Exploring Bolivia: Is It A Crowded Country?

Bolivia is a landlocked country in central South America, neighbouring Brazil, Paraguay, Argentina, Chile and Peru. It is a country of extraordinary landscapes and fascinating cultures, where visitors can explore the highest navigable lake in the world, hike the Andes Mountains, and discover ancient Inca ruins. The country is also home to the world's largest salt flat, Salar de Uyuni, and the Amazon rainforest.

Bolivia's population is estimated at 12 million, with a mix of Amerindians, Mestizos, Europeans, Asians, Africans, Arabs, Jews and other ethnic groups. The official language is Spanish, but there are also 36 indigenous languages with official status, including Guaraní, Aymara and Quechua.

The country's geography and climate vary significantly, from the western snow-capped peaks of the Andes to the eastern lowlands of the Amazon basin. The Andean region experiences cold, dry winters and pleasant summers, while the lowlands have a hot, humid climate year-round.

The best time to visit Bolivia depends on your interests. The dry season, from May to October, is ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking and sightseeing, with clear skies and pleasant temperatures. This is also the busiest time of year, with higher prices and more tourists. The wet season, from November to April, offers a different experience with lush rainforests and the famous mirror effect on the salt flats, but travel can be challenging due to heavy rainfall and flooding.

Is Bolivia crowded during the dry season?

Bolivia's dry season, which runs from May to October, is the country's winter and the busiest time of year for tourism. The dry season is considered the best time to visit Bolivia, so you can expect crowds and higher prices.

The dry season in the highlands

The dry season is the perfect time of year for trekking and other outdoor activities in the highlands. However, it is also bitterly cold, with temperatures often below freezing at night. The days are slightly shorter, but they are usually sunny, and the skies are clear and blue.

The dry season in the lowlands

In the lowlands, the dry season is still warm, and it is less humid than the rest of the year. The humidity lessens, and there is a lower chance of torrential rain. However, there is a chance of surazos, polar winds that can drop the temperature below freezing for several days.

The busiest times

August is the most crowded month in Bolivia, as it is the country's Independence Day on the 6th. Early booking is essential, and prices are likely to be higher. The dry season is also the most popular time to visit the Amazon and the cities of the lowlands.

The shoulder season

If you want to avoid the crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder season, from April to May or October to November. These months are still relatively dry, but the crowds are smaller and prices are lower.

Is Bolivia crowded during the wet season?

Bolivia's climate varies depending on the region and its altitude. The country experiences two distinct seasons: the dry season and the wet season. The dry season, from May to October, is the most popular time for tourists to visit Bolivia, as it offers clear skies and more comfortable temperatures. The wet season, from November to April, is less popular due to frequent rainfall and disruptions to travel, especially in the lowlands. However, the wet season is a beautiful time to visit the Andes, as the usually parched landscapes transform into lush grasslands with wildflowers.

During the wet season, Bolivia experiences increased rainfall, which can cause travel disruptions, particularly in the lowlands. Roads may flood, landslides are common, and fog and clouds can make driving or hiking in the mountains dangerous. These factors may deter some visitors, leading to fewer crowds in popular tourist destinations. However, the wet season is also a time of vibrant festivals and celebrations, such as the famous Carnival in Oruro and the colourful Fiesta de la Virgen de la Candelaria in Copacabana. The summer months of December to February are the warmest months of the year, with frequent rainfall and higher temperatures.

The dry season, from May to October, is the busiest time for tourism in Bolivia. Clear skies and more favourable weather conditions make this season ideal for outdoor activities such as trekking and climbing. However, it is essential to pack warm clothing, as the temperatures can drop drastically at night, especially in the highlands. The winter months of June to September offer dry and sunny days but can be bitterly cold, with temperatures dropping well below freezing at night.

In summary, while the wet season in Bolivia may bring challenges in terms of travel disruptions and higher chances of rainfall, it also offers vibrant festivals and the opportunity to experience the country's landscapes in a whole new light. The dry season, on the other hand, provides more favourable weather for outdoor activities and guarantees clear skies, but it is also the busiest and most expensive time to visit. Ultimately, the best time to visit Bolivia depends on individual preferences and the specific activities one plans to engage in during their trip.

Is La Paz crowded?

La Paz, Bolivia's administrative capital, is a densely populated city. With 755,732 residents as of 2024, it is the third-most populous city in the country. Its metropolitan area, which includes La Paz, El Alto, Achocalla, Viacha, and Mecapaca, forms the second-largest urban area in Bolivia, with a population of 2.2 million.

La Paz is located in a bowl-like depression in west-central Bolivia, surrounded by the high mountains of the Altiplano. The city is built in a canyon created by the Choqueyapu River and sits at an elevation of roughly 3,650 m (11,975 ft) above sea level, making it the highest administrative capital in the world.

Due to its high altitude, La Paz has a unique subtropical highland climate, with rainy summers and dry winters. The dry season, from May to October, is considered the best time to visit La Paz and the rest of Bolivia, as the weather is ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking and trekking. During this period, the days are shorter, but when the sun shines, it can be very bright, and the trails are easy to navigate. However, the nights can be cold, with temperatures dropping below freezing.

La Paz is a significant cultural centre in South America, boasting several landmarks from the colonial era, such as the San Francisco Church, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and the Plaza Murillo. The city is also renowned for its markets, particularly the Witches' Market, where visitors can find a variety of unique items, including llama fetuses, lucky charms, and traditional remedies.

The city's topography offers stunning views of both the urban landscape and the surrounding mountains of the Cordillera Real from numerous natural vantage points. La Paz also has the largest urban cable car network in the world, providing fast and reliable transportation across the city and offering a unique perspective of the area.

In summary, while La Paz is a densely populated city, it offers a wealth of cultural and natural attractions that draw visitors from all over the world. The best time to visit is during the dry season, when the weather is ideal for exploring the city and the surrounding areas.

Is Santa Cruz de la Sierra crowded?

Santa Cruz de la Sierra, commonly known as Santa Cruz, is the largest and most populous city in Bolivia. It is also the country's most important business centre and the principal destination for migrants. The city is located in the eastern Tropical Lowlands of Bolivia, in the Amazon basin. It has a tropical savanna climate, with an average annual temperature of around 25 °C (77 °F).

Santa Cruz is a rapidly growing, modern city with a thriving economy. It is a hub for oil, forestry, agribusiness, and construction. The city has a bustling nightlife, with new restaurants, bars, apartment blocks, and shops popping up everywhere. The city centre's old narrow streets are often crowded with people and taxis competing with horses and carts for space.

Santa Cruz is not a very popular tourist destination, but it does attract some visitors with its unique culture, warm weather, and modern atmosphere. The city has plenty of accommodation options, ranging from cheap backpacker hostels to upscale suites. There are also many high-end eateries serving European, South American, and Japanese cuisine, as well as budget-friendly options like vegan restaurants and pizzerias.

The city has two airports: El Trompillo, which mainly serves domestic flights, and Viru Viru International Airport, which is the largest airport in Bolivia. Santa Cruz is also well-connected by bus to other Bolivian cities and neighbouring countries like Brazil and Paraguay.

While Santa Cruz is not a typical tourist destination, there are several attractions that draw visitors. The botanical gardens, for example, are a great place to spot sloths and other wildlife. The Bio Centro Güembé Eco Park, just 15 minutes from the city centre, offers stunning nature, including the world's largest butterfly park, swimming pools, nature walks, and free-roaming monkeys. The Parque Lomas de Arena, a natural desert with sand dunes and lagoons, is another popular spot for wildlife spotting and sandboarding.

In summary, Santa Cruz de la Sierra is a crowded city in terms of its population and bustling urban activities. However, it is not a crowded tourist destination, offering visitors a mix of modern amenities and natural attractions without the hassle of large tourist crowds.

Is Bolivia crowded during festivals?

Bolivia is a country that loves to party, and its festivals are unique, colourful, and vibrant, offering a fantastic experience for fun-loving travellers. There are so many festivals throughout the year that visitors are almost guaranteed to experience one during their trip.

Yes, absolutely! During the Alasitas Fair in La Paz, for example, Bolivians from all over the country flock to the city to buy miniature items to offer to Ekeko, the Aymaran God of abundance. The city is filled with market stalls and vendors selling miniature items, handmade crafts, and homemade food. La Paz can get very crowded during this time, and it is recommended to book accommodation in advance.

The Fiesta Del Gran Poder in La Paz is another festival that attracts huge crowds. This religious festival sees thousands of dancers parading through the streets in colourful costumes, with thousands more spectators cheering them on.

The biggest and craziest event on Bolivia's calendar is the Carnaval, which is celebrated throughout the country but is particularly special in the highland city of Oruro. This epic street parade features a fascinating mix of Catholic and indigenous deities dancing to the beat of over 150 different marching bands. It runs for four days in February or March, with the main event occurring on the Saturday.

The Festival of Virgen de la Candelaria at the beginning of February is another raucous festival that attracts huge crowds. It pays homage to one of Bolivia's most sacred Catholic statues, the Virgen de la Candelaria (Our Lady of Copacabana). The festival features countless colourfully dressed dancers, marching bands, and a seemingly endless supply of beer.

The Urkupiña Festival in August is a week-long celebration dedicated to both Pachamama and the Virgin Mary, featuring a mix of Catholic and indigenous traditions. It attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors looking to take part in sacred pilgrimages and solemn ceremonies, as well as energetic folk dancing, colourful costumes, Andean music, and tasty local cuisine.

The Virgen de Guadalupe Festival in September sees the city of Sucre transform into a party zone with non-stop dancing, joyful music, delicious food, and elaborate costumes, all in honour of Sucre's patroness, the Virgin of Guadalupe.

A crowded but cultural experience

While these festivals do attract large crowds, they offer a wonderful opportunity for tourists to gain a preview of the local culture and enjoy colourful festivities.

Frequently asked questions