Sucre Weather & Climate: The Ultimate Year-Round Guide

Sucre, the constitutional capital of Bolivia, is celebrated for having one of the most temperate and comfortable climates in the Andes. This is largely due to its positioning at approximately 2,810 meters (9,214 feet) above sea level, nestled within central Bolivia’s inter-Andean valleys. Unlike the freezing nights of Potosí or the humid heat of Santa Cruz, Sucre maintains a "Subtropical Highland Climate" (Cwb) that feels like perpetual spring.

Typical Weather Patterns

The city's weather is defined by two primary seasons: a dry winter and a wet summer. Because of its latitude and altitude, daytime temperatures remain remarkably consistent year-round, typically ranging between 18°C and 22°C (64°F to 72°F). However, the seasonal shift in moisture and cloud cover dramatically changes the "feel" of the air and the intensity of the Andean sun.

Seasonal Trends

• The Dry Season (May to October): Often considered the most pleasant time in Sucre, the winter months are dominated by clear, sapphire skies and intense solar radiation. Rainfall is nearly non-existent in June and July. While days are mild and bright, the lack of cloud cover leads to rapid cooling after sunset. Nighttime temperatures frequently drop to 4°C (39°F) and can occasionally dip toward freezing, especially in July.
• The Rainy Season (November to March): Summer brings higher humidity and more frequent precipitation. January is the wettest month, characterized by heavy afternoon thunderstorms and dense mountain fogs. These fogs are a specific local phenomenon; they often roll in quickly, significantly reducing visibility and sometimes causing delays at the local Alcantarí Airport. Despite the rain, this is the warmest time of year in terms of average lows, as the cloud cover acts as an insulating blanket at night.

Daily Rhythms and the "Andean Burn"

In Sucre, the climate behaves predictably throughout the day. Mornings usually begin clear and crisp. By midday, even in winter, the sun feels surprisingly hot due to the thin atmosphere at high altitude. Locals refer to this as the "Andean Burn"—the air temperature might only be 20°C, but the direct solar energy can make it feel much warmer. As the sun sets, the temperature drops sharply, a transition locals call el cambio de clima, requiring an immediate transition from light daytime attire to heavy evening layers.

Microclimates and Variations

Sucre sits at the head of several valleys that act as conduits for different air masses. The city center, sheltered by the twin hills of Churuquella and Sika Sika, often stays a degree or two warmer than the more exposed outskirts. Travelers heading just 30 kilometers away to the Sunday market in Tarabuco will find a much harsher, windier climate, as that town sits nearly 500 meters higher than Sucre.

Historical Context and Local Adaptation

Historically, Sucre’s mild climate made it the preferred retreat for Spanish royalty and wealthy silver barons from the high-altitude mines of Potosí. Today, locals (Suckrenses) have adapted to the high UV index by favoring the shaded side of the street and utilizing colonial-era courtyards designed to trap heat during the day and release it at night.

Summary Table: Monthly Averages