Bolivia: A Travel Destination Worth Considering?

Bolivia is a country of dramatic landscapes, from pristine rainforests to high-altitude salt flats, and cities rich in cultural diversity. It is also one of the most bio-diverse countries in the world, with thousands of species of birds, animals, fish, reptiles and amphibians.

With friendly locals, delicious food, a unique history, and adrenaline-pumping activities, Bolivia has something for everyone.

However, there are a few things to keep in mind before travelling to Bolivia. Here is an overview of the key points to consider when planning a trip to Bolivia.

Civil unrest and crime

Bolivia has been experiencing civil unrest since the 2019 elections, which triggered a series of blockades, stoppages, looting, and civilian confrontations with law enforcement. While the protests and confrontations ended in 2019 with the installation of a transitional government, the country continues to experience political and social tension, with ongoing anti-government protests.

The U.S. Department of State has issued a Level 2 Travel Advisory for Bolivia, recommending that travellers exercise increased caution due to civil unrest. Some areas, such as the Chapare region, are considered high-risk due to violent crime. Demonstrations, strikes, and roadblocks can occur at any time and can result in violence. These gatherings can turn violent quickly, and foreign travellers should avoid large crowds and monitor local media to stay informed.

In addition to civil unrest, Bolivia also has a problem with drug crime, as it is the third largest cocaine producer in the world. There are strict laws and penalties for drug-related offences, with a minimum prison sentence of eight years for trafficking or possession.

Travellers to Bolivia should be aware of the risk of petty and violent crime, including pickpocketing, bag snatching, mugging, and kidnapping. Violent crime exists on the streets, and tourists are often targeted, especially in locations like La Paz, Santa Cruz, Cochabamba, Copacabana, and Oruro. Common scams include the "spilled substance" scam, the "fake police" scam, and the "false tourist" scam, where criminals befriend tourists and rob them.

Transportation in Bolivia is also not very safe or reliable, with common strikes affecting public transport. Tourists are advised to avoid certain areas, such as Coronilla Hill in Cochabamba, which is known for drug addicts and alcoholics. The tourist site of Rurrenabaque has also become a popular spot for thieves targeting lone travellers.

Travel disruptions

Bolivia experiences frequent demonstrations, strikes, and roadblocks, which can occur at any time and may result in violence. These disruptions can cut off traffic and restrict the flow of goods and services across the country. As a result, domestic and international flights may be delayed or unexpectedly cancelled. It is recommended that travellers monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust their plans accordingly. Contacting your airline or travel agency prior to your trip is also advised.

Forest fires in Southern and Eastern Bolivia can also impact air quality in affected areas and beyond, including in La Paz. In such cases, it is advisable to wear a face mask or stay indoors if the air quality is particularly poor.

Road travel in Bolivia is challenging due to poor conditions and safety concerns. Most roads are unpaved, and even major highways connecting cities like La Paz, Santa Cruz, and Cochabamba lack basic safety features such as shoulders, fencing, or lane markings. Driving at night can be especially dangerous as many vehicles lack lights, and drivers may be intoxicated or fatigued. The rainy season (November-March) further exacerbates these issues, with potholes and washed-out roads and bridges creating additional hazards.

Public transportation in Bolivia also has varying levels of safety and service. Bus accidents are common, and it is recommended to use only licensed or radio taxis.

For those planning outdoor activities such as mountain trekking or climbing, it is important to be aware of the high altitude and its potential impact on your health. Even if you are in good physical condition, the extreme altitude in the Bolivian Andes can be harmful. It is crucial to have adequate clothing, gear, and experienced guides, and to descend to lower altitudes if you experience any altitude sickness symptoms.

Scams and theft

The "Fake Police" Scam

This scam typically involves an accomplice approaching the intended victim as a fellow tourist, either offering or asking for help. Then, an individual claiming to be an undercover policeman will approach and ask to see your passport. The accomplice may advise you to comply, saying it's happened to them before. If you hand over your passport, they will make off with it and any other valuables they can get.

Variations of this scam include searching you and stealing your valuables, forcing you to go to an ATM to withdraw money for them, or offering to share a taxi and then driving off with your luggage. Remember, Bolivian undercover police do not usually approach or interact with tourists unless a crime has been committed. If you are approached, do not hand over your documentation or valuables. Ask for your embassy to be contacted or for a marked police car to take you to the station. Walk away if you can, and avoid getting into shared taxis or following people you've just met.

The "Spilled Substance" Scam

A stranger will "accidentally" spill something on you, and another person will offer to help clean it up. While doing so, they will also steal your valuables. If something is spilled on you, handle the clean-up yourself and refuse any assistance.

The "Fake Tourist" Scam

A friendly "tourist" will approach and try to befriend you, possibly inviting you to a friend's home. Do not go with them, as you may be kidnapped and robbed. Another variation of this scam involves fake police officers accusing your new "friend" of drug possession. They will take you both to a fake police station and confiscate your belongings.

Taxi Scams

There are various scams involving taxis. Some drivers may pretend your chosen accommodation is full or bad and recommend more expensive places. Insist on being taken to your chosen location. Always agree on a price and currency before getting into the taxi and try to use app-based applications or recommended radio-taxi companies.

Some scammers will also try to take on additional passengers, even pretending to be police officers. Do not accept any other passengers, and be wary of taxis that already have people in them.

Another scam involves the driver claiming you paid with a large bill and that they don't have change, hoping you'll give them a larger amount. Ask if they have change before getting into the taxi.

Other Common Scams

• The "Dropped Money" Scam: A scammer will drop money in front of you and pretend not to notice. Another scammer will pick it up and hand it to you, then accuse you of stealing when you take it. This is intended to distract you while an accomplice picks your pocket.
• Medical Bill Extortion: Rogue medical clinics pressure patients to hand over their passports before treatment and then extort them for money.
• Drink and Food Spiking: Scammers lace drinks with drugs, then take you to an isolated place or your hotel room and rob you.
• Overcharging Vendors: Vendors may try to fleece you by adding huge mark-ups or overcharging even when items have price tags.
• Black Market Junk: Vendors show you genuine electronic items but give you a box of junk when you pay.
• Theft by Distraction: Scammers surround you and distract you while one steals your valuables or bag.
• Fake Bus Station Officials: An official will inspect your bag and claim to work for the bus company or be an undercover police officer. They will then say you have fake currency and confiscate it or demand a bribe.
• Corrupt Police Officers: Some police officers may try to search you and then accuse you of a minor crime to elicit a bribe. It is illegal for police to search you without a written order from a state prosecutor.
• Long-Hauling Taxis: Some drivers take you on a longer path by pretending to misunderstand your destination or driving into traffic jams.
• Overcharging Taxis: Taxi drivers, even reputable ones, may inflate the fare, guessing you don't know the standard price. Always negotiate the fare before getting in.

Sexual assault

Sexual violence in Bolivia is a serious issue, with the country having the highest rate of sexual violence in Latin America. This violence is overwhelmingly committed by men against women and can take many forms, including rape, domestic violence, harassment, and objectification. It occurs in both public and private spaces and affects both individual women and their communities.

Bolivia has some of the lowest reporting rates for sexual violence in the region, and those who do come forward face significant barriers to accessing justice. This is due in part to the lack of a definition of consent in Bolivian law, which requires survivors to prove "intimidation, physical violence, or psychological violence" to make a case. Additionally, judges have discretion over applying the law of estupro, which creates a loophole in an already biased system.

The Inter-American Court of Human Rights has ruled that the Bolivian government must reform its criminal codes to make lack of consent central to its definition of rape crimes. This ruling is legally binding and sets a precedent for similar cases across Latin America. The court found that the current system revictimizes survivors and that legal processes are too slow, especially in cases involving minors.

U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault in Bolivia are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance. They can also report crimes to the local police and contact the National Tourism Police, which provides free assistance in English to tourists.

Altitude sickness

The best way to prevent altitude sickness is to ascend gradually and give your body time to adjust to the higher elevation. If possible, start your trip in a lower-altitude city like Santa Cruz or Sucre and work your way up to higher elevations. This will allow your body to acclimatize to the changing altitudes more gradually. It is recommended to stay below 3,000 meters (10,000 feet) for the first 24 hours and not to overexert yourself during this time.

There are also some other tips to help prevent altitude sickness:

• Stay properly hydrated by drinking at least four to six litres of fluids per day.
• Avoid alcohol and cigarettes, as they can worsen the symptoms of altitude sickness.
• Eat regularly, even if you have a loss of appetite. Aim for six light meals instead of three heavy ones, and try to consume a high-calorie diet with plenty of carbohydrates.
• Protect yourself from the sun with sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, as the risk of sunburn is increased at higher altitudes.

If you do start to experience symptoms of altitude sickness, it is important to take it easy and rest. Do not engage in intense physical activity, and consider taking a taxi or the cable car instead of walking. You can also try some of the following remedies:

• Coca leaves or coca tea: Chewing coca leaves or drinking coca tea is a traditional remedy for altitude sickness. Coca leaves are supposed to prevent symptoms, and many people find that they help, although there is no scientific evidence to support this.
• Diamox pills: These are prescription pills that can help alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness. Consult your doctor before taking any medication.
• Oxygen shots: If you are on a trek, you may be able to take portable oxygen shots, or you may find oxygen tanks in some hotels.

If your symptoms persist or worsen, it is important to seek medical advice. Altitude sickness can lead to more serious health problems, including High-Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE) and High-Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE), which can be life-threatening.

Frequently asked questions