Exploring Bolivia: Annual Tourist Attraction Statistics

Bolivia is a landlocked country in South America, bordering Peru, Brazil, Chile, Paraguay, and Argentina. It is one of the least explored nations in the continent, remaining relatively untouched by mass tourism. Despite its many attractions, the country is often overlooked by travellers, who tend to opt for more popular destinations in the region. However, Bolivia has a lot to offer, from the high peaks of the Andes Mountains to the Amazon rainforest and the mind-blowing salt flats of Salar de Uyuni. In this article, we will explore how many tourists visit Bolivia each year and provide an overview of the country's tourism industry.

Tourist attractions in Bolivia

Bolivia is a landlocked country in South America, bordering Peru, Brazil, Chile, Paraguay, and Argentina. It is one of the least explored nations in the continent, with a fascinating mix of cultures, landscapes, and attractions. Here are some of the must-see tourist attractions in Bolivia:

The Bolivian Amazon

The Bolivian Amazon is over a thousand kilometres from the Amazon River itself, but it boasts a well-preserved natural environment with a diverse array of wildlife. This region is home to jaguars, tapirs, giant anteaters, exotic birds, caimans, turtles, piranhas, and pink dolphins. The best way to explore the Bolivian Amazon is by cruising along the Amazonian tributaries, with routes embarking from the city of Trinidad.

Salar de Uyuni (Uyuni Salt Flats)

Salar de Uyuni is one of Bolivia's most famous and photogenic destinations. These massive plains of salt create a stunning visual contrast between the deep blue sky and the bright white ground. During the rainy season, the ground floods, turning the salt flats into a massive mirror that reflects the surrounding mountains and sky. Visitors can sail across the salty stretch, visit Cactus Island, and witness the striking desert scenery.

La Paz

La Paz, the administrative capital of Bolivia, is nestled high in the Andes. The city offers a unique cultural experience with its chaotic tumble of terracotta roofs, the world's largest cable car system, and attractions such as the San Francisco Church, the guard-less San Pedro Prison, and the Witch Market. La Paz is also a great starting point for exploring nearby attractions like the Valley of the Moon and the Death Road.

Lake Titicaca

Lake Titicaca lies on the border of Peru and Bolivia, with the towns of Copacabana and Isla del Sol as popular destinations. Copacabana serves as a gateway for traditional boat rides across the lake, offering views of floating villages and a glimpse into the local way of life. Isla del Sol, in the middle of the lake, provides hiking trails, charming bungalows, and incredible stargazing opportunities.

Kaa Iya National Park

Kaa Iya National Park is a remote park on the border of Bolivia and Paraguay, known for its diverse wildlife. It is one of the best places in Bolivia for wildlife enthusiasts and birdwatchers, with jaguars and over 300 species of birds calling the park home.

Uyuni Train Cemetery

Near the town of Uyuni lies the Train Cemetery, a unique attraction featuring a handful of locomotives from the 1940s, abandoned and left to the elements. The old trains, covered in dust and salt, create an eerie and artistic sight, offering a glimpse into Bolivia's industrial past.

These are just a few of the many fascinating tourist attractions that Bolivia has to offer. The country's diverse landscapes, rich history, and cultural experiences make it a rewarding destination for travellers seeking adventure and immersion in local cultures.

Best time to visit

Although Bolivia is a country of climatic extremes, it can be visited all year round. The best time to visit depends on where you plan to go and what you plan to do.

The dry season of May to October is the best time for adventures in the Bolivian Andes. This is the perfect time for hiking and other outdoor pursuits, especially in the Andean zone. However, the highlands will be cold and overnight temperatures can drop below -15°C at altitude. In the lowlands, the weather is still warm and less humid, with a lower chance of torrential rain. But watch out for surazos, polar winds that can drop temperatures below freezing for several days at a time.

August is the most crowded month of the year in Bolivia, as it is the country's Independence Day on the 6th. Expect heavy demand for hotels and tourist services, and a small hike in prices. The weather is still cold, but with a smaller chance of sudden drops in temperature or rain.

September is the perfect time to travel around the Amazon and the cities of the lowlands. The weather is not as hot and humid as in the Bolivian summer, and there are fewer mosquitos, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

The first signs of spring arrive in October, when tourism slows down a bit and visitors have a good chance of negotiating prices and getting better deals.

Bolivia's wet season, from December to March, is the best time for cultural activities and to see the Uyuni salt flats. This is a great time to head north, where the flooded salt flats present a mirror to the sky. Just be aware that there may be disruption to transportation due to flooding – January and February are the rainiest months and road closures are common.

This is also the prime time for cultural events, with Christmas and New Year celebrations in December, the Alasitas festival in La Paz in January, and Carnaval in February.

April and November have the best weather for travelling across the country. These shoulder-season months offer sunny days, cool nights, and a general lack of rain. April is a good time to see the lushness of the green vegetation left over from the rains, while November brings one of the most interesting cultural events of the year: the Day of the Dead.

Pros and cons of visiting during peak season

Although Bolivia is one of the least explored nations in South America, it still receives a significant number of tourists each year, with July and August being the busiest months. Here are some pros and cons of visiting Bolivia during the peak season:

Pros of Visiting During Peak Season:

• Full availability of attractions: During the peak season, all attractions, museums, and historical sites are typically open and operating at full capacity. This allows visitors to make the most of their vacation and experience everything on their travel list.
• More international flights: There are generally more international flights available during peak travel seasons, making it easier to book trips to Bolivia and other top destinations.
• Favorable weather conditions: The peak season in Bolivia coincides with dry weather, making it a perfect time to explore outdoor tourist attractions.
• Local festivals and events: Peak travel seasons often coincide with local festivals and events, providing great opportunities to experience Bolivian culture and traditions.
• More entertainment options: During the peak season, there are generally more diverse activities and entertainment options available for visitors.

Cons of Visiting During Peak Season:

• Limited accommodation availability: The high demand during the peak season can lead to limited accommodation options, and you may have to settle for whatever is available.
• Higher prices: Businesses often charge higher prices during the peak season due to increased demand, which can strain your budget.
• Need for advance booking: With many tourists around, it is essential to book most services and activities in advance to secure your spot.
• Crowded destinations: If you prefer quieter and more intimate experiences, the peak season may not be ideal as most popular destinations will be crowded.

Pros and cons of visiting during the off-season

Bolivia is one of the least explored nations in South America, with its stunning nature, bustling cities, and ancient cultures. The country has a lot to offer, from the Amazon rainforest to the Andes mountains. While the number of tourists visiting Bolivia each year is not readily available, here are the pros and cons of visiting during the off-season:

Pros:

• Cost savings: During the off-season, you'll find more deals on flights and accommodations. Hotels and attractions offer discounts to attract more travellers.
• Fewer crowds: With fewer tourists, you can enjoy a more intimate experience at top attractions and popular destinations.
• Unique experiences: Some destinations offer unique experiences during the off-season that you won't find at other times of the year.

Cons:

• Weather: Inclement weather is common during the off-season, and it may disrupt your travel plans.
• Limited hours or closures: Some attractions, shops, restaurants, and resorts may be closed or have reduced hours during the off-season.
• Research required: Travelling during the off-season requires extra planning and research to understand the pros and cons of your destination during that time of year.

Travel tips for visiting Bolivia

Bolivia is a fascinating country with a diverse geography, unique cultures, and many attractions for tourists. Here are some essential travel tips for visiting Bolivia:

Transportation

• Long-distance buses are the cheapest and easiest way to travel between cities in Bolivia, especially for overnight trips. Book a "cama" bus seat, which reclines and has leg rests. Tickets Bolivia is a reliable company for purchasing bus tickets in advance.
• For shorter trips within cities, public transportation options include radio taxis, independent taxis, trufis, minis, and micros. Radio taxis are generally safer but more expensive, while trufis and micros are very affordable.
• La Paz has the world's highest cable car system, offering stunning views and an efficient way to get around the city.
• Flying is the quickest way to get around Bolivia, but it can be expensive, with tickets ranging from USD$800-1100. There are limited direct flights to Bolivia, so connections are often needed.
• Travelling overland from neighbouring countries is also an option, but it can be a long journey, especially when entering Bolivia from Brazil.

Accommodation and Food

• Bolivia offers a range of accommodation options, from budget hostels and mid-range hotels to luxury hotels. In smaller towns, accommodations may be more basic, and the very cheapest options may lack heat, hot water, or private bathrooms.
• Food in Bolivia is generally cheap, with meals costing around $10-15 Canadian on average for two people. Street food and markets offer even cheaper options, with hot meals available for as little as USD$1.
• When eating out, be cautious about consuming raw or undercooked food, as hygiene and sanitation standards may be lower than what you are used to. Contaminated food can cause traveller's diarrhea.

Health and Safety

• Tap water is not safe to drink in Bolivia. Only drink bottled water or use a bottle with a filter. Avoid eating unpeeled fruits and vegetables.
• Altitude sickness can be a concern in high-altitude cities like La Paz. Consult your doctor about taking acetazolamide (Diamox) to prevent symptoms.
• Thefts and scams against tourists do occur, especially in large cities. Avoid flashing valuables and be cautious when using ATMs or withdrawing money.
• Some areas of La Paz and other touristy places are particularly dangerous. Stay in well-lit areas, be aware of your surroundings, and travel in groups at night.
• Protests and street blockades are common in Bolivia and can turn violent. It is best to avoid these situations and walk around them if possible.
• If you plan to hike or explore remote areas, let someone know your whereabouts and expected return time.

Visa and Customs

• Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months after your date of entry. Visa requirements vary by country, so check with the Bolivian embassy before travelling.
• Customs inspections upon departure from Bolivia can be thorough, and luggage may be inspected.
• Domestic departure taxes are Bs.15, and the international departure tax is $25 US, payable in cash at the airport.

Other Tips

• The currency in Bolivia is the boliviano (Bs). US dollars are the easiest currency to convert, and credit cards like Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted. ATMs are available, but it is advisable to carry cash in rural areas.
• The main language in Bolivia is Spanish, but Quechua and Aymara are also spoken. Attempting to use basic Spanish phrases is appreciated by locals.
• Bolivia has various climates, from hot lowlands to cold mountain tops, so pack accordingly. Layers are essential, as temperatures can vary throughout the day.
• The best time to visit Bolivia is during its summer (December to February) to avoid the cold temperatures in the highlands and freezing nights in the desert. The dry season, from April to May, is also a good time to visit, with fewer tourists and lower prices.

Frequently asked questions