.
Practical Tips for Wet Season Travel
Pack smart: a good rain jacket, waterproof bag for electronics, and shoes that dry quickly. Most importantly, embrace the flexibility. Some days you might spend hours in a café watching the rain – and that’s perfectly fine as I think Laos is a gret place to just come and relax taking each day as it comes. Some of my best conversations have happened while sheltering from sudden downpours.
The wet season isn’t about fighting the weather; it’s about dancing with it. Trust me, once you experience the green season magic, you might never want to visit Laos any other way.
Festival, Green-Season, Laos, Luang Prabang, Monks, Travel
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