Laguna Verde, Bolivia

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Bolivia weather, climate and geography

Weather & climate

Best time to visit: 

Bolivia has a temperate climate but temperatures can differ dramatically between day and night. The wettest period is November to March, which, in extreme circumstances, may induce landslides in mountainous areas, and cause certain roads to become impassable. The northeast slopes of the Andes are semi-tropical. Visitors sometimes find La Paz uncomfortable because of the thin air due to high altitude. The mountain areas can become very cold at night.

Required clothing: 

Lightweight, natural fabrics and waterproofs. Warmer clothing is necessary at night in the Altiplano, especially La Paz, Oruro and Potosi.

Geography

Bolivia is a landlocked country bordered by Peru to the northwest, Brazil to the north and east, Paraguay to the southeast, Argentina and Paraguay to the south and Chile to the west. There are three main areas: the first is a high plateau known as the 'Altiplano', a less fertile but populous region lying approximately 4,000m (13,000ft) above sea level. The second area is a fertile valley situated 1,800m (5,900ft) to 2,700m (8,850ft) above sea level, which is less populous but more productive. The third area comprises the lowland tropics that stretch down to the frontiers with Brazil, Argentina and Paraguay, where the tropical climate and heavy rainfall foster lush vegetation and exotic produce.