Bolivia's Climate: Hot Or Not?

Bolivia's weather differs greatly depending on the region and its altitude. The country experiences a range of climates, from hot and humid in the lowlands to freezing cold in the highlands. The best time to visit Bolivia is generally considered to be during the dry season, from April to October, when there is less rain and more sunshine. However, the weather can vary significantly from region to region, so it is worth considering the specific areas you plan to visit when deciding the best time to travel.

The climate varies across the country

The climate varies significantly across Bolivia, with the country experiencing every temperature gradation from equatorial heat to arctic cold. The country's distinct topographical regions—the Andean area and arid highlands of the west; the sub-Andean and semi-tropical valleys in the middle third of the country; and the tropical lowlands of the east—all contribute to this diversity.

In the Andes, temperatures and rainfall depend more on elevation and cloud cover than on the distance from the Equator. The Altiplano (highlands) experiences a cool and humid to semi-arid climate, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 27°C (60°F to 80°F). The coldest temperatures occur in the southwestern portion during June and July, and the rainy season lasts from December to March.

The Yungas Valley, part of the Amazonian lowlands, enjoys warm, humid weather with refreshing breezes. At higher altitudes, temperatures drop, and snow occurs above 2,000 meters (6,500 feet). The rainy season in this region is shorter, typically lasting from March to April, with southern areas experiencing a drier climate.

The lowlands of the Llanos have a humid tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The average temperature is 30°C (86°F), and the rainy season extends from September to May, with annual rainfall ranging from 1,000 to 4,000 mm (40 to 150 inches). The dry season, from May to October, brings clearer skies and less rain, though rainfall remains a possibility year-round.

On the low plains of the Oriente, the climate is hot, with temperatures averaging 23°C to 27°C (73°F to 80°F) or higher. Surazos, cold winds from the south, can cause abrupt temperature drops and are characterised by high humidity, sand, and dust. Annual rainfall in this region varies, with the south receiving about 40 inches (1,000 mm) and the north, 70 inches (1,800 mm) or more.

The lowlands are hot and humid

Bolivia's weather differs significantly depending on the region's altitude and topography. The lowlands and highlands have distinct climates, with weather conditions varying significantly from region to region.

The lowlands of Bolivia, known as the Llanos, are characterised by a humid tropical climate. This region experiences a clear distinction between wet and dry seasons, with an average temperature of 30 °C (86 °F). The Llanos encompass the areas of Santa Cruz, Rurrenabaque, Cobija, and Trinidad. The rainy season in the lowlands extends from late September to May, with an annual rainfall average ranging from 1000 to 4000 mm (40 to 150 inches). The heavy rainfall in this region is caused by winds blowing in from the neighbouring Amazon rainforest. From May onwards, the rainfall decreases, giving way to more blue skies due to the drier winds. December and January are the hottest months in the lowlands, with humid days and warm nights.

The lowlands of Bolivia are not just limited to the Llanos, but also include the Yungas Valley and the tropical lowlands of the upper Amazon basin and the Parana basin. These regions experience warm, humid weather with refreshing breezes. As the altitude increases within these lowlands, the temperatures become cooler, and snow can occur at elevations above 2000 meters (6500 feet). The rainy season in the Yungas Valley typically occurs between March and April, with southern areas experiencing a drier climate.

The tropical lowlands of the upper Amazon basin and the Parana basin in the east and southeast of Bolivia make up most of the country's territory. These lowlands are hot and humid year-round, with constant rainfall during the rainy season from December to March. Torrential downpours are common during this period, and flooding is a regular occurrence. The rainforest ecosystem in these lowlands depends on the seasonal flooding to function optimally. While the lowlands are generally hot and humid, they can experience bitterly cold winds known as "Surazos" blowing in from Patagonia and the Argentine pampas, causing a significant drop in temperatures for several days.

The highlands are cold and dry

Bolivia's weather differs significantly depending on the region's altitude and topography. The country is divided into five distinct climatic regions: The Andes and Altiplano, the Yungas and Chapare, the temperate valleys, the Chaco, and the tropical lowlands of the upper Amazon basin.

The highlands, or Altiplano, are located in the western third of the country and are known for their cold weather due to their geographical location and weather patterns. The average temperature in the highlands ranges from 15 to 27°C (60 to 80°F), with the coldest temperatures occurring in the southwestern portion during June and July. The climate varies from cool and humid to semi-arid, and the rainy season brings an average of 200 mm (8 inches) of rainfall to this region, with more than 800 mm (31 inches) falling over Lake Titicaca. The highlands are also susceptible to snow between April and September, although it is not common.

The weather in the highlands can be unpredictable, with bitter cold nights and winter days that can reach summer-like temperatures. The rainy season in the highlands occurs between December and March, and while it can be cold and wet, the days can also be very pleasant when the sun is out. The dry season, from May to October, offers more reliable weather for travel, with sunny skies and warm temperatures during the day, dropping to freezing temperatures at night.

The high elevation of the highlands also affects the climate, with fierce solar rays that can be intense during the day. The winds in the highlands are also a notable feature, sweeping across the Altiplano year-round and contributing to the cold temperatures.

The unique climate of the Bolivian highlands, influenced by their high elevation and geographical location, creates a diverse and varying landscape that ranges from cool and humid to semi-arid conditions.

The best time to visit is April to October

The best time to visit Bolivia is between April and October, during the dry season. This is the winter period in Bolivia, so while you can expect dry weather with blue skies and sunshine, it will also be cold, especially in the highlands, with temperatures in the mid-teens and overnight temperatures dropping well below freezing. However, the dry season is the perfect time for hiking and other outdoor activities, and you'll be able to take in the sights of the salt flats and Lake Titicaca against those clear blue skies.

April and May are great months to visit as the rains will have left behind lush, green vegetation, and you'll beat the crowds that tend to peak in June, July, and August. October is also a good month to visit as the weather will be warming up, spring will be on the horizon, and there will be fewer tourists.

The dry season is also the best time to visit the Bolivian Amazon, with more wildlife to see and fewer mosquitoes. In the lowlands, the weather will be warm and less humid, although there is a chance of surazos—polar winds that can cause temperatures to plummet.

The rainy season is from November to March

The rainy season in Bolivia is from November to March. During this period, the weather varies across the country. The east experiences warm and humid days, while the south is mild, and the west is dry. The highlands enjoy pleasant evenings, though they are not exempt from the rain, as tracks become muddy and cloudy days are more common.

The rainy season offers a unique opportunity to witness the country's natural beauty. The valleys shine with lush greenery, and travellers can enjoy swimming, rafting, and kayaking in crystal-clear rivers swollen by the rainfall. It is also a great time to witness the famous Uyuni salt flats, which become flooded and create a mirror-like effect. However, the rainy season can also bring challenges, especially in the lowlands, where heavy rains cause flooding and muddy conditions, along with an increase in heat, humidity, and mosquitoes.

The impact of the rainy season on transportation cannot be overlooked. In the Amazon region, road transport becomes difficult or even impossible due to extensive flooding. River transport, on the other hand, becomes more frequent and preferred by locals and tourists. Climbing and hiking can also be dangerous due to inaccessible tracks and frequent landslides.

Despite these challenges, the rainy season is a culturally rich time in Bolivia. The calendar is packed with events and celebrations, including Christmas and New Year festivities, the Alasitas festival in La Paz, and the famous Carnaval celebrations in February. The rainy season is also the harvest season in Tarija, Bolivia's main wine-growing region.

Overall, the rainy season in Bolivia offers a mix of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and travel considerations. While it may bring challenges in terms of transportation and outdoor activities, it also presents unique opportunities to explore the country's landscapes and participate in local festivals.

Frequently asked questions