Alcohol Import Rules In Bolivia: What You Need To Know

Bolivia is known for its unique relationship with alcohol. While the country has a zero-tolerance policy for drugs, it has a flexible outlook on alcohol. The official drinking age in Bolivia is 18, and the country boasts a variety of alcoholic beverages, from grain alcohol to brandy and wine. Bolivia's wine-growing region, Tarija, produces award-winning wines, and the country's national drink, Singani, is a brandy distilled from grapes. However, it's important to note that drinking and driving is common in Bolivia, and the legal blood alcohol limit is 0.00%.

Alcohol laws in Bolivia

Bolivia has a range of alcoholic drinks, including Singani, the national liquor, and Pisco, another liquor that is easily found in the country. Singani is distilled from Muscat de Alexandria grapes and is often used to make cocktails such as the potent sour (made with lime juice) or the slightly smoother chuflay (made with ginger ale). Singani is also used in the popular Bolivian drink Chive, which involves fermenting yuca/manioc/cassava, drying it, mixing it with sugar, breaking it down into a coarse powder, and mixing it with water.

Chicha is a grain alcohol that, in the past, locals traditionally made by chewing maize, spitting out the resulting mash, adding water, and letting the mixture ferment. However, the process has been modernised in most places, so the chances of drinking the masticated kind are slim. Chicha is mainly consumed in the lowland valleys in and around Cochabamba.

Bolivia also has a wine-growing region in the Andean foothills near the Argentine border, in a city called Tarija. Here, grapes grow at over 2,000 meters (6,560 feet) above sea level, and wine has been produced since the early 17th century. The major wine producers in Tarija include Aranjuez, La Concepcion, Casa Grande, Campos de Solana, and Kohlberg.

The legal drinking age in Bolivia is 18, and a picture ID is often required for admittance to clubs. Bolivia also has strict drunk driving laws, with a legal blood alcohol limit of 0.00%.

Drinking culture in Bolivia

Drinking is a serious pastime in Bolivia, and it is important to remember that drinking with locals can be fun but should not be entered into lightly. It is also important to remember that, until you become acclimatized, high altitudes magnify the effects of alcohol and the resulting hangover.

The official drinking age in Bolivia is 18, and a picture ID is often required for admittance to clubs. Beer (cerveza) is widely available and consumed in large quantities, especially during fiestas. All major cities have their own breweries, producing German lager-style beers of reasonable quality with a strength of around five percent. A large 750ml bottle costs about Bs15. Paceña, produced in La Paz, is the most popular and widely available, followed by Huari, made by the same company but with a slightly saltier taste. Taquiña from Cochabamba is also good, while Potosina, from Potosí, has a stronger malt flavour. Imported beers are available only in larger cities and are more expensive.

Although not widely consumed, Bolivia also produces a growing variety of wines (vinos). Production is centred in the Tarija valley, home to the highest vineyards in the world, and quality is improving all the time. The best labels are Concepción, Kohlberg and Aranjuez. Imported wines from Chile and Argentina are also widely available and often cheaper, as they are frequently smuggled across the border to avoid tax and duty.

When Bolivians really want to get drunk, they turn to spirits, in particular, a white grape brandy called singani, produced in the Tarija valley. The more expensive, high-grade singanis are very good, but most are pretty rough. It is usually drunk mixed with Sprite or Seven-Up, a fast-acting combination known as Chufflay. Those who can't afford singani (which includes most campesinos and miners) turn to virtually pure industrial alcohol potable, sold in large metal cans. Consumed at rural fiestas and used to make offerings to mountain spirits and other supernatural beings, this is fearsome stuff, and you drink it at your peril.

No visit to the Cochabamba is complete without a taste of chicha Cochabambina, a thick, mildly alcoholic beer made of fermented maize which is available throughout the region. Considered sacred by the Incas, its tart, yeasty flavour is definitely an acquired taste, and it can play havoc with digestion.

Alcohol and driving in Bolivia

Bolivia is known for its challenging roads, with many unpaved roads and mountainous terrain. When driving in Bolivia, it is important to be aware of the local laws and regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Here are some key things to know about alcohol and driving in Bolivia:

• The legal blood alcohol limit in Bolivia is 0.05%. Authorities take drunk driving very seriously, and if you are caught driving under the influence, you may have to pay a fine and spend a night in jail for the first offence. For a second offence, your license may be confiscated.
• Drinking and driving is a common issue in Bolivia, and it is important to be vigilant and avoid driving if you have consumed alcohol.
• Driving conditions in Bolivia can be dangerous, with aggressive and reckless drivers who do not always respect traffic laws.
• It is recommended to have a four-wheel-drive vehicle when driving outside major cities, especially in mountainous areas and during the rainy season.
• If you plan to rent a car in Bolivia, consider opting for a reputable car rental company that can provide guidance on the best vehicle for your itinerary.
• Always carry your valid driver's license, passport, and other necessary documents when driving in Bolivia.
• Be cautious when driving at night, as some vehicles may not have proper lighting, making it difficult to spot them on the road.
• It is illegal to use a mobile phone while driving in Bolivia, except with a hands-free system.
• In the event of an accident, remain at the scene and call for emergency assistance if needed. Fleeing the scene is a violation of Bolivian law.
• Road safety is poor throughout the country, and accidents and fatalities are common. Exercise caution and follow traffic rules to ensure your safety.

Alcohol-related scams in Bolivia

Alcohol-related scams are not uncommon in Bolivia, and it is important to be vigilant and aware of your surroundings to avoid becoming a victim. Here are some common alcohol-related scams in Bolivia:

• Drink Spiking: Scammers will lace drinks with drugs that will incapacitate you and then take you to an isolated place or your hotel room to rob you. Never accept drinks that you have not seen being prepared, and avoid leaving your drink unattended. Canned or bottled drinks are recommended as it is more difficult to tamper with them.
• Fake Bar/Restaurant Scam: Be cautious of unlicensed bars and restaurants, as they are illegal and known to sell drugs. While you may not be consuming any illegal substances, the police could raid the establishment and detain you for questioning.
• Alcohol-Related Medical Issues: There have been reports of patients being extorted by rogue medical clinics. These clinics pressure patients to hand over their passports before treatment and then extort them for money. Do not readily hand over your passport, and research or ask your hotel for recommendations on reputable medical facilities.
• Alcohol-Related Accidents: Be aware that drinking and driving is common in Bolivia. If you rent or drive a vehicle, know that the legal blood alcohol limit is 0.00%. The police can confiscate your driver's license and impose heavy fines and jail sentences if you are suspected of drinking and driving.
• Alcohol-Related Tourist Scams: Some scams target tourists specifically, such as the "fake tourist" scam, where someone posing as a tourist will befriend you and invite you to their friend's home. If you accept, you may be kidnapped and robbed. Always be cautious when approached by strangers, and avoid putting yourself in vulnerable situations.

Alcohol-related health issues in Bolivia

Alcohol-related health issues are a significant concern in Bolivia, particularly in La Paz, which has been named one of the top 10 "ultimate party cities in the world" by Lonely Planet. The city's vibrant festival culture, coupled with the easy availability and low cost of alcohol, has led to a growing problem of alcoholism, especially among the youth. While the World Health Organization (WHO) reports that Bolivia's average annual alcohol consumption is not remarkably high at 5.8 litres for those aged 15 and older, it is predicted that the rate of consumption will increase in the coming years.

A study conducted in La Paz provides insight into the health behaviours and perceptions of individuals with non-communicable diseases (NCDs). The study found that 12% of the participants reported moderate to high levels of alcohol consumption. However, it is important to note that self-reported data on alcohol use may be unreliable.

Alcohol consumption is associated with an increased risk of developing non-communicable diseases such as liver disease, heart disease, and various types of cancer. It is also linked to mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. In Bolivia, the impact of alcohol use on mental health is particularly concerning, as the country has a shortage of mental health providers and a limited allocation of resources towards mental health care.

The low levels of medication adherence observed in the La Paz study, especially among younger individuals, is another area of concern. Forgetting to take medications and not having them when travelling were common issues. This lack of adherence can have serious consequences for individuals with NCDs and may be further exacerbated by the challenges of accessing medication in low-income countries like Bolivia.

Alcohol consumption also contributes to social problems, including family issues, unemployment, and financial difficulties. Additionally, it increases the risk of injuries and road traffic accidents, not only for the drinker but also for others affected by the drinker's actions.

Overall, while Bolivia's alcohol-related health issues are complex and multifaceted, addressing them through effective policies, improving access to treatment, and raising awareness about the risks associated with alcohol consumption can help mitigate the negative impact on individuals and society.

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