Why do temperatures vary so much among Bolivia’s highlands, valleys, and lowlands?

Although Bolivia is located entirely within the tropics, its temperatures vary significantly due to its extreme range in elevation rather than its distance from the Equator.1

• Highlands (Altiplano): Situated at high elevations, this region experiences a cold climate. Temperatures are influenced by altitude, cloud cover, and cold winds that sweep the plateau year-round. While daytime temperatures can be moderate, nighttime temperatures often drop below freezing, especially in winter.12
• Valleys (Yungas and Valles): These areas occupy intermediate elevations, resulting in more temperate conditions. The Yungas are characterized by a humid, warm climate, while the Valles generally feature brighter conditions and warmer temperatures than the higher altitudes.13
• Lowlands (Oriente): Located at lower elevations, the Oriente is hot, with mean temperatures significantly higher than those in the highlands.1

In mountainous regions like Bolivia, altitude amplifies climatic variables such as temperature and wind, creating distinct altitudinal bands where tropical conditions can exist only miles away from eternal snows.4