December is in the rainy season across much of Bolivia with frequent afternoon storms in the lowlands and warm, humid conditions there. Highland areas see more variable weather with occasional showers. Travel timing can be rewarding for rainforest visits but may require flexible plans on ground transport.
SeasonLow SeasonTemperature Altiplano: -2 to 14°C (28 to 57°F); Lowlands: 22 to 31°C (72 to 88°F)Crowds LowPrices Low
High seasonShoulderLow season
Weather by City in December
CityLow / highRain
La Paz
Cool
4°19° 104 mm
Santa Cruz de la Sierra
Warm
22°32° 184 mm
Cochabamba
Mild
12°26° 122 mm
Sucre
Cool
11°24° 112 mm
Oruro
Cool
4°21° 65 mm
Sacaba
Mild
11°26° 134 mm
Quillacollo
Mild
12°26° 120 mm
Average daily low and high (°C) and monthly rainfall. The badge shows how it feels, allowing for humidity.
Temperature map
-30°-20°-10°0°10°20°30°40°
Average temperature across Bolivia in December.
Where to Go in Bolivia in December
Altiplano & Lake Titicaca
La Paz, El Alto, Uyuni, Potosí
December resumes the summer wet pattern with more frequent afternoon storms and higher humidity across the plateau. Lake Titicaca’s shores around Copacabana get greener and river feeds into the region rise modestly; the salt flats start to show increasing wet patches toward the end of the month. Travelers should expect short-term itinerary changes due to weather and pack both sun protection and rain gear.
Inter‑Andean Valleys
Cochabamba, Sucre, Tarija
December is firmly into the summer rain pattern: hot, humid afternoons with heavy showers punctuate sunny mornings, and valley towns feel lush and vibrant. Festival activity increases in towns like Tarija and Sucre around the holidays, but take waterproof shoes and expect occasional transport delays where downpours are heavy. The months around December are lively for local festivals, food and wine despite the occasional storm.
Yungas & Cloud Forest Slopes
Coroico, La Cumbre, Caranavi
December is firmly in rainier weather with high humidity and daily convective storms that keep the cloud forest lush and waterfalls roaring. Festive season travelers will find dramatic jungle scenery, but expect logistical problems if roads wash out after heavy downpours and pack accordingly. Book lodge transfers with operators who monitor road conditions and bring waterproof gear and a mindset ready for adventure.
Amazon Basin & Beni Pampas
Rurrenabaque, Trinidad, Guayaramerín
December returns to the high‑water season with frequent heavy rains and many pampas areas submerged-boat safaris are the primary mode of exploration and wildlife congregates in exposed tree islands. Festive travel in Trinidad and lodge closures for repairs sometimes occur between downpours, so confirm bookings and transfers in advance. Bring lightweight waterproof clothing and be prepared for mosquito-heavy evenings.
Santa Cruz Lowlands & Gran Chaco
Santa Cruz de la Sierra, Sama Valley, Yacuíba
December is hot, humid and stormy again: heavy rains alternate with intense heat and the lowlands take on their lush wet‑season character. Festive season travel can be affected by heavy downpours and localized flooding in low areas, so confirm transfers and expect mosquitoes and humidity in lodgings without air conditioning. Lightweight, quick‑dry clothing and insect protection are essential.
Events & Festivals in December
Independence Day (Bolivia)
Bolivia's Independence Day is celebrated on August 6; December features year-end local festivities in many towns (not a national independence date).
Planning a trip to Bolivia?
See how December compares with the rest of the year, then read the full guide.