bolivia best time to travel

The best time to visit Bolivia

Oct 28, 2023 • 4 min read

Choose the right time for your travels to Bolivia with this seasonal guide © Curioso.Photography / Shutterstock

From towering mountains and semi-arid forests to serene salt flats, from the jungles of the Amazon to some of the highest cities in the world, Bolivia has a lot to offer – and the weather patterns to match.

The climate here changes according to the region and the time of year, and there is a wet season and dry season to consider before booking any tickets.

Without the massive tourist numbers of its neighbors, Bolivia does not see major shifts in prices from one season to the next, though you'll pay slightly more during local holidays and big festivals. Even when there are hikes in rates, locals are often open to negotiating on prices.

Whether you are here for hiking in the Andes , taking selfies on the salt flats or chilling out in the world's highest capital city , here's a seasonal guide to what's happening in Bolivia.

May to October is the best time to experience Bolivia's outdoors

Bolivia’s dry season runs from May to October, mostly falling during the southern hemisphere winter. This is the perfect time for hiking and other outdoor pursuits, especially in the Andean zone, though the highlands will be cold and overnight temperatures can drop below –15°C (5°F) at altitude.

In the lowlands, the weather is still warm and it's less humid than it is over the rest of the year, with a lower chance of torrential rain and all the associated travel disruption. But watch out: there's a chance of  surazos , polar winds that come from the south and can drop the temperatures below freezing for three or four days at a time. These become more frequent in July, when it really feels like winter.

August is the most crowded month of the year in Bolivia – Bolivia’s Independence Day falls on August 6 – so expect to see heavy demand for hotels and tourist services and a small hike in prices. The weather is still cold but there is a smaller chance of sudden drops in temperature or rain. The lowlands can get windy too.

September is the perfect time to travel around the Amazon and the cities of the lowlands. The weather is not as hot and humid as in the Bolivian summer and the lack of mosquitos is a plus for outdoor activities.

The first signs of spring show up as trees burst into bloom, and in October, temperatures start to go up all over the country. This is when tourism slows down a bit and visitors have a good chance of negotiating prices and getting better deals.

December to March is the best time for culture and salt flat views

Bolivia's wet season has its own magic. With a fresh dose of rain, the valleys shine with all their natural splendor and travelers can swim, raft and kayak in crystal clear rivers swelled by the increased rainfall.

This is a great time to head north, where the flooded Uyuni salt flats present a mirror to the sky. Just make sure you are flexible with your timings in case there is any disruption to transportation due to flooding – January and February are the rainiest months and road closures are common.

This is also the prime time for a cultural journey, with a packed calendar of events. In December, Christmas festivities spill over into New Year parties across the country.

La Paz hosts Alasitas, one of its biggest festivals, in January, when locals shop for miniature items to offer as gifts to honor the Andean god, Ekeko. February in Oruro is dominated by Carnaval celebrations and March is harvest season in Tarija , Bolivia's main wine-growing region.

April and November have the best weather for traveling across the country

Sunny days, cool nights and a general lack of rain make for a great combination in the shoulder-season months of April and November. This is the ideal time of year if you plan to visit a number of different regions across Bolivia, with good sightseeing weather at either end of the dry season.

In addition, April hosts Easter-related events in many places around the country and November brings one of the most interesting cultural events of the year: the Day of the Dead weaves a spell that will entice anyone with an interest in local traditions.

It's one of Bolivia's most colorful and symbolic occasions, celebrated all over the country with visits to cemeteries to honor dead relatives. A week later, some regions celebrate the Ñatitas festival for all the dead who were forgotten. With warm weather in the mix, November is a great month to plan a cultural trip to Bolivia.

This article was first published March 2022 and updated October 2023

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TRAVEL to BOLIVIA – Tips and Information Guide [2024]

Whether you’re looking to explore endless salt flats or cycle down the world’s most dangerous road, let our ultimate guide for travel to Bolivia help you plan your trip!

Bolivia has various climates, diverse cultures, attractions for all ages and adventures for the biggest adrenaline junkies.

Depending on what you wish to experience, you can find yourself in the hot lowlands to cold mountain tops.

If you can think of it, Bolivia most likely has it!

• An Amazonian jungle
• Unlivable sweltering deserts
• Incredibly fertile grasslands
• Snowcapped mountains
• And so much more!

Plus there are over 36 different ethnic groups – making it one of the most diverse countries in the world.

But if you are looking for an ocean nearby, that is the one thing Bolivia lacks. It is one of only two landlocked countries in South America.

Still, Bolivia shares the world highest lake with its neighbour, Peru, at Lake Titicaca.

Bolivia Travel Guide

Thinking about travelling to Bolivia as your next holiday destination? Make sure that you use our Bolivia travel guide to prepare you for your adventure!

General Info

Here are a few of the basics to get you started in your planning.

• Capital: Sucre (constitutional capital) and La Paz (seat of the government and de facto capital)
• Other Main Cities: Santa Cruz de la Sierra
• Currency: Boliviano
• Language: Spanish and 36 indigenous languages
• Population: 11,248,864
• Area: 1,098,581 sq. km
• Electricity Voltage: 220 Volt
• Electricity Sockets: Plug type A & C

How to Travel to Bolivia

In general there aren’t that many direct flights to Bolivia.

Most flights originating in other South American countries will land in either La Paz or Santa Cruz de la Sierra, the two most populated cities in Bolivia.

The quickest and easiest way to visit Bolivia is to fly, if you don’t mind the odd connection.

Flying from the US & Canada

From the USA you can fly out from Miami to La Paz and Santa Cruz de la Sierra.

There is also an option to fly from different cities in the US via connections.

Most flights are likely to connect in Miami. And then in Miami, you will make the connection to Bolivia.

When flying from Canada you will also have to first fly to the US and then make your connection.

Of course, if you’re already visiting the neighbouring countries in South America you have a much wider selection of flight connections.

Examples of quick routes include those originating in Sao Paulo (Brazil), Lima (Peru) and Buenos Aires (Argentina).

The main airports in Bolivia are in the two capitals: La Paz and Santa Cruz de la Sierra.

The airplane tickets are on the expensive side, ranging from USD$800-1100.

Flying from United Kingdom & Ireland

Unfortunately there are no direct flights departing from the UK or Ireland.

The quickest route is to fly to Madrid, Sao Paulo, Buenos Aires or Miami from one of the daily flights from London. From there you will connect to Bolivia.

The cost of a round trip ticket is approximately USD$1,500.

Flying from Australia & New Zealand

From Australia and its neighbouring countries, the quickest route is to fly to Buenos Aires, Argentina. You can do this most easily with Qantas or Aerolineas Argentina via Auckland or Sydney.

The cost of the round trip is around USD$1,500.

From Buenos Aires flights to Bolivia will be approximately USD$300-500.

Of course, there is always the option to fly to the USA first and then connect from Miami to Bolivia.

Traveling Overland From The Bordering Countries

The only alternative to flying to Bolivia is to make your way through South America and travel to Bolivia overland by bus, train or automobile.

You can reach Bolivia by bus from all five neighbouring countries: Chile, Peru, Argentina, Paraguay and Brazil.

Take the bus from Puno and enter Bolivia either through the Kasani border or Desaguadero.

The ride is around 4 hours away from La Paz.

The main entry point is Quijarro in Bolivia which is close to the Corumbá, Brazil.

From Quijarro you can make your way to Santa Cruz by train. But be warned that it’s a 13-18 hour long train ride!

From Brazil, you can also enter Bolivia at San Matías. This will be a whole day of bus travel from San Ignacio, Chiquitania.

Another way of travelling to Bolivia is from Amazonia. There are several entry points (Brasiléia, Cobija, Guajarámerim, Guayaramerin).

There are three main routes of travelling to Bolivia from Chile.

• Take the bus departing from Arica to La Paz
• Take the train from Calama to Uyunivia Avaroa
• You can also go on a jeep ride from San Pedro de Atacama to Uyuni
• La Quiaca to Villazón (road and rail connections to Uyuni, Oruro and Tupiza)
• Pcitos to Yacuiba (road and rail connections to Santa Cruz and Tarija)

If you are travelling to Peru from Paraguay it will be a whole day of bus travel from Asunción to Santa Cruz.

Visa Requirements for Bolivia

If you want to travel to Bolivia you must know whether or not a visa is required to enter the country.

All US citizens are required to purchase an entry visa (USD$160).

For citizens of other countries, the Bolivian government has divided countries into three groups.

• 1 st group: Countries that do not require the visa
• 2 nd group: Countries that require a tourist visa
• 3 rd group: Countries that require a visa with authorization from Bolivia

If you wish to see into which group your country falls in, click here

5 Interesting Facts About Bolivia

Bolivia is full of interesting people, places, history and culture. Here are a few interesting facts to help you plan to travel to Bolivia.

• In about 99% of the country tap water is NOT safe for consumption.
• People dress up as Zebras in La Paz! They help children cross the street and educate drivers and pedestrians about safety measures.
• Camino de las Yungas is known as the “World’s Most Dangerous Road”. Every year the number of casualties ranges from 200 to 300.
• Reflect at the world’s largest mirror – Salar de Uyuni. It is the world’s largest salt flat at 10,582 sq. km.
• Bolivia has 37 official languages! Pick the one you are best at speaking and enjoy your travel in Bolivia!

Best Time to Travel to Bolivia

Bolivia is in the southern hemisphere. For this reason, the best time to travel to Bolivia is during its summer (December – February).

From May to October, the highlands are cold and temperatures in the desert at night are below freezing. This is especially true during the months of June and July.

But temperatures will also vary depending on which region of Bolivia you travel.

For example, the Salar de Uyuni is located in the high desert where even summertime temperatures can range greatly.

Also, when visiting the Amazonian regions of Bolivia the temperatures can remain hot and humid year-round.

The beginning of the dry season is from April to May. The country begins to come alive during these months after all of the rainfall.

If you travel to Bolivia during this time you will benefit from lower prices and fewer tourists.

Bolivia Travel Itineraries

Here’s a typical rundown of places to visit and for how long to help you plan your itinerary.

Lake Titicaca (1 – 2 Days)

If you enter Bolivia from Peru you will reach the town of Copacabana.

You don’t have to spend a night in Copacabana. But it is worth it if anything to relax and take in the sights of the lake.

The first day is to be spent at the lake and go canoeing. Or take a tour out to visit the floating reed cities.

On the second day, explore Copacabana and hike to the top of Cerro Calvario.

La Paz (2 – 3 Days)

Capital city of Bolivia has many attractions worth exploring.

You can go for a ride on the iconic teleferico and enjoy the stunning views of La Paz beneath you.

Or visit the witches market and shop for spells.

You could also spend days at a time trying to visit any of the many impressive museums in the city.

La Paz is also notorious for its nightlife.

If this interests you, head out in the evening and get a taste of it for yourself!

While in La Paz if you’re searching for an adrenaline high cycle down the Camino de las Yungas!

But do be careful as it is known as the “World’s Most Dangerous Road.”

Salar de Uyuni (2 – 3 Days)

The Salar de Uyuni is one of the main reasons that people all over the world travel to Bolivia!

Even if you don’t have a lot of time it is definitely worth booking a three-day trip.

There are many opportunities to travel across the salt flats in any number of tours originating in the town of Uyuni.

Of course, after spending a few days trekking across the surreal landscapes, stay for a night in the town of Uyuni to get some rest.

Sucre (1 – 2 Days)

Sucre is a colonial, picturesque town.

This is a town that’s renowned for having some of the best-preserved colonial architecture in all of South America.

Spend some time enjoying the laid back atmosphere in the town.

And make sure to indulge yourself in the local food and drink while you explore the ancient town.

Budget for Travelling Bolivia

Bolivia is known for being a cheap place to travel in South America, but even then it’s easy to spend up big if you want to.

Here’s our general budget guide.

Backpacker – $20 per day

The cheapest accommodations when travelling in Bolivia is definitely camping or staying in budget dorm rooms in hostels.

If you have your own tent it would cost you around USD$5, if you do not find a place to wild camp (be very careful about safety while wild camping though)

But you can also rent tents relatively cheaply as well (around USD$11).

Dorm rooms can cost anywhere from USD$5 to $10 a night.

Food is very cheap in Bolivia. It is almost worth purchasing already prepared meals rather than shopping at grocery stores and preparing your own meals.

If you’re on a really tight budget then head to the markets or street vendors where you can buy fresh fruit salads and hot meals for as low as USD$1.

If you see anywhere that says “almuerzo” that means full lunch. This is a great deal as you will get a soup, main dish and dessert for about USD$1.50!

As for transportation costs as you travel in Bolivia, you also don’t have to worry.

If you take a cab within the city centre limits will cost you around USD$0.60 per person.

While buses offer even lower prices. One way tickets are around USD$0.30.

If you have to take a long bus ride then the price should be around USD$2/per hour.

Make sure you check out our complete guide to backpacking in Bolivia .

Couples/Mid-Range – $60-100 per day

If you are travelling as a couple or have a slightly higher budget, you can live very comfortably in Bolivia.

You can find private rooms for around $20 a night, and if you’re willing to spend between $30-50 a night, you’ll get something very nice in good hotels.

With that kind of budget you’ll also be able to eat in many restaurants, enjoy a tasty coffee if you’d like and head out for a few beers in the evenings.

Luxury – $150 per day

You can live quite well when travelling in Bolivia on USD$100-150 per day.

Four stars hotel like Radisson Hotel in La Paz are about USD$80 per night.

The more expensive restaurants offer meals at around USD$20-30

And most of the museums offer free admission or have very low priced tickets around USD$2-4.

You could also plan to book a good quality 3-day Salar de Uyuni Salt Flats tour for around USD$270 per person . This would include all meals and accommodations.

Even if you wanted to rent a car to tour the country on your own, car rental prices are reasonably set around USD$40 per day.

Top 5 Places to Visit in Bolivia

• La Paz . This capital city is surrounded by snow-capped peaks and offers everything from haute cuisine to lively nightlife.
• Salar de Uyuni. People all over the world travel to Bolivia specifically to witness this natural phenomenon, vast white salt flats stretching into the horizon.
• Reserva Eduardo Avaroa. This is one of the best national parks in the country and can be visited when you are doing your 3-day tour of Salar de Uyuni. Experience hot springs in which you can bathe and enjoy the views, geysers, deserts and several differently coloured lagoons!
• Sucre (White City). The official capital of Bolivia. Sucre is a charming town that is also on UNESCO’s list for its impeccably preserved colonial architecture!
• Santa Cruz de la Sierra. This town is part of Bolivia’s tropical Amazonian area and is the jumping-off point for trips to visit the Amazon. The city also boasts of having the best nightlife in all of Bolivia. For a wild night, you must visit the Monseñor Rivero Street.

Top 5 Travel Experiences in Bolivia

• The Pampas tour . This is one of two ways in which you can experience the Amazon jungle from Bolivia. Get up close and personal with the Amazons notorious wildlife and landscapes.
• The World’s Most Dangerous Road. This is a must for every thrill-seeker! But be cautioned that it has its name for a reason. Every year hundreds of people die while travelling on the road, including tourists.
• Salar de Uyuni. You cannot miss the world’s largest salt flat! The landscapes surrounding you will take your breath away! Plus you can have all sorts of fun taking photos on the white vastness of the salt flats.
• Madidi National Park. This park is one of the most biodiverse national parks in the world. There are jaguars, rare fauna and over 1,000 species of birds.
• Oruro Carnival. This town comes alive with folk dances, colourful and flamboyant costumes, live music and 20 hours of constant partying. And these are just some of the reasons why this carnival attracts around 400,000 people annually.

Transportation While Travelling in Bolivia

Travelling in Bolivia is both easy and affordable. You will find that it is possible to travel by bus, plane or train to almost any part of the country.

The bus is by far the easiest and cheapest way to travel in Bolivia.

The bus network is very well developed so all the buses are pretty frequent and reliable. You can travel by bus both within and between most cities and towns in Bolivia.

The prices are very low at around USD$0.30 one way. And if you’re going on a longer trip then it’s around USD$2/per hour.

If you’re going on a long bus journey, you should know that there are no meals included in the price.

So prepare some snacks for the trip or buy a hot meal from one of the street vendors that work on one of the stops on your trip.

There are two types of buses for short journeys: micros and trufis.

Micros are minibuses that have an already set route. They leave at any time when the bus is full.

Micros will stop wherever the passenger wants to get off or on. Just let the driver know where you are going and remind them to stop for you.

All tickets cost approximately the same, which is around USD$0.15 one way.

The trufi is a van or a cab that, like the micro, has an already predetermined route. You are typically sharing the ride with a handful of people.

Trufis do not have set schedules either. They only leave when they are full.

They are cheaper than regular taxis because you are carpooling with other passengers.

One way trip would cost about USD$0.40 to most places within a city or town.

Unlike many other places in the world, the taxi is regarded as one of the safest ways to travel in Bolivia.

You can call a cab at any time and anywhere. And they are so numerous that hailing a taxi from the side of the road is quite easy.

There are two types of taxis available: radio taxis and regular taxis.

Radio Taxis

Radio taxis are dispatched based on calls that they receive from private clients like hotels or restaurants.

These taxis drive to the passenger’s location and take them to their desired destination.

This is a safer, but the more expensive, option that would cost you around USD$1 -6.

Regular Taxis

Regular taxis operate throughout most cities and larger towns in Bolivia. These are the standard cabs that you would expect to see in any city in the world.

Taxis are reliable forms of transportation. You can often negotiate fares with taxi drivers.

But note that fares are already quite inexpensive so haggling with a driver is only going to take change out of his or her pocket.

If you are looking for a unique way to travel in Bolivia be sure to check out the cable car.

The teleferico operates at 4000 m in elevation making it the highest cable car in the world.

Riding the cable car will connect you from La Paz to El Alto.

Not only is it able to provide transportation to 3,000 passengers per hour between La Paz and El Alto – but also the duration of the ride is just 10 minutes!

The price of the ride is quite reasonable, at approximately USD$0.50. There are also various discounts for seniors, students and the disabled.

Accommodation in Bolivia

When travelling in Bolivia you can find accommodation for very good prices. But know, of course, that the standards of accommodation vary.

In more urban areas you will find budget hostels for as little as USD$2-3 to high-end hotels that charge USD$100 per night.

In smaller towns, you won’t have that much luck in booking an upper scale accommodation. But there is always a lot of variety when it comes to budget places.

Rates are highest from July to August and in areas that are popular with tourists.

Also, make sure to book in advance if you plan to visit during a major festival.

Many places in Bolivia do not differentiate between a hostel and a hotel. So if you are looking for one or the other, you’ll likely find them to be the same in most places.

Even small basic places will refer to themselves as a hotel. Keep your eye out for other names, such as hostales, residenciales or alojamientos.

These are all different names for basically the same thing.

They offer very simple rooms with shared bathrooms.

There is no real rating system for hotels in Bolivia. So the best way to tell if you should stay at the hotel is to explore a bit.

Usually, the hotel staff will agree to bargain with the price of stay – especially if you notice that the hotel is half empty.

Hostels are slowly popping up all around Bolivia. Most of them are connected to Hostelling International .

But very few hostels have dorms or communal kitchens, which seem standard in most places in the world.

Instead, they offer cheap rooms with a choice of opting out for a private or shared bathroom.

If you wish to explore the wilderness then camping is the perfect choice for you.

Outside of the city and town limits you can usually camp anywhere and almost always for free!

But be advised that in the highlands it gets very cold at night. Meanwhile, in the lowlands, you will have a problem with the mosquitoes.

Attacks on campers are rare but you should still be careful. Use standard safety measures when deciding where to camp.

Never camp by yourself. And women shouldn’t go camping unless they’re accompanied by men.

In national parks and protected areas you can find albergues or refugios.

Those are rustic shelters where you can stay for a very small fee.

Cooking facilities and running water are often available in the national parks.

Food in Bolivia

• Sanduíche de Chola (pork sandwich): This sandwich is a warm bun with slow-cooked ham, pickle of onions and topped with ahi chilli.
• Cuñapé (cheesy bread): Enjoy a bun made out of yucca flour that has cheese cooked inside of them.
• Humintas (baked tamales): These are sweet corn tomales with grated cinnamon (or raisin and sugar) and cheese in the middle. It’s all deliciously packed within a corn husk and then grilled or steamed!
• Chuflay (traditional mixed drink): Sip on ginger ale and singani (a native spirit made from Muscat de Alejandría grapes). It is fruity and spicy at the same time.
• Sonso de yucca (kind of like mashed potatoes, Bolivian style): These are yucas cooked and mashed with cheese.

Safety in Bolivia

Like many South American countries, Bolivia isn’t exactly the safest place to travel through.

Be aware of your surroundings because pickpocketing is on the rise – especially in tourist dense areas, such as Cochabamba, Oruro, Copacabana, Santa Cruz and La Paz.

Avoid withdrawing money from the ATMs at night or isolated locations – that’s usually when thefts are done.

There are also a lot more violent crimes happening, such as kidnapping.

Many times the criminals will target foreigners/tourists, take them hostage and drive them to an ATM where they’re supposed to withdraw money to pay for their own ransom.

Again this is most likely to occur in La Paz.

And, while not common, it is more likely to happen if you take a taxi when the driver is in on the theft.

This is why we encourage you to use only reputable and reliable cab companies.

Like with many countries, Bolivia also isn’t safe for roaming around after dark.

It might be tempting with its famous nightlife but be sure to travel in groups, remain in well-lit areas and call a radio taxi to pick you up if you find that you need a ride somewhere after dark.

Make sure you always get travel insurance wherever you travel. We recommend World Nomads.

Medical System in Bolivia

Because the medical system in Bolivia follows a socialist model, everyone is entitled to some basic care.

It is great that you can get treated for a variety of illnesses for free. But the only thing that’s a bit inconvenient is that the system is under a lot of strain.

They have way too many patients, not enough staff and funding.

So if you have to go to a clinic you will have to get there very early in the morning and be prepared to wait for the whole day.

Also, their public hospitals are notorious for having poor hygiene and being overcrowded.

If possible avoid public hospitals and opt out for private clinics instead.

Packing List for Bolivia

• 1 pair of jeans
• 1 pair of sweatpants
• 1 pair of hiking pants
• 3 pairs of shorts
• Fleece jacket
• 2 long-sleeved shirts
• 1 rain jacket
• 3 tank tops
• 1 pair of comfortable sneakers
• 1 pair of flip flops
• 1 pair of hiking shoes

Miscellaneous Items

• Microfiber towel
• Pair of gloves and scarf
• World plug adapter

Travel Tips for Bolivia

These are our top travel tips for Bolivia. Use common travel sense when travelling in Bolivia the same as you would in any part of the world.

But note the following in particular:

• Water is not safe for consumption. Make sure to carry a bottle with a filter and/or purchase bottled water as necessary. Make sure the bottled water caps are not already open when you purchase them.
• Certain areas in La Paz and other touristy places are very dangerous. Be mindful of your surroundings at all times.
• Make copies of all your important travel documents and plane tickets. If making friends while enjoying the nightlife in Bolivia be sure to keep your documents secure.
• Bring a travel lock and always lock your luggage when you are not around it. Keep an eye on people near your possessions when on public transportation as pickpocketing is a common crime.

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Climate and Seasons in Bolivia

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Winter ( invierno ) runs between May and October: this is the dry season , and in many ways the best time to visit, though it’s also the high season for tourism, so some prices will be higher and attractions busier. In the highlands it’s noticeably colder at night, particularly in June and July. The days are slightly shorter, but usually sunny, and the skies crystal clear, making this the best time of year for trekking and climbing.

Winter is also the best time for visiting the hot and humid lowlands , when temperatures are generally slightly (but pleasantly) lower, although the dry season is less pronounced and rain remains a possibility all year round. A few times a year, usually between July and August, the country is swept by cold fronts coming up from Patagonia, known as surazos , which can send temperatures plunging even in the Amazon. Towards the end of the dry season in late August and September, farmers set fire to cleared forest areas across much of Bolivia, which can obscure views and cause respiratory problems.

Summer ( verano ) is the rainy season , which runs roughly from November to March and is much more pronounced in the lowlands; in the Amazon, road transport becomes pretty much impossible, as huge areas are flooded and everything turns to mud – though, conversely, river transport becomes more frequent. Heat, humidity and mosquitoes are also much worse.

In the highlands, particularly the Altiplano, it rains much less and travel is not as restricted, though delays and road closures still occur, while trekking trails get muddier and clouds often obscure views, particularly in the high mountains, where route-finding can become impossible. Despite this, the rainy season is also a very beautiful time in the Andes, as the parched Altiplano and mountainsides are briefly transformed into lush grassland and wild flowers proliferate.

Bolivia enjoys a huge number of national, regional and local fiestas . These are taken very seriously, often involving lengthy preparations and substantial expense; the largest feature thousands of costumed dancers, massed brass bands and plenty of food and drink. You should definitely try to catch a fiesta at some point during your visit, as they are amongst the most vibrant and colourful spectacles Bolivia has to offer, and at the heart of the country’s culture.

Most national fiestas mark famous events in Bolivia’s post-conquest history and the standard festivals of the Catholic Church , but many of the latter coincide with far older indigenous celebrations related to the sun, stars and agricultural cycle. Carnaval time (late Feb or early March) is marked by fiestas and celebrations throughout the country (the most famous being in Oruro), and involves copious eating and drinking, and indiscriminate water-fighting.

In addition to the major national and regional celebrations, almost every town and village has its own annual local fiesta (some have several), usually to honour a patron saint. These celebrations can be much more fun to visit than major events in larger towns and cities, and often stretch out over a whole week, with religious processions, masked and costumed folkloric dances, traditional music and eating and drinking.

In indigenous communities these fiestas are often important ritual events associated with religious beliefs and agricultural cycles – it’s believed that if they’re not celebrated with due extravagance, the Catholic saints or mountain gods (or both) may be displeased, and the fortunes of the community will suffer as a result. Fiestas also play an important role in maintaining social cohesion, and are usually financed under a system known as prestes , whereby wealthier members of the community spend large amounts of money on food, drink and musicians, gaining enhanced status and respect in return.

The occasional visitor will usually be warmly welcomed to local fiestas, but these are often fairly private affairs, and crowds of camera-wielding tourists may provoke a hostile reaction – sensitivity is the key.

New Year’s Day (public holiday).

Reyes Magos. The arrival of the Three Kings is celebrated with processions in various towns in the Beni.

Feria de Alasitas in La Paz. Large areas of the city are taken over by market stalls selling miniature items used as offerings to Ekeko, the household god of abundance.

Fiesta de la Virgen de la Candelaria in Copacabana.

February 10

Public holiday in Oruro department.

February/March

Carnaval. Celebrated throughout the country in the week before Lent. The Oruro Carnaval is the most famous, but Santa Cruz and Tarija also stage massive fiestas.

Pujjlay. Thousands of indigenous revellers descend on the town of Tarabuco, near Sucre, to celebrate a local victory over Spanish troops during the Independence War.

March/April

Semana Santa (Easter) is celebrated with religious processions throughout Bolivia. Good Friday is a public holiday.

Public holiday in Tarija department.

Labour Day (public holiday).

Día de la Cruz. Tinku ritual combats are staged in some communities in the northern Potosí region.

Public holiday in Chuquisaca department.

Corpus Christi (public holiday). La Paz stages the Señor del Gran Poder, its biggest and most colourful folkloric dance parade.

The winter solstice and Aymara New Year are celebrated with overnight vigils and religious ceremonies at Tiwanaku, Copacabana, Samaipata and other ancient sites throughout the country.

San Juan. Christian version of the winter solstice and Aymara New Year, marked with bonfires and fireworks around Bolivia.

Santísima Trinidad. Major religious fiesta in Trinidad in honour of the Holy Trinity.

Virgen del Carmen. Processions and dances in honour of the Virgen del Carmen, the patron saint of many towns and villages across Bolivia. Public holiday in La Paz department.

San Ignacio de Moos hosts the largest and most colourful folkloric fiesta in the Bolivian Amazon.

Independence Day (public holiday). Parades and parties throughout the country.

Virgen de Urkupiña. Pilgrims descend on the market town of Quillacollo, just outside Cochabamba, for the region’s biggest religious fiesta.

San Bartolomé (also known as Ch’utillos). Potosí’s biggest annual fiesta, a three-day celebration with pre-Christian roots, marked by folkloric dances and religious processions.

September 14

Public holiday in Cochabamba department.

Public holiday in Pando department.

November 1–2

All Saints and Day of the Dead (public holiday). Remembrance parties are held in cemeteries throughout the highlands, with the decorated skulls of dead relatives often on display.

November 10

Public holiday in Potosí department.

November 18

Public holiday in Beni department.

December 25

Christmas Day (public holiday). Christmas (or Navidad) is celebrated throughout the country, and there are particularly colourful festivities in San Ignacio de Moxos and Tarija.

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Best Time to Visit Bolivia: A Comprehensive Guide

Bolivia is a land of breathtaking Andean peaks, vast salt flats shimmering like a mirage, and verdant rainforests teeming with life. Its landscapes are as varied as its climate, and if there’s one thing travelers should know, it’s this: Bolivia doesn’t fit into a neat little weather box. Understanding the nation’s unique climatic nuances is crucial for planning a trip that aligns with your travel desires.

From the bustling streets of La Paz, perched high in the mountains, to the steamy depths of the Amazon basin in Rurrenabaque, Bolivia offers a climate for just about every traveler’s preference. But to truly make the most of this South American gem, one must be prepared for its unpredictable moods and whims, heavily dictated by its topography.

Bolivia’s Climate: An Overview

At first glance, you might be tempted to categorize Bolivia’s weather as simply “tropical” due to its location near the equator. However, such an oversimplification would do an injustice to its complex, multifaceted climate.

Altiplano : This high-altitude plateau , which includes cities like La Paz and the renowned Uyuni Salt Flats , generally sees cool to cold conditions. But here’s the twist – despite its elevation, it can have intense sun during the day, while temperatures plummet at night. The dry season here runs from May to October, and the rainy season from November to April.

Valleys : Nestled between the high Andes and the lowlands, areas such as Cochabamba, Sucre, and Tarija enjoy a temperate climate. Here, the distinction between seasons is less pronounced, but there’s still a wetter period from November to March.

Tropics : Now, venture further down to the lowlands, which include the sweltering city of Santa Cruz and the lush Amazonian region. This is where you’ll find a tropical climate with a more evident rainy season from December to March.

The common denominator in all these regions? Altitude. The higher you go in Bolivia, the colder it gets, with some areas even experiencing snow. And while proximity to the equator means day length remains relatively consistent, rainfall and temperature can vary dramatically.

Whether you’re dreaming of capturing that perfect mirror reflection in the salt flats or trekking through cloud forests, Bolivia’s climate plays a pivotal role in your experience.

Also read: Best Time to Visit Uyuni Salt Flats: A Detailed Month-by-Month Guide

Month-by-Month Weather Guide

The calendar year kicks off with the rainy season in full swing. If you’re headed to the Altiplano , brace yourself for short, intense bursts of afternoon rain, though mornings tend to be clearer. Average temperatures hover around 10°C (50°F). In the tropical lowlands, it’s warmer with temperatures around 25-30°C (77-86°F). But remember, it’s also more humid, and torrential rains can be common.

Events/Festivals: The Alasitas Festival is a highlight in La Paz, where locals buy miniature versions of their desires, a cultural nod to Ekeko, the Aymara god of abundance.

As the rains persist, Bolivia bursts into color for the renowned Carnaval celebrations. While the weather in the Altiplano remains similar to January, this month is especially wet in the lowlands. If you’re considering a trip to the Amazon, prepare for potential flooding.

Events/Festivals: Carnaval in Oruro is the standout, a UNESCO World Heritage event marked by spectacular parades, dances, and traditional music.

The rainy season starts to wane, particularly in the highlands. You’ll notice the landscape is especially green and vibrant. In the tropical regions, while there’s less rain, it’s still a frequent visitor. Temperatures in the Altiplano can reach 11°C (52°F) during the day.

Events: The Wine Harvest Festival in Tarija celebrates the grape harvest, with wine-tasting events and cultural performances.

A transitional month, April marks the beginning of the dry season in certain areas. The skies are clearer in the Altiplano, and temperatures begin to dip a little, averaging around 9°C (48°F). In the lowlands, the rain eases, but don’t be too surprised by the occasional downpour.

The dry and colder conditions start to take hold in the highlands. With minimal rain, it’s an excellent time for trekking or exploring the salt flats. However, nighttime temperatures can drop below freezing. In the tropical lowlands, it’s pleasantly warm with temperatures around 25°C (77°F), and less rain.

Winter in Bolivia brings with it a fresh crispness in the air. In places like La Paz, temperatures can hover around 8°C (46°F) in the daytime, plummeting at night. Yet, this month is also when the country is at its clearest and sunniest.

Events: The Winter Solstice, or Aymara New Year , is a significant event, especially around the Tiwanaku ruins.

Arguably the best month for outdoor activities, given the dry conditions across most of Bolivia. While the Altiplano remains cold, especially after sunset, the days are often sunny and clear.

Known for its strong winds, especially in the Altiplano. The temperatures remain cold in the highlands but are more bearable in the valleys and lowlands, where it’s typically around 23-28°C (73-82°F).

Events: The Feast of the Virgin of Copacabana takes place in the lakeside town of Copacabana on 5-6th August.

Spring begins to caress Bolivia. Blossoms appear in the valleys, and temperatures slowly start to rise. In the Altiplano, you can expect averages of around 12°C (54°F), while in Santa Cruz, it warms up to a balmy 30°C (86°F).

A pleasant month to visit, October offers warming trends in both the highlands and lowlands. Rain remains minimal, so outdoor activities are still a go.

Rain starts to make its return, signaling the onset of the wet season, especially in the lowlands. The Altiplano still enjoys some dry spells but be prepared for occasional showers.

Travel Tip: This is the last month to get clear views of the Uyuni Salt Flats before they turn into a vast mirror due to the rains.

Festivities dominate the air as Bolivia prepares to usher in the new year. The rainy season asserts itself, especially in the tropics, while the Altiplano sees sporadic rain. Temperatures are on the rise, with highs of 14°C (57°F) in the highlands and 31°C (88°F) in the lowlands.

Events/Festivals: Christmas celebrations across Bolivia are a blend of local traditions and Spanish influences, offering a unique experience for travelers.

Best Time Overall to Travel to Bolivia

When to visit Bolivia depends largely on your travel preferences and the activities you’re looking to engage in. However, when weighing the advantages and disadvantages of both the dry and rainy seasons, some general recommendations emerge.

Dry Season (May – October)

• Pros : Clear skies, optimal for outdoor activities like hiking, photography, and sightseeing. The famous Uyuni Salt Flats are expansive and solid, great for those iconic photographs. Roads are less muddy, making travel more straightforward and less risky.
• Cons : It can get quite cold, especially in the Altiplano. There’s a higher volume of tourists, particularly from June to August, which means busier sites and higher prices.

Rainy Season (November – April)

• Pros : Lush landscapes, with vibrant greens enveloping the country. Lesser crowds can mean a more intimate travel experience. The Uyuni Salt Flats turn into a giant mirror after rainfall, a surreal phenomenon.
• Cons : Rain can be intense, leading to potential floods or landslides. Some remote areas may become inaccessible.

Optimal Months for the General Traveler

Considering factors like weather, accessibility, and tourist crowds, the months of April to October are often seen as the best times to explore Bolivia.

Region-Specific Recommendations

Altiplano (including la paz, uyuni).

• Best Months : May to September. During these months, the weather is clearer, although cold, offering the best conditions for sightseeing, trekking, and exploring the expansive salt flats.
• Activities : Visiting the Salar de Uyuni, exploring the streets of La Paz, hiking around Lake Titicaca, and viewing the geological wonders of the Valley of the Moon.

Valleys (including Cochabamba, Sucre)

• Best Months : April and May or September and October. These shoulder months offer a comfortable balance between the hot and cold extremes. Rain is less frequent, and the valleys are particularly picturesque.
• Activities & Festivals : Delve into Bolivia’s colonial history in Sucre, enjoy the culinary delights of Cochabamba, and participate in traditional festivals like the ‘Fiesta de la Virgen de Guadalupe’ in Sucre.

Tropics (Amazon basin, Santa Cruz)

• Best Months : May to September. This is the dry season for the Amazon basin, reducing the risks associated with heavy rains and flooding.
• Tips : Jungle treks are more manageable during these months. Wildlife spotting, particularly in reserves like Madidi National Park, becomes fruitful as animals flock to rivers and water holes.

Activity-Based Recommendations

• Best Months : The dry season, from May to October, is ideal for trekking in Bolivia, ensuring safer and more comfortable trails. However, trekkers should be prepared for cold nights, especially at higher altitudes.
• Tips : Always acclimatize, especially for high-altitude treks. Hiring local guides can provide enriching insights and improve trail safety.

Also read: Tunari Peak: A Challenging High-Altitude Hike in Bolivia

Cultural Festivals

• Carnaval in Oruro (February): A UNESCO masterpiece of the oral and intangible heritage of humanity, this is Bolivia’s most famous cultural event, with magnificent costumes and parades.
• Todos Santos (November): A Bolivian version of the Day of the Dead, families honor departed loved ones with feasts and cemetery visits.

Wildlife Spotting in the Amazon

• Prime Months : The drier months of May to September see animals congregating around the fewer water sources, making wildlife spotting easier and more rewarding.
• Notable Wildlife : Pink river dolphins, jaguars, giant otters, and a plethora of bird species.

Also read: 12 Incredible Wild Animals in Bolivia

Visiting Salar de Uyuni

• Dry Season (May – October) : The salt flats are hard and vast, great for driving across and capturing those perspective-bending photographs.
• Wet Season (November – April) : The flats become a giant reflective mirror after the rains, offering surreal photography opportunities. However, some areas might be inaccessible due to flooding.

Frequently Asked Questions

Absolutely, especially if you want to see the Salar de Uyuni transform into a vast mirror. Additionally, the landscapes are lush and vibrant, and there are fewer tourists. However, be prepared for travel disruptions due to heavy rains.

El Niño can intensify the rainy season, leading to heavier-than-average rainfall, potential floods, and landslides. Conversely, the phenomenon might cause drier conditions in certain areas, affecting agriculture and water availability.

Generally, yes. The off-peak months, especially during the rainy season, might see fewer tourists, leading to potential discounts on accommodations and tours. However, it’s always a good idea to check in advance and book accordingly.

Julien is an exploration-minded, curiosity-driven traveler and blogger. On a mission to witness the planet's natural beauty and diversity, he shares his experiences on this website through articles, videos, and photography, including interactive virtual tours.

Fascinated by animals and plants since young, he is also fond of outdoor and so-called extreme sports, often discovered while traveling and practiced back at home where he focuses on improving his knowledge and skills - so he can explore further on the next trip!

More About Me

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The Best Time To Visit Bolivia: Month By Month Guide

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The best time to visit Bolivia depends on the region and the season. However, the general consensus is that the best time to visit Bolivia is during its dry season between May and October.

Month by Month Guide

January is the wettest month of the year with rain across most parts of the country. The temperature of La Paz and Lake Titicaca is around 60°F.

February is still wet and humid, but there is much less rainfall. Temperatures are similar to Januar and it is Bolivia’s festival season.

March is the last month of the rainy season. It is still quite humid and the temperatures remain in the 60s.

April is considered a shoulder month because the rains start to subside leaving the countryside lush and green. This is the best month to visit the salt flats!

May marks the start of winter and dry season in Bolivia so the hiking trails open back up. Santa Cruz, Bolivia has temperatures in the 80s.

June is dry and sunny with blue skies. It is cold and one of the busiest months of the year.

July  is dry and cold with clear skies.

August is cold and dry, and it is Bolivia’s most crowded month. Bolivia also celebrates its Independence day in August.

September brings back the rainfall and isn’t nearly as busy. This is the perfect month to visit the Bolivian Amason.

October marks the start of the rainy season.

November  sees wet evenings and foggy mornings. It is one of the rainiest months of the year, and also one of the warmest months.

December has the highest levels of rainfall, and most of the country is hot and humid.

May to August is the best time to visit due to the dry weather. If you pack accordingly you will be fine. I’m talking winter jackets, gloves, hats, and scarves.

During the day there is lots of sunshine but the temperature can drop below freezing once the sun goes down. My teeth are chattering just thinking about it.

When the weather is dry, your Bolivia vacation is much more likely to run smoothly. You can be confident that all of the tours and activities will be available.

January  to  March  is the worst time to visit Bolivia if you plan on doing outdoor activities such as hiking or biking. The regions referred to as the “lowlands” usually experience bad flooding and the humid temperatures bring the blood-thirsty mosquitos out of hiding.

The rain has a habit of disrupting travel plans. The roads often flood and landslides are much more common during this season. Fog and clouds can make driving or hiking in the mountains dangerous. Even fights are also frequently disrupted by bad weather conditions

La Paz is located at 3,600 meters above sea level making it the highest “administrative capital city” in the world.

The best season for visiting La Paz is the cold and dry period between April and October. During this time of year, the city has clear and sunny skies.

It has the longest cable car in the world that many locals use to get around the city. It also has breathtaking views of the city from above, so don’t miss out on a cable car ride while in La Paz.

A few of the best places to visit in the city are the Marcado de Brujas or Witch Market, and the San Pedro Prison.

At the witch market, you can find all kinds of unique artisanal goods, restaurants, and cafes in this area.

The San Pedro prison is one of the most famous prisons in the world. Entire families live inside the prison, and there is little to no police presence inside.

They used to offer tours, but nowadays you can only see it from the outside or read the book called Marching Powder ( a book written by a tourist who chose to live in the prison for a few months).

Uyuni Salt Flats

The salt flats are a must-see when in Bolivia. It’s an overnight bus ride from La Paz, and you can book a day tour upon arrival.

The white salt flats stretch for as far as the eye can see, and it feels as if you have stepped into a galaxy far far away. In fact, they actually filmed scenes from Star Wars: The Last Jedi at Salar de Uyuni.

On a day tour, you get to visit an island filled with cactus, and a hotel made of salt. You also get to be creative and take cool photos like the ones below!

There is a very small window at the end of April that is the perfect time to visit these vast salt flats. There is just enough rain to create the mirror effect, but it is not too flooded to walk around and visit the islands.

The Death Road

The Andes meet the jungle at The Death Road or Yungas Road. It has earned the reputation of being the most dangerous road in the world! In the past, there were 200 to 300 deaths on this road every year.

While statistics have changed in the past few years, you should still be careful when cycling down the death road. Vehicles are no longer allowed on parts of the road so that cyclists can have a safe ride down into the jungle.

The most convenient time to go is in winter— June to August , though it is really cold in the highlands during the winter, it is also dry and therefore much safer to ride.

Tourists come from all over the world to bike along the Death Road in hopes of earning the t-shirt that says ” I survived my ride on the world’s most dangerous road.” This activity is perfect for those seeking an adrenalin rush!

If you’re up to the challenge, the bicycle tour starts in the Andes highlands and ends in the jungle which means that temperatures can vary drastically from the start to the finish of the ride. Wear lots of layers so that you can shed along the way as it gets warmer.

Most of Bolivia’s festivals take place from  February  to  April . Carnival and Semana Santa ( Easter ) are two of the biggest celebrations of the year, and they showcase the Bolivian culture. They usually include traditional dances, fireworks, and street food.

Festivals can also cause inconvenient travel disruptions if roads or attractions close down and while the biggest festivals take place in February, March, and April don’t be surprised to see a colorful group of traditionally dressed dancers at any time of the year.

Bolivia is a unique country with many landmarks to visit. It has two distinct seasons: the dry season, and the wet season. Both have their advantages and disadvantages so you really can’t go wrong. Choose the best time to visit based on the places you are most eager to visit.

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When is the best time to visit Bolivia?

• Month-by-month

The best time to visit Bolivia depends on where you go. Although it is a country of climatic extremes, it can be visited all year round.

The best time to visit the highland areas is April to October. Although this is the cold winter period, it is normally dry. Expect plenty of blue skies and sunshine, with temperatures around 59°F.

The start and end of this dry season (April-May and October) are especially good times to go. The crowds will have thinned, and you can still enjoy the lushness of the green vegetation left over from the rains in April. October sees spring on the horizon and temperatures begin to increase.

Although southern Altiplano sees bright blue skies, it’s also very cold, dropping to well below freezing at night. November to March (the summer rainy season) causes some disruption on the roads, but travel is still possible and fewer visitors means you can explore without worrying about the crowds.

The eastern lowlands, including Santa Cruz and the Amazon, enjoy warm temperatures year-round, with lows of 75°F and highs of 88°F. It’s busier and therefore more expensive in July and August, thanks to the dry and sunny weather, although the temperatures still drop at night.

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Month-by-month guide for traveling in Bolivia

Visiting Bolivia in November - March

As the rain season begins, temperatures become a little milder in the highlands and more humid in the lowlands. During the heaviest rains road travel can be disrupted but is still perfectly enjoyable for the more adventurous who don’t mind occasional delays. In the high Altiplano and Uyuni, for example, although overland touring will take a longer route around, you can get some spectacular photographs of reflections on the salt flats.

Events & Festivals

• Carnival (February): Carnival is celebrated across Bolivia, with the liveliest festivities to be found in Oruro and Santa Cruz.
• Feria de Alasitas (last week of January): You'll see countless stalls sell all manner of miniature items which Bolivians purchase to appease Ekeko, the household god of abundance. It's a fascinating festival to experience in La Paz.

Visiting Bolivia in April - October

Bolivia’s dry season is the most popular time of year to travel, despite the cold weather. Road travel is easier and the bright sunny conditions mean you can photograph the salt flats and Lake Titicaca against dazzling blue skies. June to September is the peak time for visitors, so you should plan well in advance to get the best choice of accommodation. Bolivia’s temperatures are determined by the altitude as well as the season, with highland areas such as La Paz , Lake Titicaca, Potosí and Uyuni generally cool year round and extremely cold at night. This altitude does bring strong sunshine in the dry season, making high factor sunscreen essential.

• Bolivia’s Independence Day (August 6): Bolivia’s Independence Day is a public holiday, with patriotic marches taking place in towns and cities across the country.
• El Señor del Gran Poder (May/June): The feast of El Señor del Gran Poder (Feast of Jesus Christ) brings over 20,000 dancers in brightly decorated costumes to the streets of La Paz.

Bolivia Climate Guide

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The Best Time to Visit Bolivia

Spanning a multitude of microclimates from the Amazon to the Andes, Bolivia is a vast and untamed country just begging to be explored. But with so many different climatic zones to consider, how can you determine the best time to visit? Thankfully, Culture Trip has done the legwork for you by preparing this simple guide.

Dry or wet.

Rather than a traditional four seasons, Bolivia has just two: the dry and the wet. Although these vary slightly throughout the country, the dry season generally begins in May and ends in late November, with the wet occupying the rest of the year. Having said that, torrential rains mostly tend to fall between January and March. The other “wet” months, on the other hand, usually experience just an isolated shower at most each day.

Note that the seasons are being delayed more and more each year, most likely due to the effects of global climate change. Weather information from the guidebooks of ten years ago is surprisingly out of date.

Also be aware that there are always exceptions to the rule, with brief but heavy downfalls occasionally occurring outside of January to March (although almost never between June and August).

The dry season

The dry season is high season in Bolivia as crystal clear skies and a distinct lack of rain allow tourists to hike and climb to their heart’s content. The best months for outdoor adventures are May through August when the chance of rain is minuscule.

The downside is that it can get bitterly cold in the highlands at this time of year. Most Bolivian hotels don’t have heating so be sure to pack plenty of warm clothes. This is of utmost importance on overnight journeys where unheated and poorly insulated buses drop well below freezing.

In the Salar de Uyuni – the country’s most famous attraction – overnight temps drop down to -20 C (-4F), meaning it’s essential to wrap up. Many tours leave before dawn, so be prepared to be cold.

Over in the tropics, temperatures are considerably more manageable. Amazonian wetlands will be relatively dry (depending on how long ago the rain stopped), meaning at times travelers must explore by foot rather than a dugout canoe.

The wet season

Travelers coming to experience Bolivia’s natural splendor would do well to avoid the wettest months of January to March. Mountain climbing is usually off limits during this period and trekking, although possible, will probably mean getting wet. The other “wet” months – September to December and April – usually entail much more sporadic rainfall which means sunshine is possible but not guaranteed.

Non-outdoorsy travelers can happily visit all through the wet season. Keep in mind, however, that substantial rains can seriously mess up travel plans. In extreme cases, entire roads are washed away and remote airports are closed for days on end. Be sure to have a flexible itinerary if traveling during this time.

In the tropics, it will be either pouring rain or insufferably hot. On the plus side, the Amazon is flush with life and travelers can spot plenty of amphibian life from the comfort of a canoe.

Finally, those who long to marvel at the heavenly mirror effect of the Salar de Uyuni should opt for the wettest months. Again, it’s impossible to predict precisely when the salar will flood so be prepared to take a punt.

What about crowds and costs?

As you would expect, many more tourists visit the country during the high and dry season. If that is something that bothers you, consider coming during the shoulder season instead.

Pricewise, some hotels offer lower rates in slower periods upon negotiation but don’t expect to see any substantial savings. Airfares are only marginally cheaper outside of the dry season as well (avoid school holidays and festivals for the best rates).

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Guides & Tips

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See & Do

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Best Time To Visit Bolivia

Bolivia through the seasons

Although Bolivia lies directly on the equator, the climate is by no means uniformly tropical. Most of the Andean region is set more than 1500 meters above sea level, with some peaks as tall as 6000 meters! Naturally, the fresh mountain air dominates the higher altitudes where, instead of rainfall, you will see snow in November. The Altiplano region (La Paz, Uyuni) remains moderately cool throughout the year. On the other hand, the lowlands experience distinctly tropical weather with temperatures above 86°F. The best time for travel to Bolivia is between the months of May to October when the weather is dry. Bolivia receives the most amount of tourists in July and August. Traveling in the rainy season can be challenging as many of the roads are difficult to navigate. Some parts of Bolivia can be visited throughout the year.

Best Time To Visit

We recommend.

• Gift Ekeko, the god of abundance, at the Feria de Alasitas in La Paz
• Discover the colonial history of Sucre, the capital city
• Revel in the festivities at the Carnaval de Oruro
• Head to Copacabana for the colorful Fiesta de La Virgen de Candelaria
• Experience the largest mirror on earth – the Salar de Uyuni
• Discover the dark past of the Cerro Rico mines in Potosi
• Appreciate the untouched natural wonders of Sajama
• Explore the ruins of Isla del Sol
• Watch dancers flaunt their colorful costumes at the Fiesta del Gran Poder in La Paz
• It’s party time at the Fiesta de Moxos in Beni
• Be part of the celebrations surrounding Bolivia’s Independence Day
• Visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites at Santa Cruz
• Experience the Bolivian Amazon at Parque Nacional Madidi
• See RED at Laguna Colorado
• Take a boat ride to the Uros Floating Islands In Lake Titicaca
• Surreal sunsets await at the Valle de La Luna

Best Time to Visit Bolivia by Season

• In the dry season:  May to October
• Rainy season:  November to April

Altitude in Bolivia and Tips to Prevent Altitude Sickness

Upon reaching heights of 3000 meters or greater, some people can experience altitude sickness (otherwise known as Soroche), in response to the lack of oxygen in the air. To prevent altitude sickness, we recommend that you take it slow so your body can adapt. In the first hours after your arrival, we recommend that you lie down and drink plenty of water. Acclimatization will generally take you one to two days.

Soroche symptoms include headache, fatigue, loss of appetite, stomach illness, dizziness, and sleep disturbance, and usually develop within the first day or two at altitude. It’s difficult to determine who may be affected since there are no specific factors (age, sex or physical condition) correlated with susceptibility. The main cause of Soroche is ascending too rapidly.

High-altitude destinations in Bolivia:

• Sajama, Bolivia: 4,250 m (13,944 ft)
• Potosí, Bolivia: 4,090 m (13,420 ft)
• Puno, Titicaca Lake, Copacabana, Bolivia & Peru: 3,827 m (12,628 ft)
• Uyuni, Bolivia: 3,656 m (11,995 ft)
• La Paz, Bolivia: 3,650 m (11,975 ft)
• Sucre, Bolivia: 2,750 m (9,022 ft)

What to Pack

What you pack for your Bolivia trip will depend on the time of year you are visiting, but in general here are few essentials you should include: Waterproof clothing, hiking and/or trekking boots, winter clothes such as gloves, hat, scarf, thermal layers, warm windproof and waterproof jacket, sunglasses, insect repellent, swimming gear, sandals, light clothing for the summer. Do note that 100% UV sunglasses are a must as is sunscreen (SPF 30+) especially when visiting the salt flats!

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Best Places To Visit

Surely one of the most ghostly towns you are ever likely to visit, Uyuni’s primary reason for existence is to serve as the gateway to the world’ s largest and truly impressive salt flats – the Salar de Uyuni.

Located on the shores of Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world, Copacabana is the jumping off point to discover the sacred Incan island of the Isla del Sol, whilst the town itself is known for its traditional festivals and processions that take place throughout the year starting from its famous 16th Century shrine – the Basilica of Our Lady of Copacabana.

Set into a canyon and surrounded by snow capped peaks, Bolivia’s de facto capital La Paz, makes quite the impression with its cultural cauldron of tradition.

Situated amongst the rolling sierras of the eastern altiplano is Sucre, Bolivia’s prettiest and most charming city and historical capital.

Lying in the shadow of Cerro de Potosí (other wise known as Cerro Rico) the town of Potosi owes it’s existence to this ‘Rich mountain’ which has provided the towns wealth since its foundation in 1546 as a mining town.

Far away from everything, utterly off the beaten path and just about as authentic and rugged as it gets lies Sajama, Bolivia’s tallest peak (6542m), and its namesake National Park.

Bolivia Travel Guide

From language and what to expect to health information, vaccination, visas and currency, discover top tips from our experts in our Bolivia travel guide.

Things To Do

What are the top things to do on a Bolivia holiday? From traversing endless salt flats, to climbing mountains and discovering unique cultural delights, our destination experts share their personal favorites.

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The Best Time to Visit Bolivia: Your Ultimate Guide

If you’re planning a trip to Bolivia, you may be wondering when the best time to visit is. Bolivia is a country of contrasts, from the high-altitude Andes to the Amazon rainforest, and the best time to visit will depend on what you want to see and do. In this ultimate guide, we will help you discover the best time to visit Bolivia, based on your interests and travel plans.

Whether you want to explore Bolivia’s cultural and historical sites, embark on outdoor adventures, or simply indulge in the local food and drink scene, we’ve got you covered. We’ll also provide tips on navigating Bolivia’s transportation and accommodation options and staying safe while you travel.

So, let’s dive into this comprehensive guide to discovering the best time to visit Bolivia, and get ready to plan the trip of a lifetime.

Best Time to Visit Bolivia: What You Need to Know

If you’re planning a trip to Bolivia, it’s important to consider the country’s climate before you book your tickets. Bolivia’s weather patterns can vary widely depending on where you are in the country, so it’s essential to know what to expect before you go.

When is the Best Time to Visit Bolivia?

The best time to visit Bolivia is during the country’s dry season, which typically runs from May to October. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, and there is very little rainfall. This makes it the perfect time to explore Bolivia’s stunning landscapes and take part in outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife spotting.

On the other hand, Bolivia’s wet season runs from November to April, and it can be challenging to travel during this time. Heavy rainfall can cause flooding and landslides, and some roads and hiking trails may be closed. However, the wet season is also the best time to visit the Amazon Basin, as the rainforest is lush and teeming with wildlife.

Bolivia’s Climate Zones

Bolivia’s climate is divided into three zones: the highlands, the valleys, and the lowlands. The highlands are the coldest and driest region, while the lowlands are the hottest and wettest. The valleys, located in between the highlands and lowlands, have a moderate climate with warm temperatures and occasional rainfall.

What to Pack for Bolivia

When packing for your trip to Bolivia, it’s essential to bring layers of clothing, as temperatures can vary widely depending on the time of day and the altitude. If you’re planning to visit the highlands, be sure to bring warm clothing, as temperatures can drop below freezing at night. In the lowlands, lightweight clothing is best, as it can get very hot and humid.

Popular Tourist Destinations in Bolivia

Bolivia is home to many popular tourist destinations, including the Salar de Uyuni salt flats, Lake Titicaca, and the Amazon rainforest. During the dry season, these destinations are easily accessible, and you can expect clear skies and warm temperatures. However, during the wet season, some of these destinations may be closed or difficult to access due to flooding or landslides.

Bolivia’s climate is an essential factor to consider when planning your trip. The best time to visit is during the dry season, from May to October, but if you’re planning to visit the Amazon rainforest, the wet season may be the best time to go. By packing appropriately and planning your itinerary around the weather, you can enjoy all that Bolivia has to offer.

High Season vs. Low Season: When is the Best Time to Visit Bolivia?

When planning a trip to Bolivia, it’s important to consider not only the country’s climate but also the high and low tourist seasons. Understanding the differences between high and low seasons can help you plan a more enjoyable and cost-effective trip.

High Season in Bolivia

Bolivia’s high season runs from June to September, coinciding with the dry season. During this time, the weather is sunny and warm, and it’s the perfect time to explore the country’s natural beauty. However, high season also means more tourists and higher prices for accommodation and tours. It’s recommended to book in advance during this time, especially for popular destinations like the Salar de Uyuni and Lake Titicaca.

Low Season in Bolivia

Bolivia’s low season runs from November to March, coinciding with the wet season. During this time, there are fewer tourists, and prices for accommodation and tours are generally lower. However, it’s important to keep in mind that some destinations may be inaccessible due to flooding or landslides. The Amazon rainforest, for example, is best visited during the wet season, but other destinations may not be as accessible.

Shoulder Seasons in Bolivia

Bolivia’s shoulder seasons fall between the high and low seasons, in April to May and October to November. During these times, the weather is still pleasant, and there are fewer tourists than during high season. Prices for accommodation and tours are also generally lower than during high season, making it a great time to travel to Bolivia.

Events and Festivals in Bolivia

Bolivia is known for its vibrant and colorful festivals, and it’s worth considering these events when planning your trip. Some of the most popular festivals include the Carnival of Oruro in February, the Gran Poder festival in La Paz in May, and the Feast of San Juan in June. Keep in mind that these events can attract large crowds, so it’s best to book accommodation and tours in advance.

the best time to visit Bolivia depends on your personal preferences and travel budget. High season offers sunny weather but comes with higher prices and more tourists, while low season offers lower prices but may come with limited accessibility to some destinations. Shoulder seasons offer a great balance between pleasant weather and affordable prices. Consider events and festivals when planning your trip, and don’t forget to book in advance to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.

Best Time to Visit Bolivia’s Highlands

Bolivia’s highlands, which include the cities of La Paz and Lake Titicaca, as well as the Andes mountains, are a stunning destination for travelers looking for adventure and breathtaking landscapes. The best time to visit these areas depends on what you want to see and do.

The Weather in Bolivia’s Highlands

Bolivia’s highlands experience a variety of weather patterns throughout the year. The rainy season runs from November to March, while the dry season lasts from April to October. If you’re planning on visiting the Andes, it’s important to note that the weather can be unpredictable and change quickly. It’s best to pack for all types of weather, including warm clothing for the daytime and layers for cooler temperatures at night.

Best Time to Visit La Paz

La Paz, Bolivia’s capital city, sits at an elevation of 3,640 meters above sea level. Due to its altitude, La Paz experiences cool temperatures year-round. The best time to visit La Paz is during the dry season, from April to October. During this time, you can expect sunny days and mild temperatures, with occasional dips into cooler weather at night.

Best Time to Visit Lake Titicaca

Lake Titicaca, which sits on the border of Bolivia and Peru, is the world’s highest navigable lake. The best time to visit Lake Titicaca is during the dry season, from April to October. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, and you can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and visiting the local indigenous communities. However, if you’re interested in seeing the traditional Uru people who live on the floating islands of Lake Titicaca, it’s best to visit during the rainy season, as the islands are more stable and less likely to break apart.

Best Time to Visit the Andes

The Andes mountains span across several South American countries, including Bolivia. The best time to visit the Andes is during the dry season, from April to October. During this time, the weather is mild and sunny, making it perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and trekking. However, if you’re interested in seeing the Andean flora and fauna in full bloom, it’s best to visit during the rainy season, from November to March.

the best time to visit Bolivia’s highlands depends on what you want to see and do. If you’re interested in outdoor activities and mild temperatures, the dry season is the best time to go. However, if you want to see traditional indigenous communities or the Andean flora and fauna in full bloom, the rainy season may be a better choice. Regardless of when you visit, Bolivia’s highlands are sure to leave you with unforgettable memories of stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.

Best Time to Visit Bolivia’s Lowlands

Bolivia’s lowlands offer a diverse range of adventures for travelers, from exploring the Amazon rainforest to discovering the cultural heritage of the Chiquitania region. The best time to visit these areas depends on what you want to experience.

The Weather in Bolivia’s Lowlands

Bolivia’s lowlands have a tropical climate, with two distinct seasons: the dry season, from May to October, and the rainy season, from November to April. The weather during the dry season is warm and sunny, making it perfect for outdoor activities. However, the rainy season can bring heavy downpours and make some areas inaccessible.

Best Time to Visit the Amazon Rainforest

The Amazon rainforest covers a significant portion of Bolivia’s lowlands, offering unparalleled biodiversity and adventure. The best time to visit the Amazon is during the dry season, from May to October. During this time, the weather is sunny and warm, and the water levels are low enough for activities like canoeing and wildlife watching. However, if you’re interested in birdwatching, the rainy season may be a better choice, as the increased water levels attract more species.

Best Time to Visit the Chiquitania Region

The Chiquitania region is located in eastern Bolivia and is known for its unique blend of indigenous and colonial architecture. The best time to visit the Chiquitania region is during the dry season, from May to October. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, making it perfect for exploring the region’s historic missions and cultural heritage.

Best Time to Visit the Salar de Uyuni

The Salar de Uyuni is one of Bolivia’s most iconic natural wonders, featuring the world’s largest salt flat. The best time to visit the Salar de Uyuni is during the dry season, from May to October. During this time, the salt flats are dry and accessible, making it possible to explore them on foot or by vehicle. However, if you’re interested in seeing the reflections of the sky in the water during the rainy season, it’s best to visit from November to April.

the best time to visit Bolivia’s lowlands depends on what you want to experience. If you’re interested in outdoor activities and exploring the Amazon rainforest, the dry season is the best time to go. However, if you want to see the reflections of the sky in the water on the Salar de Uyuni, the rainy season may be a better choice. Regardless of when you visit, Bolivia’s lowlands offer a wealth of adventures and cultural experiences that are sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.

Festivals and Events to Consider When Planning Your Bolivia Trip

Bolivia is home to a vibrant culture and rich history, which is reflected in its many festivals and events. Whether you’re interested in music, dance, or religious traditions, Bolivia has something to offer. Here are some of the most popular festivals and events to consider when planning your trip.

Carnival in Bolivia

Carnival is one of the most important celebrations in Bolivia, held in the days leading up to Ash Wednesday. The festival is known for its lively music, colorful costumes, and energetic dance performances. The largest Carnival celebration takes place in the city of Oruro, where thousands of dancers and musicians take to the streets in a colorful parade. Other cities, such as La Paz and Santa Cruz, also hold Carnival celebrations, each with their unique traditions and customs.

Dia de los Muertos

Dia de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a traditional celebration in Bolivia that takes place on November 2nd. The holiday is a time for honoring and remembering loved ones who have passed away, with families creating altars adorned with flowers, candles, and photos of the deceased. In some regions, such as La Paz, there are also parades and musical performances to celebrate the holiday.

La Paz Festival of the Gran Poder

The La Paz Festival of the Gran Poder is one of the most colorful and lively events in Bolivia, held annually in May or June. The festival celebrates the city’s rich cultural heritage and features vibrant dance performances, music, and traditional costumes. The highlight of the festival is the parade, where over 40,000 dancers and musicians take to the streets in a colorful display of Bolivian culture.

Bolivia offers a rich and diverse culture that is reflected in its many festivals and events. Whether you’re interested in music, dance, or religious traditions, there is always something to see and experience in Bolivia. By planning your trip around these festivals and events, you can gain a deeper appreciation for Bolivia’s culture and traditions while creating unforgettable memories. so can ready when the Best Time to Visit Bolivia.

Tips for Packing and Planning Your Bolivia Trip: What to Bring and What to Expect

If you’re planning a trip to Bolivia, it’s important to pack appropriately and plan ahead to make the most of your experience. Here are some tips for what to bring and what to expect during your Bolivia trip for the Best Time to Visit Bolivia

Weather and Climate

Bolivia has a diverse climate, with varying temperatures depending on the region and time of year. In general, the highlands have cooler temperatures, while the lowlands are hot and humid. The rainy season in Bolivia runs from November to March, with the driest months being May to September. It’s important to research the weather for the specific regions you’ll be visiting and pack accordingly.

Altitude Sickness

Many parts of Bolivia, particularly the highlands, are located at high altitudes. This can lead to altitude sickness, which can cause headaches, nausea, and fatigue. To prevent altitude sickness, it’s important to acclimatize slowly by spending a few days at a lower altitude before moving higher. It’s also recommended to drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol and heavy meals.

What to Pack

When packing for Bolivia, it’s important to bring layers, as temperatures can fluctuate throughout the day. In the highlands, warm clothing, a waterproof jacket, and comfortable shoes for walking are essential. In the lowlands, lightweight and breathable clothing is recommended, along with insect repellent and sunscreen. It’s also important to bring any necessary medications, as some prescription drugs may not be available in Bolivia.

Cultural Considerations

Bolivia has a rich cultural heritage, with many traditional customs and practices. It’s important to respect local customs, such as removing shoes when entering homes and places of worship. When visiting indigenous communities, it’s also important to seek permission and follow local customs, such as offering gifts and participating in traditional ceremonies.

Safety and Security

While Bolivia is generally safe for tourists, it’s important to take precautions to ensure your safety. Avoid walking alone at night and in isolated areas, and be aware of pickpocketing and theft. It’s also important to research any political or social unrest in the areas you’ll be visiting and to follow local news and updates.

by packing appropriately and planning ahead, you can make the most of your Bolivia trip and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. With its rich culture, diverse climate, and stunning natural beauty, Bolivia is a destination that is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Bolivia’s Cultural and Historical Sites

Bolivia is home to a rich cultural and historical heritage, with many sites that showcase its unique traditions and fascinating past. Here are some of the top cultural and historical sites to visit during your Bolivia trip.

Located near La Paz, Tiwanaku is an ancient city that was once the center of a powerful empire. The ruins of Tiwanaku include impressive stone temples and intricate carvings that offer a glimpse into the city’s remarkable architecture and artistry. Tiwanaku is also home to a museum that houses artifacts from the site and provides further insight into its history.

Potosi is a colonial-era city that was once one of the richest in the world, thanks to its abundance of silver mines. Today, Potosi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers a fascinating glimpse into Bolivia’s colonial past. Visitors can explore the city’s many churches and colonial-era buildings, as well as tour the mines that once made Potosi so wealthy.

Sucre is Bolivia’s constitutional capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Known as the “White City” for its colonial-era white buildings, Sucre is home to many museums and cultural sites that showcase Bolivia’s history and traditions. Highlights include the Casa de la Libertad, which was once the site of Bolivia’s independence declaration, and the Recoleta Monastery, which offers stunning views of the city.

La Paz is Bolivia’s largest city and a vibrant hub of culture and history. Visitors can explore the city’s many museums and cultural sites, including the Museum of Contemporary Art, the Coca Museum, and the National Museum of Archaeology. La Paz is also home to the famous Witches’ Market, where visitors can purchase traditional remedies and offerings for good luck and protection.

Bolivia’s cultural and historical sites offer a fascinating glimpse into the country’s rich heritage and traditions. From ancient ruins to colonial-era cities, Bolivia’s cultural and historical sites are sure to leave a lasting impression on visitors. So, plan your visit accordingly and make the most of your Bolivia trip.

Enjoying Outdoor Adventures in Bolivia

Bolivia’s diverse landscape offers many opportunities for outdoor adventures, from hiking and biking to wildlife watching and water sports. Here are some of the top outdoor activities to enjoy during your Bolivia trip.

Hiking in the Andes

Bolivia’s portion of the Andes Mountains offers some of the most stunning hiking trails in South America. Visitors can explore the famous Inca Trail, trek to the top of towering peaks like Huayna Potosi and Illimani, or take a more leisurely hike through the picturesque valleys and gorges of the Andes.

Biking the Death Road

One of Bolivia’s most famous outdoor adventures is biking the Death Road, a winding and treacherous mountain road that was once one of the world’s most dangerous. Today, adventurous travelers can take a guided bike tour down the Death Road, enjoying breathtaking views and a thrilling ride.

Exploring the Amazon

Bolivia is home to a vast portion of the Amazon rainforest, offering plenty of opportunities for wildlife watching and nature hikes. Visitors can take a guided tour through the jungle, spot exotic birds and animals, and learn about the unique ecosystem of the Amazon.

Water Sports on Lake Titicaca

Lake Titicaca, one of the highest lakes in the world, offers a stunning backdrop for a variety of water sports. Visitors can take a boat tour of the lake, go kayaking or paddleboarding, or even try their hand at fishing for the lake’s famous trout.

Bolivia’s natural beauty and varied terrain offer many opportunities for outdoor adventures. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a first-time biker, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during a Bolivia trip. So, plan your visit accordingly and get ready for some unforgettable outdoor experiences. so let’s start your trip! best time to visit Bolivia.

Experiencing Bolivia’s Food and Drink Scene

Bolivia’s food and drink scene is a vibrant and flavorful mix of indigenous traditions and Spanish influences. Whether you’re looking for street food or fine dining, Bolivia has something to offer. Here are some of the top culinary experiences to enjoy during your Bolivia trip.

Trying Bolivian Street Food

Bolivia’s street food scene is a must-try for any food lover. From salteñas, a savory pastry filled with meat and vegetables, to anticuchos, skewered meat served with potatoes and spicy sauce, there are plenty of delicious and affordable options to sample.

Enjoying Bolivian Wine

Bolivia’s wine industry is still relatively small but growing, with some excellent local wineries producing high-quality wines. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings in the picturesque vineyards of the Tarija region, known for its unique grape varieties and beautiful scenery.

Dining at Top-Rated Restaurants

Bolivia also offers a range of upscale dining options, with top-rated restaurants in cities like La Paz and Santa Cruz. These restaurants offer a fusion of Bolivian and international cuisine, with innovative dishes that showcase the country’s rich culinary heritage.

Sampling Traditional Bolivian Cuisine

To truly experience Bolivia’s food culture, be sure to sample some of the traditional dishes that have been passed down through generations. Some of the most popular dishes include pique macho, a hearty beef and potato dish, and chicharrón, crispy fried pork served with corn and salsa.

Bolivia’s food and drink scene is a vibrant and flavorful mix of indigenous and Spanish influences. From street food to fine dining, visitors can enjoy a wide range of culinary experiences during their Bolivia trip. So, be sure to come hungry and ready to explore the delicious and diverse flavors of Bolivia.

Navigating Bolivia’s Transportation and Accommodation Options

Getting around Bolivia can be an adventure in itself, with a range of transportation options available to visitors. Here are some tips on navigating Bolivia’s transportation and accommodation options.

Taking Buses in Bolivia

Buses are the most common form of transportation in Bolivia, with a network of routes connecting cities and towns throughout the country. While bus travel can be affordable and convenient, it’s important to choose a reputable company and be prepared for long, bumpy rides on winding mountain roads.

Riding Trains in Bolivia

Bolivia’s train system is limited but offers some scenic and unique travel experiences. The most famous is the Death Road train, which travels through the rugged Andes mountains and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.

Choosing Accommodations in Bolivia

Bolivia offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. From budget hostels to luxury hotels, visitors can find comfortable and affordable places to stay throughout the country. However, it’s important to research and book accommodations in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.

Considering Alternative Accommodations

For those looking for a unique and immersive experience, Bolivia also offers alternative accommodations such as homestays, eco-lodges, and glamping sites. These options allow visitors to connect with local communities and enjoy the country’s natural beauty in a sustainable and responsible way.

navigating Bolivia’s transportation and accommodation options can be an exciting part of your Bolivia trip. By choosing the right transportation mode and accommodation type, visitors can experience the country’s diverse landscapes and cultures in a safe and comfortable way. So, plan ahead and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Bolivia.

Safety Tips for Traveling in Bolivia

While Bolivia is generally a safe country to visit, it’s important for travelers to take precautions and be aware of potential safety risks. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind when traveling in Bolivia.

Research Your Destination Beforehand

Before traveling to Bolivia, it’s important to research your destination and be aware of any potential safety concerns. This includes checking travel advisories, reading up on local customs and laws, and knowing which areas to avoid.

Use Reliable Transportation

When traveling in Bolivia, it’s important to use reliable transportation options such as licensed taxis or reputable tour companies. Avoid taking unmarked taxis or accepting rides from strangers, as this can put you at risk of theft or robbery.

Stay Alert and Aware of Your Surroundings

Whether you’re exploring the city or hiking in the mountains, it’s important to stay alert and aware of your surroundings. Keep an eye on your belongings, avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuables, and be aware of potential scams or pickpocketing attempts.

Be Respectful of Local Customs and Cultures

Respecting local customs and cultures is not only important for being a responsible traveler, but it can also help keep you safe. Dress appropriately for local customs, avoid taking photos without permission, and be aware of any cultural taboos or sensitivities.

Know What to Do in Case of Emergency

Finally, it’s important to know what to do in case of emergency. Keep important phone numbers and addresses on hand, such as your country’s embassy or consulate, and be prepared to seek medical attention if necessary.

traveling in Bolivia can be a safe and enjoyable experience if you take the necessary precautions and stay aware of potential risks. By researching your destination, using reliable transportation, staying alert and respectful, and knowing what to do in case of emergency, you can have a safe and memorable trip to Bolivia.

Bolivia is a unique and diverse country with something for everyone, from its stunning natural beauty to its rich cultural heritage. The best time to visit Bolivia depends on what you want to do and see, with the highlands and lowlands having different peak seasons. Keep in mind the festivals and events that may impact your travel plans and be prepared for the varying climates and altitudes.

When packing and planning your Bolivia trip, consider the cultural and historical sites, outdoor adventures, and food and drink scene. Choose from a range of transportation and accommodation options, but remember to stay safe and vigilant, particularly when it comes to avoiding scams.

Ultimately, the best time to visit Bolivia is when it suits your preferences and travel plans. With the information provided in this guide, you can make an informed decision and embark on an unforgettable journey through this South American gem.

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The best time to visit Bolivia: Is rainy season really that bad?!

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Due to Bolivians’ penchant for building cities at high altitude, the time of year that you travel to Bolivia can have a big effect on your experience in the country. What makes choosing the best time to visit Bolivia confusing is that their summer season (Nov-March) is actually when it gets the most rainfall, despite those being the warmer months.

Since South America experiences the opposite seasons to Europe due to it being on the southern hemisphere, this kinda brings Bolivia more in line with home for me – lol jk, every season is rainy season for the UK.

In this guide to the best time to visit to Bolivia, I’ll talk you through how the climate differs across the country, what rainy season is like, whether the season affects safety, and the best time to visit Bolivia’s salt flats.

• Things to know before you travel to Bolivia
• La Paz: what to do in Bolivia’s highest city
• How to book a Uyuni flats tour from San Pedro de Atacama

Bolivia can technically be visited and enjoyed all year round (we still loved it during our month in January) but the best time to visit Bolivia is said generally to be April to October to get the best weather.

As always though, I’d advise avoiding North American school holidays – even if Bolivia isn’t really seen as the kind of tourist destination to bring kids yet. Lots more adults travel during this time, too.

I’m a big fan of shoulder seasons to find spots less busy, so personally I’d say the best time to visit Bolivia is April-May or September-October.

Want to skip to something in particular?

What’s the climate in Bolivia?

There is not one single answer to this question. Bolivia is not mono-climatic (I definitely just made that term up, but hell, I stand by it.). Unlike the UK where everything is either rainy all at once or BBQ-and-flipflop-weather all at once, extremes in altitudes across Bolivia have a major effect on the climates of its geographical regions.

Take a look at the embarrassingly crude map I’ve drawn below. I’m sort of ashamed by my efforts but let’s just roll with it.

What are Bolivia’s geographical regions?

There are three geographical regions in Bolivia, which are created by the position of a few cordilleras of the Andes. This creates different climates within each section. The three are:

Meaning ‘high flat’, this is where you’ll find the Uyuni salt flats , and also the largest Bolivian city, La Paz .

This area tends to be wet, and the high altitude means it’s a colder climate than other regions. While the days can actually be quite nice when it’s not raining, at night it’s not unusual for temperatures to fall below zero in the Altiplano region, and in winter it can make it to -20 degrees around the salt flats.

Meaning ‘warm valleys’ in the indigenous language Aymara, this is where you’ll start to feel tropical, with lush jungles and much more humid weather to the north of the region.

If you go on a bike tour of Death Road , this is where you’ll find yourself, and when you cycle down the mountain, the climate will feel like it’s transforming with every minute as you lose altitude.

Further South, cities such as Potosí and Sucre are less obviously tropical, but offer a much more pleasant climate than the Altiplano.

Meaning plains in Spanish, these are the lowlands of Bolivia. These include some areas of Amazon rainforest to the North, as well as open flats that are used for agriculture in the centre and the Gran Chaco swamps in the east.

This area is as hot as Jason Mamoa walking out of the sea in slow-mo, so pack a hat and a mini fan. Even during winter, the temperatures are at least mid-20s.

Here, you’ll find popular destinations such as Santa Cruz de la Sierra and Samaipata .

What’s rainy season like in Bolivia?

Heavy. Rainy season really isn’t the best time to visit Bolivia. Rain showers don’t often last the whole day, but when they come they are intense, with rivers in the streets and slippery mud on less developed roads.

This is especially true in the Altiplano region, where you can expect a least at few hours of wetness a day during the heavier months of December to February.

Items of clothing are going to be difficult to air dry in this weather whilst you’re in the Altiplano and some parts of Yungas, so make use of some of the cheap laundrettes that can wash and dry to guarantee your clothes don’t go damp when it comes to cleaning them.

Ain’t nobody got time for a smelly backpack.

Does weather affect the safety in Bolivia?

Unfortunately, yes, weather does affect the safety in Bolivia. Bolivian buses have a bad reputation for safety anyway, with drink driving being cited as a casual problem, but if you visit Bolivia during rainy season, you will soon see the issue this brings to the roads themselves.

It’s normal for mountain passes to be unpaved and muddy, some of them single-tracked and crumbling into dark ravines at the best of times, so things can get scarily slippery when adding rain to the equation. If you are concerned about safety in Bolivia you’ll want to keep this in mind.

Best time to visit Bolivia’s Salt Flats

The Uyuni Salt Flats are the most famous landmark in Bolivia – and one of the most famous in South America. The miles and miles of perfectly white salt span half the size of Wales, and most people visit for at least a full-day tour to visit the flats , or 3 days if they want to see all the other different landmarks within the area, such as Isla Incahuasi (Fish Island).

There’s not necessarily a best time to visit Bolivia’s salt flats, but there certainly is a worst time (and guess what time of the year we went!).

This does cause really cool effects on the views you’ll have, with crystal-clear reflections in the ground, however it makes the iconic perspective shots almost impossible as you need to lay your camera on the floor and have no reflections for these to work properly.

Having this layer of water also means that the jeeps can’t drive at more than 10mph, because salt splashing up onto the mechanics of their car can cause major damage over time. This means you spend an awful lot more time travelling and less time out enjoying the flats.

The amount of water on the Bolivian salt flats at this time of year also means that not all of the landmarks are possible to go and see, so those on a 3 or 4-day Uyuni tour will end up paying the same amount for fewer features.

Plus, the things that you are able to stop and see along the way are kind of just… duller. The Laguna Colorada barely had any colour to it, and there were very few Andean flamingos still chilling in the lake.

The reasons that December to February is not the best time to visit Bolivia’s Salt Flats may be many, but luckily the rest of the year is pretty spectacular.

Use my guide to booking a Uyuni Salt Flats to plan your visit around it.

So there you have it, all you need to know about the best time to visit Bolivia! If you can’t make it during the recommended window, don’t worry, you’ll still have an incredible time. I literally went during the worst month and wasn’t put off at all by it. Enjoy!

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Last Updated on 13 February 2023 by Cuppa to Copa Travels

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When Is The Best Time To Visit Bolivia?

Bolivia offers visitors an opportunity to dive deep into their local culture, experience diverse geography, participate in festivals, taste mouth-watering cuisine, and go on adventures. The weather is beautiful year-round, making just about any time of the year a great time to visit. When planning the best time to visit Bolivia , determine if you want to visit during the wet or dry season and which festivals you want to experience. Knowing exactly when you want to see and what you want to experience can help determine when the best time for you to visit this South American country.

Inca Trek In Bolivia

Bolivia has two seasons — dry and wet.

The dry season in Bolivia typically runs from May through late November. Though this time of year typically brings dryer weather, there are occasional showers throughout these months. Additionally, you will experience cooler temperatures during the dry season, and some parts of the country have bitterly cold and freezing temperatures. The cold temperatures could pose a problem when visiting, as some locations do not have heat.

Many travelers love to visit during the dry season because it is a bit cooler than the wet season. The skies are breathtaking this time of year, being clear and sapphire. Visiting at the very end of the wet season and beginning of the dry season – late April and May – you may find some lower prices on hotels and travel expenses. You may also enjoy the fact that there are fewer crowds this time of year and again later in the season in October and November.

The wet season typically begins in late November and runs through April. Though it often rains, torrential rains occur almost daily between January and March. If you seek to experience many outdoor adventures when visiting Bolivia , the wet season is probably not the time of year for you to go.

The torrential rains during the wet season can disrupt road and air travel. During the months from January through March, Bolivia can experience flooding and heavy fog. Both of these can delay air and road travel. These months are not the best time of year to visit Bolivia because the weather limits outdoor activities. Some areas are prone to landslides, making the mountain areas dangerous to explore.

As with any tourist destination, there can sometimes be issues with heavy crowds. Many more tourists visit Bolivia during the hot and dry season. August seems to be the busiest month, so if you plan to visit this month, plan far ahead to ensure you can get reservations.

If you do not want the heavy crowds but don’t want to visit during the west season, consider visiting during the weeks near the beginning or end of the season. Remember, during the times when heavy crowds visit Bolivia, you will experience delays in travel and other delays visiting local attractions.

Some hotels offer lower rates during the slower season, but this does not always provide substantial savings. Additionally, airfares may be lower during the wet season, but not significantly enough to make a huge difference. Prices do tend to increase during the busier months and seem to be the highest in August. It may be slightly cheaper during the wet season when it comes to costs, but not enough to offset having to deal with torrential rains.

Devil Mask Used At Oruro Festival

Bolivia hosts many festivals, many of which take a long time to prepare and plan. Depending upon the festival, thousands of people travel from around the world to experience the excitement. Many festivals include costumed dancers, bands, and traditional food and drink. Planning your visit to Bolivia can be extra special when going to one of the country’s famous festivals.

Some famous festivals occurring in Bolivia include:

• January: Reyes Magos — Arrival of the Three Kings in Beni.
• January: Feria de Alasitas — Market featuring miniature items to be used as offering to Ekeko (household god of abundance).
• February/March: Carnaval — Festivals are planned throughout the country the week before Lent.
• March: Pujjlay — Indigenous revelers descend into the town of Tarabuco to celebrate local victory in the Independence War over Spanish troops.
• March/April: Semana Santa (Easter) – Celebration with religious processions throughout the country.
• May: Día de la Cruz — Tinku ritual combats get staged in several communities in northern Potosí.
• June: Winter Solstice and Aymara New Year – Overnight rituals and religious ceremonies celebrate both holidays at Copacabana, Samaipata, Tiwanaku, and other ancient locations throughout the country.
• June: San Juan — A Christian version of the winter solstice and Aymara New Year, celebrated with bonfires and fireworks.
• June: Santisima Trinidad — Religious fiesta in Trinidad to honor the Holy Trinity.
• July: Virgen del Carmen — Celebrate to honor the Virgen del Carmen, the patron saint of many towns and villages in the country, featuring processions and dances.
• July: San Ignacio de Moos — Hosts a large folkloric fiesta in the Bolivian Amazon featuring lots of bright colors.
• August: Virgen de Urkupiña — The region’s biggest fiesta occurs in Quillacollo when pilgrims descend on the town.
• August: San Bartolomé — The most important annual fiesta in Potosi is a three-day celebration marked by folkloric dances and religious processions.
• November: All Saints’ Day and Day of the Dead — Cemeteries across the highlands of the country host remembrance parties with decorated skulls of dead relatives on display.
• December: Christmas Day or Navidad — Celebrations occur across the country, with very colorful festivities happening in San Ignacio de Moos and Tarija.

Visiting Bolivia when the country hosts one of the many festivals adds something unique to your vacation. Many plan their trips around these festivals, so be prepared for crowds during these times. If you are not looking for crowds, but want to travel during these times, consider visiting areas and towns not hosting these festivals.

Trip Planning Tip

When planning your trip to Bolivia, be prepared that you may need to adjust your plans on the go due to crowds or weather. With so much to do in the country, it is possible to keep exploring; however, you might have to find somewhere new to explore. Before leaving on your trip, have a list of backup activities you can turn to when you experience delays, cancellations, or last-minute changes in plans.

The best time of year to visit Bolivia depends on where you go and what you want to experience. Determining when to go to Bolivia will depend on if you’re going to experience warmer temperatures, attend a specific festival, or want to explore the great outdoors. Everyone has a difference of opinion as to when the best time to visit is. To plan your Bolivia getaway, make a list of what is important to you, and then pick a time of year that offers everything on that list.

While Rainforest Cruises aim to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we make no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information herein or found by following any link on this site. Rainforest Cruises cannot and will not accept responsibility for any omissions or inaccuracies, or for any consequences arising therefrom, including any losses, injuries, or damages resulting from the display or use of this information.

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Best Time to Visit Bolivia and Experience Its Captivating Beauty

Bolivia is a country with diverse landscapes, vibrant culture, and unique traditions, making it an incredible destination to explore. Whether you want to hike through the stunning Andes Mountains, witness the mesmerizing salt flats of Uyuni, or immerse yourself in the bustling markets of La Paz, picking the best time of year to visit this enchanting country is vital. With its distinct seasons and varying weather patterns, understanding the climate and planning your trip accordingly can greatly enhance your experience and ensure unforgettable moments wherever you go in Bolivia.

Climate in Bolivia

Bolivia has a diverse climate due to its varying geography, with regions experiencing different weather patterns throughout the year.

Highland Climate

The highland region, including cities such as La Paz and Potosi, has a cool climate with dry winters and rainy summers. The cool temperatures during the winter make it a perfect time for hiking and exploring the stunning landscapes of the highlands. The rainy season, which typically occurs between December and March, brings lush greenery and vibrant colors to the region, making it an ideal time for nature enthusiasts and photographers to visit. However, it is important to pack appropriate rain gear and plan outdoor activities accordingly during this time.

Peak Tourist Season

The best time of year to visit Bolivia is during the peak tourist season, which occurs during the dry season that typically falls between May and October.

May to September

From May to September, Bolivia experiences dry and sunny weather, creating perfect conditions for exploring the country’s breathtaking attractions. Tourists can fully enjoy popular destinations like the mesmerizing Salar de Uyuni and the stunning Lake Titicaca.

Shoulder Seasons

The shoulder seasons of April and October-November in Bolivia offer the perfect balance between favorable weather conditions and fewer crowds. These are the best times to visit this stunning country, allowing you to make the most of your trip.

April is an excellent month to explore Bolivia as the rainy season comes to an end. The landscapes are still green and lush, painting a picturesque backdrop for your adventures. With the rains subsiding, you can enjoy the pleasant weather while avoiding the downpours that characterize other months of the year.

October to November

In October and November, the rainy season begins in Bolivia, but it’s not as intense as in other months. This period is ideal for travelers who want to experience the country’s natural beauty without having to navigate through heavy crowds. You can explore Bolivia’s stunning landscapes and diverse culture while enjoying comfortable weather conditions.

Whether you choose to visit in April or the October-November timeframe, you can expect incredible experiences in Bolivia with fewer tourists and pleasant weather. Plan your trip accordingly to make the most of these shoulder seasons!

Rainy Season

The rainy season in Bolivia, typically from November to March, brings heavy rainfall and can affect travel plans and accessibility to certain areas. This is an important factor to consider when planning a trip to Bolivia.

December to February

During these months, Bolivia experiences the most rainfall, making it advisable to avoid outdoor activities that depend on good weather conditions. The heavy rainfall can lead to flooded roads and limited access to certain regions, disrupting travel plans.

Additionally, the rainy season can affect popular tourist destinations such as the Salar de Uyuni salt flats. While the landscape transforms into a stunning mirror-like reflection, visiting during this time may be challenging due to the difficulty of navigation and unpredictable weather conditions.

However, despite the challenges, the rainy season can also offer unique experiences for travelers. The lush greenery and vibrant colors that emerge during this time create a picturesque backdrop for exploring Bolivia’s natural wonders. Waterfalls are more abundant, and the flora and fauna thrive.

It is important to note that the climate and rainfall patterns can vary across different regions of Bolivia. In the Amazon rainforest, for example, precipitation is high year-round, so the distinction between rainy and dry seasons may not be as pronounced.

If you prefer to avoid the heavy rainfall and potential travel disruptions, it is recommended to visit Bolivia during the dry season, from May to October. This period typically offers better weather conditions for outdoor activities and easier access to various attractions.

In conclusion, while the rainy season in Bolivia can present challenges for travelers, it also offers unique opportunities for those seeking breathtaking landscapes and vibrant ecosystems adorned by rainfall. Planning accordingly and being flexible with travel arrangements can ensure a memorable and rewarding experience in this diverse and captivating country.

Specific Activities

Depending on the activities you have planned, different times of the year may be more suitable.

Trekking in Cordillera Real

For trekking enthusiasts, the best time to visit Cordillera Real in Bolivia is during the dry season from May to September. During this time, the weather is generally clear and you can enjoy stunning views of the snow-capped peaks. The trails are also in better condition, making it easier to hike through the rugged terrain. It is important to note that the temperatures can drop significantly, especially at higher altitudes, so it is essential to pack warm clothing and proper equipment.

Wildlife Watching in Pantanal

If you’re interested in observing the diverse wildlife in the Pantanal region of Bolivia, it is recommended to visit between May and September. This period is the dry season, when the water levels recede, creating ideal conditions for animal sightings. The Pantanal is known for its abundant birdlife, including macaws, herons, and storks, as well as jaguars, caimans, and capybaras. By visiting during the dry season, you increase your chances of encountering these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat.

In conclusion, choosing the best time to visit Bolivia depends on various factors such as your personal preferences, weather conditions, and planned activities. Whether you prefer exploring the mesmerizing landscapes in the dry season or experiencing the vibrant festivals during the wet season, Bolivia has something for everyone. From the breathtaking Uyuni Salt Flats to the stunning Amazon rainforest, Bolivia’s natural wonders will leave you in awe. So, consider your preferences and make the most of the unique experiences offered in this captivating country throughout the year.

Thank you for joining us on this journey through Bolivia’s captivating beauty. We hope that this ultimate guide has provided you with valuable insights on the best time to visit this extraordinary country. Whether you’re enchanted by the surreal landscapes of Salar de Uyuni, drawn to the vibrant culture of La Paz, or eager to explore the rich biodiversity of the Amazon rainforest, Bolivia has something for everyone. So pack your bags, embark on a remarkable adventure, and allow Bolivia to leave an indelible mark on your heart. Don’t wait too long, as the perfect moment to experience Bolivia’s magic awaits!

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Best Time to Visit Bolivia

Climate Overview

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Climate in bolivia.

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Best Time to Visit Bolivia: Overview

When to visit bolivia, best time to visit the regions, climate charts bolivia.

In the following, you will find climate charts for the regions.

Furthermore, there are some charts you can use for quick comparison of climate between the regions.

Day Temperatures

Night temperatures, average temperatures, precipitation.

Source of Data: German Weather Service (Offenbach) and Wikipedia

Climate Tables Bolivia

Temperatures, precipitation, sunshine in la paz (bolivia), temperatures, precipitation in trinidad (bolivia), temperatures, precipitation in sucre (bolivia), highlights and attractions, popular activities, more attractions, current weather and forecast.

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Best time to visit Bolivia?

Bolivia is also known as ‘the Tibet of South America’ and that is for a reason. The temperatures are much lower than you might think. In the lowlands of Santa Cruz, the weather conditions are different than in the Altiplano, the high plains with heights, between 3000 m and 4000 m above sea level. Since most sights are located on the high plains, it is best to focus on this region. In this article I’m telling you more about the best time to visit Bolivia and the best time to visit and go Bolivia salt flats.

What is the best time to visit Bolivia?

The best time to visit Bolivia is between May and October. In the winter months (May-August), it is almost always sunny in the highlands, with a clear blue sky, during the day. This is the best time of the year to take pictures and the weather conditions are pleasant for hiking. The temperatures are between 15 and 18 ° C, during the day. But as soon as the sun is gone, it cools down and temperatures even drop below freezing at night. It can be extremely cold, especially on the salt flats of Uyuni , Lake Titicaca and Potosí . Museums, hotels and restaurants are not always warm either. It is important to bring enough warm clothes. I also recommend to put on layers of clothing, so that you can always put on and take off your clothes, depending on the time of day.

The summer and rainy season, run from December to March. Temperatures are higher, but it will be cloudy, foggy and rainy more often.

Bolivia salt flats best time to go | Salar de Uyuni

What is the best time to visit Bolivia salt flats? The Bolivia salt flats can be accessed between April and October. In the rainy season, between December and March, it is not possible to access the Salar and visit famous rock formation, such as Incahuasi and Pescado . The Salar then turns into a lake, where you can enjoy surreal and almost psychedelic views.  In April, it is still possible that you will sink a bit through the salt in some places, because the water has not dried completely. Nothing to worry about, but make sure you put on solid shoes. Read everything you want to know about El Salar de Uyuni in the next article.

Essentials items to pack for a trip to Bolivia

• Sunglasses and suncream. The light is bright, because of the altitude.
• Sufficient warm clothing, preferably in layers, so that you can put things on and off during the day
• Mosquito repellent, if you plan to visit the jungle and lowlands
• Hat, scarf and gloves. You can also buy these items in Bolivia and take them as a souvenir back home.
• Hiking shoes + hiking poles (if you plan to go for some serious hiking)
• A waterbag for cold hotel beds, especially if you are planning to stay in simple/budget accommodations
• Hand sanetizer
• Sufficient antidiarrheal medicines + paracetamol
• The right power plug and socket

More about Bolivia

Do you want to read more about Bolivia? In this article you’ll find an overview  with what to do in Bolivia, including the most beautiful destinations.  Also, have a look in the  Bolivia library  with many articles about this beautiful country. Such as the best things to do in Sucre , a  city guide for Copacabana , a  tour on the Bolivian salt flats,  the Bolivian Inca trail , a visit to  the Potosí mines , a  tour to the Tiwanaku ruins ,  shopping in La Paz , how to use  the cable car in La Paz  but also  information about safety .

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Best time to visit Bolivia’s Salt Flats

When is the best time to visit Bolivia’s salt flats?

The Uyuni Salt Flats are one of those incredible sites that must be seen to really be believed.

Over 4000 square miles in area, you’ll see a sea of white in all directions further than the horizon , or even better a perfect mirror reflection (if visiting during the wet season).

There’s also many other incredible natural landscapes and phenomena to see in this region too! In this guide we’ll explore the best time to visit Bolivia’s Salt Flats, which includes whether this region is worth visiting as well as how long we recommend spending here.

As well as looking at 5 of the very best things you can do in the Salt Flats, we’ll also answer your most burning questions in our FAQ section.

What's in this guide?

You can visit any time of the year to see the incredible region, although it’s important to note certain months have advantages over others.

Those who want to see the massive white mass will want to visit in either May, September or October when temperatures are not so nail-bitingly freezing.

If you want to see the perfect sky reflection, then you’ll want to visit between November and February .

Are the Uyuni Salt Flats worth visiting?

Quick Answer: Yes! An absolute must in any backpacking trip through Bolivia (or South America in general), the Uyuni Salt Flats offer a truly surreal landscape to travelers that make it down here.

During the dry season you can whizz around the Salt Flats in a 4×4, get those infamous forced perspective shots and even visit the cacti-ridden island of Incahuasi.

During the wet season, you’ll think you’re in heaven as the tiny layer of water on the flats will perfectly reflect the sky on the land in all directions.

It’s not just about the Salt Flats, though. On This 3 Day Tour you can also visit some other incredible landscapes. I (George) have done this which I highly recommend for those who love both crazy landscapes and wildlife.

The lagoons are a highlight, and here you’ll visit both a bright green and blood red lagoon, along with many Pink Flamingos resting on the shores which you can get up and close with.

You’ll also get to see the hot, steaming geysers of Sol de Mañana, with the early morning visit met with an incredible sunrise. Other highlights include towering extinct volcanoes , vast deserts and many curious animals along the way (such as Vicuña, Viscacha (Desert Rabbits) and Alpaca.

What is the best month to visit Bolivia’s Salt Flats?

Different months are ideal for different travelers – both for the weather and the experiences you’ll have.

Those who want to see the giant white flats will want to visit between May and October (the Dry Season). Rainfall is virtually nonexistent during these times, which makes access around the region easy.

Temperatures are coldest this time of year, and keep in mind that they can get really cold between June and July (averages of 37°F, highs of 66°F and nighttime lows of down to 26°F).

Despite feeling seemingly cold during the day, you’ll still need to apply sunscreen since it’s really easy to burn at these higher altitudes. The overall best month to visit during the dry season is October .

If you want to see the dramatic “heaven on earth” landscapes, then you’ll want to visit between November and April (the Wet Season). There will be some rainfall in the region which makes this phenomenon possible, with a maximum of 2 inches in any month.

It’s important to note that the heavier rains can make driving difficult and pose logistical issues.

The benefit of visiting during this time of year is that temperatures will be much warmer. Average daily temperatures range from 52-54°F, with highs of 69°F and lows of 36°F.

The overall best month to visit during the wet season is January (which is both the warmest and wettest – and also the best for seeing the otherworldly mirror phenomenon).

How many days do you need in Bolivia’s Salt Flats?

From our experience, we recommend travelers to spend around 2/3 days in the Uyuni Salt Flats . There’s multi-day tours for each option, and you’ll get to see many more incredible landscapes than if you just went on the usual day tour.

It’s important to note that you can’t drive around this region by yourself, and it’s mandatory to go with a tour. Not only are distances pretty big (you can take advantage by napping as a passenger), the terrains also require both a large 4×4 and expert driver to properly navigate.

If you’re adding the Salt Flats to a longer backpacking trip through Bolivia, then you can check out our Bolivia Itinerary for a better idea on how to plan a trip through this breathtaking country.

Got travel insurance for the Uyuni Salt Flats?

Top Things to do in Bolivia’s Salt Flats

Let’s now explore 5 of the very best things you can see and do when in the Uyuni Salt Flats (and surrounding region).

Get some incredible Salt Flat Photo Shots

The best thing about heading to the Uyuni Salt Flats is that regardless of when you’re visiting, you can take some truly incredible photos.

During the dry season you’ll have a massive blank white canvas to play with, which is perfect for a forced perspective shot (you can make objects or people much larger or smaller than other things in the shot).

When I (George) went, this meant a whole range of opportunities, and really the sky’s the limit. The car-chasing-down-people snap was a fun one to do, and you can also use other props to make your own fun experiments. The tour guides usually bring their own you can use, which is part of the package when heading on this Day Trip to the Salt Flats .

The wet season also brings its very own advantages too. Here you’ll be surrounded by a perfect reflection of the sky on the salt flats , which make for a really impressive mirror shot.

Whilst anytime of the day is great, the evening sky with its orange and red hues is something that you’ll never forget.

Visit various Stunning Lagoons

One of the main highlights of heading on a Multi-Day Uyuni Tour is the fact that you’ll head further into the remote region – which is where various colorful lagoons are waiting for you.

Hedionda Lagoon is the first you’ll visit, which is a sky-blue lagoon with an incredible backdrop of snow-capped peaks. The best thing of all is that crowds of Pink Flamingos strut around its shores, and you can get quite close too for a scenic wildlife shot.

Another you’ll visit is Laguna Colorada, which has a deep red hue and well… is memorable for that reason alone! Along the banks of the mirador you’ll also see many friendly Alpacas and Llamas which are perfect for that selfie shot.

Laguna Verde is the final of these three incredible lagoons, which has a bright green color. It’s located way south near the border with Chile , with the impressive 6000 ft Licancabur Volcano setting the backdrop.

Explore Incahuasi Island

This island has plenty of history, and also some memorable landscapes too. If visiting during the dry season then you’ll easily be able to reach this unorthodox island.

It’s filled corner-to-corner with rows of cacti , with some reaching as high as 40ft! It’s pretty small, and you can walk around the rocky paths within an hour.

However, given the once-in-a-lifetime photo opportunities, it’s worth taking your time to find all kinds of incredible angles (or just to sit on top of the mirador enjoying the views of these cacti with a solid white backdrop).

Even if you are visiting Uyuni during the wet season, you can still see it from a distance which is still pretty awesome.

It’s thought that Incahuasi was an ancient site that was once settled by the Inca, and here you can see some remains of what looks like a small town that was built on the top. If you want to see larger ancient ruins, then be sure to visit Tiwanaku which is close to La Paz .

Marvel at all kinds of Rocky Formations

Whilst it’s easy to only get your hopes up for the more extraordinary sites (like the Salt Flats and Colorful Lagoons), on the longer tours you’ll also get to see some pretty beautiful and bizarre rocky landscapes too.

The most famous of all is the Piedra de Árbol (Tree of Rock) which is located in the middle of a desert. The surrounding area also has many kinds of eccentric shapes that look like human faces, mushrooms and even animals too.

Another worthwhile visit is the Bosque de Piedra, which is actually the last destination you’ll visit on your way back to Uyuni.

Here you’ll literally be in a rock labyrinth, with all kinds of unorthodox shapes and towering formations to discover. Be sure to stay close to your guide since it can be easy to get lost here.

As well as these two, be sure to keep your eye out and ask your driver to stop if you see anything interesting. You can sometimes find wild animals too such as Viscacha and Vicuña hanging out in the shade of these rocks too.

Get up and close with the Fiery Geysers of Sol de Mañana

One of my personal highlights (George) has to be the Sol de Mañana Geysers.

Located much further south towards Chile, this area has high tectonic activity which has led to various bubbling pools and steam shots penetrating the rocky surface.

Whilst most travelers prefer visiting the more popular El Tatio Geysers near San Pedro de Atacama , this remote site is actually more impressive given it’s located closer to the volcanic heat source.

As a result temperatures can reach as high as 500°F (260°C), so you’ll need to be careful when walking the path and follow exactly where your local guide walks.

The most memorable part of a visit here is that, during the 3 Day Tour , you’ll head here around 4 or 5 in the morning. This means you’ll get to have an incredible sunrise in the background of these ever-burning geysers.

Salar de Uyuni FAQ’s

What is special about salar de uyuni.

This area is one of the most unique in all of South America. I mean how often can you see a bright white floor in all directions as far as the eye can see?! Not only that, but it also drastically transforms during the wet season too where you’ll feel like you’re walking on the clouds.

How to get to Bolivia’s Salt Flats?

You’ll first need to head to the town of Uyuni, which is a 9 hour bus ride from the capital of La Paz, or 8 hours from Sucre. Once here you can head on day tours to the salt flats, which includes all transport, a lunch and also time on Incahuasi Island. Also note that you can visit the flats with tours leaving from Tupiza further south.

How much does it cost to go to the Bolivia salt flats?

At this time of writing, Day Tours from Uyuni begin around $60 (although you can find them cheaper if heading to Uyuni on the day and looking around local companies). This Ultimate 3 Day Tour where you’ll visit literally everything in this region costs roughly $360, which includes all accommodation, food and transport. If you’re heading on a tour that drops you off in San Pedro (Chile) at the end, then you can expect to spend $400+ for the 4 day adventure.

Can you swim in Bolivia salt flats?

Thanks for reading this guide on the best time to visit Bolivia’s Salt Flats.

This epic destination is perfect for adventure seekers. Mostly known for its giant white mass, there’s also many other secrets to explore here.

From traversing its scorching deserts to chilling with Pink Flamingos on a red lagoon , you may even find the lesser-known gems to be more memorable than the Salt Flats themselves.

In this guide we’ve covered the best time to visit Bolivia’s Salt Flats, as well as our own personal recommendations for you to get the most out of a trip here. At the end we’ve also answered your most burning questions in our FAQ section.

Be sure to read our Bolivia Itinerary for more ideas on how to plan your trip in this impressive South American country.

👉🏽 P.S. If you’ve found this guide helpful, buy us a coffee here to say thanks! Or, support us by downloading our South America Travel Bible to get our best content.

“ Dear traveler! Some links in this post contain affiliate links. Meaning, if you click through and make a purchase, book a hostel or sign up for a tour, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you . Your support means a lot and helps us to carry on traveling and maintaining the quality of this site for you.”

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Partial solar eclipse creates excitement in NC, millions across America witnessed rare totality

NORTH CAROLINA (WTVD) -- All eyes shift to the sky as we count down to Monday's solar eclipse .

More than 31 million people are in the path of totality from Texas to Maine. The path is more than 2,000 miles long across 15 states.

The Tar Heel state was not on that path, but many North Carolinians took advantage of the opportunity to see it. The next eclipse will not happen for another two decades.

MOREHEAD PLANETARIUM

Hundreds of students, planetarium staff, and people in the Triangle showed up at the watch party at UNC's Morehead Planetarium , which took place between 12:30 and 4:30 pm. The planetarium was selling ISO-approved glasses to view the eclipse safely but quickly ran out amid high demand. Some people attending Monday's watch party waited on line for a pair of those glasses for more than three hours.

"My daughter, she's close with her grandparents and I don't know that they'll be able to see another one, you never know, so they're all going to go together and see it," said Elena Chowdhury, one of the first people in line.

Several watch partygoers said the rarity of the moment - there won't be another total solar eclipse visible in the US for 20 years - was a major contributor to them coming out.

"Next time one like this comes through is going to be 2044, and I'll be at a completely different stage of my life. So I wanted to see something beautiful before I graduate and move on from here," said Joe Friedman, a graduate school student at UNC Chapel Hill.

North Carolina was in the 80 to 84 percent partial totality which started at 1:51 p.m., peaked at 3:15 p.m. and was over by 4:30 p.m.

WATCH | NC Governor Roy Cooper watches eclipse with Morehead Elementary science class

RELATED | Millions of Americans witness a rare total solar eclipse

BURLINGTON, VERMONT TOTALITY

People in Burlington, Vermont witnessed the solar eclipse and the sun's diamond ring after totality ended.

TOTAL ECLIPSE WOWS IN NIAGARA FALLS

The eclipse will last nearly 4 and a half minutes for those in the path of total darkness.

It is not safe to look directly at the eclipse as it can permanently damage your eyesight. You must wear eclipse glasses that have a special solar filter. Sunglasses will not be good enough.

Eclipse glasses must be bought from a trusted manufacturer. Anyone can print the international safety standard code on their glasses without testing the product.

The American Astronomical Society has published a guide on their website to finding approved glasses.

Another safe way to view the solar eclipse is to create a pinhole camera, which will create a projection of the image of the sun onto a surface.

The AAS and NASA have instructions on their website on how to make one.

"You can do this in a ton of different ways," Catherine Roberts from Consumer Reports said. "In 2017, I used some NASA instructions to make one out of a cereal box and you, like, have a little eye hole, and then the image of the sun is projected on the inside of the box. It's very cool."

With safe viewing, you can enjoy one of nature's unique spectacles.

SEE ALSO | NC State leading research in rare study on animal behavior, response during solar eclipse

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The total solar eclipse is Monday: Here's everything to know, including time, path, safety

On Monday, a total solar eclipse will cross North America – a phenomenon that has not taken place in the United States in seven years, and astronomers say will not take place again in the U.S. for another two decades.

Millions will likely gaze into the sky on April 8 for the rare experience to witness three celestial spheres − the sun, moon and Earth − line up partially or fully depending on where you are viewing it.

What time will the total solar eclipse begin? What path will it take across the nation? How do I safely watch it without damaging my eyes?

Here's a list of important things you should know about Monday's potential once-in-a-lifetime event.

What is a solar eclipse?

Any celestial object like a moon or a planet that passes between two other bodies can create  an eclipse  by obscuring the view of objects like the sun.

A total eclipse occurs when the moon appears as the same size as the sun and blocks the entire disk from Earth, leading to a period of darkness lasting several minutes. The resulting "totality," whereby observers can see the outermost layer of the sun's atmosphere known as the corona, confuses animals – causing nocturnal creatures to stir and bird and insects to fall silent.

A recent study even found that clouds activity is altered by eclipses as shallow cumulus clouds were observed vanishing when the moon obscured the sun.

A driving no no during the eclipse: The one thing you'll want to do is the only thing not to do while driving during solar eclipse

What states are on the path of totality?

The total solar eclipse will chart a 115-mile-wide path of totality across portions of Mexico, the United States and Canada.

In the U.S. alone, hundreds of cities and smaller towns in 13 states  lie along the path . An estimated 31 million Americans already live on the path, while millions more tourists are already making travel plans – sure to snarl traffic – to catch a glimpse of what is sure to be a spectacular sight, according to eclipse cartographer Michael Zeiler at GreatAmericanEclipse.com .

Additionally, small parts of Tennessee and Michigan are also expected to experience the eclipse,  NASA says .

Here are the major cities in each state where you can expect to experience totality in the United States (note that the included times do not account for when the partial eclipse begins and ends):

• Dallas, Texas: 1:40-1:44 p.m. CDT
• Idabel, Oklahoma: 1:45-1:49 p.m. CDT
• Little Rock, Arkansas: 1:51-1:54 p.m. CDT
• Poplar Bluff, Missouri: 1:56-2:00 p.m. CDT
• Paducah, Kentucky: 2-2:02 p.m. CDT
• Carbondale, Illinois: 1:59-2:03 p.m. CDT
• Evansville, Indiana: 2:02-2:05 p.m. CDT
• Cleveland, Ohio: 3:13-3:17 p.m. EDT
• Erie, Pennsylvania: 3:16-3:20 p.m. EDT
• Buffalo, New York: 3:18-3:22 p.m. EDT
• Burlington, Vermont: 3:26-3:29 p.m. EDT
• Lancaster, New Hampshire: 3:27-3:30 p.m. EDT
• Caribou, Maine: 3:32-3:34 p.m. EDT

What time is the solar eclipse?

Mexico's Pacific coast will be the first location in continental North America to experience totality, which will occur at about 11:07 a.m. PDT,  according to NASA .

As the moon's shadow travels northeast, totality in the U.S. will begin at 1:27 p.m. CDT in Eagle Pass, Texas. From there, the path will cut diagonally across the country before ending its time in the U.S. around 3:35 p.m. EDT in Lee, Maine, and entering Canada's maritime provinces, according to  nationaleclipse.com .

Decoding the sky: A definitive solar eclipse guide for kids (adults also welcome)

How long will the total solar eclipse last?

Along the way, periods of darkness could last a mere few seconds or, in some cities, could surpass four minutes.

If you want to see the time and duration for when totality would occur near you, enter your zip code below to find out. You can also search for specifics on your location using this interactive map .

How to safely view the solar eclipse

Unlike partial solar eclipses, a total eclipse offers spectators a unique opportunity to gaze upon it with the naked eye, but only when the moon completely blocks out the sun and darkness falls – referred to as totality.

While you're unlikely to go blind , gazing directly at the sun's rays can do some serious damage to your retinas. So until the moment that totality occurs,  proper safety eyewear  is still a must, according to  NASA .

While some welding goggles may work, the best option for eclipse viewing remains certified eyewear, which is held to an international safety standard and is 100,000 times darker than most sunglasses to block nearly all visible, infrared and ultraviolet light.

Solar eclipse glasses are readily available from plenty of vendors across the internet, but if you want to save some cash, there's a good chance your local library or another public institution is giving them away for free.

Just watch out for cheap imitations. To make it easy while you're shopping online, the American Astronomical Society maintains  a curated list of approved vendors .

Another simple method is to create your own pinhole projector to project the sun onto a nearby surface. The American Astronomical Society offers helpful  instructions  to set them up as well.

When was the last solar eclipse?

The last solar eclipse took place on Aug. 21, 2017 . In October, skygazers were delighted by a rare "ring of fire" solar eclipse , where the moon slides in front of the sun but doesn't totally obscure it, creating a halo effect.

When is the next total solar eclipse after 2024?

Whether you live on the path of totality or need to find the nearest city that will be enveloped in daytime darkness, one thing is for sure: Now is the time to make your plans to see it.

For North America,  the next total solar eclipse  won't be until Aug. 23, 2044,  according to NASA .

Unfortunately, the 2044 total solar eclipse won't have the broad reach across the U.S. as the 2024 eclipse.

The Planetary Society, a nonprofit involved in research, public outreach and political space advocacy, says that during the 2044 eclipse, the path of totality will only touch three states.

The eclipse will begin in Greenland, sweep through Canada and end around sunset in Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota.

Contributing: Gabe Hauari

Natalie Neysa Alund is a senior reporter for USA TODAY. Reach her at [email protected] and follow her on X @nataliealund. Eric Lagatta covers breaking and trending news for USA TODAY. Reach him at [email protected]

• Solar Eclipse 2024

What Time to See the Solar Eclipse Broken Down by State 

T ens of millions of people live in the path of the highly-anticipated total solar eclipse passing through the U.S. on Monday, April 8, with others planning to travel to see it. 

The total eclipse, during which the moon passes between Earth and the sun and blocks the face of the sun, will enter the country in Texas before passing through Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) reported. 

Slivers of Tennessee and Michigan will also catch glimpses of totality, NASA said, although what you can see during an eclipse depends on the weather in your location, as cloud cover can affect visibility .

Read More : Helpful Tips for Planning Your Solar Eclipse Trip

Below is a list of local times to see the total eclipse in states with the best views, according to NASA . You can search more locations on NASA’s interactive eclipse map or view lists of total eclipse cities and all eclipse spots —both resources recommended by scientist Samaiyah Farid.

Texas 

Totality will hit Dallas from 1:40 p.m. to 1:44 p.m. The partial eclipse will start at 12:23 p.m. and finish at 3:02 p.m.

Oklahoma 

The partial eclipse begins in Idabel at 12:28 p.m., with totality hitting at 1:45 p.m. and concluding at 1:49 p.m. The partial eclipse ends at 3:06 p.m. 

Arkansas 

The partial eclipse commences at 12:33 p.m. in Little Rock , followed by the total eclipse from 1:51 p.m. to 1:54 p.m. The partial eclipse concludes at 3:11 p.m.

Missouri 

People in Poplar Bluff will experience the partial eclipse starting at 12:39 p.m., with totality from 1:56 p.m. to 2 p.m., and witness the partial eclipse’s end at 3:15 p.m.

Read More : The Best Apps for the Solar Eclipse

If you’re in Paducah, start looking for the partial eclipse at 12:42 p.m. Totality will last from 2 p.m. to 2:02 p.m. The partial eclipse will extend until 3:18 p.m. 

Illinois 

Carbondale will see a partial eclipse starting at 12:42 p.m., followed by the total eclipse from 1:59 p.m. to 2:03 p.m., with the partial eclipse ending at 3:18 p.m. 

Indiana 

Evansville will experience the partial eclipse starting at 12:45 p.m., followed by totality from 2:02 p.m. to 2:05 p.m., with the partial eclipse finishing at 3:20 p.m. 

Cleveland will spot the partial eclipse starting at 1:59 p.m. The total eclipse will run from 3:13 p.m. to 3:17 p.m. The entire eclipse will be over at 4:29 p.m.

Pennsylvania 

The partial eclipse will begin in the city of Erie at 2:02 p.m. Totality extends from 3:16 p.m. to 3:20 p.m., with the entire eclipse over by 4:30 p.m. 

New York 

Buffalo will experience the partial eclipse beginning at 2:04 p.m., then the total eclipse from 3:18 p.m. to 3:22 p.m., with the entire event concluding at 4:32 p.m.

Read More : Is It Safe to Fly During a Solar Eclipse?

Vermont 

The partial eclipse will begin to be visible in Burlington at 2:14 p.m. Totality extends from 3:26 p.m. to 3:29 p.m. The partial eclipse is over at 4:37 p.m.

New Hampshire 

In Lancaster, the partial eclipse commences at 2:16 p.m. Totality lasts from 3:27 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. The eclipse is over at 4:38 p.m. 

Maine 

The partial eclipse will descend upon Caribou at 2:22 p.m. Totality will engulf the city from 3:32 p.m. to 3:34 p.m. The partial eclipse will cease at 4:40 p.m. 

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The April 8 solar eclipse is here. How to watch in North Jersey

Turn around, (and cover your) bright eyes — eclipse day is officially here in North Jersey.

By 2:09 p.m. Monday, the Garden State will begin its descent into eerie, daytime darkness, with 90% of the sun being covered in our area by 3:24 p.m.

If you want to see 100% of the sun covered, though? Hopefully you're reading this article early; because you'll need to hop in the car and get to upstate New York or Pennsylvania pronto.

But if you're Gen Z, don't worry about it. The next total eclipse in New Jersey is forecast for May 2079, so — as long as your nursing home has buses — you can totally get to the Catskills on time for that one.

Saving 2079 for 2079, however, here's how you can watch the solar eclipse in North Jersey this afternoon, April 8:

What time is the solar eclipse in North Jersey?

According to USA TODAY (which compiled a database of the best times to view the eclipse based on ZIP code), the partial eclipse will begin in North Jersey at 2:09 p.m., with peak coverage occurring at 3:24 pm.

Where can I watch the eclipse (in person) in New Jersey?

Unfortunately for those of us here in North Jersey, you'll have to travel out of state  to get the best view of the eclipse . Most Americans will get a glimpse, but the Garden State is at least a four- to five-hour drive from areas of upstate New York and northwest Pennsylvania that will be in the path of totality, which will stretch in the U.S. from Texas into Maine.

In New Jersey, then, we recommend driving to the most northwestern part of the state, as that area will be closest to the action. High Point State Park , in Sussex County, would make a great viewing spot.

Where can I watch the full eclipse (online)?

If you prefer not to watch outside (or would like a view of the full eclipse without having to suffer through a flight on JetBlue), USA TODAY will be livestreaming the eclipse on YouTube.

How will the weather be during the eclipse?

According to top weather outlets, North Jersey will have "pretty good to great" conditions for viewing this afternoon.

The Weather Channel and Weather Underground both are forecasting “partly cloudy” skies, with a high of 65 degrees.

What will the eclipse look like?

Though our state will not offer a full eclipse, North Jersey will still be able to see 90% to 95% of the sun being covered, which is pretty darn close.

Kris Kootale, a board member and trustee with the United Astronomy Clubs of New Jersey, said the blockage will make for a "very interesting visual spectacle," with only a small, crescent sliver of sunlight still visible as the moon passes in front of the star.

We'll also get more blockage than South Jersey, which is forecast to have only 85% to 90% of the sun covered — just another reason, beyond Taylor ham, Star Tavern and hot dogs all-the-way, why North Jersey is the king of the state.

Do I need eclipse glasses?

Though about 90% of the sun will be covered in our area, that's still enough light to do serious damage to your eyes, so yes, you will need protective eyewear .

Get solar eclipse glasses at department stores like Target or Walmart, or for free at many libraries and science museums.

NOTE: Regular sunglasses will not supply adequate protection from the eclipse.

Where can I find solar eclipse 'watch parties' in North Jersey?

Don't want to watch the eclipse alone? No problem. Many local organizations are offering watch parties where you can view the occurrence with like-minded enthusiasts.

One such event is  The Great Eclipse at Liberty Science Center  in Jersey City. Throughout the day, the center will give out free solar viewing glasses and host various eclipse-themed activities, including a telescope viewing, a live webcast, shows in the planetarium, hands-on astronomy activities and more.

Another option is the United Astronomy Clubs of New Jersey's Total Solar Eclipse Event in Hope, where astronomy lovers are invited — from 1 to 6 p.m. — to watch the eclipse with other space junkies. Glasses, of course, will be provided.

A few schools, such as Rockaway Valley in Boonton Township, which even bought a telescope for the event, will also be hosting watch parties to ensure that their students observe the eclipse safely.

Visit a business that is offering eclipse deals — like Beenie's Ice Cream , which is serving black cocoa waffle cones with edible stardust for the occasion — at the time of the crossing, and you're sure to find fellow viewers.

How long will the eclipse last?

The April, 8 solar eclipse will end around 4:35 p.m.

Kara VanDooijeweert is a food and news writer for NorthJersey.com and The Record. If you can't find her in Jersey's best restaurants, she's probably off running a race course in the mountains. Catch her on Instagram:  @karanicolev  &  @northjerseyeats , and sign up for her  North Jersey Eats newsletter .

Eclipse 2024: Time, best places to watch, latest weather forecast, ZIP code tool, what will you see?

T he Great North American eclipse is Monday, April 8 and skywatchers – with proper glasses, of course – are ready to see the moon blocking out the sun during a solar eclipse.

What you will see, how long it will last and when it will take place will depend on where you live. While all states in the contiguous U.S. will experience some level of the eclipse, Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, New York, Pennsylvania, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine, as well as small parts of Kentucky, Michigan and Tennessee are along the path of totality and will experience the greatest periods of darkness.

In the U.S., the path of totality will start in Texas at 1:27 p.m. CT and will end in Maine at 3:35 p.m. ET (2:25 CT.) In those states, the periods of greatest darkness will reach up to 4 minutes, 27 seconds.

Here’s everything you need to know about the total solar eclipse 2024:

2024 eclipse primer

Total solar eclipse on April 8: Why this eclipse will be much different than the 2017 version

Scientists say the sun is approaching its maximum activity of its cycle this year, meaning it will be sending off more solar flares and eruptions from its surface — potentially making this year’s total solar eclipse much more dynamic.

Best places to watch the eclipse

Total Solar Eclipse April 8: Map shows 15 best states to see April’s total solar eclipse

The path of totality will start in Mexico and move across Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, New York, Pennsylvania, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine before heading out over the North Atlantic. Small portions of Kentucky, Michigan and Tennessee will also experience almost the entirety of the eclipse. The eclipse will enter Canada in Southern Ontario, and continue through Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Nova Scotia. The eclipse will exit continental North America on the Atlantic coast of Newfoundland, Canada, at 5:16 p.m. NDT.

Where to see solar eclipse 2024: NASA eclipse map shows best places along path of totality

During the eclipse, the sky will darken as if it were dawn or dusk. Weather permitting, people in the path of totality will be able to see the sun’s corona, or outer atmosphere, which is usually obscured by the bright face of the sun, NASA explains. Outside the path of totality, viewers will see a partial eclipse with the moon covering varying degrees of the sun.

How much will you see where you live?

April 8 eclipse in Alabama: How much coverage you’ll see in your city and when

Although Alabama is not in the path of “totality” during the April 8 eclipse – meaning we won’t see total darkness when the moon covers the sun – residents will see from 78 to 92 percent coverage, depending on location.

Total solar eclipse path 2024: Search your city, ZIP code for best viewing times

People viewing the eclipse from the path of totality will be treated to the ghostly-white outer atmosphere of the sun, known as the corona, when the moon completely blocks out the sun’s disk during the total eclipse, NASA explained. Along the path, the sun will be blocked out for about 4-and-a-half minutes.

April 8 solar eclipse path of totality: What time does the eclipse start?

Wondering how much of the eclipse you will see? NASA has a tool that lets you search by city or ZIP code to see complete eclipse details. You can use this tool to see when the eclipse will start and end in every state.

Eclipse weather

Alabama solar eclipse weather: Will skies be cloudy or clear?

A big question, for a lot of the nation, is how clear the skies will be for prime eclipse viewing. An updated forecast from the National Weather Service looks like a mixed bag.

Eclipse education

Solar eclipse 2024 for kids: How to enjoy the event safely at home and in class

From building your own safety glasses to taking scientific data, researchers say there are plenty of ways to make the upcoming solar eclipse a fun learning experience for children.

Why are some schools closing for the solar eclipse?

The April 8 total solar eclipse will have millions of people gazing toward the sky as the moon tracks its way in front of the sun. And while some schools have special events planned, others – especially along the 15-state path of totality – are closing their doors that day.

NASA has a game to help kids learn about the solar eclipse: Play now

To help kids learn about solar eclipses, NASA is launching Snap It! An Eclipse Photo Adventure.

Eclipse safety

Solar eclipse 2024: Where to get free glasses to watch April 8 total solar eclipse

Skygazers planning to look at the eclipse through a camera lens or binoculars still need adequate eye protection. Without proper precaution, the sun’s rays can burn your retinas and cause severe eye injury.

Solar eclipse is Monday: 7 things to do if you’re driving that day

Crowds eager to see the eclipse are expected to be huge. According to AAA, Dallas, Austin and San Antonio are the most popular cities for eclipse viewers, followed by Indianapolis, Cleveland and Buffalo. In Dallas alone, Hertz rental car company said it is seeing six times more reservations than last year at this same time.

Solar eclipse on April 8 prompts cell phone warning

In addition to warnings about transportation systems, impacts on emergency service responses and fuel issues brought about increased demand, law enforcement said people should expect the cellular network to be strained.

How to spot fake solar eclipse glasses

Despite the ease of getting glasses, skygazers should be on the lookout for fake eclipse glasses. Real eclipse glasses are often designed with polyester film coated and coated in aluminum. Certified eclipse eyewear is designed to block all visible, and infrared light. Solar eclipse glasses must be from a vendor approved by the American Astronomical Society.

FAA issues warning ahead of April 8 total solar eclipse

The Federal Aviation Administration has issued a warning about possible travel disruptions related to the April 8 total solar eclipse.

Cell phone warning for April 8 solar eclipse: Will you be able to use your phone?

Warnings about traffic, flight congestion and emergency services are circulating ahead of the April 8 Great American Eclipse. Of particular note are concerns over cell phones and whether they will work during the eclipse.

April 8 total solar eclipse: Texas officials warn people to stock up on food ahead of solar eclipse

Mike Jones, Hays County, Texas’s direct of the Office of Emergency Services, said the area is expecting thousands of visitors to arrive to see the eclipse. To prepare for the crowds, Jones advised residents to stock up on groceries and fill up on gas. If they are out on the day of the eclipse, he recommends residents “pack your patience.”

National Guard will be deployed for total solar eclipse on April 8

At the request of local emergency management officials, the Oklahoma National Guard will have members of the 63rd Civil Support Team available to assist local governments during the eclipse, including working with first responders with additional HAZMAT responses if needed.

Total solar eclipse on April 8: How to safely look at an eclipse

Except during the brief total phase of the eclipse when the moon completely blocks the sun’s bright face, it’s not safe to look at the eclipse without specialized eye protection for solar viewing, NASA said on its eclipse information page. If you’re watching the eclipse directly, you will need solar viewing glasses – also known as eclipse glasses – or a handheld solar viewer.

Eclipse fun

Krispy Kreme is releasing a new doughnut in celebration of the solar eclipse

The doughnut chain has announced its limited-time “Total Solar Eclipse Doughnut” – an original Krispy Kreme glazed doughnut dipped in black chocolate icing and topped with silver sprinkles, piped with a buttercream made with Oreo pieces and a whole Oreo cookie in the center.

April 8 total solar eclipse: Why you should wear red or green on eclipse day

Experts have another recommendation if you’re planning on watching the eclipse in a group or public place: Skip the neutrals and wear red and green.

Sun Chips eclipse flavors: You will have less than 5 minutes to score limited-edition chips

The chip brand is releasing Pineapple Habanero and Black Bean Spicy Gouda, a blend of ingredients with a nod to " sunny skies and bright days ahead while nodding to the moon with a cheesy touch.”

Sonic has new black drink for April 8 total solar eclipse and you get free eclipse glasses, too

The drive-through chain is launching a limited-edition drink called “Blackout Slush Float” to give fans an “out-of-this world experience.”

©2024 Advance Local Media LLC. Visit al.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Watch CBS News

Best places to see the 2024 solar eclipse in Chicago, according to our meteorologists

By Albert Ramon

Updated on: April 7, 2024 / 3:19 PM CDT / CBS Chicago

On Monday, April 8, 2024, North America is in for a treat: a total solar eclipse. This rare event will cross the continent, producing moments of darkness in the middle of the day. 

The best places to see the solar eclipse depend on where you are. 

Is Chicago in the solar eclipse's path of totality?  

Chicago is in for a particularly enchanting experience, albeit a partial one.

For the whole show, head south to southern Illinois.

The best places to see the solar eclipse in Illinois

Carbondale, Illinois, will be in the spotlight for maximum totality at 2:01 p.m., making it a hotspot for eclipse enthusiasts like yours truly, eager for an unobstructed view, weather permitting.

While Chicago won't be in the path of totality, it will still be a spectacular event. 

In the city, the partial eclipse kicks off at 12:51 p.m., with the maximum at 2:07 p.m. and wrapping up at 3:22 p.m.

About 94% of the sun will be eclipsed during the maximum, casting a surreal glow across the city.

Meanwhile, downstate in Carbondale, it's a different story altogether. 

They'll experience a total eclipse, with the partial beginning at 12:42 p.m., hitting maximum at 2:01 p.m., and wrapping up at 3:18 p.m.

Trust me, it's worth the five-hour drive for that 100% eclipse experience, and I'll be reporting live during our special coverage of the eclipse on CBS 2 and CBS News Chicago.

Looking for an event to view the eclipse? Here are some in the area and across the state.  

How to keep safe while viewing the total solar eclipse

Remember to take care when viewing an eclipse.  Dr. Ramon Lee, from Illinois Retina Associates, showed CBS 2 pictures of a patient with solar damage after staring at an eclipse.

Join CBS Chicago on April 8, 2024, to witness one of nature's most extraordinary displays—a total solar eclipse.

Albert Ramon is the chief meteorologist for CBS2 Chicago. Albert joined CBS2's First Alert Weather Team in October 2021.

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