Climate Bolivia
Bolivia is located in the southern hemisphere, just below the Equator, so the seasons are reversed compared to Europe: winter begins in June and summer in December. However, there are two main seasons: the dry season from April to October and the wet season from November to March. The climate also varies considerably according to altitude and region. Broadly speaking, there are three main climatic zones: the Altiplano and the Andes (above 3,000 m altitude), the temperate regions (from 1,500 m to 3,000 m altitude) and the central plains (Amazonia and Oriente). However, this doesn't mean you have to worry about planning your trip: you can travel to Bolivia all year round. Generally speaking, however, it rains almost everywhere from December to March, both in the Amazon and on the Altiplano. From April to October, the sky is mostly blue, but the weather is cooler.
Altiplano
The Altiplano includes La Paz, the Salar d'Uyuni, Sud Lípez, Lake Titicaca and the Andes Cordillera. Situated at altitudes of between 3,000 m and 6,540 m, it has a cool, dry climate. During the day, the sun warms visitors and the thermometer can reach over 20°C, but temperatures drop drastically after dark, often to below 0°C. The higher the altitude, the lower the temperatures. Strong, cold winds blow regularly, so it's essential to bring appropriate clothing. Summer (December to March) sees heavier precipitation, making road travel difficult at times. It is preferable to visit this region during the dry season (from May to the end of November).
The region around La Paz and Lake Titicaca is more protected, mainly due to the influence of the lake, which moderates the climate. Generally speaking, temperatures are milder and rainfall moderate in winter, but snowfalls are always possible! It's not uncommon to see the shores of Lake Titicaca frozen in the early hours of the morning.
On the Salar d'Uyuni and in southern Lípez, the days are often sunny, but there are polar nights (sometimes as low as -20°C in southern Lípez). From April to November, rain is rare, but from January to the end of March, trips to the Salar are made in extreme conditions: a layer of water covers the Salar, and not only is it difficult to avoid any holes, but the salt and water also cause considerable damage to vehicles. Excursions are therefore more limited.
In the Andes, temperatures are colder due to the altitude, and snow is frequent. It's worth noting that the village of Sajama, the starting point for hikes in Sajama National Park, is situated at 4,800 m above sea level. What's more, the departure time for the climbs is often in the middle of the night, so proper equipment is a must!
Beware of altitude sickness (sorojche)! At altitude, oxygen is in short supply, so blood coagulates and thickens... So avoid sudden movements or exertion, and don't panic if your heart beats faster than usual. Coca mate, chewing coca leaves and coca sweets (especially those from the Museo de la Coca in La Paz) are effective. Little by little, you'll get used to the altitude... And don't forget that the sun beats down hard! Even if you're not hot, you'll be reminded of this by facial burns (up to the second degree). Protect yourself accordingly: sun cream is a must, and don't forget to take lip balm with you.
Central regions
The temperate valleys, situated between 3,000 m and 1,500 m above sea level, have a pleasant dry climate, with relatively mild winters and hot summers. It is more akin to a Mediterranean climate. Sucre, at an altitude of 2,800 m, enjoys a spring-like climate almost all year round. These regions are pleasant to visit all year round, but beware of winter precipitation, which can make travel hazardous.
The Amazon and the Oriente
This climatic zone includes tropical regions where temperatures can rise to 40°C in summer. Santa Cruz de la Sierra has a drier climate, with occasional strong winds blowing dust into the streets (and onto its inhabitants!). The Surazos, winds blowing from the south, can also blow in winter, lowering the thermometer for a few days. The Chaco region, halfway between the Oriente and at the gateway to Amazonia, offers a climate that is half tropical and half arid. The Yungas region, on the eastern slopes of the Cordillera, also has an intermediate climate. Rainfall can be abundant and heat is often present, with a certain mugginess. The Bolivian Amazon (Beni, Pando and even the Pantanal) has a wetter climate than the plains, and the trade winds blowing over the Amazon basin bring abundant, but mostly sporadic rain, regularly creating floods. The best time to visit the Amazon is from May to the end of August, the driest and coolest period.
