Sapa is a city in the northern mountains of Vietnam, with a subtropical highland climate and cool temperatures year-round.
Sapa Climates and Seasons
The weather in Sapa is characterized by a rainy season from May to September, and a dry season from October to April.
The average annual temperature is 15.4 °C (59.7 °F) and the average annual rainfall is 2,280 mm (89.8 inches).
The best time to visit Sapa is generally between September and November or March and May, when the weather is dry and the temperatures are pleasant.
September is the harvesting season in Sapa, when the rice terraces turn golden and offer stunning views.
Winter (December to February) is the least rainy season, but sometimes it can get cold and foggy, and occasionally snow.
Sapa weather by month
Here are some key features of Sapa weather by month and the best things to do:
January: The coldest month, with an average temperature of 9.4 °C (48.8 °F) and 0.4 inches of rainfall. Fog and frost are common, and sometimes it can snow. It is a good time to enjoy the winter scenery and the peaceful atmosphere of Sapa, as there are few tourists.
February: The temperature rises slightly, with an average of 10.8 °C (51.4 °F) and 0.5 inches of rainfall. Fog and frost are still frequent, but the sun may shine more often. It is a good time to visit the peach and plum blossoms, which start to bloom in late February.
March: The temperature increases further, with an average of 14.4 °C (57.9 °F) and 1.3 inches of rainfall. The weather is relatively stable, with sunny days and cool nights. It is a good time to go trekking and explore the ethnic villages, as the landscape is green and fresh.
April: The temperature reaches 17 °C (62.6 °F) on average, and the rainfall increases to 2.9 inches. The weather is still pleasant, but there may be some showers and clouds. It is a good time to see the rice terraces being watered and planted, creating a beautiful reflection effect.
May: The temperature peaks at 18.7 °C (65.7 °F) on average, and the rainfall reaches 5.3 inches. The weather is warm and humid, with frequent rains and mists. It is a good time to see the rice plants growing and the flowers blooming, especially the orchids.
June: The temperature drops slightly to 18.2 °C (64.8 °F) on average, but the rainfall increases to 6.5 inches. The weather is hot and muggy, with heavy rains and thunderstorms. It is a good time to visit the waterfalls and streams, which are full and lively.
July: The temperature remains at 18.2 °C (64.8 °F) on average, and the rainfall reaches 8.7 inches. The weather is similar to June, with hot and wet conditions. It is a good time to enjoy the indoor activities, such as visiting the markets, museums, and pagodas.
August: The temperature stays at 18.2 °C (64.8 °F) on average, and the rainfall peaks at 9.4 inches. The weather is the wettest and cloudiest of the year, with frequent typhoons. It is a good time to avoid Sapa, as the roads and trails may be flooded and muddy.
September: The temperature rises to 18.5 °C (65.3 °F) on average, and the rainfall decreases to 5.6 inches. The weather is cooler and drier, with more sunny days and clear nights. It is the best time to visit Sapa, as the rice terraces are golden and ready for harvest, offering spectacular views.
October: The temperature drops to 16.2 °C (61.2 °F) on average, and the rainfall reduces to 2.8 inches. The weather is still nice, with crisp air and blue sky. It is a good time to go trekking and camping, as the landscape is colorful and scenic.
November: The temperature falls to 13.4 °C (56.1 °F) on average, and the rainfall decreases to 1.6 inches1. The weather is cool and dry, with some fog and frost in the morning and evening. It is a good time to see the rice terraces after the harvest, when they are green and brown.
December: The temperature drops to 10.2 °C (50.4 °F) on average, and the rainfall reduces to 0.7 inches. The weather is cold and dry, with some fog and frost, and occasional snow. It is a good time to enjoy the winter scenery and the festive atmosphere of Sapa, as there are few tourists5.
I hope this information helps you plan your trip to Sapa. If you have any more questions, feel free to ask me. 😊
