Bolivia Travel Guide

Overview

Capital:

La Paz.

Geography:

Landlocked by countries (Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Paraguay and Peru), Bolivia is a topological pick and mix of spectacular sights, and remains one of the most bio-diverse countries in the world, despite not having a coast. The geography is largely split into the Andean Altiplano and the Eastern lowlands, and the contrast between them could not be greater. In the West, the parallel mountain chains of the Andes dominate. There’s everything from deserts strewn with cacti and soaring rock formations, to magical coloured lakes and the world’s largest salt flat, which contains 10 billion tonnes of salt (the remnants of Lake Minchin which evaporated some 25,000 years ago). You can see llama, alpaca, vicuñas (rabbit-like animals), puma, and the only bear species in South America at these heights. On top of that, expect volcanic geysers at over 4000m (13,000ft) above sea level, the world’s highest lake and the world’s highest capital, La Paz, which sits in a mountain valley with the looming Mount Illimani looking over. The high altitude can take its toll on travellers, so come prepared.

Eastern Bolivia is like a completely different world. The Amazon offers all types of flora and fauna, from over 30 monkey species and giant armadillos to catfish, piranha and pink freshwater dolphins. Visit Rurrenabaque to take tours of the Río Tuichi, the Parque Nacional Madidi and the Pampas del Yacuma. The green tropical lowlands of Santa Cruz offer tropical cloudforest – try the Parque Nacional Amboró for lush beauty. The Pantanal, on Bolivia’s eastern border with Brazil is the world’s largest wetland. Over 200,000 sq km (77,000 sq miles) of ecosystems live here, including swamps, lakes, flooded freshwater grasslands and forest. It is here that you will also find the highest concentration of fauna in all the Americas – birds, anacondas and giant otters to name a just a few.

Getting There

Getting There By Air

American Airlines (www.aa.com) offers flights to Bolivia direct from Miami, while Air Europa (www.aireuropa.com) flies from Madrid. There are no direct flights from the UK. The most expensive time to fly is during the high season (July-August, Christmas and Easter). Fares drop during the shoulder seasons (May-June and September-October) and even more during low season (January-April and November-December).

The major airport is: El Alto International Airport (La Paz).

Air Travel Note

The cost of flights to Bolivia reflects the lack of services and remains comparatively high to other routes.

Departure Tax

Tax on international departures is US$25 to be paid in Bolivianos or US Dollars at a separate kiosk after checking in.

Flight Times

From London - 15 hours (including stopover); Madrid - 11 hours 30 minutes; New York - 12 hours (including stopover); Miami - 6 hours 40 minutes.

Getting There By Road

You can enter Bolivia by land on buses from all five neighbouring countries – Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Paraguay and Peru. The easiest and most widely used route through Peru is from Puno via the Kasani border. The main crossover in Brazil is at Quijarro – from here you can travel to Santa Cruz by train.

In Chile, there are three routes: via Tambo Quemado, Calama and the Laguna Verde (where you can plan a jeep trip to the Salar de Uyuni). The Argentinean crossing is at La Quiaca to Villazón or Pocitos. The Paraguayan crossing from Asunción to Santa Cruz is a long journey (approximately 24 hours).

Getting There By Water

Bolivia is a landlocked country. However, there are several regions – particularly Lake Titicaca and the Amazon – where water is the best form of transport. Steamers cross Lake Titicaca to the Peruvian port of Puno from Guaqui, the most important port on the lake. Situated 90km (56 miles) from La Paz, it is accessible by road but the journey is a rough one.

Getting Around

Getting Around By Air

Internal flights are operated by Boliviana de Aviación (www.boa.bo). Flights to the Amazon are largely operated by Amaszonas (www.amaszonas.com) from La Paz, Cochabamba and Santa Cruz. Because of the country's topography and tropical regions, air travel is the fastest, but not cheapest method of transport, although delays, cancellations and unreliability are common.

La Paz (El Alto), which is the highest airport in the world, and Santa Cruz (Viru Viru) are the principal domestic air hubs. You should book busier routes a few days in advance, and it is important to reconfirm the day before departure.

Bike

Biking is rare in Bolivia. For proper touring you need to bring a bike suitable for mountainous terrain. The country is home to some of the world’s best downhill mountain tracks, notably 'Death Road' outside La Paz.

Breakdown Services

Breakdown and petrol services on Bolivia’s roads are scarce. Fill your tank whenever possible.

Car Hire

Few travellers rent cars. Virtually no international car hire services are available, but there are local companies in all the major cities.

Departure Tax

Around Bs15, payable in Bolivianos.

Documentation

An International Driving Permit is required.

Getting Around By Rail

Bolivia has two separate and unconnected networks - Eastern and Western. The Eastern network's hub is Santa Cruz, from where Ferroviaria Oriental (www.fo.com.bo) runs trains to the Brazilian borders. The Western line, running from Oruro via Uyuni and Tupiza to Villazón (where you can connect to trains to Argentina) is run by Ferroviaria Andina (www.fca.com.bo).

Trains have three to four classes and restaurant cars. Buy tickets in advance from the offices in Santa Cruz and La Paz respectively. There’s also a slow but scenic route between Sucre and Potosí.

Regulations

The national speed limit is 80kph (50mph). The use of seat belts is not enforced, nor is the use of mobile phones prohibited. Vehicles drive on the right-hand side, though this rule is overlooked on some mountain roads when turning – the vehicle going uphill has priority.

Getting Around By Road

Bolivia’s size, geography and lack of basic infrastructure means that travel by road can often be a tumultuous, long and scary ride, yet it is still the first choice mode of transport for travellers and Bolivians alike.

Road Classification

There are main highways entering and exiting major cities like Santa Cruz and La Paz. B roads are unpaved but widely used.

Road Quality

Most major roads are paved but in bad condition. Vehicles often have to take unpaved, dirt tracks.

Side Of Road

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Taxi

Taxis can usually be found anywhere and at anytime in Bolivia, and are the safest mode of transport. Many people work as part-time taxi drivers in cities to supplement their income. Fares tend to be fixed, rarely over Bs15. Tipping is not necessary. In the lowlands moto-taxis are commonly used, while micros (small minibuses) are the main form of urban transport in big cities.

Urban Travel

Taxis are generally the safest mode of transport in Bolivian towns and cities. They are cheap and available anytime. In some cities, fixed-route minibuses, otherwise known as colectivos or trufis are commonly used: there’s usually somebody shouting out the route through a window. In rural areas, catching a truck is a cheap but rough form of transport, and moto-taxis are common in the lowlands.

Getting Around By Water

Double-decker passenger boats operate between the various small islands on Lake Titicaca with regular departures from Copacabana to the Isla del Sol. Motorised canoes traverse the many rivers of the Amazon basin with the most regular departures from Rurrenabaque.

Travel Advice

Areas where FCDO advises against all but essential travel   

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the Chapare region of Cochabamba Department including Villa Tunari and highway routes 4 and 24 that pass through Chapare.  

Find out more about why FCDO advises against travel.  

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to: 

• see general advice for women travellers
• read our guide on disability and travel abroad
• see general advice for LGBT+ travellers
• read about safety for solo and independent travel
• see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

About FCDO travel advice

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice. Get travel advice updates 

Sign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.  

Follow and contact FCDO:    

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This information is for people travelling on a full 'British citizen' passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government's understanding of Bolivia's current rules for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Bolivia set and enforce entry rules. If you're not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Bolivian Embassy in the UK (in Spanish). 

Passport validity requirements

To enter Bolivia, your passport should have an 'expiry date' at least 6 months after the date you arrive and at least two blank pages. 

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to. 

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Checks at border control

You may need to show proof of your accommodation, for example, a hotel or hostel booking and its address, at least for your first night in Bolivia. 

Make sure you get an entry stamp when you arrive in Bolivia, otherwise you'll have to pay a fine when you leave.

If you enter Bolivia overland, make sure you get your passport stamped on both sides of the border, with an exit stamp from the country you are leaving and an entry stamp on the Bolivian side.

Bolivia no longer stamps passports on the border with Argentina, but you must register your exit with Argentina's immigration authorities (in Spanish) who pass the information to Bolivian immigration.

The British Embassy cannot intervene in immigration issues.

Visa requirements

You can visit Bolivia for up to 90 days without a visa. Border officials issue 30-day stamps, but you can stay for 90 days without any new stamp.

As a tourist, you get 90 days of visa-free travel in a one-year period. If you want to stay longer, check with the Bolivian Embassy in the UK (in Spanish) or the Department of Immigration (in Spanish).

To work or study, for business travel or for other reasons, you must meet the Bolivian government's entry requirements (in Spanish). Requirements include a police criminal record certificate from the UK, which you can get from the ACRO Criminal Records Office. If you need any documents from the UK, get them translated into Spanish and legalised by the Legalisation Office.

Travelling with children

If only one parent or legal guardian is travelling with a child, you cannot visit Bolivia for longer than 90 days. If you stay for more than 90 days, the child will need a judicial permit to leave Bolivia with only one parent.

Vaccine requirements

To enter Bolivia, you must have a certificate to prove you've had a yellow fever vaccination if you're coming from a country listed as a transmission risk.

For full details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro's Bolivia guide.   

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Bolivia (in Spanish). You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Terrorism

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.

Terrorism in Bolivia

Although there's no recent history of terrorism in Bolivia, terrorist attacks cannot be ruled out.

Crime

Protecting your belongings

Petty crime is common in central La Paz, in other popular tourist destinations, on buses and in crowded areas. Do not leave your bag or other belongings unattended. Always keep your passport, money and other valuable items in a safe place. On night buses, use a money belt under your clothes for important documents and credit cards; theft can occur when you are asleep.

Violent crime

There has been an increase in robberies from people taking taxis in Santa Cruz and La Paz. If you use a taxi:

• seek local advice and use established companies
• order the taxi by phone – 'radio taxis' have the telephone number and the name of the taxi company on the roof
• check for a sticker on the windscreen or windows – registered taxis should display one
• do not get into a taxi already carrying other passengers

Ignore anyone offering help at taxi stands and bus terminals and watch your belongings. Thieves work in teams to distract their victims.

Attacks on lone travellers taking motorbike taxis have been reported at tourist sites such as Rurrenabaque.

Political Situation

Protests, marches and demonstrations can occur with little prior notice. If they occur, you should move away from the area and remain in a safe place. Stay alert to developments and pay attention to instructions from local authorities.

To reduce any risk: 

• avoid large gatherings and protests
• stay alert and monitor local media
• take the advice of local authorities or tour operators
• be wary of unverified, unofficial information
• allow extra time to reach your destination

Criminal Kidnap

Tourists, especially those travelling alone, are at risk of 'express kidnapping' in Bolivia. These are short-term, opportunistic abductions aimed at extracting cash from the victim. Victims may be held hostage for up to several days while criminals use stolen bank or credit cards.

Foreign visitors are particularly vulnerable when entering Bolivia at overland border points with Peru, Chile and Argentina. If you're travelling from the town of Copacabana to La Paz, try to use a direct bus.

There have been several incidents at the Cementerio General and the Sopocachi areas of La Paz.

Express kidnappers sometimes impersonate police officers to target foreigners. They have used fake police ID cards, uniforms and even police stations to fool victims. One of the criminals pretends to be a friendly tourist. A fake police officer then approaches and asks for passports and other information. The impostors persuade the victim to get into a taxi driven by another criminal, where they rob them, sometimes by taking them to ATMs to withdraw money.

Call the Tourist Police on 800-14-0081 (toll-free) if you suspect impostors are targeting you. The police cannot search you without a written order from a state prosecutor.

Be aware of your surroundings and always let someone you trust know your whereabouts, especially after dark. If you are a victim of kidnapping, follow the kidnapper's instructions.

Sexual assault

There have been rape and sexual assault incidents at clubs and hostels. Be cautious if you're approached by strangers. Lock your room when you return to your hotel or hostel.

See advice for women travelling abroad.

Prison tours

Avoid prison tours. They're illegal and unsafe. There are no guarantees for your safety inside prisons.

Laws and cultural differences

Personal ID

Police and immigration officials sometimes carry out ID checks. Carry copies of the photo page from your passport and the Bolivian entry stamps. Leave the original document in a safe place.

Illegal bars

There are illegal bars in Bolivia. If the police find you at one, you may be detained for questioning, particularly if drugs are found at the premises. Legal bars close at 3am.

Illegal drugs and prison sentences

Bolivia is the world's third largest producer of cocaine. There are harsh penalties for those caught trafficking or in possession. The minimum sentence is 8 years and prison conditions are very poor. Never leave luggage unattended when departing the country and avoid any contact with illegal drugs.

Ayahuasca ceremonies

Ayahuasca is a traditional plant used in 'spiritual cleansing' ceremonies by indigenous communities in Bolivia, primarily in the Amazon region, but also near La Paz. At these ceremonies people consume a brew containing dimethyltryptamine (DMT), a hallucinogenic drug that is a class A substance in the UK. It is not illegal to consume this brew, but its interaction with existing medical conditions is not well understood. People have suffered serious illnesses and in some cases death after consuming it. Some Ayahuasca retreats are in remote areas, making it difficult to get medical help.

Using cameras and binoculars in remote areas

Be careful travelling with cameras and binoculars in remote areas, particularly in coca-growing areas such as the Chapare and the Yungas, where people can be suspicious of anyone taking photographs. 

Check before taking photographs of local people.

LGBT+ travellers

Same-sex sexual activity is not illegal. However, same-sex relationships are frowned on by many Bolivians, more so in the Altiplano than in Santa Cruz, where attitudes tend to be more liberal.

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers.

Outdoor activities and adventure tourism

Adventure activities in Bolivia include mountain biking, salt flat tours and jungle expeditions. There are no official minimum standards for tour operators. Get local advice and only use reputable companies. Check your travel insurance policy covers you for the activities you're planning.

If you're mountain biking on the so-called 'Death Road', from La Paz to Coroico through the Yungas Valley, make sure the bikes are in good condition. Check your guide is carrying safety equipment and first-aid kit.

Transport risks

Road travel

There are blockades on many roads in Bolivia, especially near the city of Cochabamba. Check local advice before travelling. Do not attempt to cross blockades in a motor vehicle or on a motorbike. Pedestrians are not usually prevented from crossing blockades but exercise caution before doing so. There are petrol and diesel shortages across the country with extremely long queues forming at service stations in anticipation of deliveries. There may be no public transport in La Paz apart from the cable car.

If you are planning to drive in Bolivia, see information on driving abroad.

You'll need to have both a 1949 international driving permit (IDP) and your UK driving licence with you in the car to drive in Bolivia. You cannot buy an IDP outside the UK, so get one before you travel.

Driving standards

Road travel can be dangerous due to poor road conditions and low driving standards. Serious accidents happen on the main tourist routes. Some of Bolivia's main highways are paved but most roads are unpaved rough tracks.

During the rainy season (November to March) there is a risk of landslides and roads can be blocked. Check road status updates from the Bolivian road authority (in Spanish) and get local advice before you set out.

Vehicles are often not well maintained. Four-wheel drive vehicles are often needed, especially during the rainy season. Broken-down vehicles with no warning lights are a frequent hazard on roads at night.

Buses and taxis

Accidents involving public transport, especially long-distance buses, have affected British people. Bus drivers drive for longer than would be permitted under European laws.

Many taxis and most bus companies do not meet European standards and rarely have seatbelts.

Road blockades

Groups often use road blockades as a form of protest, without warning. Avoid large crowds and demonstrations, and do not attempt to cross blockades. Blockades can disrupt public transport at very short notice. Strikes may result in widespread road blockades, including on roads to and from airports. Check road status updates from the Bolivian road authority (in Spanish) to see which roads are blocked.

Air travel

Many of Bolivia's airports lack safety and rescue capability. Airports outside the departmental capitals are less likely to possess fire and rescue equipment.

Lake and river travel

The boat trips on Lake Titicaca offer boats that are often very basic. The same is true of boats used for river excursions in jungle areas. Check life jackets are provided.

Extreme weather and natural disasters

Find out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards.

Forest fires

Forest fires have been burning in Bolivia since August and continue to affect some parts of Southern and Eastern Bolivia. This is having an impact on air quality in the areas most affected by the fires but also in other parts of the country, including La Paz. It is advisable to wear a face mask if the air quality is particularly bad, or to stay inside.

Flooding and landslides

From 20 February 2024 there are red alerts for flooding throughout Bolivia due to torrential rains. Check local advice before travelling by road.

Floods and landslides are common, particularly in mountainous areas during the rainy season (November to March). Roads are often impassable for days at a time.

This section has safety advice for regions of Bolivia. It only covers regions where FCDO has specific advice.

You should also read FCDO's overall travel advice and safety and security advice.

Chapare Region of Cochabamba Department

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the Chapare region of Cochabamba Department. This includes Villa Tunari and highway routes 4 and 24 that pass through Chapare. This is due to a high level of gang-related violent crime predominantly linked to the production and trafficking of illegal drugs.

Tourists are not usually targeted; however, you could be a victim of violence due to mistaken identity or by getting caught up in a security incident involving others.

It is difficult for the British Embassy to provide in-person emergency or consular support in these areas. The local authorities may also be very limited in the help they can provide.

Before you travel check that:

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Call 118 and ask for an ambulance.

Contact your insurance company quickly if you're referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Vaccine recommendations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip:

• check the latest vaccination recommendations for Bolivia
• see where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

See what health risks you'll face in Bolivia, including:

• Oropouche virus disease

Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of Bolivia, including in La Paz and the Salar de Uyuni salt flats. Read more about altitude sickness on TravelHealthPro.

Medication

Some medications are currently in short supply in Bolivia. If you take prescription medicine, please ensure you have enough medicine to cover your stay in Bolivia.  You must bring your prescription with you.

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro.

Healthcare in Bolivia

The public healthcare system does not meet the same standards as the UK, and you may not be able to access the public health system as it is already overstretched. There are private clinics in all main cities that work with international insurance. It is very important to have travel insurance and access to funds, as you will need to pay up front to receive treatment.

FCDO has a list of medical providers in Bolivia where some staff will speak English.

There is also guidance on healthcare if you're living in Bolivia.

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro.

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.

Emergency services in Bolivia

Ambulance: 118

Police: 110

Fire: 119

Contact your travel provider and insurer

Contact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.

Refunds and changes to travel

For refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first.

Find out more about changing or cancelling travel plans, including:

• where to get advice if you are in a dispute with a provider
• how to access previous versions of travel advice to support a claim

Support from FCDO

FCDO has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:

• finding English-speaking lawyers, funeral directors and translators and interpreters in Bolivia
• dealing with a death in Bolivia
• being arrested or imprisoned in Bolivia
• getting help if you're a victim of crime
• what to do if you're in hospital
• if you're affected by a crisis, such as a terrorist attack

Contacting FCDO  

Help abroad   

See how to get help from the UK government abroad including in an emergency.  

Help in the UK   

You can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.   

Telephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)   

Find out about call charges 

Get travel advice updates   

Sign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.   

Follow and contact FCDO:  

• travel advice on X 

• travel advice on Facebook

Risk information for British companies

The Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating in Bolivia on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.

Vaccinations

Title	Special Precautions
Yellow Fever	Yes**
Typhoid	Yes
Tetanus	Yes
Rabies	Sometimes
Malaria	Sometimes*
Hepatitis A	Yes
Diphtheria	Sometimes

Overview:

Medical insurance is strongly recommended. In case of a medical emergency, La Paz has several reliable, private clinics, such as Clinica Alemana and CEMES. In big cities like La Paz, the pharmacies have a rota system whereby at least one will stay open for 24 hours a day. You can find familiar drugs without prescription here, and often the pharmacists can advise whether you need to see a doctor. In La Paz and Santa Cruz, English-speaking doctors are fairly easy to find. Remember to keep all receipts of treatment so you can claim back costs. In rural areas it is harder to find good medical facilities.

Vaccinations Note:

* Risk varies from area to area (as does resistance to preventative drugs); check before travel.

** A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required from all travellers over one year of age traveling from a country with risk of yellow fever. As of 17 February 2017, the Ministry of Health of Bolivia has indicated that those visiting yellow fever risk areas in Bolivia (areas below 2,300m east of the Andes Mountains, including Beni, Pando, and Santa Cruz) should carry a yellow fever vaccination card.

Food Drink:

Water used for drinking, brushing teeth or making ice should be boiled or otherwise sterilised (iodine tablets or tincture are good options). It is best to avoid drinking tap water entirely while in Bolivia. Bottled water is purified (though check the seal as they are sometimes refilled in stores). All branded milk products are pasteurised; powdered or tinned milk is also available. Only eat well-cooked meat and fish, and vegetables should be cooked and fruit peeled. Be wary of street stalls or anything that has been reheated.

Other Risks:

Vaccinations for tuberculosis and hepatitis B are also sometimes recommended. Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), commonly known as altitude sickness or soroche, can affect anyone and care should be taken. Symptoms include nausea, dizziness, loss of appetite, breathlessness, headaches and a rapid heartbeat. Drugs can be bought from local pharmacies, or you can try coca tea which the locals swear by. Allow time to acclimatise to high altitude, especially upon arrival in Altiplano cities.

Upset stomachs are common with travellers passing through Bolivia, caused either by contaminated food or water, or adjustment to new bacteria. Drink plenty of liquids and rehydration salts. If it continues for more than five days it’s best to consult a doctor.

Make sure to bring suntan lotion, especially when visiting Lake Titicaca or the Altiplano. While it may not be hot, the sun up here is strong and many people do not realise they are burning. Lotion can be expensive in the pharmacies, so bring your own from home.

Take extra precautions to prevent against mosquito bites because of the risk of dengue fever in Eastern departments. Affected provinces are Beni, Chuquisaca, Cochabamba, La Paz, Pando, Santa Cruz and Tarija. If you’re going into the Amazon, anti-malaria tablets are necessary – check with your local travel clinic beforehand. Mosquito netting, repellent spray or lotion (with at least 35% DEET content) and electric plugs are the best types of repellent.

Rabies still exists in Bolivia, so if you’re spending time in remote areas or are in contact with animals, it’s worth having the vaccine.

Other health threats include stings and bites from insects which can be treatable by hydrocortisone from a local pharmacy. It is always best to bring a first aid kit with you, especially when travelling to remote areas. Antiseptic cream, insect repellent, waterproof plasters, surgical tape, antihistamine, rehydration salts, paracetamol and water sterilisation tablets are all useful.

Currency Information:

Notes are in denominations of 200, 100, 50, 20, 10 and 5 bolivianos. Coins are in denominations of Bs5, 2 and 1, and 50, 20 and 10 centavos. Bolivianos are sometimes referred to as pesos.

The Boliviano is tied to the US Dollar. Due to the relative weakness of the Bolivian economy, the boliviano remains vulnerable and so many businesses operate in US dollars. Most hotels and tour operators quote in dollars and will accept payment in either currency. Smaller shops, stalls and local businesses will only accept bolivianos.

Change and coins are in very short supply in Bolivia, which is something of a vicious circle as local buses, shops and taxis often won’t accept big denomination notes. Try to break big notes wherever possible – namely hotels, restaurants, large stores and bus companies.

Credit Cards:

Visa and MasterCard are the most widely accepted in most mid- to top-range hotels and restaurants, but otherwise have limited acceptance. American Express is rarely accepted. It is best to carry cash with you – there are ATMs in most larger towns and cities.

ATMs:

There are ATMs in most of the larger towns and cities. Even the smaller towns have at least one bank with an ATM, and there are ATMs available at the larger airports. Enlace is the nationwide network from which you can withdraw either US dollars or bolivianos. Sometimes in smaller towns, banks will offer international withdrawals for a small fee over the counter.

Travellers Cheques:

US Dollar and Euro travellers’ cheques are accepted in the large cities, but outside are useless. Pound Sterling travellers’ cheques are not widely accepted. It is best to carry cash with you when travelling to smaller towns.

Banking Hours:

Mon-Fri 0830-1200 and 1430-1700, and Sat 0900-1300.

Currency Restrictions:

There are no import restrictions on local and foreign currency, but the import and export of amounts between US$50,000 and US$500,000 must be authorized by the Central Bank, and sums exceeding US$500,000 must be authorized by the Ministry of Economics and Public Finance through a ministerial resolution. Export of currencies is allowed up to the amounts imported and must be declared.

Currency Exchange:

Money can be changed in hotels and casas de cambio. There are also plenty of money street changers if there are no official exchanges available, but be sure to check for forged notes in these cases. The boliviano is the preferred currency with exchange against the euro now preferred to the dollar.

Currencies

Code	Symbol
BOB	Bs

Exchange Rates

7.26

8.59

6.94

Language

The official language is Spanish, but the main indigenous languages you'll hear on the streets are Quechua, Aymara and Guaraní. English is often spoken by a small number of officials and business people in commercial centres, though it's best to learn simple phrases.

Overview:

Public holidays are listed here.

.

List Of Public Holidays

Title	Start Date	To Be Confirmed
New Year's Day	2024-01-01 00:00:00	0
Carnival	2024-02-12 00:00:00	0
Good Friday	2024-03-29 00:00:00	0
Labour Day	2024-05-01 00:00:00	0
Corpus Christi	2024-05-30 00:00:00	0
Independence Day	2024-08-06 00:00:00	0
All Saint's Day	2024-11-01 00:00:00	0
Christmas Day	2024-12-25 00:00:00	0

Note:

Additional holidays are observed by individual provinces and towns.

Overview:

The following goods may be imported into Bolivia by persons over 18 years of age without incurring customs duty:

• 3L of alcoholic beverages.
• New articles up to a maximum of US$1,000.

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Banned Imports:

Prohibited imports include illegal drugs, unauthorised guns, explosives and ammunition, knives and deadly weapons, counterfeit money and goods, and pornographic material.

Restricted imports include pharmaceutical and medical products, live animals and animal products, wild products, cheese, milk, raw meat, and other food and drinks. You must declare these, and cannot import them without authorisation.

Telephone:

ENTEL, Bolivia's national telephone company has offices in most towns and cities where you can make national and international calls. Local calls are cheap while long-distance are relatively expensive. You can also use a phone card to call home, which can be bought at street stalls, ENTEL offices and shops. Calls to the USA and Europe cost around Bs1 per minute on the cards. You can also use a coin-operated phone box for local calls.

Mobile Telephone:

Roaming agreements exist with a limited number of international mobile phone companies; travellers are advised to check with their mobile phone service provider. Local pay-as-you-go chips are freely available for unlocked phones from companies such as Viva, Tigo and ENTEL. They cost around Bs15 (which you get in credit). Coverage is average.

Internet:

Internet cafés are available in most towns and cities. They charge around 3 to 5 bolivianos per hour. Don't expect the same speed as at home: in many places it is still dial-up. Some internet cafés will also offer net phone or Skype services. Hotels, hostels and cafés may also offer free Wi-Fi access.

Post

Airmail to Europe and the USA takes between one and two weeks to arrive, the rest of the world takes longer. Letters cost around Bs10-15. Parcels up to 2kg cost around Bs100 per kilo. You can send letters certified which is more reliable, and there are international courier services such as FedEx and DHL in major cities. Most main post offices offer a poste restante service by which you can receive mail.

Post Office Hours:

Opening hours are generally Mon-Fri, 0830-2000, Sat 0830-1800, Sun 0900-1200.

Media:

Media ownership is highly concentrated. Bolivia's media is dominated by privately run press and broadcasting outlets. Freedom of the press is upheld and self-censorship is usually exercised when dealing with reports of social unrest and political machinations, but attacks on journalists do still occur. Low literacy levels impede upon newspaper readership; radio tends to have precedence and remains the most democratic of media resources in the country. Try Radio Cadena Nacional (RCN), the major national radio station.

The main daily papers published in La Paz are El Diario and La Prensa – the latter has good foreign coverage. Santa Cruz dailies include El Deber and El Mundo, but these have an extremely regional focus. In Cochabamba, Los Tiempos is particularly good. International press is hard to find, although The Economist, Time and Newsweek can be found in city centres and at international hotels.

Many households in Bolivia do not own a television set. There are seven state channels and other terrestrial channels offering news, popular telenovelas and sport. Big hotels in cities will offer cable with international channels including BBC World and CNN.

Cruise over Lake Titicaca

The largest high-altitude body of water in the world, Lake Titicaca straddles the Bolivia-Peru border. The enormous freshwater lake is home to several small island communities, including the floating Uros islands made entirely from reeds, and the sacred Isla del Sol with ancient Inca ruins. You can take boat cruises from Copacabana, or stay overnight on the Isla del Sol.

Have a hell of a time at Oruro’s Carnival

Carnival is celebrated throughout Bolivia, but the annual street party at Oruro, is one of the most faithful traditional expressions of folklore in South America, with its historic 'Devil Dance' procession. This otherwise bleak mining town comes alive once a year with a spectacularly colourful and effervescent popular festival, attracting partygoers from around the world.

Follow in Che Guevara’s final footsteps

Vallegrande, a quiet market town, was the resting place of Che Guevara. The town's Museo Municipal Ruta del Che Guevara displays photographs of the iconic guerrilla and his comrades; you can also visit various other Che sites, including the hospital where his body was put on display. Die-hard fans take the three-hour trip to La Higuera, the hamlet where Che Guevara died.

Climb the Cordillera Real

With its ice-capped peaks, condors and hawks, the Cordillera Real is an Andean highlight. You might even catch a glimpse of the spectacled bear; South America's only bear species. The mountain range has six peaks above 6,000m (20,000ft) and many more over 5000m (16,000ft). Climbing excursions (complete with mules, porters and guides) can be booked in Sorata, an Alpine-style village.

Float down the Amazon

The Bolivian Amazon offers safari boat trips, eco lodges and nature trails. Setting out by boat from Rurrenabaque, linked by flights from La Paz, you can choose from a range of tours available to the Parque Nacional Madidi and the Pampas del Yacuma. Typical jungle trips include motorised canoe trips where you can see pink dolphins, guided rainforest walks and rustic accommodation.

Mountain bike down 'Death Road'

Hurtle down the world's most dangerous road on a mountain bike. The adrenalin-fuelled trip starts at the Cordillera Real in the mountains and descends rapidly down twisting roads into the Yungas jungle. At some points the rough track, also know as 'Death Road, is only 3m (10ft) wide with 600m (2,000ft) drops down one side.

Trek through ancient Inca trails

The Bolivian Andes are crisscrossed by Inca trails, which provide a welcome challenge to hikers. Most treks start from La Paz and Sorata, and the most popular is the three-day Choros Trail from La Paz to Coroico. Also a three-day trek, the Taquesi Trail offers a moderate hike from La Paz, while the Illampus Circuit from Sorata is a demanding six-day affair.

Take the Jesuits Missions Trail

Dotted along the Jesuit Mission Trail east of Santa Cruz in Chiquitos, are a string of historic colonial churches. In the 18th century, Jesuit priests built these magnificent churches, before being expelled by the Spanish Crown. Six out of the 10 churches still exist today and now comprise a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to a sacred music festival every other year.

Wander through whitewashed Sucre

Bolivia's constitutional capital Sucre, otherwise known as 'the white city' is a delightful place in which to unwind from the rigours of the Andes. Revered for its colonial architectural, the UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to beautiful churches, mansions and whitewash buildings. Wander the tranquil squares and market centre, which is known for its traditional weaving.

Ponder the mysteries of ancient Tiahuanaco

Near the southern shore of Lake Titicaca, are the impressive stone walls of Tiahuanaco, believed to have once been the capital of a major pre-Inca civilisation, established some three millennia ago. The site is dominated by a series of evocative temples, carved monoliths and a compelling museum of ancient artefacts.

Tour a tin mine in historic Potosí

Colonial Potosí was once the most important city on the continent and currently the highest city in the world at 4,100m (13,500ft) above sea level. Situated at the foot of Cerro Rico ('Rich Mountain'), Potosi was exploited for its mineral wealth, especially silver, and today is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take guided tours to the mines, the striking churches and the former Royal Mint.

Discover the garden city of Cochabamba

With its year-round spring climate, the openness of the locals and its excellent local cuisine, Cochabamba is often hailed as the most welcoming city in Bolivia. For a bird's eye view, climb the 2,000 steps, or take the cable car, up to the imposing statue of Christ on Cerro San Pedro; explore the rambling street markets and sample some local maize beer.

Be dazzled by the Salar de Uyuni

Travel around the Salar de Uyuni, a high-altitude salt lake, and marvel at its multi-coloured wonders. There's Laguna Colorado, whose fiery red waters harbour pink flamingos, and the stunning Laguna Verde, whose turquoise waters reflect the silhouette of ashen volcanoes. Explore the shimmering lunar landscape on a 4x4 safari and stay overnight in a gleaming salt hotel.

Gasp at the wonders of lofty La Paz

Otherworldly, majestic La Paz is the world's highest capital city, sprawled across an Andean basin at 3,632m (11,910ft) above sea level. Overlooked by snow-capped Mount Illimani, the city's chaotic street life reflects its blend of European and Aymaran identities. See colonial palaces, churches and museums, wander the cobbled streets around Plaza San Francisco and listen to haunting panpipes in a folk club.

Overview

La Paz’s shopping scene offers a wealth of artisan goods from all over the country, and plenty of memorable souvenirs. Similar products are available at the markets of Sucre and Potosí so don’t worry if you can’t decide on the spot as you’ll probably find something similar at another market. Pick up llama and alpaca wool scarves, jumpers and socks, Indian handicrafts, woodcarvings, accessories made from traditional materials and gold and silver costume jewellery. Sucre’s markets are known for their range of weaved goods available (ponchos, bags and belts) in different styles by the Jalq’a and Tarabuco groups.

The streets around the market area, notably Calle Sagárnaga, Linares and Illampu, are full of small vendors offering goods at lower prices but quality can be variable. There are, however, only a few places around La Paz where you can buy good-quality products and be sure that a percentage of your money is directly going back into the hands of artisans. For example, the craft shop Ayni Bolivia at the Hotel Rosario supports over 300 artisans from poor, rural communities, and stocks over 300 items across a range of designs and styles.

Head to the Mercado de Hechicería where you can pick up keepsakes such as protective talismans and colourful lucky charms, as well as traditional Aymara remedies (including dried up llama foetuses) and herbal medicines. It’s a must-see, just for the insight into ancient Aymaran culture.

For a bit of fun shopping, head to either the Mercado de Buenos Aires or the Feria de El Alto. Mercado de Buenos Aires, situated a few blocks away from Sagárnaga, is a vast open-air market selling everything from fruit and coca leaves to smuggled televisions and imitation designer goods. Head to the nearby Calle Max Peredes to see the shops selling traditional clothing – you can even pick up a bowler hat for yourself. The Feria de El Alto, situated on the rim of La Paz’s canyon, is also an interesting experience – see all kinds of bric-a-brac from live animals to plastic Chinese toys.

Opening Hours

Mon-Sat 0930-1900, usually with a long lunch break from 1200-1400.

Overview

Bolivia’s cuisine is as distinctive and varied as its landscape. Local specialities differ depending what region you find yourself in: the highlands and lowlands each have their own flavours. Aymaran cuisine in the Andes and Altiplano is centred on carbohydrates – especially potatoes, rice and quinoa – and meat (mutton and llama). Food in the lowlands tends to be more tropical (yucca and plantain are staples) with beef featuring heavily on menus.

You will find a large range of national and international restaurants, especially in La Paz and other large cities. It is possible to find pizzerias, Chinese restaurants (known as chifas) and high-end eateries, as well as more rustic rotisserie chicken restaurants.

Vegetarian options are thin on the ground (though there are a lot of egg-based dishes) outside the main cities. While Bolivia is landlocked, fish is still readily available, including delicious trout available from Lake Titicaca. For the best deals dine at a local market or plump for a set lunch menu.

Regional Specialities

Tipping

Tipping is not generally expected in Bolivia, but it is welcomed – 10% would be fine.

Drinking Age

18.

Hotels

Deluxe and first-class hotels in Bolivia are largely contained to the big cities. There is no official accommodation rating system in Bolivia, but some top end hotels will charge around 700 bolivianos per night, where you can expect nice architecture, surroundings and facilities. In smaller towns, the option for top-tier accommodation is difficult to find, and cheaper options are more widely available. There is an assortment of mid-range hotel accommodation available, generally of good value.

Rates rise at hotels during peak season (July and August) and during any of the regional or national fiestas, prices can double or treble. Haggling is sometimes an option at the cheaper or mid-range hotels, especially if it is quiet or there is a large group.

In the cold highland cities, heating is only found in the most expensive hotels and the same goes for air conditioning in the tropical lowlands. Most hotels will have hot water, a safety box and luggage storage facilities. Service charges and taxes (amounting to 25-27%) are added to bills. Rates are for room only, except where otherwise indicated. 

Camping Caravaning

Camping is rare but possible in Bolivia. There are no formal organisations or marked zones, so adventurous travellers can camp for free (outside cities and towns). Mallasa, Valencia and Palca in the river gorge below the La Paz region of Zona Sur are possible options. If you're setting up in fields near any houses, it is always best to ask permission first. You may find adequate lodging for a small fee, especially in the National Parks.

Other

History

Bolivia was initially inhabited by the ancient Aymara civilisation, which was concentrated in the western highlands. The Aymara were then conquered by the Incas, who were themselves conquered by the Spanish in 1538.

Throughout Bolivia’s colonial history, it was known as Upper Peru, where the population faced economic depression, exclusion from high-ranking jobs and regulations preventing trade with any countries other than Spain. This led to the Great Rebellion in 1780-82 by indigenous groups, which culminated in the Independence War in the early 1800s.

Despite being the first country in South America to declare war against the Spanish, it was the last to obtain independence: Venezuelan military leader, Simón Bolívar, secured a hard-earned victory in 1825 and was rewarded by having the new country named after him.

The Republic of Bolivia faced problems in its early years. War destroyed its infrastructure as well as the economy, and it was ruled by a succession of military dictators who tried, with mixed success, to unite the country's three disparate regions: the central region, the eastern Andes and the Altiplano.

Wars with three neighbouring countries followed, which led to its Pacific coast being taken by Chile. In 1953, Chile declared the port of Arica 'free' and since then, has allowed Bolivia certain privileges in its use. The issue was not fully settled until 1992, when Peru agreed to allow Bolivia free use of the port of Ilo for 100 years.

After an economic crisis, the Chaco War (the result of a border dispute with Paraguay) and a short rule under a military regime influenced by European fascism, Bolivia entered an era of political stability. Much of the credit is due to President Víctor Paz Estenssoro, who ruled between 1952-56, and 1960-64 and introduced universal suffrage and a national workers’ union.

He was elected again in 1985, at the head of a loose coalition of both left- and right-wing parties. By the time Paz Estenssoro ceded office to Jaime Paz Zamora in August 1989, rampant hyper-inflation had been dramatically cut. Both the ADN (Acción Democrática Nacionalista) and Zamora’s MIR (Movimiento de Izquierda Revolucionaria), sometimes in coalition, have enjoyed control of the presidency and the national assembly.

Leftist Evo Morales won a decisive victory in the presidential elections in 2005 against a backdrop of political turmoil and social unrest. Morales was inaugurated as Bolivia’s first-ever indigenous president in 2006, and he was re-elected in 2009.

Did you know?
• According to witchcraft beliefs a dried llama fetus should be buried in the foundations of new homes, to bring good luck.
• Silver mine city Potosi was once the richest city in the western hemisphere. Its streets were paved with silver and its horses wore silver horseshoes.
• The colourful Diablada Carnival of Oruro is based on Tiw, a devil-like deity who inhabits mines, lakes and rivers.

Religion

Primarily Roman Catholic with a Protestant minority, though indigenous beliefs still hold strong with a large percentage of the population.

Social Conventions

Normal social courtesies in most Bolivian families and respect for traditions should be observed. Remember to refer to rural Bolivians as campesinos rather than Indians, which is considered deeply offensive and racist. Female campesinos still adhere to their traditional dress, while a suit and tie for men and dress for women should be worn for smart social occasions. Casual wear is otherwise suitable, with conservative clothing more appropriate for the highlands. The tropical lowlands are more liberal, especially in Santa Cruz. Smoking is accepted unless indicated otherwise. Time-keeping is poor. Remember to always ask permission before entering religious ceremonies in church or at festivals.

Remember to always call people Señor or Señora if they are older than you, and greet people with a formal buenas días (good morning), buenas tardes (good afternoon) or buenas noches (good evening). Use por favor, (please) and gracias (thank you) where possible.

Best Time To Visit:

Bolivia has a temperate climate but temperatures can differ dramatically between day and night. The wettest period is November to March, which, in extreme circumstances, may induce landslides in mountainous areas, and cause certain roads to become impassable. The northeast slopes of the Andes are semi-tropical. During the wet season the salt flats become flooded – it is a beautiful spectacle, as the flats turn into a mirror of the sky above. Winter is perhaps the best time to visit (May-October), especially in the hot and humid lowlands, as it is cooler and drier. In the highlands, it rains much less, remains sunny through the day but gets noticeably colder at night. Visitors sometimes find the highlands (especially La Paz) uncomfortable because of the thin air due to high altitude. The mountain areas can become very cold at night.

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Required Clothing

In terms of clothing, lightweight, natural fabrics and waterproofs are best. Layering is a good idea if taking the tour of the salt flats – it's extremely cold at night and early mornings, but when the sun comes out it warms up quickly. Warmer clothing is necessary at night in the Altiplano, especially in La Paz, Oruro and Potosí. If you need warm clothing, the markets of La Paz and Sucre are a good place to find alpaca wool jumpers and scarves.

Dialing Code:

+591

Area(sq km):

1098581

Population:

11.673.021

Population Density(per sq km):

10

Population Year:

2020

EU Member:

No

Main emergency number

911