If you’re planning a trip to Vientiane around Christmas, you’ll get to enjoy warm, dry, and comfortable weather. Daytime temperatures usually reach about 30°C (86°F), evenings cool off to 18°C (64°F), and rain is almost nonexistent. Late December really does feel like one of the best times of year to explore the capital.
The skies tend to stay clear, with lots of sunshine and barely any chance of showers. Humidity drops compared to the wet season, so wandering through temples, markets, and riverside paths feels a lot more comfortable.
Light winds and calm conditions make outdoor activities easy to plan. You probably won’t need to worry about sudden weather changes.
Traveling in this period means you’ll see Vientiane at its driest, which is a big change from the heavy rains of mid-year. You can plan sightseeing, cultural events, and day trips knowing the weather will probably cooperate.
Typical December Weather in Vientiane
December brings dry skies, mild nights, and warm afternoons to Vientiane. Rain is rare, and the air feels less humid than earlier in the year.
Average Temperatures
Daytime temperatures in December usually hit 28–30°C (82–86°F). Afternoons feel warm enough for light clothing, but it’s not as hot as the summer months.
At night, temperatures drop to 16–18°C (61–64°F). A light sweater or long-sleeve shirt comes in handy if you’re out after sunset.
You’ll notice the difference between day and night. Pack breathable clothing for daytime and a few layers for the cooler mornings and evenings.
| Time of Day | Temperature Range |
|---|---|
| Afternoon | 28–30°C (82–86°F) |
| Night | 16–18°C (61–64°F) |
This mix of warm days and cool nights really makes December pleasant for visiting Laos’s capital.
Rainfall and Humidity
December stands out as the driest month in Vientiane. Rain usually falls on only 1–2 days, with monthly totals averaging just 3–10 mm.
Humidity sits around 65–70%, which is much lower than during the rainy season. The air feels lighter and more comfortable for walking, cycling, or exploring temples.
Since rain is so limited, you can leave heavy rain gear at home. A small umbrella or light jacket is plenty, though most days will be totally dry.
The dry conditions mean roads stay clear and outdoor travel gets easier. Whether you’re checking out markets or cruising along the river, you’ll likely get stable weather.
Sunshine and Daylight Hours
December offers plenty of clear skies. On average, you get about 8 hours of sunshine per day, totaling more than 240 hours for the month.
Daylight lasts about 11 hours daily, with sunrise around 6:30 a.m. and sunset close to 5:30 p.m.
You’ll have enough time for sightseeing, even if the days are a bit shorter than in mid-year.
Bright sunlight and mild humidity make outdoor activities comfortable. Don’t forget sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat for midday hours.
Clear skies mean better visibility for photos and scenic views along the Mekong River, which runs right beside Vientiane.
Christmas Week Weather Patterns
During Christmas in Vientiane, you’ll find warm daytime conditions, cooler evenings, and hardly any rain. Winds stay light, so you can easily spend time outdoors.
Temperature Trends During Christmas
Temperatures during Christmas week usually stay warm, but not uncomfortably so. You’ll see daytime highs at 28°C to 30°C (82°F to 86°F), while nights drop to around 17°C to 19°C (63°F to 66°F).
This range gives you great conditions for sightseeing during the day and mild evenings that don’t require heavy layers. A light jacket or long-sleeve shirt works for nights out, especially if you’ll be outside for a while.
Humidity averages around 70%, but the cooler air makes it feel less sticky than during the wet season.
You’ll get mostly sunny skies and long daylight hours, making this one of the nicest times of year in Vientiane.
Chance of Rain Around Christmas
December is the driest month in Vientiane, and Christmas week sits right in the middle of this dry stretch. Rainfall averages just 10 mm for the month, and you’ll rarely see more than 1–2 days of light showers.
The chance of rain around Christmas is very low, often under 10% per day. You can plan outdoor activities, temple visits, or riverfront walks without much risk of disruption.
Since the wet season ends months earlier, rivers and landscapes might look less lush than in mid-year, but the skies are much clearer. Photographers will love the sharp sunsets along the Mekong River.
Wind Conditions in Late December
Winds in Vientiane during late December stay light and steady. Average speeds sit around 1 m/s (2 mph), so you’ll just feel a gentle breeze.
You don’t need to worry about wind chill, since temperatures stay warm even with a breeze. Calm conditions also make river cruises and cycling tours more enjoyable.
Some days, the air feels completely still. On others, a light flow keeps afternoons comfortable. These steady wind patterns help define Vientiane’s calm Christmas weather.
Comparing December to Other Months
Vientiane’s climate shifts a lot between wet and dry seasons, and December lands right in the driest part of the year. You’ll notice cooler nights, clearer skies, and way less rainfall compared to most other months.
How December Differs from the Rest of the Year
December stands out with its warm days, low humidity, and hardly any rain. Daytime highs usually hit 27–30°C (80–86°F), while nights cool to 15–18°C (59–65°F). That’s a big drop from April, when temperatures can soar above 37°C (98°F).
Rainfall in December barely registers, averaging just 10 mm across 1–2 days. Compare that to July and August, which can bring over 300 mm in a single month.
Sunshine is more reliable, too. Expect over 240 hours of bright skies, while the monsoon months often hide behind clouds.
Winds stay light, adding to the stability.
This mix of lower temperatures, dry air, and steady sunshine makes December one of the most comfortable months for being outdoors in Laos.
Why December Is Popular for Visitors
December attracts visitors because the weather favors sightseeing and cultural activities, without the headaches of heat or rain.
Walking through temples, markets, and along the riverside is so much easier when humidity drops and skies stay clear.
Packing gets simpler, too. Lightweight clothing, sunscreen, and sunglasses usually cover your needs.
You can skip umbrellas and waterproof shoes, which is a relief.
Travel conditions improve as roads dry out and rural areas become more accessible. River levels stay stable, so boat trips along the Mekong are a safe bet.
With fewer weather surprises, you can plan your days confidently.
For many travelers, these perks make December one of the most reliable times to experience Vientiane and the rest of Laos.
What to Pack for Vientiane at Christmas
You’ll face warm days, cooler evenings, and barely any rain if you visit Vientiane at Christmas. Packing light, breathable clothing and a few practical extras will keep you comfortable the whole trip.
Clothing Recommendations
Daytime temperatures in December often climb to 27–30°C (80–86°F), while evenings can dip to 15–18°C (59–64°F).
You’ll want to prepare for both warm afternoons and cooler nights.
Pack lightweight cotton or linen shirts, shorts, or knee-length skirts for daytime exploring. These fabrics breathe well and help you stay comfy while wandering through markets or temples.
For evenings, bring a light sweater or long-sleeve shirt. The cooler air after sunset can feel chilly, especially if you’re near the river. A thin jacket is handy if you’ll be on a motorbike or out at night.
When visiting temples, wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. A light scarf or shawl helps you meet dress rules without overheating.
Comfortable walking shoes or sandals are important, since you’ll probably spend a lot of time on your feet. Go for shoes that handle uneven pavements and dusty paths.
Essential Accessories for the Weather
December in Vientiane is dry, with only about 2 rainy days on average. You can skip heavy rain gear, but a compact umbrella is still useful for the odd shower or for shade.
The city gets loads of sunshine, so pack sunglasses, sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher), and a hat to protect yourself from UV rays. Sun protection is pretty much essential.
Humidity averages around 70%, so bring a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated. A small backpack is handy for carrying water, sunscreen, and a light layer for evenings.
If you plan to attend Christmas events or dinners, toss in one casual but neat outfit. Most places are relaxed, but some restaurants or hotels might expect you to dress up a bit.
A travel adapter for Laos (Type C, E, or F plugs) helps you keep your devices charged. Packing cubes or organizers can make it easier to manage your things during your stay.
Outdoor Activities and Weather Suitability
December brings warm days, cool evenings, and almost no rain to Vientiane. These conditions make it a great month for sightseeing, outdoor markets, and cultural events.
Gentle winds and clear skies mean you can explore without worrying about the weather turning on you.
Best Experiences in December
With average daytime highs near 30°C (86°F) and nights around 18°C (64°F), you get long hours outdoors without sweltering heat.
Humidity stays moderate, and rainfall is minimal—usually just a few millimeters for the whole month.
Walking tours and temple visits become much easier compared to the wet season.
You can check out landmarks like Pha That Luang, Patuxai Monument, and stroll the riverside promenade along the Mekong. Outdoor markets such as the Vientiane Night Market are especially nice in the dry season, since you don’t have to worry about surprise downpours.
If you like active experiences, cycling around the city or joining a day trip to nearby villages feels comfortable in this weather.
With about 8 hours of sunshine per day, you’ll have plenty of daylight for sightseeing and still enjoy cool evenings for outdoor dining.
Weather-Dependent Travel Tips
Pack light clothing—think cotton shirts and breathable pants—but remember a thin sweater or long sleeves for the evenings. Rain gear isn’t usually needed, though a small umbrella can double as sun protection.
Because the skies are mostly clear, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are must-haves for daytime. Even in December, the UV can be strong.
Try to plan outdoor tours or day trips earlier in the day to dodge the warmest hours. Calm winds make boat rides on the Mekong or open-air transport comfortable.
This stable weather also makes December a good month for photography, with clear visibility and bright light through most days.
Climate Overview of Vientiane and Laos
Vientiane sits in a tropical climate zone, so wet and dry seasons really shape daily life and travel. Geography across Laos changes things up—rainfall and temperatures can feel totally different in the lowland river valleys compared to the higher mountain areas.
Vientiane’s Climate Classification
Vientiane gets classified as having a tropical wet and dry climate (Aw) in the Köppen system. So, you’ll get a long rainy stretch from May to October, then a dry season from November through April.
Temperatures stay warm all year. December and January bring the coolest weather, with lows around 16–18°C (61–64°F) and highs near 28–30°C (82–86°F).
April definitely feels the hottest, when highs often climb to 34°C (93°F).
Rain doesn’t fall evenly throughout the year. January and December barely see any rain—just a few millimeters.
But August? It can dump over 300 mm (12 in) in just one month.
Humidity jumps around too, dropping to about 66% in the dry season and soaring past 80% during the wet months.
You’ll notice way more sunshine in the dry months—up to 8 hours a day in December. During the peak monsoon, you might only get 4 or 5 hours.
Honestly, if you want to do stuff outside, those cool, dry months feel the best.
Regional Weather Patterns in Laos
Laos offers a lot of regional variety, mostly because of its terrain. Lowland areas along the Mekong River, like Vientiane, usually feel hotter and more humid.
Meanwhile, the northern and eastern highlands tend to stay cooler, especially at night. Sometimes, temperatures even dip below 10°C (50°F) in winter, which can really surprise you if you’re not expecting it.
The monsoon system brings most of the country’s rain. Southern Laos gets more rain than the north, and the mountains often see heavier downpours than the valleys do.
Some wetter regions get over 2,500 mm (98 in) of rain each year, but Vientiane usually sees closer to 1,600–1,700 mm (63–67 in).
Seasonal changes happen pretty much everywhere at the same time. The wet season runs from May to October, while things turn drier and cooler from November to February.
March and April? Those are the hottest months, with temperatures often soaring above 33°C (91°F).
So, depending on when and where you go, Laos’ climate can feel totally different.