The climate of Bolivia
Bolivia, a landlocked country in the heart of South America, spans an area of 1,098,581 square kilometres. Its terrain varies from the high peaks of the Andes Mountains to the low-lying plains of the Amazon Basin, creating a diverse array of climates within its borders. La Paz, Bolivia's administrative capital, is characterized by an Oceanic Subtropical Highland Climate due to its elevated altitude. The climate here typically mirrors the characteristics of an oceanic climate: mild summers, cooler winters, and a relatively stable temperature year-round. However, this region does experience drier weather during the "low-sun" season. In the tropics, a subtropical highland climate offers spring-like weather throughout the year. Despite the latitude, the higher altitude of these regions results in a climate that shares characteristics with oceanic climates. Snowfall in these areas is rare.
The best time to visit Bolivia
The ideal time to visit
Bolivia generally falls from
May to
October, during the dry season. At this time of the year, the weather conditions are typically more predictable and the skies are clear, offering stunning views of the diverse landscapes, from the salt flats of Uyuni to the soaring peaks of the Andes. Additionally, this period provides optimal conditions for outdoor activities such as trekking and exploring the country's many archaeological sites.
The worst time to visit Bolivia
The period from
November to
April,
Bolivia's wet season, tends to be the least ideal time for visiting. The heavy rains can make travel difficult, particularly in the lowland regions where flooding can occur. Moreover, some rural areas may become inaccessible due to muddy and waterlogged roads. Nonetheless, it is worth noting that even during the rainy season, there are usually several hours of sunshine each day.
Spring weather in Bolivia
In
Bolivia, the spring season spans from
September to
November. During this time, temperatures in La Paz generally range between 14°C (57.2°F) to 18°C (64.4°F). The climate remains pleasantly mild, but the country begins to experience more rainfall as it transitions into the wet season. Despite the rain, the scenery becomes particularly lush and green, creating a vibrant backdrop for travel.
Summer weather in Bolivia
Bolivia's summer, extending from
December to
February, coincides with the wettest part of the year. In La Paz, temperatures are typically between 10°C (50°F) to 16°C (60.8°F). The rainfall is heavy, particularly in the Amazon Basin, but this does not prevent the lush vegetation from flourishing. The heat and humidity in the lowlands can be intense, while the highlands remain cooler and more comfortable.
Autumn weather in Bolivia
The autumn months in
Bolivia, from
March to
May, signify the end of the wet season and the beginning of the dry season. During this period, La Paz experiences temperatures ranging from 9°C (48.2°F) to 17°C (62.6°F). The rainfall begins to decrease, and the landscape retains the lushness from the previous months, making this an attractive time to explore the country's diverse environments.
Winter weather in Bolivia
Bolivia's winter, from
June to
August, marks the driest period of the year. La Paz sees temperatures from 5°C (41°F) to 15°C (59°F). The highlands can experience frosty conditions, while the Amazon Basin remains warm. The days are typically sunny, providing excellent conditions for outdoor exploration and the opportunity to witness some of the country's most impressive landscapes under a clear blue sky.
Weather in January
January is firmly within
Bolivia's summer season and also marks the onset of the wet season. La Paz, the administrative capital situated high in the Andes, experiences average temperatures from 5°C (41°F) to 13°C (55.4°F), a considerable contrast to the lowland areas where temperatures can reach up to 28°C (82.4°F). During January, Santa Cruz, the largest city and economic hub situated in the eastern lowlands, experiences high temperatures.
Weather in January » Weather in February
February is a continuation of
Bolivia's summer and is considered part of the rainy season. The weather conditions in February are similar to those of
January, with some minor changes. In La Paz, situated high in the Andes, temperatures in February fluctuate between 5°C (41°F) and 14°C (57.2°F).
Weather in February » Weather in March
March in
Bolivia signifies the tail end of summer and the transition from the rainy to the dry season. As the wet season slowly withdraws, the country experiences a gradual decrease in rainfall and humidity. In La Paz, located high in the Andes, temperatures in March vary between 5°C (41°F) and 15°C (59°F).
Weather in March »
Weather in April
April marks the advent of autumn in
Bolivia and is characterized by the end of the wet season and the onset of the dry season. This month witnesses a sharp decline in rainfall across the country, making it a suitable time for outdoor explorations. In La Paz, nestled high in the Andes, April temperatures typically range from 4°C (39.2°F) to 15°C (59°F).
Weather in April » Weather in May
May brings a significant shift in
Bolivia's climate as the country enters the heart of the dry season. With clear skies and low rainfall, it becomes an increasingly popular month for tourism. In La Paz, situated at a high altitude in the Andes, temperatures fluctuate between 3°C (37.4°F) and 14°C (57.2°F).
Weather in May » Weather in June
June ushers in winter in
Bolivia, characterized by dry, clear weather and lower temperatures. This is the driest month of the year, offering excellent conditions for outdoor activities and sightseeing. In La Paz, nestled within the Andes, June temperatures range between a chilly 1°C (33.8°F) to 13°C (55.4°F).
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July represents the middle of winter in
Bolivia and is typically the coldest month of the year. Despite the lower temperatures, the weather remains dry, making it an ideal time for outdoor exploration and sightseeing. In La Paz, located in the high-altitude Andes, July temperatures vary between a cold -1°C (30.2°F) to 13°C (55.4°F).
Weather in July » Weather in August
August in
Bolivia marks the transition towards the end of winter. The weather remains dry, and temperatures begin to climb, making it a favorable month for tourism and outdoor activities. In La Paz, nestled in the Andes, August temperatures typically range from 1°C (33.8°F) to 15°C (59°F).
Weather in August » Weather in September
September ushers in spring in
Bolivia and signifies the end of the dry season. The weather gradually becomes warmer, and the first signs of the wet season start to appear with slight increases in rainfall. In La Paz, located high in the Andes, September temperatures typically range from 3°C (37.4°F) to 17°C (62.6°F).
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October in
Bolivia is characterized by the height of spring and the steady transition towards the wet season. Temperatures continue to rise and rainfall increases, bringing more moisture and greenery to the country's landscapes. In La Paz, nestled in the Andes, October temperatures range from 5°C (41°F) to 18°C (64.4°F).
Weather in October » Weather in November
November in
Bolivia marks the onset of the summer season and the wet season in earnest. Temperatures continue to be warm, and rainfall significantly increases across the country. In La Paz, located high in the Andes, November temperatures typically fluctuate between 6°C (42.8°F) to 19°C (66.2°F).
Weather in November » Weather in December
December in
Bolivia brings the full swing of summer and the height of the wet season. With high temperatures and substantial rainfall, the landscapes across the country become lush and vibrant. In La Paz, nestled in the Andes, December temperatures typically range from 7°C (44.6°F) to 20°C (68°F).
Weather in December » [Resources]