Bolivia: Safe Haven Or Tourist Trap?

Bolivia is a beautiful country to visit, but tourists should be aware of some safety concerns. The country has the lowest crime rates in South America, and the people are friendly. However, tourists should remain vigilant, especially in central La Paz and other popular tourist destinations, where petty crimes like pickpocketing and purse snatching are common. Violent crime is rare but can occur, and there are strict laws against drug trafficking and possession. Protests and demonstrations are common in Bolivia and can turn violent, affecting traffic and public transportation. Tourists should also be cautious when taking taxis, as there have been reports of robberies and express kidnappings. It is recommended to use well-known radio taxi companies and avoid hailing taxis on the street. Overall, with common sense and some simple guidelines, tourists can enjoy a safe trip to Bolivia.

Civil unrest and violent crime

The Chapare and Yungas regions, particularly the area between Santa Cruz and Cochabamba, are known for violent crime associated with drug trafficking. Travellers should exercise caution in these areas, especially near borders, as they are more likely to become victims of drug-related crimes. Violent crime against foreigners, including armed robbery, assault, and food and drink spiking, also occurs in other parts of the country, such as the cities of La Paz, Santa Cruz, and Cochabamba.

Bolivia has a homicide rate of 63 murders per 1,000,000 people, with 686 reported homicides in 2016. The country also struggles with issues of domestic violence, with a study finding the highest prevalence of domestic violence against women in Bolivia among 12 Latin American countries.

To minimise the risk of violent crime, travellers are advised to take certain precautions, such as using only reputable taxi companies, avoiding hailing taxis on the street, and being vigilant with their belongings and food and drinks in public places.

Petty theft and scams

Bolivia is a popular destination for backpackers and nature lovers, but petty theft and scams are common, especially in tourist hotspots like La Paz, Santa Cruz, Cochabamba, Copacabana, and Oruro. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind when visiting Bolivia:

Petty Theft

Be vigilant and aware of your surroundings at all times, especially in crowded areas and during festivals. Keep a firm grip on your belongings, and store your money, passports, and tickets in secure places like front pockets or inner jacket pockets. Divide your cash and cards so that you have backup funds if you fall victim to pickpocketing, which is common in tourist areas, bus stations, and on intercity buses.

Bag snatching is also prevalent, so always use a bag that you can securely strap to your body, such as a cross-body bag or money belt. Keep a tight hold on your bag straps at all times, even when sitting down.

Thefts at ATMs are also on the rise and often result in assaults. Avoid withdrawing cash at night or in isolated locations.

Scams

Scammers in Bolivia often pose as fellow tourists or police officers. They may befriend you and invite you to a house party or an unknown location, where you may be robbed or held hostage. Be wary of anyone who seems overly friendly.

The "fake police" scam is also common, where scammers in police uniforms with realistic identification approach tourists, arrest them, and demand bribes or valuables. Remember that Bolivian undercover police do not typically approach tourists unless a crime has been committed. Ask to see a warrant and contact your embassy immediately if you are unsure. Walk away if possible and avoid getting into shared taxis with strangers.

Another scam to watch out for is the "spilled substance" scam, where someone spills something on you, and another person offers to help clean you up, taking the opportunity to steal your valuables. Handle any spills yourself and be cautious around people who seem to be creating distractions or causing commotions.

Prison tours

To enter the prison, tourists would pose as relatives of inmates. Inmates who spoke English acted as tour guides, showing visitors the different divisions (sections) of the prison, which resembled a small town with its own economy. Inmates had to earn money to survive and pay for their rooms, so they ran shops, restaurants, and other small businesses within the prison walls. The prison even had an in-house cocaine factory.

The most shocking aspect of the prison was the treatment of rapists and child molesters. These inmates were tortured and forced to work in the kitchen. However, the prison also offered some surprising amenities, such as a primary school for prisoners' children, who were allowed to live with their fathers inside the prison.

The ethics of these prison tours are questionable, as they involve propagating corruption and financially supporting criminals. In addition, the tours may have contributed to the problem of drug trafficking in Bolivia, which is a serious issue that affects the safety of tourists.

Bolivia is considered a relatively safe country for tourists, but it is important to exercise a high degree of caution due to the threat of violent crime and civil unrest. Political and civil tensions are common, and large-scale demonstrations, protests, and strikes can occur with little warning, disrupting travel and sometimes turning violent. It is important to avoid demonstrations, protests, and crowds, and to monitor local media for updates.

Violent crime, associated with drug trafficking, is a risk in some parts of the country, particularly the Chapare and Yungas regions. Petty theft is also common in tourist areas, buses, and bus stations, so it is important to remain vigilant and keep belongings secure. In addition, criminals sometimes pose as police officers or taxi drivers, so it is important to be cautious when approached by anyone claiming to be an authority figure.

Natural disasters, such as severe weather, landslides, and flooding, can also pose a risk to travellers. It is important to check local weather reports and travel advisories before travelling to Bolivia, especially during the rainy season from November to March.

Natural disasters and climate

Bolivia is subject to a variety of natural disasters and its climate varies greatly from region to region. The country is located wholly within the tropics, yet it experiences every gradation of temperature, from equatorial heat in the lowlands to arctic cold in the highlands. The rainy season, which lasts from November to March, brings with it a heightened risk of flooding and landslides in mountainous areas. During this time, torrential downpours can make transportation by road challenging or even impossible, and climbing and hiking become dangerous due to inaccessible tracks, landslides, and river swells. The rainy season also sees an increase in powerful thunderstorms, creating epic lightning shows.

The dry season, from May to October, offers more favourable travel conditions. This period is characterised by sunny days and colder nights, especially in the highlands. While rain is still a possibility, the reduced rainfall makes it a good time for outdoor activities and overland travel. However, a few times a year, cold fronts from Patagonia can cause temperatures to drop suddenly, even in the Amazon. Additionally, during August and September, the burning of overgrown forest areas by farmers can result in thick smoke that affects breathing in some places.

The varying climatic conditions of Bolivia can be broadly categorised into three regions: the lowlands, the highlands, and the Amazonian lowlands. The lowlands, including Santa Cruz, Rurrenabaque, Cobija, and Trinidad, have a humid tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The rainy season in this region extends from late September to May, with annual rainfall averaging between 1000 and 4000 mm. The heavy rainfall is caused by winds blowing in from the Amazon rainforest.

The highlands, including Lake Titicaca, La Paz, Oruro, Cochabamba, Sucre, Potosí, and Uyuni, experience a climate that ranges from cool and humid to semi-arid. The average temperature in this region is between 15 and 27°C, with the coldest temperatures occurring in the southwestern portion during June and July. While the rest of the year tends to be dry and sunny, the nights can be chilly, dropping just above 0°C. The rainy season in the highlands occurs between December and March, with average rainfall varying across different areas.

The Yungas Valley, part of the Amazonian lowlands, encompasses Chulumani, Coroico, and Sorata. This region enjoys warm, humid weather with refreshing breezes. At higher altitudes, temperatures are cooler, and snow can occur above 2000 meters. The rainy season in the Yungas Valley is typically between March and April, although the southern areas experience a drier climate.

While Bolivia offers beautiful destinations and attractions throughout the year, travellers should be aware of the potential natural hazards and plan their trips accordingly.

Women's safety

• Awareness of Surroundings: Women should be vigilant and cautious in crowded places, particularly in tourist hotspots, to avoid petty thefts and pickpocketing, which are common occurrences. It is crucial to keep a close eye on personal belongings at all times and avoid displaying valuable items that may attract unwanted attention.
• Dress Modestly: Dressing modestly and acting confidently can help women travelling solo avoid unwanted attention and reduce the risk of harassment. Blending in with the local culture by observing and adopting the dress code of local women can make women less conspicuous and lessen the chances of being targeted.
• Avoid Isolated Places: It is advisable for women to refrain from venturing into isolated areas, especially after dark. Staying in well-lit and populated places can reduce the risk of encountering petty crimes and muggings, which are more prevalent at night.
• Inform Trusted Contacts: Before embarking on any trip or excursion, women should always inform someone they trust about their whereabouts and expected return time. This simple precaution can provide a layer of security and facilitate a quicker response in case of an emergency.
• Use Official Taxis: Opting for official taxi services instead of mini-buses or other forms of public transportation can significantly enhance safety. While public transportation is generally reliable, it can also be chaotic and unpredictable, especially in major cities. Additionally, taxis provide a more secure option, especially when travelling alone at night.
• Stay Updated with Local News: Instances of political unrest and civil disturbances can occur in certain areas of Bolivia. Staying informed about the latest developments through local news sources can help women avoid potentially dangerous situations and plan their travels accordingly.
• Be Wary of Scams: Women travelling alone should be cautious of scams, especially when purchasing transportation tickets or navigating areas with heavy tourist traffic. Buying tickets from authorised sources and being vigilant can help prevent overpricing or being taken advantage of.
• Avoid Walking Alone at Night: Walking alone at night in major cities like La Paz and Santa Cruz is not recommended due to reports of petty crimes and muggings. Using reputable taxi companies during nighttime travel can significantly enhance personal safety.
• Be Cautious in Tourist Areas: While Bolivia offers many breathtaking tourist destinations, it is important to remain vigilant even in these areas. Keep a close eye on personal belongings, and never leave food or drinks unattended to prevent incidents of spiking or robbery.
• Language Familiarity: Learning some basic Spanish phrases and carrying translation tools can be immensely beneficial for communication and navigating interactions with locals. It can also help women gain a better understanding of their surroundings and enhance their overall safety.

By adhering to these guidelines and staying informed about the latest safety updates, women can significantly enhance their security and have a more enjoyable experience during their visit to Bolivia.

Frequently asked questions