The climate of La Paz
La Paz, situated in
Bolivia, experiences a relatively unvarying climate throughout the year based on the Köppen climate classification ET. This refers to a Tropical and Subtropical Highland climate, often identified as Tundra. The city experiences high humidity levels ranging from 42 to 72%, limited variations in temperature from 13.5°C (56.3°F) to 17°C (62.6°F), and a substantially constant daylight duration between 11.2 hours and 13.1 hours.
Throughout the year, the weather remains cool with the highest average temperature recorded at 17°C (62.6°F). However, the temperature drops significantly towards negative values, with the lowest average temperature recorded at -4.4°C (24.1°F). Reviewing the rainfall pattern, the quantity ranges from minimal levels at 5mm (0.2") to a substantial peak at 134mm (5.28"). Briefly, these parameters suggest a distinctive pattern of a cooler climate with intermittent rainfall throughout the year.
Sunshine hours, an integral part of weather characterization, vary moderately from 5.5 hours to 8 hours per day. The UV index in La Paz remains consistent at a significant high throughout the year, frequently recording a value of 12. A particular emphasis should be placed on the number of rainfall days that oscillate between 2.8 and 20.7 each month.
The Best Time to Visit La Paz
Considering the relatively constant climate conditions, the ideal visiting period may be determined based primarily on the viewer's preference. However, for those who enjoy milder temperatures and less rainfall, the months of
May and
June would be the most favorable. During this period, the average temperature ranges between 14°C (57.2°F) and 14.4°C (57.9°F), and rainfall is at its least, with precipitation recorded at 5mm (0.2") and 7mm (0.28") respectively. Furthermore, the number of rainfall days are noticeably fewer, falling to a yearly minimum of 2.8 days.
The Worst Time to Visit La Paz
Averse weather conditions are typically associated with the colder months and higher rainfall. Therefore,
January would be considered the least desirable month for visiting
La Paz. During this period, the city experiences the highest amount of rainfall at 134mm (5.28") distributed over 20.7 days. Alongside this, the humidity is considerably higher during this time at 72%.
Spring Weather in La Paz
March through
May in
La Paz bring a notable spring season. March starts with a relatively warmer temperature ranging from 14.2°C (57.6°F) to 3.6°C (38.5°F). Within this period, rainfall reduces noticeably from 72mm (2.83") to 14mm (0.55"), with the number of rainy days also lessening significantly from 14.2 to 3.6 days. Similarly, sunlight hours show a subtle rise, starting from 4.8 hours and climbing to 7.2 hours, signaling the transition from winter to spring.
Summer Weather in La Paz
Contrary to many regions of the world, the summer in
La Paz, falling between
June and
August, is marked by decreased rainfall, lower temperatures and increased sunshine hours. During this period, temperatures range from 13.5°C (56.3°F) to 15.3°C (59.5°F) with minimal rainfall, peaking slightly in August at 15mm (0.59"). A high of 8 hours of sunshine is noted in June and
July, offering some of the most pleasant weather conditions of the year.
Autumn Weather in La Paz
September initiates the autumn season in
La Paz, known for a slight increase in temperatures from 15.3°C (59.5°F) to 17°C (62.6°F) and a substantial increase in rainfall from 36mm (1.42") to 51mm (2.01") lasting until
November. The number of rainfall days also increases from 8.2 to 11.5 during this period, proving fall to be significantly wetter than other seasons. During this time, daylight hours increase steadily from 12 hours to 12.9 hours, while sunshine hours show a slow decrease from 6.3 hours to 5.7 hours.
Winter Weather in La Paz
The onset of winter in
December is characterized by a fall in temperature from 15.7°C (60.3°F) to 14.3°C (57.7°F) and heightened rainfall with precipitation escalating from 95mm (3.74") to 134mm (5.28") in
January. The number of daylight hours in this season reaches a peak of 13.1 hours in December before receding gradually. Yet, sunshine hours decline to some of the lowest values of the year, reaching 5 hours in December and remaining steady until
February. Meanwhile, humidity levels rise, peaking to one of the highest levels of the year at 72% in January.
Weather in January
Commencing the year,
January stands as the wettest month in
La Paz,
Bolivia, with the highest rainfall reaching a notable 134mm (5.28"). The chilly temperature bestows an inviting atmosphere for hot beverages and cozy sweaters, along with frequent rainfall, making umbrellas a mandatory accessory.
Weather in January »Weather in February
February continues the trend observed in
January, with consistent rain and a profound drop in rainfall to 105mm (4.13"). Alterations in temperature are minimal compared to January, presenting a fairly stable climate. While the rainfall does recede from the January extreme, it remains plentiful, persistently contributing to the city's humidity.
Weather in February » Weather in March
March, despite a considerable dip in rainfall to 72mm (2.83"), still manages to retain a high level of humidity, making it the third most humid month in
La Paz. This slight changes to the cooler temperatures evoke a sense of transition, a seasonal switch in the air.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
April heralds a perceivable shift in weather patterns, with a considerable decrease in rainfall to 32mm (1.26"), significantly changing the overall atmosphere in
La Paz. The temperature begins to fall noticeably, giving rise to a distinctly chilly feeling.
Weather in April » Weather in May
May demonstrates the rapid transition from the wet to the dry season, with rainfall falling dramatically to 14mm (0.55"). This drastic change in weather is most evident in the significantly lessened frequency of rain showers. The short duration of rainfall gives way to colder nights and a drier climate, reflecting clear skies.
Weather in May » Weather in June
June firmly sets the dry season with limited rainfall to 5mm (0.2") and the lowest recorded temperatures of the year. This month witnesses significantly colder nights as temperatures drop notably. The persistent dryness contributes to the city's daily life rhythm, with fewer disruptions caused by rainfall.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
In
July, rainfall remains at minimum levels, recording a very low 7mm (0.28"), indicating the heart of the dry season. The relatively short daylight hours bring early evenings, setting the city under the cover of darkness for longer durations.
Weather in July »Weather in August
August ushers in the end of the dry season with minor increases in both temperatures and rainfall to 15mm (0.59"). This month escorts a subtle shift in the atmospheric conditions, an indicator of the impending wet season. Despite the slight increases, rainfall remains limited, maintaining a dry prevalent climate.
Weather in August » Weather in September
September witnesses a rise in rainfall to 36mm (1.42"), commencing the transition to the wet season. As the first month of spring, it also brings subtle increases in the city's temperatures. Daylight hours extend, while steady sunshine hours keep the city effulgent, reflecting the fresh spring blooms.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October brings further increments in rainfall to 38mm (1.5"), continuing the shift towards the wet season. Temperatures begin to rise, producing a warmer atmosphere and introducing the city's warmer months. Despite the slight change in weather, a balance between sunny and rainy days persists, leading to a rhythm of pleasurable warmth followed by cooling rain showers.
Weather in October » Weather in November
November distinguishes itself in the calendar, observing the warmest temperatures of the year along with an increase in rainfall to 51mm (2.01"). As one of the wettest months, rain showers become a common occurrence again, adding vibrancy to the city's lush surrounds.
Weather in November » Weather in December
December concludes the year with a predictable rise in rainfall to 95mm (3.74"), marking a firm return to the wet season. Temperatures cool down from
November's peak, ensuring a temperate close to the year. The change in atmospheric conditions marks a distinct transition from the warmth of the recent months.
Weather in December »