Weather in La Paz

Planning your day in the city of La Paz? In this section, you will find the latest weather information, including forecasts and useful charts, to make your stay as comfortable as possible.

The climate in La Paz, the capital of Bolivia, can be characterised as high-altitude, with cool weather throughout the year. Average annual temperatures fluctuate only slightly, remaining in the range of approximately +5.9°C to +8.9°C. Maximum daytime temperatures rarely rise above +14°C, whilst night-time temperatures can drop to zero or even slightly below, especially in the middle of the year (June-July). There is no extreme heat or severe frost here, but the general temperature picture remains fresh and requires warm clothing.

In La Paz, two main seasons are clearly distinguished, differing more by the amount of rainfall than by sharp temperature spikes. The nominal "summer" (from December to March) is characterised as a wetter period: precipitation during these months amounts to 6-8 mm, and the number of rainy days can reach 27-29 per month. The nominal "winter" (from May to August), on the contrary, is a drier season – precipitation decreases to 2-3 mm, and the number of days with precipitation drops to 15-20. This makes the winter period sunnier, albeit slightly cooler at night.

The weather in La Paz is characterised by a cool climate throughout the year, due to its high-altitude location. Average annual temperatures here do not undergo sharp spikes, however, there is a noticeable difference between day and night readings. The warmest months, when the average temperature reaches 8.5-8.9°C, are November, December, and January. During these months, daytime highs can rise to 12.7-14.0°C. June and July are considered the coldest, with an average temperature of around 5.9-6.0°C, whilst night-time temperatures in these months can drop to 0°C or even slightly below, as seen in July (average minimum -0.2°C).

In the so-called "warm season", which lasts approximately from October to March, daytime temperatures in La Paz are usually within the range of 12.3°C to 14.0°C, creating a feeling of cool but often sunny weather. Nights during this period remain cold, with average minimum temperatures from 2.9°C (October) to 4.6°C (February). The "cold season", from May to August, brings daytime temperatures of around 11.8°C to 12.6°C. Nights at this time of year are particularly cold: average minimums fluctuate from -0.2°C in July to 1.5°C in May. A characteristic feature of the climate in La Paz is significant diurnal temperature variation. The difference between daytime warmth and night-time chill can reach 10-12°C, especially in the months from May to September, when nights become noticeably colder whilst days remain relatively warm under the mountain sun.

A rather specific precipitation pattern is observed in La Paz. A characteristic feature is that rainfall is generally very light, yet it can occur quite frequently throughout most of the year. Nevertheless, wetter and drier seasons are clearly traceable in the city.

The wetter period in La Paz usually lasts from October-November to March-April. The highest amount of precipitation falls in February (on average 8 mm) and December (7 mm), followed by January and March (6 mm each). These months are also distinguished by the maximum number of days with precipitation: for example, in January, March, and December, there are about 29 such days. Despite this, the total amount of moisture falling remains small, which suggests a predominantly drizzling nature of the rains rather than heavy downpours.

The dry season sets in approximately from May to August-September. At this time, the amount of precipitation is minimal: in May, June, and July, only about 2 mm falls in each of these months. June and July are also characterised by the lowest number of days with precipitation – on average about 15. It is important to note that even in the so-called "dry" months, precipitation does not disappear completely, but merely becomes even scarcer and less frequent compared to the wet season.

When planning a trip to La Paz, it is important to consider its high-altitude location and changeable weather. It is quite cool here throughout the year, with average temperatures from 6°C to 9°C, so layering your clothing is your best friend. Be sure to take warm items with you: jumpers or fleece jackets, a warm coat (preferably windproof and waterproof), as well as a hat, scarf, and gloves, especially if your trip falls during the period from May to August when night-time temperatures can drop to zero and below. Comfortable closed walking shoes, preferably with non-slip soles, are also absolutely essential for walking along the hilly streets of the city.

The rainy season in La Paz usually lasts from November to March, and during this time the number of rainy days increases significantly, although the precipitation itself may not be very heavy. During this period, a waterproof jacket or raincoat, as well as an umbrella, will become your indispensable companions. In the drier months, from May to August, there is less rainfall, but the weather remains cool. Regardless of the season, do not forget about sun protection: due to the high altitude, ultraviolet radiation here is very strong even on cloudy days. Therefore, sunscreen with a high SPF, sunglasses, and headwear are mandatory attributes of your luggage.

In general, for a comfortable stay in La Paz, it is recommended to pack: warm jumpers and sweaters, t-shirts or long-sleeved shirts for the base layer, comfortable trousers or jeans, thermal underwear (especially for the cold months or if you plan high-altitude excursions), waterproof and windproof outerwear, a hat, a scarf, gloves, sturdy and comfortable shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, and lip balm with SPF. Such a set will allow you to feel comfortable amidst any whims of the weather in this amazing city.