Destination: Bolivia

When To Go

Travelers will encounter just about every climatic zone, from stifling humidity and heat to Arctic cold. Summer (November to April) is the rainy season when overland transportation becomes difficult, if not impossible in some areas. The most popular, and arguably most comfortable, time for exploring the whole country is during winter (May to October) with its dry, clear days. This is also the best season for climbing. Most of Bolivia lies as near to the equator as Tahiti or Hawaii, but its elevation and unprotected expanses result in unpredictable weather. Bolivia's two poles of climatic extremes are Puerto Suarez with its overwhelming heat, and Uyuni for its icy, cold winds. But there are no absolutes; there are times when you can sunbathe in Uyuni and freeze in Puerto Suarez.

Summer in the lowlands can be utterly miserable, with mud, high humidity, biting insects and relentless tropical downpours. However washed-out roads necessitate an increase in river transport, making summer the best time to hop on a cargo boat. Winter in the Altiplano means extreme heat during the day, and freezing winds and subzero temperatures at night. The highland valleys are refuges, having a comfortable climate with little rain year-round.

August is the most popular month of the high tourist season which runs from late June to early September: it has the most reliable weather, is the time of European and North American summer holidays and of most of Bolivia's major festivals, so many Bolivians and South Americans also travel at this time. This can be an advantage if you are looking for people to form a travel group, but prices are generally higher than during the rest of the year.