Sapa Weather in November

Sapa in November (Photo: kirandeepsingh via pexels)

Sapa enters the end of autumn in November. The weather remains temperate and pleasant for outdoor activities thanks to the falling rainfall and rising sunshine hours. Visitors may experience the cold weather at night and need a warm jacket, especially at the end of the month. Let’s see the typical Sapa weather in November and have the best plan for your upcoming journey!

Brief overview:

• Minimal rainfall offers great dry conditions for outdoor activities.
• Remarkable temperature fluctuation between days and nights.
• Quieter atmosphere with fewer crowds.

Is November a good time to explore Sapa?

Like every other month at the end or beginning of each season, November features a mixed weather scene of both autumn and winter. It is cool during the day and chilly at night. Rainfall significantly falls, making it ideal for climbing and exploring the Northwest mountain landscapes.

Sapa becomes quieter in November as the crowds remarkably reduce as the rice harvest has officially ended. While it is not as signature as the "golden season", November still offers a majestic spectacle of Fansipan Peak, lush botanic gardens on Ham Rong Mountain, poetic scenery of Cat Cat or Lao Chai Villages, etc. Moreover, buckwheat and mustard flowers are at their brightest time, surely melting your heart during the journey. Enjoy these stunning vistas in pleasant autumn weather before Sapa jumps into the coldest season of the year.

November is the perfect time for outdoor adventures, ethnic people’s life discovery, and cultural activities.

Temperature

In November, the temperature is around 13°C on average, fluctuating from 10°C to almost 16°C. It will get colder towards the end of the month so you will need a jacket either day or night. Some days may be as cold as 8°C or even colder in higher areas like Fansipan Peak.

Sunshine remains limited to about 3.4 hours per day. The total daylight hours are approximately 11 hours, pretty ideal for photography, hiking or trekking.

Rainfall & humidity

Heavy rains give way to light showers, followed by the high moisture level of 90%, creating the misty and cloudy conditions in the late evenings or early mornings. However, the visibility will be better quickly when the fog lifts by noon. The average rainfall is just around 41mm, spreading over 4 days, making it one of the driest months of the year.

Sapa weather summary in November

Traveling to Sapa in November: Pros & Cons

Pros

• Peaceful experience thanks to the remarkable decrease in tourists.
• Pleasant temperatures, blue & clear skies, and minimal rainfall are great conditions for outdoor activities.
• Safer travel and adventurous journeys thanks to less wet and muddy roads and trails.
• Unique vista of Sapa in cloud sea in the early morning.
• Some local festivals offer cultural experiences such as Brocade Festival, Cloud and Mountain Festival,... (varied by year).

Cons

• Early cold weather requires warm clothing, especially at the end of November.
• High humidity may cause discomfort for some people.
• Short sunshine hours may be more challenging for photohunters.

Travel tips

Planning and booking tips:

• It might be more crowded on weekends. Book the trip or hotel early to secure your favorite options.
• 5 - 7 am after the rainy days is the best time for cloud hunting.
• Spend the morning to early afternoon for outdoor activities as the temperature is warmer and more pleasant.
• Choose train travel if you want to experience a unique local experience with higher safety and extra comfort. Do not forget to book the bus transfer from Lao Cai Station to Sapa town if you choose the train.
• Choose the bus travel if you want a direct route to Sapa town and a more affordable price.
• Fansipan Peak trek is very challenging, lasting from 2 to 4 days or even longer, based on your physical condition. A guided tour with a porter is always recommended for this activity.

Packing tips:

• Warm clothing for chilly weather: waterproof jackets, warm hats, gloves, comfortable shoes.
• Necessity for trekking: Sturdy hiking boots with good grip, a few socks, dry bag for camera, phone, and power bank, a torch, insect repellent, a first-aid kit, snacks, water and reusable water bottle, tents, GPS devices.
• Necessity for occasional rains: light raincoat, umbrella, hats, waterproof jacket/shoes/backpack.