This study evaluates the SODIS and SODIS method combined with Artemisia annua (SODIS+A. annua) as an alternative for water disinfection in communities without access to potable water. The efficiency of the method in removing E. coli, B. subtilis, E. faecalis and S. typhimurium was determined using PET bottles with sterile distilled water and an initial concentration of 1x106 UFC/ml of each microorganism. For SODIS+A. annua a 10% (v/v) infusion of A. annua was added; the bottles were exposed to sunlight for at least 6 hours and three variables (water temperature, solar radiation and turbidity) were measured. It was found that SODIS treatment was more efficient in the removal of the four microorganisms than SODIS + A. annua. The removals were higher after four hours of exposure to the bacterial species in their vegetative state.