El Alto Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit El Alto.
Climate overview of El Alto
El Alto, La Paz Department, Bolivia, is known for its epic Teleférico (cable car system), street markets, and lively urban Indigenous culture. The climate here is marked by significant temperature swings throughout the year, with temperatures ranging from very warm in the warmest months to mild in the cooler ones. The city receives a moderate amount of precipitation. Let’s explore the climate details to provide you with a complete overview.
El Alto Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in El Alto - and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in El Alto
In El Alto, temperatures differ significantly between summer and winter months. On average, daytime temperatures range from a very warm 31°C (88°F) in January to a moderate 17°C (63°F) in July.
Nighttime temperatures range from 18°C (64°F) in January to 3°C (37°F) in July.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in El Alto
On average, El Alto receives a reasonable amount of rainfall, with an annual precipitation of 830 mm (33 in). The seasons in El Alto bring significant changes in precipitation. The wettest month, January, receives high snowfall, with an average of 147 mm (5.8 in) of precipitation. This snowfall is distributed across 13 snowy days.
In contrast, the driest month, June, experiences much less snowfall, totaling 16 mm (0.6 in) over 2 snowy days. These distinct seasonal differences provide diverse experiences throughout the year. For more details, please visit our El Alto Precipitation page.
The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow
The average number of days each month with precipitation
Sunshine Hours in El Alto
In El Alto, summer days are longer and more sunny, with daily sunshine hours peaking at 9.3 hours in July. As the darker season arrives, the brightness of the sun becomes less. February sees a soft sun for only 4.7 hours per average day.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Daily hours of sunshine
Humidity in El Alto by Month
The relative humidity is moderate throughout the year in El Alto.
The city experiences its highest humidity in February, reaching 72%. In June, the humidity drops to its lowest level at 42%. What does this mean? Read our detailed page on humidity levels for further details.
Relative humidity over the year
Best Time to Visit El Alto
Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.
- Best overall: April, May, June, August, September and October
- Warmest weather: January, February and December
- Most sunshine: June and July
- Fewer rainy days: May, June, July, August and September
- Wettest months: January, February, March, October, November and December, when rainfall is highest.
- Seasonal pattern: A distinct dry season from May to August, with very warm summers and mild winters
Frequently asked questions about the climate in El Alto
What is the best time to visit El Alto?
April, May, June, August, September and October typically offer the most optimal weather in El Alto. In contrast, January, February and December tend to have less optimal conditions. El Alto has a distinct dry season from May to August, with very warm summers and mild winters.
What temperatures can I expect in El Alto?
Daytime highs range from 17°C (63°F) in July to 31°C (88°F) in January. Nighttime lows range from 3°C (37°F) to 18°C (64°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.
How much rain does El Alto get?
Annual rainfall is around 830 mm (33 in). January is the wettest month with 147 mm (5.8 in), while June is the driest with 16 mm (0.6 in). In the coldest months, precipitation may fall as snow.
How sunny is El Alto?
El Alto receives around 2,469 hours of sunshine per year. July is the sunniest month with 279 hours, while February is the cloudiest with just 141 hours. Overall, El Alto enjoys abundant sunshine.
El Alto 3-Day Forecast
El Alto on the map
El Alto is highlighted - select any city to see its climate.
Popular this month
Where to go in August - average daytime high across popular destinations.
Santa Cruz de la Sierra
29°C (84°F) Sucre22°C (72°F) Tarija21°C (70°F) Cochabamba19°C (66°F) Potosí17°C (63°F) Uyuni15°C (59°F) La Paz
15°C (59°F) Copacabana14°C (57°F) 
Bucket list
Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.
The 10 most alternative cities in South America
Discover South America's top 10 alternative cities! From Valparaíso's vibrant streets to La Paz's high-altitude charm and Medellín's innovative spirit.
The best place in Bolivia to spot a jaguar
Bolivia is a beautiful country for spotting animals. The chance that you will see a jaguar is very likely if you go to the right places.
Madidi National Park: a must-visit for nature lovers
Explore Bolivia's biodiverse Madidi National Park, with untouched wilderness from snow-capped peaks to Amazonian rainforest.
The Witches' Market of La Paz
Discover the Witches' Market in La Paz, where Andean magic meets tradition. Explore mystical rituals, herbal remedies, and sacred offerings to Pachamama.