Bolivia in June
June weather, activities, events & insider tips
June Weather in Bolivia
Is June Right for You?
Advantages
- Perfect dry season weather with clear skies - ideal for Salar De Uyuni photography with mirror-like reflections minimal and pristine white salt flats exposed
- Peak festival season including Año Nuevo Aymara (June 21) celebrating winter solstice with ancient ceremonies at Tiwanaku ruins
- Best wildlife viewing in Madidi National Park - animals congregate near water sources during dry season, increasing sighting probability by 60%
- Optimal conditions for high-altitude activities - stable weather patterns make 4,000m+ (13,123ft+) treks safer with reduced precipitation risk
Considerations
- Peak tourist season means accommodation prices increase 40-60% and popular tours book out 3-4 weeks in advance
- Night temperatures drop to -15°C (5°F) on the altiplano - many underestimate the extreme cold requiring serious winter gear
- Strong UV radiation at altitude combined with snow reflection creates severe sunburn risk - locals wear full face coverage for good reason
Best Activities in June
Salar de Uyuni Salt Flat Photography Tours
June offers the ultimate Salar experience with completely dry salt creating perfect hexagonal patterns and pristine white landscapes extending to the horizon. Early morning shoots capture pink flamingos at Laguna Colorada, while sunset brings out the geometric salt formations. Three-day tours typically cost 800-1,200 BOB ($115-175) and include accommodation in salt hotels where walls are literally made of salt blocks.
Tiwanaku Archaeological Complex Tours
June 21st brings Año Nuevo Aymara celebrations with indigenous ceremonies at sunrise - the only time tourists can witness authentic Aymara rituals at this UNESCO site. The dry season means clear views across Lake Titicaca from the Akapana Pyramid, and stable weather for the 72km (45 mile) journey from La Paz. Entry costs 100 BOB ($14.50) with guided tours adding 200-300 BOB ($29-43).
Death Road Mountain Biking Descents
June's dry conditions make the infamous Yungas Road significantly safer - no mud slides or reduced visibility from rain. The 64km (40 mile) descent drops 3,600m (11,811ft) from La Cumbre to Yolosa with spectacular views of the Amazon basin. Temperatures range from 2°C (36°F) at the start to 25°C (77°F) at finish. Tours cost 300-500 BOB ($43-72) including protective gear and support vehicle.
Lake Titicaca Island Homestays
June brings traditional weaving season on Isla Del Sol and Isla de la Luna as communities prepare textiles for upcoming festivals. Crystal clear skies provide unobstructed views of snow-capped Cordillera Real mountains reflecting in the lake. Water temperature averages 12°C (54°F) - cold but manageable for brief boat transfers. Homestays cost 150-250 BOB ($22-36) per night including meals.
Madidi National Park Wildlife Expeditions
Dry season concentrates wildlife around remaining water sources, dramatically improving sighting opportunities. Jaguars, pumas, and hundreds of bird species become more visible as vegetation thins. Day temperatures reach 28°C (82°F) in the lowlands while nights cool to 18°C (64°F). Four-day lodge packages cost 2,800-4,200 BOB ($405-608) including guided walks and boat transport.
La Paz Cholita Wrestling Shows
June brings special winter matches featuring traditional Aymara wrestlers in full pollera skirts and bowler hats. These theatrical but authentic cultural performances happen Thursday and Sunday evenings at 8 PM in El Alto. Shows combine indigenous tradition with entertainment, featuring grandmother wrestlers alongside younger competitors. Tickets cost 50-100 BOB ($7-14.50) with ringside seats commanding premium prices.
June Events & Festivals
Año Nuevo Aymara (Aymara New Year)
Winter solstice celebration on June 21st featuring ancient ceremonies at Tiwanaku ruins with traditional music, offerings to Pachamama, and ritual fires. Indigenous communities perform authentic ceremonies from 5 AM as sun rises through stone gateways. Free to observe but arrive early for best viewing positions.
Inti Raymi Festival
Regional celebrations throughout June honoring the sun god with traditional dances, colorful costumes, and street parades in La Paz, Cochabamba, and smaller Andean towns. Each community celebrates on different weekends with distinctive local variations of ancient Inca traditions.
Festival de San Juan
June 24th celebration with massive bonfires throughout cities and towns, traditional food including fire-roasted corn and potatoes, and folk music performances. La Paz lights hundreds of fires across neighborhoods creating spectacular nighttime atmosphere. Join locals around fires for traditional sharing of food and coca leaves.