Things to Do in Laos in January

January weather, activities, events & insider tips

January Weather in Laos

30°C (86°F) High Temp

18°C (64°F) Low Temp

5 mm (0.2 inches) Rainfall

65% Humidity

Is January Right for You?

Advantages

Peak cool-dry season with comfortable temperatures 18-30°C (64-86°F) and minimal rainfall - only 2 rainy days typically
Crystal-clear mountain views and perfect conditions for trekking in northern regions like Luang Prabang and Phongsali
Prime time for Mekong river activities with low water levels revealing sandbars and making boat trips safer and more scenic
Ideal weather for exploring outdoor attractions like Kuang Si Falls and Plain of Jars without excessive heat or mud

Considerations

Peak tourist season means higher accommodation prices (30-50% premium) and crowded attractions, especially in Luang Prabang
Morning temperatures can drop to 15°C (59°F) in mountainous areas, requiring warm layers many travelers don't expect
Dusty conditions from dry weather and slash-and-burn farming can affect air quality, particularly in northern provinces

Best Activities in January

Luang Prabang Temple and Alms Ceremony Tours

January's cool mornings 18°C (64°F) make the 5:30am alms ceremony comfortable to witness. Dry conditions mean easy walking between temples like Wat Xieng Thong and Wat Mai. Perfect weather for climbing Phou Si Hill at sunset without excessive heat or slippery paths.

Booking Tip: Book temple tours 5-7 days ahead through licensed operators. Tours typically cost ฿1,500-2,500. Look for operators who emphasize respectful alms ceremony viewing. Morning tours work best in January's cool temperatures.

Kuang Si Waterfall Swimming and Hiking

January's dry season means lower but clearer water levels, perfect for swimming in the turquoise pools. Comfortable 25°C (77°F) afternoon temperatures ideal for the 1.5 km (0.9 mile) nature trail to the top. No mud on hiking paths and excellent visibility for photography.

Booking Tip: Half-day tours typically cost ฿800-1,200 including transport from Luang Prabang. Book 3-4 days ahead. Early morning tours (8am departure) avoid crowds and heat. Entrance fee ฿20,000 kip not usually included.

Vang Vieng Karst Mountain Cycling and Caving

Dry season provides excellent road conditions and stunning mountain visibility. Cool morning temperatures 20°C (68°F) perfect for cycling to caves like Tham Chang and Tham Phu Kham. Low humidity makes underground cave exploration comfortable without excessive condensation.

Booking Tip: Bike rentals typically ฿50,000-80,000 kip per day. Cave entrance fees ฿15,000-25,000 kip each. Book guided cycling tours 2-3 days ahead, cost ฿400-600 including bike and guide. Start early to avoid midday heat.

Mekong River Sunset Cruises and Pak Ou Caves

January's low water levels reveal dramatic rock formations and sandbars usually underwater. Comfortable evening temperatures 22°C (72°F) perfect for sunset cruises. Clear dry-season skies provide exceptional sunset colors over the Mekong confluence.

Booking Tip: Half-day boat tours typically ฿900-1,400 per person including Pak Ou Caves visit. Book 2-3 days ahead through riverside operators in Luang Prabang. Afternoon departures (2pm) optimal for January weather and lighting.

Plain of Jars Archaeological Site Exploration

Dry season provides best access to remote jar sites with clear roads and no mud. Comfortable temperatures 20-28°C (68-82°F) ideal for walking between megalithic sites. Crystal clear mountain air offers excellent visibility of surrounding landscapes.

Booking Tip: Day tours from Phonsavan typically cost ฿1,200-1,800 including transport and guide. Book 3-5 days ahead as options are limited. Site entrance fees ฿15,000 kip per site. 4WD vehicles recommended for outer sites.

Northern Hill Tribe Trekking and Village Homestays

Cool dry conditions perfect for multi-day treks in provinces like Phongsali and Luang Namtha. Comfortable hiking temperatures 15-25°C (59-77°F) and clear mountain views. Dry paths make village access easier and safer for cultural experiences.

Booking Tip: 2-3 day treks typically cost ฿2,500-4,000 including meals and homestay. Book 1-2 weeks ahead through certified eco-tourism operators. January is peak season so advance booking essential for quality guides.

January Events & Festivals

Mid January

Boun Khoun Khao (Rice Harvest Festival)

Traditional ceremony celebrating the rice harvest in rural villages. Features blessing ceremonies, traditional music, and communal feasts. Best experienced in villages around Luang Prabang and Vientiane where visitors can participate in rice-related rituals.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight fleece or warm layer - morning temperatures drop to 15°C (59°F) in mountains, surprising many visitors

SPF 50+ sunscreen - UV index reaches 8 and reflection off limestone karsts intensifies exposure

Dust mask or bandana - dry season slash-and-burn farming creates dusty conditions, especially in northern areas

Quick-dry pants and long sleeves - temple visits require covered shoulders/legs, and lightweight fabric works in 30°C (86°F) heat

Sturdy walking shoes with grip - dry conditions mean dusty, slippery temple steps and cave floors

Small daypack for water - 1.5-2 liters needed for outdoor activities even in cooler January temperatures

Power bank and waterproof phone case - long days of sightseeing and occasional river activities

Cash in small denominations - many attractions and transport require kip, ATMs scarce outside major towns

Insect repellent with DEET - mosquitoes still active in evening hours despite dry season

Headlamp or flashlight - early morning alms ceremonies and cave exploration require personal lighting

Insider Knowledge

Book accommodations by early December - January is absolute peak season and quality guesthouses in Luang Prabang fill up completely, forcing late bookers into overpriced or distant options

Start outdoor activities by 7am - even January temperatures reach 30°C (86°F) by noon, and morning light is spectacular for photography at temples and waterfalls

Avoid Vang Vieng on weekends - domestic tourists from Vientiane flock here January weekends, making tubing and restaurants crowded and prices inflated

Carry small kip notes for temple donations - having ฿5,000-10,000 notes shows respect and supports local communities, foreign currency often refused

Avoid These Mistakes

Underestimating cool morning temperatures - tourists pack only summer clothes then shiver during 5:30am alms ceremonies when temperatures hit 15°C (59°F)

Not booking transport between cities early enough - January is peak season and comfortable buses/flights sell out, leaving expensive last-minute options

Expecting hot weather for swimming - while afternoons are warm, many visitors find mountain pools and waterfalls too cold for comfortable swimming