Bolivia in December: Weather, Crowds & What to Expect
Climate Map for December
Average temperature across Bolivia in December.
City Weather in December
| City | High | Low | Rain | UV | Feels |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| La Paz | 19° | 4° | 104 mm | extreme | Cool |
| Santa Cruz de la Sierra | 32° | 22° | 184 mm | extreme | Warm |
| Cochabamba | 26° | 12° | 122 mm | extreme | Mild |
| Sucre | 24° | 11° | 112 mm | extreme | Cool |
| Oruro | 21° | 4° | 65 mm | extreme | Cool |
| Sacaba | 26° | 11° | 134 mm | extreme | Mild |
| Quillacollo | 26° | 12° | 120 mm | extreme | Mild |
High / low are average daily temperatures (°C). “Feels” reflects how hot or cold it feels, allowing for humidity.
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.