Exploring Bolivia And Peru: Which Country To Visit?

Peru and Bolivia are two of the most popular destinations in South America, with both countries offering a range of attractions for tourists. From the South Pacific Coast to the Andes and the Amazon jungle, the options are as diverse as the landscape.

Peru is home to Machu Picchu, a major South American destination. The country also offers the Salkantay Trek, Laguna 69, and other hikes in Huaraz.

Bolivia, on the other hand, is known for its landscapes, including the Uyuni Salt Flats and the Salar de Uyuni. Bolivia is also a great choice for those seeking a less touristy destination, with amazing landscapes and a rich culture.

Both countries have their unique attractions and offer a range of activities for tourists. With only a month to travel, it is recommended to choose one country to explore thoroughly rather than trying to cover both.

Safety

Peru:

Peru has been assessed as a Level 2 destination by the U.S. Department of State, which advises travellers to "exercise increased caution due to crime, civil unrest, and the possibility of kidnapping." Crime, including petty theft, carjackings, muggings, assaults, and other violent crimes, is common throughout the country and can occur during daylight hours. The risk of crime increases at night, and organised criminal groups have been known to set up roadblocks outside the capital, Lima, to rob victims.

Demonstrations and strikes are common in Peru and can cause disruptions to transportation and access to airports. It is illegal for foreigners to participate in demonstrations, and even peaceful protests can turn violent. Therefore, it is recommended to avoid areas where demonstrations are taking place and follow the instructions of local authorities.

When it comes to transportation, it is advised to use reputable companies for bus and train travel. Rental cars are an option but driving in Peru requires confidence and heavy use of the horn due to the aggressive driving culture and poor road conditions. It is also important to have comprehensive car insurance and to be aware of local traffic laws.

In terms of health, it is recommended to get travel insurance that covers medical evacuation and hospital stays as the quality of care varies throughout the country. Additionally, Peru is located in an active seismic zone and is prone to earthquakes and landslides.

Bolivia:

Bolivia is also assessed as a Level 2 destination, with travellers advised to "exercise increased caution" due to civil unrest and the threat of violent crime. Large-scale political demonstrations and protests can occur with little warning and may result in travel disruptions. Roadblocks, strikes, and demonstrations are common and can cut off traffic and restrict the flow of goods and services. It is important to monitor local media and be prepared to adjust travel plans accordingly.

Violent crime, associated with drug trafficking, poses a risk in some parts of Bolivia, particularly the Chapare and Yungas regions. Travellers can also be victims of drug-related crime near borders. Petty theft is common in tourist areas, buses, and bus stations, and violent crime against foreigners, including armed robbery and assault, occurs. It is recommended to use only well-known radio taxi companies and avoid hailing taxis on the street.

Bolivia experiences severe weather, including landslides, flooding, and bushfires. The rainy season, from November to March, often brings landslides and flooding, which can disrupt transportation. The dry season, from July to October, is prone to bushfires and heavy smoke, which can degrade air quality.

When it comes to health, insect-borne diseases such as yellow fever, Zika virus, malaria, and dengue are risks in Bolivia. It is recommended to take precautions such as using insect repellent and ensuring accommodation is insect-proof. Many areas of the country are also at high altitudes, and travellers should be aware of the risk of altitude sickness. Medical facilities outside of major cities are limited, and medical evacuation can be difficult and expensive.

In summary, both Peru and Bolivia present safety challenges for travellers, including the risk of crime, civil unrest, and natural disasters. It is important to stay informed, follow local authorities' instructions, and take necessary precautions to mitigate these risks.

Transport

When it comes to transport, both Bolivia and Peru have their pros and cons. In terms of safety, Bolivia's public transport is generally considered safe, but it can be unreliable and tricky to navigate. On the other hand, Peru's public transportation options are more varied, ranging from modern air fleets to antiquated trucks. Here's a breakdown of the transport situation in each country:

Bolivia

Bolivia's transport system is mainly road-based, with a small railway network and aviation playing an important role due to the country's geography. Here are the key points about transport in Bolivia:

• Buses: The most common way to get around Bolivia is by bus. Buses are reasonably frequent and generally reliable, serving major towns and cities. Long-distance travel is usually done on large double-decker buses called "Flotas," which are newer and more comfortable.
• Taxis: Taxis are safe and can be called upon anytime, anywhere. There are two types: radio taxis, which are more expensive and safer, and regular taxis, which are cheaper and can be hailed on the street.
• Cable Car: La Paz boasts the world's highest cable car system, connecting it to the neighboring city of El Alto. This mode of transport offers stunning views and improved accessibility.
• Flights: Flying is the best option for covering large distances quickly, especially to rural and tropical areas. Bolivia's main airline, Boliviana de Aviacion, offers over 70 flights daily to domestic and international destinations.
• Trains: Train travel in Bolivia is not very popular, with two separate networks operating in the country. The western network offers breathtaking scenery, making it a great alternative to the bus ride between La Paz and the Uyuni Salt Flats.
• Driving: Due to poor road conditions, renting a car in Bolivia is not highly recommended. However, hiring a private driver or renting a car from a local company is possible for those who want to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations.

Peru

Peru offers a wider range of transportation options, but each has its pros and cons. Here's an overview:

• Flights: Flying is the quickest, easiest, and safest way to get around Peru. Four main airlines—LAN, StarPerú, Avianca, and Peruvian Airlines—dominate the domestic routes, with Lima's Jorge Chávez International Airport as their hub.
• Buses: Buses are the main form of long-distance transport in Peru. While the cheapest companies may compromise safety and reliability, top-end companies like Cruz del Sur, Ormeño, Oltursa, and Movil Tours offer modern fleets and good safety records.
• Taxis: Taxis are readily available in Peru's larger cities, but it's important to only use registered, modern-looking taxis. Remember to set the price beforehand, as taxis do not use meters.
• Colectivos: Shared taxis or "colectivos" follow set routes with fixed fees. They are similar to regular taxis but can carry up to four passengers and will pick you up anywhere along the route.
• Minibusses: Minibusses, including "combis" and "micros," are incredibly cheap and common in Peru's big cities. However, they can be chaotic and uncomfortable due to reckless driving and sudden stops.
• Mototaxis: Peruvian rickshaws or "mototaxis" are common in provincial towns, providing quick and easy transportation. It's important to set the price in advance and be prepared to haggle.
• Ferries and Boats: In the Amazon region, ferries and small boats are the primary means of transportation. Travel by boat can be adventurous and scenic, but it requires stamina and patience, especially for longer voyages.
• Trains: Train travel is a rarity in Peru, with limited routes to Machu Picchu, Cusco, Puno, and a few other destinations. Train trips can be expensive but offer a unique experience, especially on routes like Ferrocarril Central Andino, which boasts impressive engineering feats.
• Renting a Car: Renting a car in Peru is relatively inexpensive, but it's recommended to use taxis instead of driving in cities like Lima due to heavy traffic. When driving in Peru, be aware of police checkpoints and speed bumps, and always carry the necessary documentation.

Visa requirements

Bolivia Visa Requirements:

All U.S. citizens visiting Bolivia are required to obtain a visa. A tourist visa can be purchased at any land or air border, and entry is granted for 30 days. The visa costs $160 US and can be paid in U.S. or local currency upon arrival. Visitors must show proof of a round-trip ticket or confirmation of plans to depart Bolivia, as well as proof of lodging in the country. A valid U.S. passport with at least six months of validity remaining and an international certificate of yellow fever vaccination are also required.

If you plan to work, study, volunteer, or conduct business in Bolivia, you must apply for a separate visa. Make sure to get entry and exit stamps from the Bolivian authorities every time you enter or leave the country.

Peru Visa Requirements:

Tourists from the U.S. do not need a visa to enter Peru and can stay for up to 183 days. However, a valid passport with at least six months of validity and one blank visa page is required. Visitors must also hold proof of onward/return flights, sufficient funds for their stay, and documents showing the purpose of their trip.

Business travellers must provide a business cover letter from their U.S.-based company, two colour passport-type photographs, a completed visa application form, and proof of travel arrangements.

It is important to note that entry and exit conditions for Peru can change at short notice, so it is recommended to contact the nearest embassy or consulate of Peru for the latest details.

Best time to visit

Although Bolivia can be visited all year round, the best time to go depends on what you want to do and see. The dry season of May to October is the perfect time for hiking and other outdoor activities, especially in the Andean zone. This is also the best time to travel across the country, with sunny days and cool nights. However, August is the most crowded month of the year in Bolivia, with heavy demand for hotels and tourist services, and a small hike in prices.

The wet season of December to March is the best time for cultural activities, with a packed calendar of events, including Christmas and New Year festivities, and the Alasitas festival in La Paz in January. This is also a great time to see the flooded Uyuni salt flats.

The shoulder months of April and November are good times to visit if you want to avoid the crowds and are happy with a mix of sun and rain. April is a good month to see Easter-related events, while November is the time of the Day of the Dead festival.

Peru is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on the region and your planned activities. The dry season of May to October is the best time to visit the Andes and Machu Picchu, with sunny days and clear blue skies. However, this is the peak season, so early booking is crucial.

The wet season of November to April is a good time to visit if you want to avoid the crowds and take advantage of lower rates for flights and hotels. However, travel can be challenging, with muddy trails and frequent afternoon showers.

The shoulder seasons of April to June and September to November are a good alternative, offering warmer temperatures, small crowds, lower prices, and fewer showers.

Things to do and see

Peru

• Explore the Amazon in Carhuasanta, where the river begins its journey through the Andes and into the Amazon basin.
• Hike to the ancient Inca ruins of Machu Picchu.
• Visit the capital, Lima, and enjoy its coastline, mountains, and jungle.
• See the Nazca Lines, huge drawings etched into the barren landscape of Peru's coastal desert.
• Take a train to Lake Titicaca, the largest lake in South America and the highest navigable lake in the world.

Bolivia

• Cross the Uyuni Salt Flats, a vast, naturally occurring salt desert.
• Explore the islands of Lake Titicaca, including the floating islands of the Uros Indians.
• Visit the Pre-Incan Tiwanaku ruins, an ancient city founded over 2,000 years ago.
• Descend the Potosi tin mines and learn about the harsh conditions faced by miners.
• Wildlife watch in the Bolivian Amazon, home to nearly 1,000 species of birds and numerous mammals.

Frequently asked questions