Chacaltaya, Bolivia: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Chacaltaya, Bolivia? If you're planning to go to Chacaltaya, this is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Chacaltaya, Bolivia

Based on the climate and weather in Chacaltaya, Bolivia, the best time to go is July. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Chacaltaya, Bolivia

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Chacaltaya, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Chacaltaya, Bolivia by month

January

January is cold and somewhat stormy. Temperatures average in the 50s F (low 10s C) during the day. It rains most days.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Bolivia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chacaltaya. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and C. Ensure that you get the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters on sale are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

February

February in Chacaltaya is cool and somewhat stormy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 30s F (single digits C). But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 60% to 60% range on average.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Bolivia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chacaltaya. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and C. Take care to find the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most areas.

March

If you visit Chacaltaya during March, you will probably find that it is crisp and somewhat stormy. Temperatures tend to hover around the 50s F (low 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 30s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Bolivia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chacaltaya. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and C. Be sure to choose the right type. Many adapters that you can buy are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

April

April in this region is cool. Temperatures average in the 50s F (low 10s C) during the day. It rains a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Bolivia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chacaltaya. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and C. Be careful to get the correct kind. A lot of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

May

May in Chacaltaya is crisp. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 30s F (single digits C). With the colder weather comes lower humidity, which is in the 30% to 40% range on average.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Bolivia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chacaltaya. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and C. It's important that you choose the correct kind. The majority of adapters on sale are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

June

June in Chacaltaya can be brisk. Temperatures average in the 50s F (low 10s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Bolivia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chacaltaya. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and C. It's important that you choose the correct kind. Most adapters currently sold are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most countries.

July

If you go to Chacaltaya in July, you will notice that it is brisk. Daytime temperatures are in the 50s F (low 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Bolivia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chacaltaya. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and C. Check that you get the correct type. The majority of adapters available online are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

August

Traveling to Chacaltaya in August, you will notice that it is chilly. Expect it to rain or snow sometimes. Daytime temperatures are in the 50s F (low 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Bolivia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chacaltaya. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and C. Be careful to pick the correct kind. Many adapters for sale now are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

September

If you vacation in Chacaltaya during September, you may find that it is relatively cool. Temperatures tend to hover around the 50s F (low 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 30s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 30 and 40% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain or snow/sleet regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Bolivia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chacaltaya. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and C. Take care to find the right type. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

October

October in Chacaltaya can be chilly and somewhat stormy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Bolivia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chacaltaya. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and C. Ensure that you pick the right type. A lot of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

November

November in Chacaltaya is cool and somewhat stormy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Bolivia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chacaltaya. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and C. Take care to find the right type. A lot of adapters on sale are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

December

In December, Chacaltaya is crisp and somewhat stormy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 30s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Chacaltaya, with more than half of the days of the month having rain. In December, humidity reaches as high as 60%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Bolivia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chacaltaya. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and C. Be sure to choose the right kind. Most adapters available are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

What to do in Chacaltaya, Bolivia

Chacaltaya, Bolivia is a popular destination among tourists who are interested in hiking, skiing, and breathtaking mountain vistas. Located about 30 kilometers from the Bolivian capital of La Paz, Chacaltaya is a natural wonder that has something to offer visitors all year round. From picturesque snow-capped peaks to sprawling parks and scenic trails, Chacaltaya's natural beauty is unparalleled, and there are plenty of attractions for both adventure-seekers and casual travelers.

Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Chacaltaya, Bolivia:

1. Chacaltaya Ski Resort: This ski resort is a major attraction in Chacaltaya, drawing visitors from around the world to its slopes. Situated on a mountain top elevation of 5,421 meters above sea level, it is one of the world's highest ski resorts. The resort offers unique skiing experiences, and visitors can enjoy skiing and snowboarding on its beautiful slopes. With its panoramic views of the Andes Mountains, Chacaltaya Ski Resort is a must-visit for adventure seekers.

2. Huayna Potosí: The beautiful Huayna Potosí mountain nearby is a popular destination for hikers and mountaineers. Reaching an elevation of 6,088 metres above sea level, it is the third highest mountain in Bolivia. It is surrounded by breathtaking scenery, making the climb to the summit a truly unforgettable experience. Visiting this mountain is a great way to explore the region's natural beauty and experience a challenging trekking adventure.

3. La Paz City: La Paz City is only a short drive from Chacaltaya and is one of the most colorful and vibrant cities in the world. With its many marketplaces, street fairs, art galleries, and museums, La Paz has a wealth of experiences to offer visitors. Travelers can experience Bolivian culture and history by exploring the city’s many attractions, such as the San Francisco Church, Plaza Murillo, and Tiwanaku, one of the most impressive archeological sites in South America.

4. Moon Valley: Located in La Paz's outskirts, Moon Valley (Valle de la Luna) is a truly unique geological formation that is often compared to the surface of the moon. Featuring an incredible array of rock formations, visitors can explore the mountain's many colors and formations, valleys, canyons, and crevices. There are various trails in the park, suitable for all fitness levels. This is a great spot for hiking and nature lovers alike.

5. Titicaca Lake: Titicaca Lake is the world’s highest navigable lake and is only a few hours’ drive from Chacaltaya. The lake is enormous and impressively diverse, extending 190 kilometers in length and 80 kilometers in width. Visitors can take a boat tour of the lake, visiting its many islands, such as the Isla del Sol and the Isla de la Luna, which features Incan and pre-Colombian ruins. Visitors can also enjoy the region’s excellent restaurants and unique cultural experiences, making it an all-around must-visit destination.

In summary, Chacaltaya, Bolivia is a great destination for travelers who are passionate about nature, culture, and history. From skiing and hiking to breathtaking mountain scenery and vibrant cities, there are plenty of attractions to explore. With so much to see and do, it is easy to get lost in the region’s incredible landscapes – making Chacaltaya a truly unforgettable travel experience.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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