The weather in Lao Cai is characteristic of the mountainous tropical monsoon climate with cold, dry winters and hot, humid summers with heavy rainfall. The province experiences two distinct seasons: the rainy season (from April to October) and the dry season (from October to March of the following year).
Current weather in Lao Cai — what travelers need to know
Lao Cai’s climate falls under the tropical monsoon. However, because of its location, Lao Cai climate is influenced by complex terrain, so the weather patterns in Lao Cai tend to be more variable and unpredictable.
- Temperature: The average annual temperature in Lao Cai is around 22.8°C, with the coldest month averaging about 16°C. In higher mountainous areas, average temperatures can be lower, ranging from 15°C to 20°C. In Sa Pa, it can drop below 14°C.
- Rainfall: The average annual rainfall is approximately 1,792 mm. Rainfall is unevenly distributed throughout the year, concentrated mostly in the rainy season, particularly from June to September, which may lead to flooding and landslides.
- Humidity: The average annual relative humidity is around 83%.
- Wind: Lao Cai is influenced by the northeast monsoon, resulting in cold, dry winters. It also experiences local winds, such as the hot and dry Ô Quy Hồ wind.
- Other Weather Phenomena: While snow and hail are rare, Lao Cai can experience frost, especially in the early morning and late evening. During the rainy season, heavy rains may cause strong river currents and occasional flash floods.
Now, it is July, so weather Lao Cai is in the rainy season, so the temperature is not high, just about 24-28 degrees, suitable for outdoor activities or trekking.
Lao Cai weather by season: a month-by-month guide
Because weather in Lao Cai is depended on the climate that distinctly divided into two main seasons so each month has its own unique weather characteristics. As a result, the weather patterns vary noticeably from month to month, making each period of the year the difference.
| January – the coolest month | In this month, the average temperatures ranging from 10°C to 18°C (50°F to 64°F) and minimal rainfall. |
| February – warmer than January | This month is warmer than January with average temperatures between 12°C and 22°C (54°F to 72°F) and relatively low rainfall. |
| March – the “pleasant month” | Called this month this name cause the temperatures is average from 17°C to 26°C (62°F to 79°F) with moderate rainfall, suitable for outdoor activities. |
| April – time to increase rainfall | In this month, the temperatures begin to rise with averages between 20°C and 30°C (68°F to 86°F) and start the rainfall. |
| May – time for the rainy season starting | This month is the start of the rainy season, with higher humidity and increased rainfall. Temperatures range from 23°C to 31°C (73°F to 88°F). |
| June – the humid month | The weather in Lao Cai this month is warm and humid, with temperatures between 24°C and 30°C (75°F to 86°F). Rainfall increases significantly, making it one of the wettest months. |
| July – the wettest month | This month is the wettest month with high humidity and average temperatures around 23°C to 30°C (73°F to 86°F). |
| August – similar to July | August is similar to July with high humidity and temperatures around 23°C to 30°C (73°F to 86°F). |
| September – time to decrease the rainfall | In this month, the rainfall begins to decrease but remains relatively high, with temperatures between 22°C and 29°C (72°F to 84°F). |
| October – time to decrease the temperature | In this month, the temperatures is cool down with the average being 19°C to 26°C (66°F to 79°F) and rainfall decreases. |
| November – the dry “season” of the year | November is the dry season with comfortable temperatures between 15°C and 23°C (59°F to 73°F) and low rainfall. |
| December – the coolest month | December is cool and dry with temperatures ranging from 11°C to 19°C (52°F to 66°F) and minimal rainfall. |
Best time to visit Lao Cai based on weather
With the information above, the best time to visit Lao Cai is during spring (March to April) and autumn (September to November). These months offer the pleasant weather for outside activities such as trekking and going out for sightseeing with clear skies and beautiful scenery.
Moreover, in spring (March to April), with the average temperatures ranging from 18°C to 24°C, you will have many cool nights for going camping or trekking. Or in the mild weather, Lao Cai is generally dry with less rainfall, perfect for outdoor activities.
If you want the drier weather, you can gon to Lao Cai in autumn (September to November). With the temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C, the weather is the cool and dry with crisp, clear air. If catching right time, you can have a chance to see golden rice terraces. This is when the rice terraces are at their most stunning, creating a picturesque landscape. Many memorable photos were created in the rice terraces.
But other times to consider is summer (May to August): While it can be warm and humid, it’s also a good time to see the lush green rice paddies and waterfalls.
Lily’s Travel does advise you to go to Lao Cai in winter (December to February). The weather is very cold with occasional snow. But sometimes, the temperature offers a unique atmosphere with misty views and the chance to see peach and plum blossoms.
How Lao Cai weather affects travel plans
Lao Cai Vietnam weather significantly impacts travel plans due to its mountainous terrain and distinct seasons. To have a great trip, it is necessary to check the weather Lao Cai forecast before you go.
Lily’s Travel wants you to know that if you enjoy trekking or renting a motorbike, it’s best to avoid traveling during the rainy season (July–August). The cold, foggy conditions in winter can reduce visibility and affect your road safety. Moreover, the rainy season can cause floods and landslides, and you can not access to some areas to explore. If you plan to visit Sapa, its beauty is also weather-dependent. In the winter, Sapa sometimes has stunning snowfall, but in spring, this place nature is more vibrant and colorful.
In spring (March–May), the weather is generally pleasant with average temperatures ranging from 10–20°C, making it ideal for photography. However, it is also the peak tourist, so you should consider joining tours through agencies such as Lily’s Travel to ensure everything is well arranged because it is still hard to book hotels by yourself or get the cheap price for vehicles.
In summer (June–August), the rainy season can bring heavy downpours along with the risk of flooding and landslides, which are not good for outdoor activities. In Autumn (September–November), cooler temperatures is pleasant for going out although there’s still a chance of rain. Remember to bring a raincoat if you enjoy hiking or trekking. But Lily’s Travel advises you to consider not visiting during this season.
Forecasting Lao Cai weather: tools and tips
To forecast Lao Cai Vietnam weather, you can use online weather services like The Weather app on your iPhone or other applications on smartphones. These services provide detailed temperature, precipitation, wind, and humidity. Lily’s Travel adjusts these apps to forecast correctly.
Read more: Mu Cang Chai: Travel Guide in 2025
FAQs about Lao Cai weather
Here are some frequently asked questions about Lao Cai’s weather
Does Lao Cai ever get snow or frost?
Lao Cai Vietnam weather can occasionally experience snowfall and frost, especially during the coldest months (December to February). However, light snowfall and frost typically occur only when cold air masses move into the region, and they are not frequent.
Which month sees the most rainfall?
In July and August are typically the months with the most rainfall. These months fall within the rainy season, which generally lasts from April to October. Specifically, August sees an average amount of rainfall.
How cold does it get if I’m planning a winter trip?
If you’re planning a trip in winter, be sure to get warm and waterproof clothing, especially if you want to trek early in the morning or late at night. During winter, temperatures in Lao Cai can drop quite low, from 8°C to 12°C (46°F to 54°F). In the mountains, it can fall below 5°C (41°F), and sometimes even approach 0°C (32°F) on particularly cold nights. Prepare the suitable clothes so you do not get cold outside in the weather.
Lily’s Travel hopes this article can give you enough information about Lao Cai Vietnam weather. Traveling anywhere, forecasting the weather is important to have a great and enjoyable trip.
Read more: Mu Cang Chai rice field travel guide for first-timers
