Bolivia: An Affordable Travel Destination?

Bolivia is known for being a cheap country to travel to, especially in South America. The country is known for its diverse terrain, from the Amazon rainforest to the Uyuni salt flats, and its low living costs.

A daily budget of $20 is easily enough to live off, covering accommodation, food and drink, and a few extras. Budget travellers can expect to spend around $30 to $50 per day, while those seeking more comfort can budget for around $70 to $100 per day.

Bolivia's street food is renowned for being incredibly cheap, with local treats such as salteñas, choripán, and tamales costing less than $7 each. A set lunch at a local restaurant can cost as little as $2-3.

Accommodation is also affordable, with dorm beds in hostels typically ranging from $5-7 per night, and private rooms in hostels or budget hotels starting at around $10 per night.

Transportation costs are also relatively low, with local bus tickets costing around $0.50-$1.50 and long-distance bus tickets ranging from $5-$20.

Overall, Bolivia offers a unique and enriching travel experience that won't break the bank.

Bolivia is one of the cheapest countries in South America for travellers

Affordable Accommodations

Bolivia offers a wide range of accommodations to suit all budgets. Budget hotels and hostels can be found for as low as $10 per night, while luxury hotels can cost up to $200 per night. For a more authentic experience, consider staying in family-run hotels called "Hostals" or "Alojamientos," which offer the best value. Backpacker hostels are also abundant and affordable, usually ranging from $6 to $12 for a dorm bed.

Inexpensive Transportation

Bolivia's public transportation system is efficient and affordable. Local bus tickets cost around $0.50 to $1.50, and long-distance bus tickets, such as from Santa Cruz to La Paz, can be around $16. Additionally, Bolivia's unique cable car system, Mi Teleférico, offers incredibly cheap fares, with tickets costing only about $0.33 for a single journey.

Delicious and Economical Food

Bolivia is known for its delicious and inexpensive local cuisine. Street food and local fast food, such as salteñas (stuffed pasties) and choripán (sausage sandwiches), can be found for a few dollars or even less. A set lunch at a local restaurant can cost as little as $2-3, and a mid-range meal for two typically ranges from $15 to $20. Drinking water is not considered safe in Bolivia, so it's recommended to bring a water filter to reduce waste and save money on bottled water.

Free and Low-Cost Attractions

Bolivia boasts stunning natural wonders and cultural sites that won't break the bank. The famous Uyuni Salt Flats, Lake Titicaca, and ancient ruins of Tiwanaku offer unforgettable experiences at a fraction of the cost compared to similar attractions in other countries. Free walking tours and local city tours are also available in cities like La Paz, allowing travellers to explore on a budget.

Overall Daily Budget

On average, budget travellers can expect to spend around $20 to $50 per day in Bolivia, including accommodation, meals, transportation, and activities. Mid-range travellers can plan for a daily budget of $70 to $100, allowing for more comfort and flexibility. With its low costs, Bolivia is an ideal destination for those seeking a budget-friendly adventure in South America.

Budget travellers can expect to spend around $20 a day, while mid-range travellers can budget for $30-40 a day

Bolivia is one of the cheapest countries to visit in South America. Budget travellers can expect to spend around $20 a day, while mid-range travellers can budget for $30-40 a day. This includes accommodation, food, and a few extras.

For accommodation, travellers can opt for dorm beds in hostels, which typically cost between $5-7 per night. Some hostels offer additional amenities such as an on-site bar and hot showers. Private rooms are also available within this budget, providing travellers with a comfortable and affordable stay.

When it comes to food, travellers can indulge in delicious local cuisine at affordable prices. A standard dish at a local restaurant can cost as little as $2-3, offering a hearty and filling meal. For those who prefer cooking their own meals, grocery stores and corner stores are available, with slightly higher prices than street food but still offering good value.

Transportation in Bolivia is also budget-friendly. Local buses are readily available and inexpensive, with tickets ranging from $0.50 to $1.50. For longer journeys, such as the bus from La Paz to Santa Cruz, travellers can expect to pay around $30.

With its diverse scenery, from the Amazon Rainforest to the Uyuni Salt Flats, Bolivia offers a unique and enriching experience without breaking the bank. Whether you're a budget traveller or prefer a little more comfort, Bolivia is a great choice for those looking to explore South America on a budget.

Bolivia has a range of affordable accommodation, from hostels to family-run hotels

Bolivia is known for being a very affordable country to travel to, and it offers a wide range of budget-friendly accommodation options. One of the best options for affordable stays in Bolivia are family-run hotels, often called "hostales" or "alojamientos". These types of accommodations offer excellent value for money and are usually cheaper than international hotel chains.

In Bolivia, you can find a variety of hostels catering to travellers on a budget. Dorm beds in hostels typically cost between $5 and $7 per night, and some hostels even offer extras like on-site bars and hot showers. If you're looking for a more private option, you can find private rooms in hostels or family-run hotels for a reasonable price. These rooms can often be found within the same budget as dorm beds, making them a great choice for those seeking more comfort without breaking the bank.

For those seeking a more luxurious experience, international hotel chains like the Radisson in La Paz offer rooms starting at $80 per night. However, even at these higher-end hotels, prices are still relatively affordable compared to other South American countries.

When it comes to location, the cost of accommodation in Bolivia varies. In larger cities like La Paz, Santa Cruz, and Sucre, hotel prices tend to be higher. On the other hand, smaller towns popular with budget travellers, such as Coroico, Copacabana, and Rurrenabaque, usually have a wider range of inexpensive options. Additionally, room rates in resort towns tend to increase during the weekend, and prices across the country may rise during the high season in July and August.

Overall, Bolivia offers a diverse range of accommodation options to suit all budgets. Whether you're looking for a budget-friendly hostel, a comfortable family-run hotel, or a luxurious international chain, you can find it in Bolivia without breaking the bank.

Eating out in Bolivia is inexpensive, with meals costing as little as $2-3 at local restaurants

Bolivia is a very affordable country to visit, and it is possible to eat out at local restaurants for as little as $2-3 per meal. This makes it a great destination for budget travellers and backpackers, who can easily live off a daily budget of $20, including accommodation and transport.

The local currency is the Bolivian Boliviano, and $1 USD is equivalent to around 7 BOB. A meal at a local restaurant will, therefore, cost around 14-21 BOB. For those who want to splash out a little more, mid-range restaurants charge around $5-15 per person, and you can expect to pay around $5-8 for a beer.

Bolivia is a diverse country with something for everyone, from hiking in the Amazon Jungle to sightseeing in the cities of La Paz and Sucre. The cost of living is low, and it is possible to find cheap, clean accommodation, with dorm beds in hostels costing as little as $5-7 per night.

For those who want to experience local culture and cuisine, Bolivia is a great choice, with tasty meals available at very reasonable prices. Whether you're looking for traditional dishes like Pique Macho and Charque or international options, you can eat well on a small budget.

Bolivia is a great choice for travellers who want to explore South America on a budget. With its rich culture, stunning scenery, and affordable prices, it offers a unique and enriching experience without breaking the bank.

Transportation in Bolivia is also affordable, with bus tickets costing a few dollars

Bolivia is a reasonably affordable destination to visit, and it is possible to live off a daily travel budget of $20. Transportation in Bolivia is also efficient and affordable. For example, a one-way subway or train ticket can cost between $0.50 and $1.50, while local buses are even cheaper at $0.30 for a one-way ticket. Longer journeys by bus can cost around $2 per hour, and flights are an affordable option for those short on time.

One source notes that the public bus in La Paz costs $0.20 per ride, and a 5-minute taxi ride costs $1. Another source states that a coach from Copacabana to La Paz costs $0.56 per person, while a coach from La Paz to Sucre costs $1.26 per person. Additionally, a one-way flight from La Paz to Rurrenabaque costs $80 per person.

Overall, Bolivia offers a range of transportation options to suit different budgets, and it is possible to get around the country without spending a fortune.

Frequently asked questions