Bolivia In December: A Good Time To Visit?

December is one of the wettest months in Bolivia, marking the beginning of the summer season. While you can expect warm temperatures, there will also be frequent rainfall. This is the rainy season in many regions, including the lowlands and Amazon rainforest areas such as Rurrenabaque and the Madidi National Park. The weather in the highlands, including popular destinations like La Paz, can be more unpredictable, with afternoon showers and thunderstorms. If you plan to visit Bolivia in December, expect a mix of warm temperatures and rainfall, with lush landscapes and vibrant wildlife in the Amazon.

Pros and cons of visiting Bolivia in winter

Winter in Bolivia falls during the months of June to August. This is a great time to visit the country for those seeking dry and sunny weather, with June and July being particularly good months to visit. However, it's important to note that the nights can be chilly, with temperatures dropping below freezing, so packing warm layers is essential.

Pros:

• Bolivia's dry season falls during the winter months, making it an ideal time for hiking and other outdoor activities, especially in the Andean zone.
• The dry conditions mean that trails are easier to navigate, and there is less travel disruption compared to the wet season.
• The Amazon region experiences lower humidity during the winter, making it a more pleasant time to visit.
• There is a lower chance of torrential rain, and the days are warm, making it comfortable for exploring.
• This is a good time to visit the highlands, including popular destinations such as La Paz, as the weather is dry and cool.

Cons:

• The dry season can bring polar winds called "surazos", which can cause temperatures to drop below freezing for several days at a time.
• August is the busiest month for tourism in Bolivia, with higher demand for hotels and tourist services, and a small hike in prices.
• While the days are warm, the nights can be bitterly cold, especially in the highlands, with temperatures dropping to as low as -20°C.
• There is a chance of rain even during the dry season, and the lack of rainfall can result in dusty landscapes.
• The dry season is also the tourism peak, so some areas may be crowded, and prices may be higher.

Weather in lowland areas

The lowlands in Bolivia, including the Amazon Basin, experience a tropical climate with distinct weather patterns. While the highlands have cold temperatures during the dry season from May to October, the lowlands remain warm, and it is less humid than the rest of the year. This makes it an excellent time to visit the lowlands, with a lower chance of torrential rain and travel disruptions. However, there is a possibility of "surazos", or polar winds, that can bring freezing temperatures for a few days at a time, especially in July.

In contrast, the wet season from December to March brings heavy rainfall to the lowlands and Amazon rainforest areas. This can result in muddy trails, limited access, and an increased presence of mosquitoes. Despite the challenges, the rain transforms the landscapes into lush vegetation and vibrant wildlife, making it a unique and rewarding time for exploring the Amazon.

September is particularly favourable for travelling to the lowland cities and the Amazon. The weather is milder compared to the Bolivian summer, and the absence of mosquitoes enhances outdoor activities.

The shoulder months of April to June and September to November offer slightly warmer temperatures and reduced rainfall in the lowlands. This period is ideal for those seeking a balance between dry and wet seasons.

Weather in highlands

The weather in the highlands of Bolivia in December can be unpredictable. The rainy season brings afternoon showers and the occasional thunderstorm, which may affect outdoor activities such as hiking. However, the landscapes are beautifully green, and you may encounter fewer tourists compared to the dry season.

The highlands of Bolivia include popular destinations such as La Paz, the Uyuni Salt Flats, and Lake Titicaca. The highlands experience a semi-arid climate, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 27°C (60°F to 80°F). The rest of the year tends to be dry and sunny, but nights can be chilly, dropping just above 0°C. The rainy season, from December to March, sees an average rainfall of around 200 mm (8 inches) in the southwestern highlands and more than 800 mm (31 inches) over Lake Titicaca.

The rainy season can also result in landslides and road closures, especially in mountainous areas, potentially impacting transportation and access to certain regions. It is advisable to check weather conditions and local advisories before planning outdoor activities and to pack appropriate gear, such as raincoats and waterproof footwear.

Despite the rain, December is a great month to explore the rich culture of Bolivia, especially in the Andean cities. La Paz, for example, offers standout museums, intriguing markets, and traditional rituals celebrating the summer solstice. The wet season also brings festive cheer with Christmas and New Year celebrations across the country.

In summary, while December may not be the ideal month for outdoor adventures in the highlands of Bolivia due to unpredictable weather, it offers a unique opportunity to explore the country's cultural offerings and enjoy the lush green landscapes with fewer crowds.

Impact of weather on travel

The weather in Bolivia varies across the country and is influenced by both the season and altitude. The climate ranges from the high desert of the Altiplano, which experiences freezing temperatures at night and high temperatures during the day, to the hot and wet Amazon rainforest.

December marks the beginning of the summer season in Bolivia, which is also the rainy season in many regions. This can lead to muddy trails, limited access to certain areas, and an increased presence of mosquitoes. The rainfall, however, transforms the valleys into lush landscapes with vibrant wildlife, making it a unique time to explore the Amazon.

In the highlands, including popular destinations such as La Paz, Uyuni Salt Flats, and Lake Titicaca, the weather can be more unpredictable. The rainy season brings afternoon showers and occasional thunderstorms, which may impact outdoor activities such as hiking and salt flat tours. However, the rain also creates beautifully green landscapes, and you may find fewer tourists compared to the dry season.

The rainy season can also result in landslides and road closures, particularly in mountainous areas, potentially affecting transportation and access to certain regions. It is essential to check weather conditions and local advisories before planning outdoor adventures during this period.

Despite the challenges, travelling to Bolivia in December has its advantages. The summer season offers warm temperatures, and the rain showers tend to be strong but brief, followed by clear skies. Additionally, December is a festive month, with Christmas and New Year celebrations across the country, providing a vibrant cultural experience for visitors.

Overall, while the impact of weather on travel in December may include some limitations, proper planning and flexibility can ensure a rewarding trip to Bolivia.

Cultural events and festivities

December in Bolivia marks the beginning of the summer season, which is also the rainy season in many regions. While the weather can be unpredictable, with heavy rainfall and thunderstorms, it is also a time of vibrant cultural festivities and unique opportunities to explore the country's diverse ecosystems. Here is a detailed overview of the cultural events and festivities that take place during this month:

Christmas Festivities

Christmas is a sacred festival in Bolivia, with each area having its own unique traditions. The holiest celebrations take place in Villa Serrano, Sucre, Vallegrande, San Ignacio de Moxos, and Tarija, where festivities can last until the end of January. In these regions, Christmas is a deeply spiritual and exotic affair, with traditions that showcase the local culture and heritage.

New Year's Celebrations

As December draws to a close, the Christmas festivities seamlessly blend into New Year's Eve parties across the country. Bolivians ring in the New Year with joy and enthusiasm, often continuing the festive spirit well into the first days of January.

San Francisco Xavier Festival

On December 3rd, the city of Santa Cruz honours its patron saint, Francis Xavier, with a festival of folkloric dancing and bullfights. The festival commemorates the defence of the town against the Portuguese when it was a Jesuit Mission. It is a vibrant and energetic celebration that showcases the region's cultural heritage and traditions.

Alasitas

Towards the end of January, La Paz hosts one of its biggest festivals, Alasitas. This festival honours the Andean god, Ekeko, the god of abundance. Locals purchase miniature handicrafts of items they wish to receive in the coming year and pin them onto a small statue of Ekeko. It is a colourful and enchanting celebration that attracts thousands of visitors.

Carnival in Oruro

In February, the usually sleepy mining town of Oruro comes alive with one of the most famous festivals in South America, the Oruro Carnival. For eight consecutive days, the streets are filled with marching bands, traditional folk dances, and elaborate parades. This festival, honouring the Virgin of Socavón, blends Catholic and indigenous religious beliefs and attracts over 400,000 visitors.

Harvest Season in Tarija

March marks the harvest season in Tarija, Bolivia's main wine-growing region. This is a time to celebrate the bounty of the earth and the hard work of the local communities. The harvest season is accompanied by festive celebrations, including music, dancing, and traditional rituals honouring the land and its gifts.

While December may bring unpredictable weather to Bolivia, it also offers a wealth of cultural events and festivities that showcase the country's vibrant traditions and heritage. From sacred Christmas celebrations to energetic carnivals, Bolivia comes alive with colour, music, and community spirit during this month.

Frequently asked questions