Climate
The Bolivian highlands have a temperate climate with variations in temperature according to altitude and time of day. The temperature in La Paz can be 25oC during the day and drop to freezing point at night.
The wet season lasts from November to March, outside these months you can be guaranteed plenty of sunshine on the altiplano. The north-east slopes of the Andes are semi-tropical, while the eastern lowlands are generally hot, with occasional cold snaps.
Fiestas and holidays
Fiestas are part of the Bolivian way of life, and take place throughout the year in towns and villages large and small. They mostly have a religious or political derivation and involve costumes, dancing and the consumption of large amounts of alcohol. Amongst the most prestigious are the Fiesta del Gran Poder in La Paz in May/June, and the Carnival at Oruro in February/March.
Currency
Boliviano. See www.oanda.com for exchange rates.
Visas
British citizens can find up-to-date travel advice on the Foreign & Commonwealth Office website. Citizens of other countries can find visa information here.
Vaccinations
See www.MASTA.org for up-to-date health advice for travellers.