Winter in Bolivia: Everything You Need to Know
May 2025
Welcome back to the Andes, La Paz, and Bolivia!
Hope your week is going great and even if you’re on the road or just at home, I hope you’re feeling a little travel inspiration and dreaming about your next adventure.
Today, we’re diving into winter weather in La Paz, just to help you get ready and know what to expect during the coming winter months. And if you’d rather hang out and listen instead of reading, don’t worry, we also have our podcast this week, where I share more tips, stories, and insider info all about this topic.
Weather might sound simple, but trust me, when you travel, it’s what people end up talking about the most. And let’s be honest, it can also complicate things. That’s why it’s always smart to have a little idea of what’s coming. With just a bit of preparation, you can make the most out of your trip and enjoy every moment.
So if you want to know more about winter in Bolivia, and how to be ready for it, just keep reading or tune in to the podcast right here!
A little Café del Mundo news!
Before we jump into the weather, here’s something exciting happening at the café!
Join us at Café del Mundo on Tuesdays and Fridays at 11am for our Travel Talks.
We’ll be hanging out in our cozy lounge, perfect for brunch, mimosas, meeting new people, and talking about travel. Come find out what’s happening in the city, ask your travel questions, and get inspired. So, if you’re in La Paz... see you there!
And also, this Saturday, May 17, it’s La Paz Museum Night! Not just museums open late, but the whole city comes alive. Dances, music, and events in the streets, street food everywhere, plus cafés, bars, and restaurants with special things going on all night. CHECK OUT OUR NEWSLETTER for our deals, but most of all, don’t miss this magical night in La Paz!
A quick story about weather surprises (and why being prepared matters)
Imagine yourself booking the trip of your life. You’re finally doing the famous 4-day trek to Machu Picchu!
After walking through mud, climbing endless stairs, dealing with altitude, rain, and fog, you’re more eager than ever to reach the viewpoint. You take the final step, breathe deeply… and see nothing.
The weather gods had other plans. You can almost feel the disappointment in the air.
This really happened to me (you can hear the full story in the podcast HERE), and it taught me something: It’s important to know what weather to expect, and how to be ready for anything so you can still embrace the moment!
Winter in the Andes — Clear, sunny, and cold
Winter in this part of the world usually lasts from the end of May until the end of August, these are the winter months in Bolivia. And actually, unlike my Machu Picchu experience, there is very little rain here during this time. In the Andes, winter means deep blue skies almost every day. It’s dry, fresh, and very sunny, but also cold, especially in the mornings and at night. Sometimes, it even freezes overnight in places like La Paz or Uyuni. Locals wear warm jackets, gloves, and cozy hats, even when the sun is shining. And the good part: the days are perfect for being outside, to
walk, hike, explore, or just sit in a sunny spot with a coffee.
No rain, no clouds — just clear skies and amazing light. For me, it’s one of the best times to travel around Bolivia!
Not everywhere is the same: Bolivia’s different winter climates
But remember — Bolivia has many different climates. Depending on where you travel, winter can feel very different.
La Paz and the Andes
Cold mornings and nights, but fresh and sunny days — perfect for exploring.
The Amazon (Rurrenabaque)
Still warm and humid, but drier than summer and easier to travel.
Sucre (The Valleys)
Mild and spring-like, with sunny and pleasant weather.
Santa Cruz (Lowlands)
Cool mornings, but mostly warm, sunny days — no heavy heat.
VIDEO WINTER IN LA PAZ
How to pack for winter in the Andes
Packing for winter in the Andes can be tricky. It’s cold in the mornings and nights, but the sun warms up during the day
Hot tips:
☀️ Even if it feels cold, use sunscreen — the sun is intense.
🎒 Bring a backpack for layers.
🌙 Nights are freezing — make sure your hotel has enough blankets or heating.
Why winter is a great time to visit Bolivia
Winter is one of the best seasons to explore Bolivia.
Winter is honestly one of the best times to explore Bolivia. In Uyuni, you get those deep blue skies, fresh air, and glowing salt flats, perfect for unforgettable photos. In the Andes, it’s ideal for trekking, no rain, cool air, and clear views all day long. Even the Amazon gets easier, with dry trails and way fewer mosquitoes.
And after a day out exploring? Nothing beats grabbing a hot coffee, wrapping up in a blanket, and watching the stars fill the sky. Back in La Paz, Illimani finally shows up again after months of clouds, and sometimes the mountains around get a little snowy too, it’s honestly magical. Plus, with winter being so dry, you don’t have to worry much about trips getting canceled or delayed. Everything just flows a little easier.
Winter in Bolivia is cold, yes, but also clear, colorful, and full of adventure.
So pack smart, get ready, and come enjoy it! And don’t forget, if you have any travel questions, join us at Café del Mundo. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for great discounts, insider tips, and get our amazing travel e-book for free.
Write to us anytime, or even better, I hope to see you in our café lounge during one of our Morning Travel Talks.
