Exploring Bolivia: Navigating Challenges For The Determined Traveler

Bolivia is a country of extremes, with a dizzying array of climates, cultures, attractions and adventures. However, it is not the easiest country to visit. While Bolivia is considered one of the safest countries in South America, it is not without its dangers. From petty crime to drug gangs, fake police to dodgy taxis, there are many pitfalls for the unprepared traveller. Add to that the potential for flooding, landslides, political upheaval and transport strikes, and it is clear that visiting Bolivia requires careful planning and a degree of flexibility.

Transport: Delays and cancellations are common, so it's important to be flexible

Delays and cancellations are common in Bolivia, so it's important to be flexible with your travel plans. Here are some things to keep in mind:

Roadblocks and Strikes

Civil unrest, demonstrations, strikes, and roadblocks can occur at any time in Bolivia and may result in travel disruptions. These events can happen with little warning and may turn violent. Roadblocks may cut off traffic and restrict the flow of goods and services, stranding travellers. It is illegal to cross roadblocks set up by protesters, and you should avoid crowds as they can become violent. It is recommended to monitor local media and be prepared to adjust your travel plans as needed.

Transport Delays

Transport delays are common in Bolivia, and it is advisable to give yourself a flexible itinerary. Buses may leave late or arrive early, and inter-country flights may be cancelled if they are not full. Car trips can also take longer than expected due to bad road conditions during the rainy season. It is advisable to use overnight buses for travel between cities, as they are more reliable and cheaper than flights.

Flight Delays and Cancellations

Domestic and international flights may be delayed or unexpectedly cancelled due to civil unrest or other factors. It is recommended to contact your airline or travel agency prior to travel to stay informed about any potential delays or cancellations.

Public Transportation

Using public transportation in Bolivia is a great way to interact with the local people and culture. However, it can also be unsafe due to poor road conditions, driving standards, and vehicle maintenance. Radio taxis, independent taxis, trufis (shared taxis), minis (15-passenger vans), and micros (colourful school buses) are some of the public transportation options available. It is recommended to use well-known radio taxi companies and avoid independent taxis, as they can be unsafe for foreigners.

Travel During the Rainy Season

The rainy season in Bolivia is from November to March (or April, according to another source), and it can cause severe transport disruptions, particularly in the southeast region. Flooding and landslides during this time can make road travel difficult. If you plan to travel during the rainy season, it is advisable to confirm your travel arrangements in advance and check local weather reports.

Safety: Bolivia has a big issue with poverty, gangs, and petty crime

Bolivia is considered one of the safest countries to travel to in South America. However, it is important to be aware of the country's economic situation, which is marked by poverty, gangs, and petty crime.

Bolivia is one of the poorest countries in the region, and this has led to a rise in theft and violent crime in recent years. Tourists are often seen as wealthy and are therefore targeted by thieves. Common crimes against tourists include opportunistic theft, express kidnapping, and scams. To reduce the risk of theft, it is recommended to keep valuables out of sight and to carry an emergency stash of cash. Bus stations, markets, city centres, and other crowded public places are favourite hunting grounds for thieves. It is also important to be cautious when using taxis, as some drivers may be working with criminals.

In addition to petty crime, Bolivia also has a problem with gangs and drug trafficking. The country is the third-largest producer of cocaine in the world, and this has led to the presence of powerful criminal organisations and increased violence. Criminal gangs are also involved in human smuggling, arms trafficking, and the illegal trade of excise goods.

To stay safe in Bolivia, it is important to be vigilant and take precautions such as using secure holders for valuables, keeping an emergency stash of cash, and avoiding areas known for drug-related activities. It is also recommended to stay informed about the local news and political situation, as protests and demonstrations are common and can turn violent.

Health: Malaria and dengue fever are present, and there's a risk of altitude sickness

Bolivia is a country in the heart of South America, known for its dramatic landscapes, from pristine rainforests and high-altitude salt flats to culturally rich cities. However, there are some health risks to be aware of when visiting Bolivia, including the presence of malaria, dengue fever, and the risk of altitude sickness.

Malaria

Malaria is a mosquito-borne disease that is present in the lowland areas of Bolivia, particularly the Amazon region. While antimalarial medications can help reduce the risk of contracting the disease, it is essential to take precautions to avoid mosquito bites. This includes wearing long-sleeved clothing, using mosquito nets, and applying effective mosquito repellents.

Dengue Fever

Dengue fever is another mosquito-borne disease that has been increasingly reported in Bolivia. Dengue fever is caused by a virus transmitted by Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, mainly in urban and semi-urban areas. Symptoms of dengue fever can include fever, severe joint pain, and in rare cases, neurological complications. As there is no specific treatment for dengue fever, prevention through mosquito bite avoidance is crucial.

Altitude Sickness

Altitude sickness, or acute mountain sickness (AMS), is a serious risk in western Bolivia, where many tourist destinations are located at high altitudes. The risk of AMS increases with faster ascent, higher altitude, and physical exertion. Symptoms of AMS include headaches, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, fatigue, insomnia, and loss of appetite. In rare cases, AMS can progress to more severe conditions such as High-Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE) and High-Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE), which can be life-threatening. To prevent altitude sickness, it is recommended to ascend slowly, acclimatize properly, and take rest days. Avoiding overexertion, staying hydrated, and refraining from alcohol can also help reduce the risk of altitude sickness.

Visa: Some nationalities need a tourist visa, and others don't

Visa Requirements for Bolivia

The visa requirements for Bolivia depend on your nationality and the type of passport you hold. The Bolivian government has classified countries into three groups, each with different entry requirements. Here are the key things to know about visa requirements for Bolivia:

Group 1 Countries

Passport holders from Group 1 countries do not need a visa to enter Bolivia. They can enter visa-free by presenting a valid passport with a minimum validity of six months and a valid immigration card at the border. This group includes citizens of the UK, most EU and EEA countries, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and most South American nations.

Group 2 Countries

Citizens from Group 2 countries need to apply for a visa to enter Bolivia. They can obtain a visa either at a Bolivian embassy or directly at the border. Obtaining the visa at a Bolivian embassy in advance is free of charge, but obtaining it at the border incurs a $95 USD fee.

Group 3 Countries

Nationals from Group 3 countries must apply for a visa in advance at a Bolivian embassy before their travel. The cost of the visa is $30 USD. Passport holders from these countries cannot obtain a visa at the border and must ensure they have the necessary documentation before their arrival in Bolivia.

It is essential to determine which group your country belongs to and understand the specific requirements for your nationality. You can use online tools, such as the Bolivia Hop Visa tool, to check your group and the necessary requirements. Additionally, it is always advisable to contact your local Bolivian consulate or embassy for the most up-to-date and accurate information on visa requirements, processing times, and fees.

Additional Entry Requirements for All Nationalities

Regardless of the group your country belongs to, there are some standard requirements that apply to all visitors entering Bolivia:

• Your passport must have at least six months of validity remaining from the date of entry.
• If you are entering Bolivia from Peru, you must use the same passport that you used to enter Peru.
• Dual citizens cannot switch passports at the Bolivian border.
• An international certificate of yellow fever vaccination may be required, especially if arriving from certain countries.
• U.S. citizens are required to obtain a visa and may stay for up to 30 days per trip, not exceeding 90 days per year. The Bolivian visitor visa costs $160 USD and can be paid in U.S. currency or local currency upon arrival.

Culture: Learning some basic Spanish and local etiquette can make your trip smoother

Bolivia is a country of extremes, from snowy mountain peaks to the Amazonian jungle, and its culture is equally diverse. Learning some basic Spanish phrases and local etiquette will make your trip smoother and more enjoyable.

Language

Spanish is the main and official language of Bolivia, but there are around 39 other living languages spoken across the country. These include Aymara, Chiquitano, Chiriguano, and Guyara. About 50% of the population has an indigenous language as their mother tongue.

The Spanish spoken in Bolivia differs from region to region due to its mixing with indigenous languages. The vocabulary and pronunciation vary depending on whether you are in the highlands (Altiplano and valleys) or the lowlands (Santa Cruz, Beni, and Pando).

English is spoken quite widely in touristy areas such as Sucre, Uyuni, and Rurrenabaque in the Amazon region, but you'll encounter fewer English speakers when you head off the beaten track. Learning some basic Spanish phrases or taking Spanish lessons before your trip is highly recommended. At the very least, learn enough Spanish to help you navigate public transportation, find accommodation, and order meals.

Greeting People

Bolivians tend to be quite formal, especially in the highlands, and old-fashioned values of politeness and courtesy are still widespread. It is considered rude not to greet everyone you talk to with a formal "good morning/afternoon/evening" ("buenos dias, buenas tardes/noches"). In smaller towns and villages, even strangers often exchange greetings as they pass on the street.

When addressing people, use "señor" or "señora" (Mr or Mrs) or a formal title such as "doctor" where appropriate. Stick to the formal "usted" ("you") for people you don't know well, rather than the informal "tú".

On the Altiplano, the male and female forms of "friend"—"amigo" and "amiga"—are commonly used. Greeting someone with a polite "buenos días," "buenos tardes," or "buenos noches" is also appropriate.

Dining Etiquette

Punctuality is not expected when invited to someone's house for a meal—arriving 20 to 30 minutes late is common. It is considered polite to refuse food the first time it is offered and wait for the host to insist before accepting. Always use utensils, even for fruit.

The host usually says "buen provecho" ("enjoy your meal") to invite guests to eat. It is customary for the guest to be served first. Keep your elbows off the table, and wait for a toast to be made before taking the first sip of your drink. The host typically makes the first toast, often saying "Salud!" ("Cheers!").

Social Customs

Bolivians don't have the same concept of personal space as in some other countries. People will often stand very close to you, and if you back away, they may think you are being rude or that you are offended by something they said.

Bolivians also touch and gesture more than in some other countries. While talking to you, they may pat you on the back, touch your arm, or lean toward you.

In public places like buses and restaurants, try to match the volume of those around you. In general, avoid standing out by speaking or laughing too loudly. However, in social settings like bars, Bolivians can be very loud and boisterous, especially in Eastern Bolivia and Santa Cruz, where people tend to be more relaxed and informal.

Bolivians are generally very friendly toward foreigners, but they can quickly become less welcoming if you display bad manners. While they don't expect foreigners to know everything about their culture, making an effort is appreciated.

Clothing and Appearance

Attitudes toward appropriate clothing vary between the highlands and the tropical lowlands. In the conservative highlands, it is considered offensive to show too much skin. In remote villages, in particular, dressing modestly is essential. In the hot and humid lowlands, on the other hand, it is acceptable to wear shorts and sleeveless vests. Santa Cruz is particularly liberal in this regard.

Sensitivities

Race is a sensitive issue in Bolivia, and it is considered racist and offensive to refer to indigenous people as "Indios" (Indians). "Indigena" is a better term, but most people refer to themselves by their specific ethnic or linguistic group, such as Aymara or Quechua.

Religion, both Christian and indigenous, is also a serious matter. Always ask permission before intruding on ceremonies or taking photos, and act with respect and sensitivity inside churches and at fiestas or ritual events.

Sexism and Machismo

The sexism and machismo characteristic of Latin America is less prevalent in Bolivia than in many other countries, but it can still be an issue for foreign women, especially those travelling alone or in groups of women. Everyday sexual harassment, such as catcalling, is less common in high-altitude cities like La Paz, where indigenous cultures predominate, and more common in lower, warmer cities like Santa Cruz, where Latino culture is more influential.

During the lead-up to Carnaval in February and March, the custom of water fighting is sometimes used by men as an excuse to harass women. Sexual assault and rape are not common in Bolivia, but there have been incidents reported by female travellers. It is advisable to exercise at least the same degree of caution as you would in your home country.

Frequently asked questions