Weather and climate in Yunnan: where to go in Yunnan?

Yunnan, a province in southwest China, stands out for its great diversity of climates due to variations in altitude and latitude. This makes it possible to travel in the region all year round, but certain periods are particularly recommended to make the most of the landscapes and activities.

Spring (March to May)
Spring is one of the most pleasant seasons to visit Yunnan. Temperatures are mild, rainfall is still rare, and nature is in full bloom, offering spectacular scenery, especially in the countryside and terraced rice fields.

March, April, and May are also months rich in festivals, particularly in the Dali region, where the Bai minority organizes many ceremonies.

However, be careful to avoid the beginning of May, which is a period of national holidays in China, when tourist crowds and prices rise significantly.

Autumn (September to November)
Autumn is the other ideal season for a trip to Yunnan. The summer rains have dissipated, temperatures remain pleasant, and the landscapes take on golden hues.

As in spring, it is best to avoid the very beginning of October, which corresponds to China’s “Golden Week,” a period of high tourist influx, with higher hotel and transport rates during this time.

Winter (December to February)
Temperatures are cool, especially in the evenings in the north (Shangri-La, Lijiang), but the days are still sunny and dry. For our Yunnan Roads team, this is our favorite season for scouting trips.

It is also a good time to visit southern Yunnan (Xishuangbanna), where the tropical climate offers the mildest temperatures in China and little rain.

Summer (June to August)
Summer corresponds to the rainy season, with frequent but rarely continuous showers, unlike the monsoon climate in Southeast Asia. Temperatures remain moderate thanks to the altitude, and it is entirely possible to travel, even though some hiking trails may be muddy. If you want to escape the heat and humidity of eastern and southern China during this period, summer is a good option to travel Yunnan, especially for families.