The onset of spring in September marks the end of the peak season rush in Bolivia, so in many ways, this is a fantastic month to visit, with largely dry days, warm weather, and far fewer crowds. As the country edges into the less busy shoulder season, you should be able to snag some deals on tours and accommodation. While rising temperatures have taken the bitter edge off nights on the Altiplano, this is the hottest time of year in the Amazon.
Bolivia, a nation nestled in the heart of South America, presents a diverse tapestry of geographical zones, each boasting its own unique and captivating climate. From the towering, high-altitude Andes in the west, echoing the climatic conditions of the Peruvian Andean region, to the verdant, hot, and humid rainforests sprawling across the north, and the expansive savanna region in the south and east, largely defined by the Gran Chaco, a predominantly semi-arid landscape with sparse tree cover, Bolivia offers a climatic adventure for every traveler.
**Andes**
Perched atop a majestic mountain plateau at an impressive elevation of 11,942 feet (3,640 meters) above sea level, the bustling city of **La Paz** serves as a reliable indicator of the prevailing weather patterns throughout the Andes region. As September arrives, a subtle warming trend begins to emerge, with daytime highs reaching a comfortable 55°F (13°C) and nighttime lows dipping to a crisp 32°F (0°C). However, it’s crucial to remember that as you ascend to higher altitudes, temperatures tend to decrease significantly. Therefore, packing an array of layers, a cozy sweater, and a dependable warm jacket is essential, particularly if you plan to explore the breathtaking landscapes of **Lake Titicaca** or the mesmerizing **Salar de Uyuni**, where temperatures can plummet to a frigid 28°F (-2°C). Be prepared for the possibility of experiencing varied weather conditions within a single day.
**Rainforest**
With the arrival of spring, the heat intensifies within the Amazon rainforest, and September marks the hottest month of the year. **Cobija**, a city situated on the Brazilian border in the far northern reaches of Bolivia, provides a representative snapshot of the weather conditions in the rainforest. While the dry season persists, facilitating easy access by road and enhancing the chances of encountering diverse wildlife, temperatures are now steadily rising, reaching a sweltering 93°F (34°C), creating a hot, steamy, and sometimes sweaty atmosphere. Although the rainy season is still distant, it’s prudent to be prepared for the occasional shower or thunderstorm, with an average of seven rainy days expected throughout September. Remember to stay hydrated and pack light, breathable clothing to maximize comfort.
**Savanna**
The abundance of warm, dry weather in September makes it an ideal time to discover the allure of Bolivia’s lowlands. With approximately eight hours of sunshine each day and an average of just five rainy days throughout the month, the conditions are perfectly suited for engaging in outdoor activities such as hiking and mountain biking. **Santa Cruz** serves as a reliable benchmark for the region’s climate, with temperatures climbing to a pleasant 84°F (29°C) and still maintaining pleasantly warm lows of 66°F (19°C). Pack accordingly to ensure you have versatile clothing options.
**Crowds & Costs**
As winter draws to a close in September, the crowds begin to thin out with the arrival of spring, creating a relatively tranquil time to visit Bolivia, particularly during the latter half of the month. Largely dry, sunny days, coupled with slowly increasing temperatures, soften the chill that lingers on the Altiplano. Despite a slight increase in rainfall, September remains an excellent month for engaging in adventure sports. As visitor numbers gradually decline, room rates and the cost of guided tours also tend to decrease. However, if you’re planning your trip to coincide with the vibrant **Fiesta de San Roque** in **Tarija**, held on the first Sunday of the month, it’s advisable to book your accommodations and tours well in advance to avoid disappointment.
**Where to Go**
**Andes**
**La Paz**, a city perched at a high altitude with a breathtaking mountain backdrop, serves as the gateway to the majestic Andes. It is highly recommended to spend a day or two in the city to acclimatize to the altitude before venturing out into the wild and llama-dotted landscapes of the Altiplano. The weather is typically dry and the temperatures are rising gently, making this a wonderful time for a 4×4 tour of the **Salar de Uyuni’s** surreal white salt flats and the hot springs and flamingo-filled lakes that are located nearby. Moreover, you are likely to find good deals, since the peak tourist season is ending. **Lake Titicaca** also holds plenty of appeal this month, with warmer, bright days for hiking and boat trips over to the mysterious ruins on **Isla del Sol**, the birthplace of the Incas. Immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of this captivating region.
**Rainforest**
Although it’s starting to get quite hot in the Amazon, September presents an amazing time to come in many ways if you don’t mind the heat. With fewer travelers than in July and August, you can get better deals at ecolodges as well as for guided hiking tours and boat trips. Besides the occasional shower and storm, the weather remains dry and pleasant, which increases your chances of seeing wildlife face-to-face in places such as the vast **Madidi National Park**. You can also access the jungle from **Trinidad**, which has an attractive plaza and colonnaded streets, and from ever so chilled **Rurrenabaque**, where you can relax on a hammock before going on jungle and pampas tours.
**Savanna**
September is a tranquil time to visit Bolivia’s savanna region, characterized by smaller crowds and largely dry and warm conditions. Consider dedicating a day or two to exploring the museums, savoring the food, and experiencing the nightlife of easy-going **Santa Cruz**. The city is ideally located for a road trip to explore the Jesuit missions in nearby **Chiquitania**. Alternatively, visit relaxed **Samaipata**, which boasts a hippie vibe, dramatically lush mountain surroundings, and close proximity to the wildlife-rich **Amboró National Park**. Further south, near the border with Argentina, **Tarija** makes a good base for discovering the high-altitude **Valle de la Concepción**, which is home to some of the world’s highest vineyards.
**What to Do**
**Andes**
Bolivia’s highlands offer many things to do and see in the quieter month of September, and the crisp, bright weather on the Altiplano is an added bonus. Conditions are perfect for enjoying outdoor activities, whether you want to add thrill and fear on the road from **La Paz** to **Coroico** through the forest-cloaked mountains of the **Yungas**, or go off the radar on a multi-day hike through the peaks of the spectacular **Cordillera Real**.
If you are seeking cultural experiences, consider visiting the former silver mining town of **Potosí**, which was once the economic heart of Spain’s empire and is now a Unesco World Heritage site. Or, head to the country’s sugar-white capital, **Sucre**, for a feast of museums and colonial architecture.
**Rainforest**
Now, the heat is cranking up in the Bolivian Amazon. Be sure to plan enough time to relax in a hammock and cool down before or after your tour at an ecotourism hub like **Rurrenabaque**, a relaxed base for slow boat tours along the **Río Beni**, and a launching point to exploring the biodiverse **Madidi National Park** (September is still an excellent time for wildlife sightings, thanks to the dry weather).
You can canoe through the wilderness, embark on a multi-day trek, or go rafting, and keep an eye out for howler monkeys, pink river dolphins, macaws, and capybaras. With some colonial flair, **Trinidad** is a great option for jungle hiking and boat trips along the **Río Mamoré** to the Brazilian border.
**Savanna**
If you’re looking for an offbeat adventure, then Bolivia’s lesser-explored savanna is the perfect region, and September is a great month for a cross-country trip. You might want to set aside a day or two to explore **Santa Cruz**, a charming city featuring colonial architecture, an exciting food scene, and attractions that range from botanical gardens to a regional history museum.
In the latter, you can get the inside scoop on the Jesuit missions in nearby **Chiquitano** before heading out to see the restored churches for real. This is an excellent month for hiking in the lush jungle wilds of the **Amboró National Park**, which is home to the rare spectacled bear. Or you can opt for vineyard tours and wine tasting instead in the high-altitude **Valle de la Concepción**, using **Tarija** as your base.
**Events in September**
**Fiesta de San Roque**, **Tarija**: The wine-growing center of **Tarija** hosts the large **Fiesta de San Roque** each September with eight days of solid partying, parades, music, dancing, and flamboyant costumes. It kicks off on the first Sunday of the month.
**Virgen de Guadalupe**, **nationwide**: This festival, held in early September, is an all-out celebration of Our Lady of Guadalupe with folk dancing, music, feasting, and colorful costumed parades. The capital city of **Sucre** has the best parties for this event.
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