Bolivia Tourism: Safe Or Not?

Bolivia is a country with a lot to offer travellers, from the Amazon Rainforest to the Andes Mountains. However, it has its fair share of safety concerns, including border conflicts, poverty, petty crime, and drug gangs. So, is Bolivia safe for tourists?

Overall, Bolivia is considered somewhat safe to visit, but it's important to be cautious and aware of potential dangers. Tourist hotspots, restaurants, shops, and public transportation are common locations for theft and pickpocketing, and violent crime also exists on the streets. Transportation can be unreliable due to common strikes, and there is a risk of flooding and landslides during the rainy season. There have also been reports of mugging and kidnapping, with criminals targeting foreigners and taking them hostage to withdraw money from ATMs. Additionally, there is a risk of scams and fake police officers extorting money from tourists. While the risk of terrorist attacks is low, common demonstrations can turn violent, so it's best to avoid large crowds.

When it comes to solo female travellers, there may be additional dangers. Poverty often fuels petty theft, and women can be targeted. However, most women travelling to Bolivia will likely feel fairly safe if they take basic safety precautions. It's important to choose accommodation wisely, dress conservatively, and avoid walking alone at night.

Overall, while Bolivia has its safety concerns, travellers can minimise the risks by being vigilant, staying informed, and taking common-sense precautions.

Civil unrest and political tension

Civil and political unrest is common in Bolivia and events can be unpredictable. Large-scale political demonstrations, protests, and events can occur with little to no warning, which may also result in travel disruptions. Bolivia is experiencing civil unrest following a failed referendum in October 2019, which has led to anti-government protests throughout the country. Political and social tension poses a serious risk to personal safety.

Demonstrations, strikes, and roadblocks can occur at any time in Bolivia. Demonstrations can turn violent, and roadblocks and strikes may cut off traffic and restrict the flow of goods and services around the country. Domestic and international flights may be delayed or unexpectedly cancelled. Protesters may also use dynamite during protests, and the police often respond with tear gas to disperse crowds.

During periods of unrest, it is important to pay close attention to personal security, avoid demonstrations, protests, and large public gatherings, monitor local media and other sources, and follow the advice of local authorities. It is also recommended to avoid crossing roadblocks set up by protesters, even if they appear unattended, as doing so may lead to violence.

The political climate in Bolivia is tense, and elections held in October 2020 may cause further protests and demonstrations across the country. It is advisable to check government travel advisories and stay up to date with local news reports and media before travelling to Bolivia.

Crime and safety

Bolivia is a somewhat safe place to visit, but tourists should be aware of the dangers. The country has one of the lowest crime rates in South America, but this does not mean it is crime-free. Petty crime is common, and violent crime is on the rise. Tourists should exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings at all times.

Petty Crime

Petty crimes such as pickpocketing and theft are common in Bolivia, especially in popular tourist destinations like La Paz, Santa Cruz, Cochabamba, Copacabana, and Oruro. Bag snatching is also a recurring issue, so it is important to keep a tight hold on your belongings. It is recommended to keep your money and valuables in hidden pockets in your clothes and never carry all your money in one place.

Violent Crime

Violent crimes such as mugging and kidnapping also occur in Bolivia. Kidnappings usually involve criminals targeting foreigners, taking them hostage, and forcing them to withdraw money from ATMs. These crimes often occur with the help of taxi drivers, who are accomplices of the criminals. To avoid this, it is recommended to use only reputable cab companies.

Some areas in Bolivia, such as the Chapare and Yungas regions, are particularly dangerous and should be avoided. The Coronilla Hill area in Cochabamba is also best avoided, as it is a haven for drug addicts and alcoholics.

Scams

Scams are also common in Bolivia, with criminals posing as police officers or friendly tourists to target foreigners. It is important to be cautious and not fall for these scams. For official police business, a copy of your passport and Bolivian visa should be sufficient. If you encounter aggressive behaviour, it is best to scream and attract the attention of passers-by.

Transportation

Transportation in Bolivia can be unsafe and unreliable. In addition to the issues with taxis mentioned above, common strikes and road blockades can disrupt travel plans. It is important to monitor local media and follow the advice of local authorities when travelling.

Natural Disasters

Bolivia also experiences natural disasters such as floods and landslides during the rainy season, which typically lasts from November to March. These events can pose risks to tourists, especially in mountainous areas.

Transport and taxis

Transport in Bolivia can be chaotic and difficult to understand for travellers. The most common form of transport in Bolivia is the bus, which is economical but can be dangerous. Accidents are frequent, and safety depends more on the driver than the company. International buses are usually comfortable, safe, and organised, while intercity buses vary in quality. Buses are often old and not well-kept, and breakdowns are common.

There are local buses called Micros and Trufis, which are cheap and run all over the city. They are very ornately decorated and an attraction in themselves. However, they are a hotspot for pickpockets and thieves.

Another option is to rent a car, but this is not a common or easy way to travel in Bolivia. It is typically for people who want to go to remote destinations that are unreachable by other means. Expect to pay $50-100 per day, and be at least 25 years old with a driver's license.

There are two types of taxis: radiotaxis and normal taxis. Radio taxis are the safest option as they are operated by a legal taxi company and can be called to pick you up at your hotel. They are also the most expensive, costing between 1 to 10 USD depending on the distance. Normal taxis are normal cars that circulate on the streets and neighbourhoods. Be careful at night, as some criminals disguise themselves as taxi drivers and look for drunk or lost tourists. It is recommended to seek local advice and use established companies when taking a taxi.

Ridesharing services such as Uber, Easy Taxi, or other apps are available in some of the bigger cities, but you will need a local mobile number to use them.

When travelling by road in Bolivia, it is important to be aware of safety concerns. Road conditions are poor, and driving standards are low. Serious accidents happen on the main tourist routes, and broken-down vehicles with no warning lights are a frequent hazard on roads at night. Drunk driving is also common.

Natural disasters

Bolivia is prone to natural disasters, particularly during the rainy season, which runs from November to March. The rainy season sees an increased risk of flooding and landslides, especially in mountainous areas. Roads are frequently impassable during this time, and there may be disruptions to public transport. Landslides can also occur after minor earthquakes.

The country is also susceptible to forest fires during the dry season, from July to October.

Bolivia is in an active seismic zone, and earthquakes can occur in the centre and southwest of the country.

The impact of these natural disasters is often exacerbated by human decisions and activities, as well as the country's socioeconomic conditions. For example, deforestation can increase the severity of flooding, and population growth can increase the number of people affected.

Climate change is expected to exacerbate these issues, with rising temperatures accelerating the loss of mountain glaciers and snowpack and increasing the intensity of precipitation in lowland Bolivia.

Women travelling alone

• Avoid travelling alone at night.
• Do not accept offers of transportation from strangers.
• Keep your hotel doors and windows locked.
• Do not leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers.
• Do not hail taxis on the street. Use a reputable taxi company or a trusted ride-sharing app.
• Stay in social hostels where you can get to know other travellers.
• Make friends with other travellers, especially for going out at night.
• Dress conservatively by copying the style of local women.
• Do not walk around by yourself at night.
• Look like you know where you're going – be confident, even if you don't feel like it.
• Ignore any harassment, such as sexual comments or wolf-whistling.
• Save emergency numbers in your phone.
• Choose your accommodation wisely. Make sure you can lock your room.
• Learn some Spanish.

Frequently asked questions