Bolivia in January: Weather, Tips and More
While January may be one of the wettest months in Bolivia, the month also holds its own charm. True, this is not an ideal time to be exploring the Andes or the Amazon for obvious reasons, but you can still explore the bustling cities like La Paz and Sucre. January is also one of the best times to visit the salt flat of Uyuni, where the rainwaters mirror the sky overhead. And if adventure is what you are after, you can head to Coroico for rafting in the rain-swollen rapids. Be flexible and creative with your itinerary, and you can have a great holiday in Bolivia in January.
- Mrs. G
Bolivia Weather in January
Bolivia’s summer season brings warm temperatures and a mix of clear skies and rain in January. In the highlands, such as La Paz and Lake Titicaca, the average daytime temperatures range from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F), with cooler nights. In other regions of Bolivia, the weather ranges from lows of 15°C (59°F) and highs of 32°C (89°F).
The rainy season in Bolivia falls between December to March, with January being the rainiest, averaging 130 millimeters of rain. So when traveling during this time, remember that regions like the Amazon Basin and the Yungas can receive significant rainfall. This can have an effect on outdoor activities.
Weather in Bolivia in January - Rainfall and Temperatures
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg Daily (°C) | 13 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 15 |
| Avg Nightly (°C) | 4 | 3 | 3 | 2 | -1 | -3 | -3 | -2 | 0 | 1 | 3 | 3 |
| Avg Daily (°F) | 56 | 58 | 56 | 58 | 58 | 56 | 56 | 58 | 58 | 59 | 59 | 59 |
| Avg Nightly (°F) | 40 | 38 | 38 | 36 | 31 | 27 | 27 | 29 | 32 | 34 | 38 | 38 |
| Avg Rainfall (mm) | 130 | 90 | 80 | 40 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 30 | 40 | 50 | 70 |
| Dec | Jan | Feb | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Avg Daily (°C) | 15 | 13 | 14 |
| Avg Nightly (°C) | 3 | 4 | 3 |
| Avg Daily (°F) | 59 | 56 | 58 |
| Avg Nightly (°F) | 38 | 40 | 38 |
| Avg Rainfall (mm) | 70 | 130 | 90 |
Why Visit Bolivia in January
Traveling to Bolivia in January offers a range of great events and sights to see. January is one of the quieter months among visitors, which you can use to your advantage.
- Vibrant festivities: In January, Bolivia comes alive with vibrant festivals like Alasitas, where people engage in a unique buying spree for miniature items representing their wishes. Another celebration is Three Kings' Day, observed nationwide on January 6th, honoring the biblical story of the three wise men. La Paz also hosts the Anchcalla celebrations to rejoice in the blooming of the potato crop, a crucial staple in Bolivia.
- Less crowd: January tends to have fewer tourists, allowing you to enjoy popular attractions, such as the historic sites in Sucre or the Witches' Market in La Paz, without dealing with overwhelming crowds. The low season also means cheaper hotel and travel prices.
- Visit the salt flat: January is the perfect time to visit Salar de Uyuni, the world's largest salt flat, to see the famous mirror-like reflection of the sky on the rainwater surface.
Where to Go and What to Do
In January, the weather brings things together in Bolivia that cannot be witnessed at any other time of the year. From the January religious festivals to the natural wonders the wet season brings, this time of year in Bolivia is perfect for gaining some unique experiences.
Embark on your journey in the captivating capital city of Bolivia, La Paz. Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of history as you explore the enchanting city center. Wander through the intriguing Witches' Market, and get involved in the Anchcalla celebrations that start in the first week of January. You’ll also find the Alasitas festival in La Paz during this time of the year. The festival brings together shop owners with miniature gifts so you can take home some souvenirs to tell the tails of La Paz to friends back home.
Head to the world-renowned Salar de Uyuni, where reality seamlessly merges with fantasy. Behold the annual spectacle of the expansive salt flat mirroring the sky.
If you’re seeking some fresh water and cooler temperatures, set forth on a voyage to the legendary Lake Titicaca, where nature's wonders and ancient mystique converge. Traverse to Isla del Sol, a sacred land believed to be the birthplace of the Inca civilization, and revel in the serenity of its landscapes adorned with ancient ruins.
And for the historians amongst you, step into a time capsule and immerse yourself in the allure of Sucre, a living testament to Bolivia's storied past. In these storied streets, every corner reveals a page from history. Visit the iconic Casa de la Libertad, the hallowed grounds where Bolivia's independence was proclaimed.
What to Bring
To fully enjoy your visit to Bolivia in January, it is important to equip yourself with the correct gear and essentials tailored to the specific activities you intend to explore. Given the fluctuating temperatures encountered throughout the day, particularly in elevated regions such as the Andes, the incorporation of layered clothing becomes paramount. As January aligns with Bolivia's rainy season, you should bring a sturdy rain jacket or poncho to keep you dry.
From exploring the cities like La Paz and Santa Cruz to witnessing the magical spectacle of earth and sky merging together in Salar de Uyuni and participating in religious festivals, Bolivia in January offers many things that are unique to the month. So, reach out to our local travel experts to plan a customized trip to Bolivia.
