bolivia travel advisory level

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Bolivia Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

Packing List

After Your Trip

Be aware of current health issues in Bolivia. Learn how to protect yourself.

Level 1 Practice Usual Precautions

Oropouche Fever in the Americas June 05, 2024 There are outbreaks of Oropouche fever in parts of Brazil, Bolivia, Peru, Colombia, and Cuba. Travelers to affected areas should take steps to avoid bug bites. Destination List: Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Cuba, Peru

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Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

Chickenpox (Varicella)
Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
Flu (influenza)
Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see Your COVID-19 Vaccination for more information.

COVID-19 vaccine

Chikungunya

There has been evidence of chikungunya virus transmission in Bolivia within the last 5 years. Chikungunya vaccination may be considered for the following travelers:

People aged 65 years or older, especially those with underlying medical conditions, who may spend at least 2 weeks (cumulative time) in indoor or outdoor areas where mosquitoes are present in Bolivia, OR
People planning to stay in Bolivia for a cumulative period of 6 months or more

Chikungunya - CDC Yellow Book

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Bolivia.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to Bolivia. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to Bolivia.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

CDC recommends that travelers going to certain areas of Bolivia take prescription medicine to prevent malaria. Depending on the medicine you take, you will need to start taking this medicine multiple days before your trip, as well as during and after your trip. Talk to your doctor about which malaria medication you should take.

Find country-specific information about malaria.

Malaria - CDC Yellow Book

Considerations when choosing a drug for malaria prophylaxis (CDC Yellow Book)

Malaria information for Bolivia.

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Dogs infected with rabies are commonly found in Bolivia.

Rabies is also present in bats.

If rabies exposures occur while in Bolivia, rabies vaccines are typically available throughout most of the country.

Rabies pre-exposure vaccination considerations include whether travelers 1) will be performing occupational or recreational activities that increase risk for exposure to potentially rabid animals and 2) might have difficulty getting prompt access to safe post-exposure prophylaxis.

Please consult with a healthcare provider to determine whether you should receive pre-exposure vaccination before travel.

For more information, see country rabies status assessments .

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

Yellow Fever

Required for travelers ≥1 year old arriving from countries with risk for YF virus transmission. 1

Recommended for travelers ≥9 months old going to areas <2,300 m (≈7,550 ft) elevation, east of the Andes Mountains: the entire departments of Beni, Pando, Santa Cruz, and designated areas in the departments of Chuquisaca, Cochabamba, La Paz, and Tarija. Not recommended for travel limited to areas >2,300 m (≈7,550 ft) elevation and any areas not listed above, including the cities of La Paz (administrative capital) and Sucre (constitutional [legislative and judicial] capital).

Yellow Fever - CDC Yellow Book

Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
Avoid contaminated water and soil
Avoid floodwater

Clinical Guidance

Avoid bug bites, chagas disease (american trypanosomiasis).

Accidentally rub feces (poop) of the triatomine bug into the bug bite, other breaks in the skin, your eyes, or mouth
From pregnant woman to her baby, contaminated blood products (transfusions), or contaminated food or drink.
Avoid Bug Bites

Chagas disease

Mosquito bite

Leishmaniasis

Sand fly bite
An infected pregnant woman can spread it to her unborn baby

Airborne & droplet

Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
Bite from an infected rodent
Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
Avoid rodents and areas where they live
Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Bolivia, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH)
Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Bolivia. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
2-undecanone
Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Bolivia include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
Do not dive into shallow water.
Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Leptospirosis, a bacterial infection that can be spread in fresh water, is found in Bolivia. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
Go to a doctor right away.
Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

Use latex condoms correctly.
Do not inject drugs.
Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Bolivia’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Malaria is a risk in some parts of Bolivia. If you are going to a risk area, fill your malaria prescription before you leave, and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the pills; some need to be started before you leave.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

Wear a seatbelt at all times.
Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Bolivia may be poor.
Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
If you choose to drive a vehicle in Bolivia, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
Follow all local laws and social customs.
Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Bolivia for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.

Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

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Travel Advisory June 6, 2024

Bolivia - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued after annual review.

Exercise increased caution in Bolivia due to civil unrest. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Do not travel to:

Chapare region due to crime.

Country Summary : Demonstrations, strikes, and roadblocks can occur at any time in Bolivia. Demonstrations can result in violence. 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.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Bolivia.

If you decide to travel to Bolivia:

Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans.
Contact your airline or travel agency prior to travel.
Avoid demonstration and crowds.
Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
Follow the Department of State on Facebook , Twitter , and Instagram .
Review the Country Security Report for Bolivia.
Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist .

Chapare Region: Do Not Travel

Due to a high level of violent crime , the U.S. government is limited in its ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in the Chapare region. U.S. government employees must obtain special authorization to travel there.

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas .

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

Six months (as of entry date into the country).

One page per stamp.

Yellow Fever.

Embassies and Consulates

U.S. Embassy La Paz Avenida Arce 2780 La Paz, Bolivia Telephone: + (591) (2) 216-8000 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: + (591) (2) 216-8000 Fax: + (591) (2) 216-8111 Email: [email protected]

United States Consular Agency, Santa Cruz, Bolivia Edificio Empresarial Equipetrol, 4 th Floor Intersection of Av. San Martin and Av. Las Ramblas Equipetrol Norte Santa Cruz, Bolivia Telephone: + (591) (2) 216-8000 Emergency after-hours telephone: +(591) 2-216-8000 Email: [email protected]

Destination Description

See the Department of State’s Fact Sheet on Bolivia for information on U.S.-Bolivia relations.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

All U.S. citizens visiting Bolivia are required to obtain a visa. Most types of visas are only available at a Bolivian Embassy or Consulate in the United States or neighboring country. Tourist visas can also be purchased at any land or air border. U.S. citizens who wish to extend their initial 30-day stay can apply for an extension through the Dirección General de Migración (National Migration Service), which has offices in most major cities. Visit the  U.S. Embassy in Bolivia  website for the most current visa information.

Entry Requirements:

Valid U.S. passport with at least six months validity remaining.
International Certificate of Yellow Fever Vaccination.
With a visitor visa, you may stay 30 days per trip, not to exceed 90 days per year. A Bolivian visitor 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. 
Visitors must provide proof of lodging in Bolivia including the address of the accommodation. If you are staying with friends or family, authorities may require a letter of invitation from the host.
If you purchase a visa at the airport, you will be required to provide a photocopy of your passport biographic page.
If you plan to work, study, volunteer, or conduct business in Bolivia, you must apply for a separate visa.
Make sure you get entry and exit stamps from the Bolivian authorities every time you enter or leave Bolivia.
If you received the Bolivian visa at a land border or entry port and you lose your passport, you will need to get a new visa and pay the $160 US visa fee to leave the country.
If you obtained your Bolivian visa at the Bolivian Embassy/Consulate in the United States and you lose your passport, you will need to get an exit stamp but will not be required to pay the visa fee. 
Bolivian citizen minors traveling alone or with only one parent who have remained in Bolivia for over 90 days must obtain authorization from the non-traveling parent or parents to leave Bolivia and may be required to present the original birth certificate. For more information, please contact the Embassy .

Dual Nationality : Upon entering and/or exiting Bolivia, U.S.-Bolivian citizens may be required to show a valid Bolivian identity document, such as a Bolivian cedula de identidad.

HIV Restrictions:  The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors or foreign residents of Bolivia. 

Find information on  dual nationality,   prevention of international child abduction , and  customs regulations  on our websites.

Safety and Security

Chapare and Yungas Regions : Organized criminal groups near Coroico and Carnavi in Yungas have committed carjackings and robberies. Additionally, government authorities have used force in past confrontations with residents over coca eradication, and pro-coca groups may attempt to target U.S. interests. Contact the Embassy before traveling to these regions.

Crime : Pick pocketing and petty theft are common.

Express kidnappings, in which tourists are robbed and forced to withdraw money from ATMs, occur infrequently in La Paz. Use only marked (radio) taxis and don’t travel alone, particularly late at night or if you’re under the influence of alcohol or other substances.
Avoid Coronilla Hill in Cochabamba next to the main bus terminal, due to crime.
Use caution if you plan to travel from Copacabana to La Paz by bus. Arrive during daylight hours if possible, verify the final destination, and buy tickets directly at the bus terminal.
Be aware of impostors. Organized criminal groups sometimes pose as police with the intent to rob foreigners. It is also a common scheme for criminals to pose as a crime victim, only to rob an unsuspecting bystander.
Theft of bags, wallets, and backpacks are a problem, especially in tourist areas and on overnight buses. Thieves sometimes distract victims by spraying water on their necks or placing a substance on their bags, and trick them into giving up their bags. Never leave personal items unattended.

Demonstrations occur frequently. They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events.

Demonstrations can be unpredictable, avoid areas around protests and demonstrations.
Past demonstrations have turned violent.
Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.
Avoid roadblocks or public demonstrations.
Consider the possibility of flight disruptions.
Take extra food, water, and warm clothing on road trips. Roadblocks may occur without warning and could strand you for several days.

Messages regarding demonstrations, strikes, and weather-related events are posted on the Embassy’s website .

International Financial Scams : See the Department of State and the FBI pages for information.

Victims of Crime :

U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance.

Report crimes to the local police at 110 and contact the U.S. Embassy at +591 (2) 216-8000. After working hours: +591 (2) 216-8000. The National Tourism Police provides free assistance in English to tourists. Contact the La Paz office at 800-14-0081 . Contact the Cochabamba office at +591 (4) 450-3880. In the city of Santa Cruz, contact Interpol at +591 (3) 349-7720.

Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime.

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

Help you find appropriate medical care
Assist you in reporting a crime to the police
Contact relatives or friends with your written consent
Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion
Provide a list of local attorneys
Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
Replace a stolen or lost passport

Domestic Violence : U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy for assistance.

Tourism: The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities do not commonly occur. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in/near major cities. First responders are generally unable to access areas outside of major cities and to provide urgent medical treatment. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance .

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties : You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.

Bolivian authorities are generally required to press official charges within 24 hours of arrest, and to release a detainee within 48 hours if no formal charges are brought. However, investigative and pre-trial periods may drag on indefinitely .

Bolivian law allows law enforcement officials to detain any foreigner pending proof of legal status in country (i.e. passport, visa, or residency card). Though this is rarely enforced, anyone who cannot produce proof of legal status may be detained until legal status is confirmed.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.

In Bolivia, you may find products made with wild plants and animals. Many of these products could involve protected or endangered species, whose sale and export are illegal. Any protected species that is sold or transported, either live or transformed into food, medicinal beverages, leather, handcrafts, garments, etc., could be seized by Bolivian authorities. Some products, including live animals, require special permits when leaving Bolivia. Knowingly importing into the United States wildlife or plants that were taken from the wild or sold in violation of the laws of Bolivia (or any other country) violates U.S. law.

Arrest Notification : If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage for further information.

Under Bolivian law, suspects can be detained for up to 18 months without formal charges during an investigation, and the detention period could be extended beyond 18 months.
Legal cases often drag on for years.

Mountain Trekking and Climbing Safety : Many popular trekking routes in the Bolivian Andes are at 16,000 feet or higher. Regardless of medical history or physical fitness, you may experience significant health issues due to the high altitude. Exercise extreme caution when trekking or climbing in Bolivia.

Trekkers must have adequate clothing and equipment, not always available locally, and should be experienced mountain travelers.
Don’t trek alone . Join an organized group and/or use a reputable firm to obtain an experienced guide and porter.
If you develop a severe headache, weakness, vomiting, shortness of breath at rest, cough, chest tightness, or unsteadiness while climbing, descend to a lower altitude immediately, and consider seeking medical attention.
Trekkers and climbers should purchase insurance that covers emergency services such as medical evacuations.
Satellite communication and internet connectivity can be limited or non-existent. Inform family members of your plans and note that you may not be reachable for extended periods.

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods : Although counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries, they may still be illegal according to local laws. You may also pay fines or have to give them up if you bring them back to the United States. See the U.S. Department of Justice website for more information.

Faith-Based Travelers: See our following webpages for details:

Faith-Based Travel Information
International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
Human Rights Report – see country reports
Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTQI+ Travelers: The Bolivian constitution prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTQI+ events in Bolivia.

See our LGBTQI+ Travel Information page and section 6 of our Human Rights report for further details.

Travelers with Disabilities: Bolivian law prohibits discrimination against persons with disabilities, and the law is unevenly enforced. Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is as prevalent as in the United States. The most common types of accessibility issues may include accessible facilities, information, and communication/access to services/ease of movement or access. Expect accessibility to be limited in public transportation, lodging, communication/information, and general infrastructure, and common in public transportation, lodging, communication/information, and general infrastructure.

Students: See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers: Bolivia has one of the highest domestic violence rates against women in South America. A very high percentage of women in Bolivia have experienced intimate partner violence. See our travel tips for Women Travelers .

COVID-19 Testing: Numerous private and public clinics throughout Bolivia offer COVID-19 testing. For a comprehensive list of COVID-19 testing centers, please visit our medical assistance page .

The designated government agency regulating COVID-19 testing in Bolivia is the Servicio Departamental de Salud (SEDES). There are 9 branches of SEDES in the 9 Departments of Bolivia.

The first step is to contact SEDES for evaluation at 800-10-2930.
Antigen and RT-PCR tests are both widely available. The two available tests are the Quick Test and the PCR test.
The tests are available at most private labs and in some hospitals.
The price for an Antigen test is around 150bs. The cost for a RT-PCR test is approximately 450bs.
COVID-19 tests results can be issued by email, text messages or physical copies.

COVID-19 Vaccines: The COVID-19 vaccine is available for U.S. citizens to receive in Bolivia. Visit the FDA's website to  learn more about FDA-approved vaccines  in the United States.  

Medical care in large cities is adequate, but of varying quality. Medical facilities are generally not equipped to handle serious medical conditions, and risk of infection is high. Emergency medical care outside of large cities, in rural areas, and inside national parks is inadequate.

For emergency services in Bolivia, dial 110.

Ambulance services are not widely available and training and availability of emergency responders may be below U.S. standards.

We do not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas.

Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance : Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on overseas insurance. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging along with your doctor’s prescription.

Vaccinations: Be up to date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

World Health Organization
U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Air Quality: Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals . We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Health facilities in general:

Private hospitals usually require advance payment or proof of adequate insurance before admitting a patient.

Medical Tourism and Elective Surgery:

Medical tourism is a rapidly growing industry. People seeking health care overseas should understand that medical systems operate differently from those in the United States and are not subject to the same rules and regulations. Anyone interested in traveling for medical purposes should consult with their local physician before traveling and visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information on Medical Tourism.

Pharmaceuticals:

Exercise caution when purchasing medication overseas. Pharmaceuticals, both over the counter and requiring prescription in the United States, are often readily available for purchase with little controls. Counterfeit medication is common and may prove to be ineffective, the wrong strength, or contain dangerous ingredients. Medication should be purchased in consultation with a medical professional and from reputable establishments.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration are responsible for rules governing the transport of medication back to the United States. Medication purchased abroad must meet their requirements to be legally brought back into the United States. Medication should be for personal use and must be approved for usage in the United States. Please visit the U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration websites for more information.

Assisted Reproductive Technology and Surrogacy:

If you are considering traveling to Bolivia to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please see our ART and Surrogacy Abroad page .

Water Quality:

In many areas, tap water is not potable. Bottled water and beverages are generally safe, although you should be aware that many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested. Be aware that ice for drinks may be made using tap water.

Many cities in Bolivia, such as La Paz, are at high altitude. Be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness and take precautions before you travel. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about Travel to High Altitudes .

Adventure Travel:

Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about Adventure Travel.

The following diseases are prevalent in Bolivia:

Dengue
Yellow Fever
Chikungunya
Zika
Use the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended mosquito repellents and sleep under insecticide-impregnated mosquito nets. Chemoprophylaxis is recommended for all travelers even for short stays.
Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about Resources for Travelers regarding specific issues in Bolivia.

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety: Use extreme caution when driving on roadways. Few highways have shoulders, fencing or barriers, and lane markings are minimal. Even when lanes are marked, it is common for drivers to disregard them.

Although La Paz, Santa Cruz, and Cochabamba are connected by highways, most roads in Bolivia are unpaved.
Four-wheel drive vehicles are recommended for trips outside major cities.
Travel during the rainy season (November-March) is difficult, as most routes have potholes, and roads and bridges may be washed out.
Other dangers include poor maintenance and overloaded vehicles, lack of lights on some vehicles, and intoxicated or overly tired drivers, including commercial bus and truck drivers.
Stop signs are rare, and drivers commonly disregard red lights, particularly at night.

Traffic Laws: Most drivers lack formal training. Maintain situational awareness on the roads and employ defensive driving skills.

Drivers do not normally yield to pedestrians.
If you are involved in a traffic accident , stay at the scene until local police arrive. Leaving the scene is illegal under Bolivian law. The police may assess a percentage of fault to you relative to their assessment of your responsibility for the incident.

Public Transportation:

See our Road Safety page for more information.

Avoid taking unlicensed taxis, and use radio taxis whenever possible.
The majority of intercity travel is by minibus, with varying levels of safety and service. Bus accidents are responsible for death and severe injuries.

Aviation Safety Oversight: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of Bolivia’s Civil Aviation Authority to be in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Bolivia’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page .

For additional travel information

Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
See the State Department’s travel website for the Worldwide Caution and Travel Advisories .
Follow us on Twitter and Facebook .
See traveling safely abroad for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Bolivia . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Bolivia travel advice

Latest updates: Health – updated information on medication

Last updated: June 20, 2024 13:09 ET

Demonstrations

Demonstrations and labour strikes occur frequently, often with little or no notice. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation. Protesters may also use dynamite during protests. The police often respond with tear gas to disperse crowds.

Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
Follow the instructions of local authorities
Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, is common in large cities, including La Paz and Santa Cruz. Thieves target tourist areas and public transport. Theft also occurs in unofficial taxis.

Only use a reputable taxi company or a trusted ride-sharing app
Avoid hailing taxis on the street

Criminals often operate in organized groups. They will distract victims while an accomplice steals from them. Strategies include:

staging a fight
starting a conversation or offering help
blocking a sidewalk
throwing an object or liquid on the victims, then offering to help clean up
posing as a victim of crime
posing as a law enforcement officer
using a young child to lure a tourist to a separate location

To avoid becoming a victim of theft:

ensure that your belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
don’t travel alone, especially at night
be cautious of strangers approaching you
remain alert to your surroundings at all times
avoid showing signs of affluence
avoid carrying large sums of money
keep cellphones, cameras and other electronic equipment out of sight

Violent and drug-related crime

Violent crime against tourists is uncommon but does occur. Foreigners have been victims of armed robberies and assaults at tourist destinations.

Violent crime, carjacking and civil unrest, mainly associated with drug trafficking, pose risks in:

the Chapare region between Santa Cruz and Cochabamba
the Yungas region, northeast of La Paz
border areas with Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Paraguay and Peru

Fraudulent police officers

Criminals often pose as police officers and ask to examine the traveller’s belongings or ask the traveller to accompany them to a bogus police station, sometimes in collusion with a criminal posing as a taxi driver or as another traveller.

Under Bolivian law, there’s no obligation to go with an officer to a police station unless they have a formal written request from a judge with your name on it. Any search or seizure must occur at a genuine police station in the prosecutor's presence.

If you’re stopped while travelling by someone claiming to be a local authority, ask to see their official identification.

Overseas fraud

Credit card and ATM fraud

Credit card and ATM fraud occurs. When using debit or credit cards:

pay careful attention when others are handling your cards
use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business
avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Vehicle and auto-parts theft, as well as theft from vehicles, are common throughout Bolivia.

Keep valuables in the trunk, and only when necessary
Park your car in a supervised lot
Keep car windows and doors locked at all times

Express kidnapping

There is a risk of express kidnappings. Criminals ask for small, immediate ransoms. They usually force their victims to withdraw funds from an ATM or to arrange for family or friends to pay the ransom. This ploy is often used by criminal taxi drivers, who pick up the victim and then stop to pick up associates. These kidnappings are committed by organized gangs and occur throughout the country.

Use only reputable taxi companies or ride-sharing apps
If armed criminals threaten you, cooperate and don’t resist

Women's safety

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment or verbal abuse.

Incidents of sexual assault against women travellers have occurred, including on guided tours.

Do not accept offers of transportation from strangers
Keep your hotel doors and windows locked

Advice for women travellers

Spiked food and drinks

There are reports of criminals adding drugs into items that could put you at risk of sexual assault or robbery. Items include food and drinks.

Incidents are most likely to occur:

in nightclubs
in bars and restaurants
on public transportation, including taxis on the street

While you’re in Bolivia:

be wary of accepting these items from new acquaintances
never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers
ask for drinks coming from sealed bottles or cans instead of in plastic cups

Adventure tourism

There are no official minimum safety standards for tour operators, and reputable tour operators are limited.

Only participate in tours with well-established companies for adventure tourist activities, including:

Salar de Uyuni
jungle expeditions
mountain biking, including old Yungas Road (commonly known as “Death Road”)
Potosi mine tours

Be vigilant when hiking or trekking as criminals have targeted these tourist areas:

in the areas surrounding La Paz, such as the Muela del Diablo
near Rurrenabaque
the Bolivian Andes
in the Yungas region
on the Inca trail

If you intend to participate in adventure tourism activities:

stay on marked trails and consider hiring an experienced guide from a reputable company
obtain detailed information on your activity and on the environment in which you will be setting out
buy travel insurance that covers incidents related to this type of recreational activity
ensure that your physical condition is good enough to tackle the challenges of your activity
ensure that you have proper equipment and bring sufficient water
monitor weather conditions and other possible hazards;
share your itinerary with a friend or family member if hiking alone
know the symptoms of acute altitude sickness, dehydration and heatstroke, which can be fatal
stay away from stray dogs, which can be aggressive and carry rabies.

Useful links:

National registration of tourist services – Government of Bolivia (in Spanish)
Certified mountain guides - Bolivian mountain guides association (in Spanish)

Spiritual cleansing ceremonies

Spiritual cleansing ceremonies involving hallucinogenic substances (ayahuasca, peyote, San Pedro, etc.) have led to serious illness, injury, physical and sexual assault and even the deaths of several tourists.

Ceremonies involve consuming substances that can cause medical complications and severely impair cognitive and physical abilities. They often take place in remote areas with no access to medical or mental health facilities or resources. Often, there is no access to communications with local authorities. Facilities generally lack basic first aid or emergency plans to help those suffering from physical or psychological illness during these ceremonies.

Spiritual cleansing ceremonies are not regulated and individuals offering them are not licensed. There is no way to assess the safety of any of the services or the operators.

Avoid participating in spiritual cleansing ceremonies using hallucinogenic substances.

Road safety

Road safety is poor throughout the country. Accidents and fatalities are common.

Road conditions

Road conditions are poor throughout the country.

Although improved highways connect Cochabamba, La Paz, Santa Cruz and Sucre, many roads in Bolivia are unpaved. The old Yungas Road (commonly known as “Death Road”) is considered one of the world’s most dangerous roads.

Driving can also be dangerous due to:

narrow, winding and mountainous roads
lack of guardrails
insufficient lighting
lack of traffic signs
poorly marked construction sites
unpaved roads
torrential rain and landslides
poorly maintained vehicles

Four-wheel-drive vehicles are necessary outside major cities, especially in mountainous areas and during the rainy season.

Driving habits

Drinking and driving is common.

Drivers do not always respect traffic laws. Drivers can be aggressive and reckless and often speed.

Water activities

Lifeguard services do not always meet Canadian standards. Most lakes do not have warning flags to alert of unsafe conditions.

Consult residents and tour operators for information on possible hazards and safe swimming areas

If you take a boat tour:

make sure the boat you are boarding is carrying appropriate safety equipment, including life jackets accessible for all passengers at all times
don’t board boats that appear overloaded or unsafe
verify the safety standards of boats with your tour operator
if you have any doubts about the safety of the equipment, do not use it.

Water safety abroad

Public transportation

Crime is high in public transportation and at transportation hubs. Accidents are common due to:

poor maintenance of vehicles
lack of safety standards
poor road conditions

Buses and coaches

Road accidents involving local/interurban buses are frequent, especially with overnight buses.

If you choose to travel by intercity bus, exercise caution in:

La Paz bus terminals due to petty crime, including:
the main bus terminal on Peru Avenue in Zona Norte
the terminal near the La Paz cemetery, and the Minasa terminal in Zona Villa Fatima
the Santa Cruz bus/train terminal, where violent crimes against foreigners have occurred
Coronilla Hill, adjacent to the main bus terminal in Cochabamba, due to assaults

Accidents involving poorly maintained coaches have caused death and injuries among tourists.

Only use tour buses operated by well-known, reputable companies. If you have any doubt about the safety of a bus or its driver, use another company.

Many taxis are poorly maintained and do not have functional seatbelts.

You can call registered radio taxi companies from a landline or from a hotel. Radio taxis are identifiable by the telephone number and name of the taxi company on the vehicle’s roof.

Avoid hailing taxis on the street and taking motorcycle taxis
Note the driver’s name on his or her photo identification card and license number
Exercise caution when taking cabs to and from airports, especially in Santa Cruz and La Paz, where tourists have been the victims of robberies
Decline transportation from people offering cheaper fares
Never share a taxi with strangers
Confirm the fare in advance , as taxis are not equipped with meters

Ridesharing services

Ride-sharing services are not available in many cities.

If you use a ride-sharing app:

confirm the driver’s identity and license plate before getting in the car
use the security features in rideshare apps

Train service is limited and irregular.

You can cross Lake Titicaca by ferry.

If you choose to travel by ferry:

make sure the ferry you are boarding is carrying appropriate safety equipment
make sure that life jackets are provided for all passengers and accessible at all times
avoid boarding ferries that appear overloaded
verify the safety standards of ferries with your tour operator

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Bolivian authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date you arrive in Bolivia.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

Foreign Representatives in Canada
Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required for stays up to 30 days Business visa: required Student visa: required Volunteer work visa: required

Registration

All foreign residents and tourists must complete the web-based registration process (SIGEMIG) prior to arriving in Bolivia. Registration must include lodging information for the entire stay.

If you have not completed the electronic registration prior to arriving in Bolivia, immigration agents at the port of entry will register you and give you further instructions. If you fail to comply, you will be subject to fines upon leaving the country.

Address registration – General Directorate of Migration (in Spanish)

Extensions of tourist visa

Applications for tourist visa extensions must be submitted to the General Directorate of Migration before the end of the 30-day period. A 30-day extension can be obtained twice, at no extra cost and to a maximum of 90 days during one calendar year.

If you overstay the 90-day period without proper authorization, you may be fined upon departure.

Other entry and exit requirements

Customs officials may ask you to show them a return or onward ticket and proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay.

When arriving by land, ensure your passport is stamped upon exiting the country you’re leaving and upon entering Bolivia. If you fail to do so, you’ll be fined upon departure. Avoid travelling at night when border officials and police may not be present.

Luggage screening

Bolivia employs strict luggage screening measures at its international airports. You must complete an online declaration form prior to luggage screening and show an electronic or printed version of the QR code to authorities. All luggage is routinely X-rayed upon arrival.

Children and travel

Bolivia has strict requirements for the entry and exit of persons under the age of 18, including special documentation.

Parents of children travelling alone, with one parent or with another individual are strongly encouraged to contact the nearest Bolivian embassy or consulate before departure to ensure that the latest entry and exit requirements, which may change without notice, are met.

Travelling with children

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
Zika virus: Advice for travellers - 31 August, 2023
COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024
Dengue: Advice for travellers - 6 May, 2024
Oropouche fever in the Americas - 17 June, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary.

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

There is a risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

Proof of vaccination is required if you are coming from a country where yellow fever occurs.

Recommendation

Vaccination is recommended depending on your itinerary.
Contact a designated Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre well in advance of your trip to arrange for vaccination.
Discuss travel plans, activities, and destinations with a health care professional.
Protect yourself from mosquito bites .

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada * It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus. Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.

The flu occurs worldwide.

In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to April.
In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and October.
In the tropics, there is flu activity year round.

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

Malaria is a serious and sometimes fatal disease that is caused by parasites spread through the bites of mosquitoes. There is a risk of malaria in certain areas and/or during a certain time of year in this destination.

Antimalarial medication may be recommended depending on your itinerary and the time of year you are travelling. Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic before travelling to discuss your options. It is recommended to do this 6 weeks before travel, however, it is still a good idea any time before leaving. Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times: • Cover your skin and use an approved insect repellent on uncovered skin. • Exclude mosquitoes from your living area with screening and/or closed, well-sealed doors and windows. • Use insecticide-treated bed nets if mosquitoes cannot be excluded from your living area. • Wear permethrin-treated clothing. If you develop symptoms similar to malaria when you are travelling or up to a year after you return home, see a health care professional immediately. Tell them where you have been travelling or living.

In this destination, rabies is commonly carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. In this destination, rabies treatment may be limited or may not be available, therefore you may need to return to Canada for treatment.

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals).

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs.

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
Minimize exposure to insects
Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

There is a risk of chikungunya in this country. The risk may vary between regions of a country. Chikungunya is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.

Cutaneous and mucosal leishmaniasis causes skin sores and ulcers. It is caused by a parasite spread through the bite of a female sandfly.

Risk is generally low for most travellers. Protect yourself from sandfly bites, which typically occur after sunset in rural and forested areas and in some urban centres. There is no vaccine or medication to protect against leishmaniasis.

In this country, dengue is a risk to travellers. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
Protect yourself from mosquito bites . There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue.

Zika virus is a risk in this country.

Zika virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can also be sexually transmitted. Zika virus can cause serious birth defects.

During your trip:

Prevent mosquito bites at all times.
Use condoms correctly or avoid sexual contact, particularly if you are pregnant.

If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, you should discuss the potential risks of travelling to this destination with your health care provider. You may choose to avoid or postpone travel.

For more information, see Zika virus: Pregnant or planning a pregnancy.

American trypanosomiasis (Chagas disease) is a risk in this country. It is caused by a parasite spread by infected triatomine bugs. The infection can be inactive for decades, but humans can eventually develop complications causing disability and even death.

Risk is generally low for most travellers. Protect yourself from triatomine bugs, which are active at night, by using mosquito nets if staying in poorly-constructed housing. There is no vaccine available for Chagas disease.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

washing your hands often
avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.

Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.

For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.

Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care professional.

High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.

Medical services and facilities

The quality of health care varies greatly throughout the country. Good health care is available only in private hospitals in larger cities.

Public medical services and facilities have limited resources and don’t meet Canadian standards. There’s limited access to healthcare facilities and medical assistance in rural areas, including tourist areas. It can take days to receive medical services in remote areas.

Ambulance services are limited throughout Bolivia.

If you have doubts about the medical services you are being provided, contact the Embassy of Canada.

Evacuation by air ambulance can be difficult. Some air ambulance providers are unable to fly into locations at higher altitudes, such as La Paz. You may need it in case of serious illness or injury.

Most healthcare providers speak only Spanish.

Many clinics and hospitals accept cash only. They may require upfront payment or proof of medical insurance before providing medical services, even in an emergency.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Altitude sickness

You’re at risk of altitude sickness if you travel 2500 metres above sea level or more.

In some departments, you may experience health problems due to high altitudes including in:

La Paz (3,640 metres above sea level)
Uyuni (3,656 metres above sea level)
Oruro (3,735 metres above sea level)
Potosi (4,090 metres above sea level)

You're more at risk if you:

ascend quickly
exercise or drink alcohol before you get used to the altitude

Altitude sickness can be fatal. You may require immediate medical evacuation, which is less accessible in remote areas. Seek medical attention at a lower altitude if you develop symptoms.

Well on Your Way - A Canadian’s Guide to Healthy Travel Abroad

There is a shortage of prescription medication in Bolivia.

If you travel to Bolivia, bring enough prescription and over-the-counter medication for the duration of your trip.

Always keep your medication in the original container
Pack your medication in your carry-on luggage
Carry a copy of your prescriptions

Certain prescription and over-the-counter medications legally available in Canada are listed as controlled substances in Bolivia.

If you attempt to bring banned medication into Bolivia, you may be subject to:

confiscation of medication
heavy fines
jail sentences

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Transfer to a Canadian prison

No transfer of offender’s treaty exists between Canada and Bolivia. If you’re convicted of a serious crime, you must serve your jail sentence in Bolivia. You may also have to remain in the country for a parole period after your release.

Detention conditions may be below the standards of Canadian prisons.

Bolivian drug laws include a zero-tolerance policy. Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect lengthy prison sentences and heavy fines.

Travellers have fallen victim to scams in which illegal drugs are hidden inside objects or luggage that an acquaintance has asked them to bring to or take away from Bolivia. Dating websites are a source of such scams.

Pack your own luggage
Never transport luggage or packages on behalf of another person

Unlicensed bars

Unlicensed bars in Bolivia are illegal. They are known to sell drugs. Police may detain and question you if they raid the establishment, even if you’re not consuming any illegal substances.

Avoid unlicensed bars.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

It’s illegal to export any item that the Bolivian government considers a national treasure (Patrimonio cultural) without formal written permission from the Ministry of Culture, including:

pre-Columbian artifacts
historical paintings
items of Spanish colonial architecture and history
native textiles
flora, fauna and fossils

Any type of excavation for fossils or collection of fossils without prior written authorization is illegal.

Coca leaves

It’s illegal to import coca leaves and related products into Canada.

Controlled drugs and substances act – Government of Canada

Identification

Police and immigration officials occasionally conduct identification checks. You may have to present your passport upon check-in at hotels and other commercial accommodation providers.

Carry copies of your passport and Bolivian entry stamp pages of your passport
Never leave your passport or any other identity document with anyone

Photography

Locals may find the presence of photographers intrusive, particularly in remote areas.

Be careful when travelling with cameras and communications devices
Befort taking someone’s photo, ask for permission

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

Bolivian law does not prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex.

Homosexuality is increasingly socially accepted, but much of Bolivian society remains conservative. 2SLGBTQI+ travellers could be discriminated against based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression or sex characteristics.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Bolivia.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Bolivia, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Travellers with dual citizenship

Military service

Military service is compulsory in Bolivia. Males aged 18 or over who are dual citizens must undertake military service upon arrival in the country.

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and Bolivia.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Bolivia by an abducting parent:

act as quickly as you can
consult a lawyer in Canada and in Bolivia to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children's Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.

International Child Abductions: A guide for affected parents
Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
Request emergency assistance

You must carry an international driving permit to rent or drive a vehicle.

The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.00%. If the police suspect you of drinking and driving, they could confiscate your driver’s licence on the spot and apply heavy fines and jail sentences.

If you’re involved in a traffic accident, remain at the scene until local police arrive. Attempting to leave the scene violates Bolivian law.

International Driving Permit

The currency in Bolivia is the boliviano (BOB).

Credit and debit cards are not widely accepted outside urban centres. Carry small bank notes to facilitate daily transactions such as:

street food

It’s difficult to exchange Canadian dollars in Bolivia. Bring U.S. dollars if you need to exchange cash.

Bolivia is subject to various natural disasters such as:

earthquakes
torrential rains

Climate change

Climate change is affecting Bolivia. Extreme and unusual weather events are becoming more frequent and may affect your travel plans. Monitor local news to stay informed on the current situation.

Rainy season

The rainy season extends from November to March.

Seasonal flooding occurs throughout the country, mainly as a result of heavy rains and overloaded sewage systems. Seasonal flooding can hamper overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services. Roads may become impassable and bridges damaged. Heavy rains may contribute to dangerous landslides. In particular, the Uyuni Salt Flats become dangerous to visit in the rainy season.

If you decide to travel to Bolivia during the rainy season:

be prepared to change your travel plans on short notice, including cutting short or cancelling your trip
stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
carry emergency contact information for your airline or tour operator
follow the advice and instructions of local authorities

Weather alerts – National Meteorological and Hydrological Service (in Spanish)

Forest fires are at risk during the dry season, from July to October. Heavy smoke may deteriorate the air quality in areas near active fires.

In case of a significant fire:

stay away from affected areas, particularly if you suffer from respiratory ailments
monitor local media for up-to-date information on the situation
follow the advice of local authorities

Latest alerts – Vice Ministry of Civil Defence (in Spanish)

Earthquakes

Bolivia is in an active seismic zone and is prone to earthquakes in the centre and southwest areas.

Dangerous landslides can also occur, even after minor earthquakes.

In the event of an earthquake:

monitor local news to stay informed on the evolving situation
follow the instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders
Earthquake monitoring – San Calixto Observatory (in Spanish)
Latest earthquakes – U.S. Geological Survey
Prepare for earthquakes

Local services

In case of emergency, dial:

police: 110
firefighters: 119
gender-based violence: 800-14-0348
ambulance service in La Paz: 165
tourist police in La Paz: +591-2-222-5016

Consular assistance

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to Bolivia (Program Office), in La Paz, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

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Latest update

Exercise a high degree of caution in Bolivia due to the threat of violent crime and the risk of civil unrest.

Bolivia (PDF 807.61 KB)

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Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies.

Call 118 or go to the hospital.

Call 222 5016 for English-speaking tourist police.

Call 110 or contact the nearest police station.

Advice levels

Exercise a high degree of caution in Bolivia

Civil unrest is common in Bolivia. Roadblocks, demonstrations, protests (some violent), and strikes could occur at any time. Don't cross roadblocks set up by protesters. Avoid crowds as they can become violent.
Violent crime, associated with drug trafficking, poses a risk in some parts of the country, particularly Chapare and the Yungas regions. Take care in these areas. Travellers can be victims of drug-related crime near the Brazil border. Take extra precautions in this area.
Petty theft is common in tourist areas and bus stations. Be alert to attempts to distract your attention from your luggage. Violent crime against foreigners has increased, including armed robbery, assault, and food and drink spiking. Don't leave your food or drink unattended.
Criminals can pose as taxi drivers. Use only well-known radio taxi companies with the phone number displayed on the vehicle's roof. Don't hail taxis off the streets.

Full travel advice: Safety

Yellow fever is a risk. Get vaccinated before you travel.
Zika virus is also a risk. If you're pregnant, discuss your travel plans with your doctor before you leave.
In areas below 2500m, there's a risk of malaria and dengue. Ensure your accommodation is insect-proof. Use insect repellent. Consider taking anti-malaria medication.
Many parts of Bolivia are at high altitudes. You can suffer altitude sickness above 2500m. If you plan to travel to these areas, consult your doctor before you leave. Get travel insurance to cover emergency evacuation from altitude and related medical costs.

Full travel advice: Health

You must register your accommodation or hotel address online with Bolivian migration authorities. Failing to comply can result in fines when you leave the country.
You must carry photo identification. This can be a photocopy of your passport.
Dual national males older than 18 must complete military service upon arrival. Contact an embassy or consulate of Bolivia for details.
Photography may upset locals. Ask permission before taking photos, particularly of children and in remote areas.

Full travel advice: Local laws

You don't need a visa to visit Bolivia for tourism. The length of stay permitted on entry is 30 days, which can be extended to 90 days, the maximum stay per year.
You may need to show proof of onward travel on entry to Bolivia (a plane or bus ticket).
Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest embassy or consulate of Bolivia for the latest details.

Full travel advice: Travel

Local contacts

The Consular Services Charter details what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.
Australia has a consulate in La Paz. It provides limited consular assistance and can't issue passports.
For full consular assistance, contact the Australian Embassy in Peru .
To stay up to date with local information, follow the Embassy's social media accounts.

Full travel advice: Local contacts

Full advice

Civil unrest and political tension.

Political and civil tensions are ongoing, and events can be unpredictable. Large-scale political demonstrations could occur with little warning and may result in violence. Pay close attention to your personal security at all times.

Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent.

You could encounter:

demonstrations

Authorities may use tear gas and force to control protests.

Strikes and demonstrations may disrupt:

local travel to Oruro, Uyuni and Santa Cruz
international travel

Don't cross roadblocks set up by protesters, even if they appear unattended. Doing so may lead to violence. Check the Bolivian road authority website (Spanish only) for up-to-date information on which roads are blocked.

Anti-narcotics activities can lead to conflict between authorities and their targets in coca-growing regions:

Chapare region between Santa Cruz and Cochabamba
the Yungas region, north-east of La Paz

Bystanders can be affected.

During periods of unrest:

avoid demonstrations, protests and large public gatherings
monitor local media and other sources
follow the advice of local authorities
take particular care to avoid conflicts in Chapare and the Yungas regions

More information:

Demonstrations and civil unrest

Criminals sometimes pose as police officers. Under Bolivian law, police need a written order or warrant to detain or search a suspect. If a police officer approaches you, ask to see a written order or warrant.

Petty crime

Theft is common:

in tourist areas, including the Uyuni salt flats
in bus stations

Thieves work in teams using various forms of distraction.

Violent crime

Violent crime against foreigners, including armed robbery and assault , has increased.

Violent crime can happen in the cities of La Paz and Santa Cruz, particularly:

in tourist areas
on public transport

Assaults and robberies are becoming more common, especially:

in shared, unmarked and radio taxis
in Coronilla Hill, located behind the main bus terminal in Cochabamba
among hikers travelling without a guide on the Inca trails and in Rurrenabaque

Use an experienced, reputable tour guide to reduce risks when hiking.

Express kidnappings are a high risk at overland border points with Chile and Peru, such as Copacabana and Desaguadero. Victims are forced to withdraw money from ATMs to secure their release.

Travellers in Bolivia can also be victims of:

food and drink spiking, followed by robbery or assault
drug traffickers and other criminals in the Bolivian-Brazilian border region

To protect yourself from violent crime:

don't leave food or drinks unattended
don't accept drinks, food, gum or cigarettes from strangers or people you have just met
use experienced, reputable tour guides for hiking or adventure trips
take extra precautions in the Bolivia-Brazil border region

Use only well-known radio taxi companies with the phone number displayed on the vehicle's roof or ride-sharing applications. Don't hail taxis off the street.

Note the taxi's registration number and phone number.

Cyber security

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you're connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth.

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media.

More information:

Cyber security when travelling overseas

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

Climate and natural disasters

Bolivia experiences severe weather , including landslides and flooding.

The rainy season is from November to March. Landslides, blocked roads and flooding are common.

Severe flooding and landslides can:

disrupt transport services
close airports
make road travel difficult

If you plan to travel in the rainy season, confirm arrangements before you leave and check local weather reports.

In case of a natural disaster :

secure your passport in a safe, waterproof location
keep in contact with friends and family
Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System
Bolivian road authority website (Spanish only)

Travel insurance

Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave.

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

what activities and care your policy covers
that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition.

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

have a basic health check-up
ask if your travel plans may affect your health
plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

General health advice
Healthy holiday tips (Healthdirect Australia)

Medications

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Bolivia. Take enough legal medicine for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

what the medication is
your required dosage
that it's for personal use

Health risks

Insect-borne diseases

Yellow fever is a risk in Bolivia. Yellow fever is a potentially fatal virus spread by mosquitoes. It's prevented by vaccination. Get vaccinated before you travel.

Zika virus is widespread in Bolivia. If you're pregnant, the Australian Department of Health recommends you:

discuss any travel plans with your doctor
consider deferring non-essential travel to affected areas

In areas below 2500m, travellers are at risk from:

Chagas disease

To protect yourself from illness:

make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
use insect repellent
wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing

Consult your doctor about how to prevent malaria.

Seek medical advice if you have a fever, muscle pain, rash or severe headache.

Infectious diseases

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne, parasitic, and other infectious diseases are common. These include:

tuberculosis
COVID-19

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
avoid ice cubes
avoid raw and undercooked food, such as salads
avoid contact with dogs and other mammals

If you're bitten or scratched by an animal, get medical help straight away.

Seek medical advice if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

Altitude sickness

You're at risk of altitude sickness if you travel above 2500m.

Altitude sickness can be life-threatening and affect anyone, even if you're healthy.

You're more at risk if you:

ascend quickly
have had altitude sickness before
exercise or drink alcohol before you get used to the altitude
have health problems that affect breathing

Many areas of Bolivia are above 2500m, including:

La Paz — 3660m
Salar de Uyuni — 3650m
Lake Titicaca — 3820m
Potosi – 4090m
Sucre – 2810m

See your doctor for specific advice to minimise the risk of altitude sickness.

Check if your insurance covers emergency evacuation from altitude and related medical costs.

Medical care

Medical facilities.

Private hospital facilities in Bolivia's major cities are reasonable. Outside of major cities, facilities are limited.

Treatment at private clinics and hospitals is expensive.

Hospitals often need payment or proof of medical insurance before they will treat you, even in an emergency.

You could need treatment at a more suitable place if you become seriously ill or injured.

Medical evacuation from Bolivia can be difficult and very expensive. Many air ambulance services can't fly into La Paz due to the high altitude.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

You must register your home or hotel address online with Bolivian migration authorities. If you don't register, you can receive a fine when you depart from the country. Consult your accommodation provider for more information or access the registration system online (Spanish).

Penalties for drug offences are severe. They include long prison sentences in local jails.

Carrying or using drugs

Proof of identity

You must always carry photo identification in Bolivia. This can be a photocopy of your passport.

It's illegal to remove national treasures, including:

pre-Columbian artefacts
certain historical paintings
items of Spanish colonial architecture and history
some native textiles
certain flora, fauna and fossils

It's illegal to excavate or collect fossils without written approval.

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

Staying within the law and respecting customs

Dual citizenship

Bolivia has compulsory military service. Dual national males older than 18 must complete military service upon arrival in Bolivia.

Children who are dual citizens travelling alone or with only one parent or legal guardian must follow strict entry and exit rules. See Travel

Dual nationals
Embassy or consulate of Bolivia

Local customs

Ask permission before taking photos of people, particularly children and in remote areas.

LGBTI travellers

Same-sex relationships are legal, but they aren't widely accepted.

Advice for LGBTI travellers

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering.

Visa-free short stays

You don’t need a visa to visit Bolivia for tourism. The length of stay permitted upon entry is 30 days. You can request an extension of your stay at an immigration office in Bolivia. The maximum visa-free stay length is 90 days during one calendar year.

Ensure you get an entry stamp when you arrive in Bolivia. Otherwise, you'll have to pay a fine when you leave. You should also make sure to get an exit stamp, especially when you are crossing a land border.

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest embassy or consulate for details about visas, currency, customs and other travel requirements.

Travel via the United States

If you're travelling through the US, you must meet US entry or transit requirements.

Check your visa requirements with a US embassy or consulate well in advance of your travel.

Travel advice for the US

Travel via Chile

If you’re travelling via Chile, ensure you meet all current entry or transit requirements.

Travel advice for Chile

Border measures

Visitors may be asked to show proof of onward travel on entry to Bolivia (a plane or bus ticket).

Yellow fever vaccination

You'll need a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate to enter Bolivia. Some airlines may want to see one when you leave.

Find out about returning to Australia after exposure to yellow fever .

Countries with a risk of yellow fever

Other formalities

Travel with dual-national children.

Unless travelling with both parents, dual nationals under the age of 18 years must:

provide their birth certificate and written consent to travel from both parents, translated into Spanish and certified by a Bolivian embassy or consulate on arrival
provide a travel permit from the Children's Court on exit

Bolivian Immigration Service Avenida Camacho entre Calles Loayza y Bueno La Paz, Bolivia Phone: (+591 2) 211 0960

Advice for people travelling with children

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

In Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service .
If you're overseas, contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate .

Passport with X gender identifier

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can't guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country.

Contact the nearest embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers.

The currency is the Boliviano (BOB).

Declare all amounts more than $US10,000 on arrival. This covers all forms of currency, not only cash.

US dollars are the most easily exchangeable foreign currency.

ATMs are available in cities throughout Bolivia.

Many businesses accept international credit cards.

Local travel

Tours and adventure activities

Transport and tour operators don't always follow recommended safety precautions or maintenance standards. They may not provide safety equipment, such as life jackets and seatbelts.

This includes adventure activities, such as "Death Road" mountain biking tours, tours to the Uyuni salt plains, and mine tours in Potosi.

If you plan to take part, do a tour or adventure activity :

check if your travel insurance policy covers it
ask about and insist on minimum safety requirements
always use available safety gear, such as life jackets or seatbelts

If proper safety equipment isn't available, use another provider.

Uyuni salt plains

Choose a tour operator that has a CB radio or satellite phone. Mobile phone coverage is limited.

Be prepared for delays from melting snow and snowfalls.

Driving permit

To drive in Bolivia, you need both:

a valid Australian driver's licence
an International Driving Permit (IDP)

Get your IDP before you leave.

Road travel

Driving in rural areas is dangerous. Hazards include:

poorly maintained roads and vehicles
poor street signs and lighting
pedestrians and livestock on roads
heavy snowfalls and melting snow

During the wet season, November to March, the road to the Yungas and Beni may experience flooding and landslides.

It's illegal to drive with a blood alcohol reading above 0%.

If driving:

check local traffic laws and practices
be alert to possible hazards, especially at night and in rural areas

Allow extra time and be prepared to change your plans if travelling to:

the Uyuni salt plains during winter or early spring
the Yungas or Beni during the wet season
Driving or riding

Motorcycles

Check with your travel insurer whether your policy covers you when using a motorbike, quad bike or similar vehicle.

Always wear a helmet.

Book registered taxis through your hotel or ride-share apps.

Be aware of criminals and scams targeting taxi passengers.

Public transport

Public transport can be unsafe due to poor roads, driving and vehicle maintenance standards.

Boat travel

Tourist boats used on Lake Titicaca and for river excursions in jungle areas are often basic.

Always wear a life jacket, even if others don't.

Travelling by boat

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check Bolivia's air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

family and friends
travel agent
insurance provider

Call 800-14-0081 for English-speaking tourist police.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

Australia has a consulate in La Paz. It provides limited consular assistance and can't issue Australian passports.

Australian Consulate, La Paz

Centro Empresarial del Sur Av Arequipa No 8221 2nd floor, office 16

Phone/Whatsapp: (+591) 706 10626 Email: [email protected]

Opening hours: 9am-12pm, Monday to Friday You can also contact the Consul via email, phone or WhatsApp to discuss your needs.

Australian Embassy in Peru

The Australian Embassy in Peru also offers consular assistance.

Avenida La Paz 1049, 10th Floor Miraflores, Lima, 18 Peru

Phone: +51 1 630 0500 Email: [email protected] Website: peru.embassy.gov.au Facebook: Australia en Perú y Bolivia Instagram: @embauslima X: @embauslima

Opening hours: 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

+61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
1300 555 135 in Australia

Travelling to Bolivia?

Be the first to know official government advice when travelling.

Last verified: Monday, 24. June 2024 at 08:00 AM

Bolivia Travel Advisory

South America
Bolivia Travel Advice

We advise caution when travelling to Bolivia

Local situation: 3.2 / 5.

We advise caution when travelling to Bolivia. We detected travel advisories from 5 sources for this specific country.

Regional Situation: 3.2 / 5

Bolivia shares a land border with 5 neighbouring states. For this region of countries (including Bolivia), the Advisory Index is 3.2 (average value over all countries). All countries have some reported advisories: Chile (3.3), Peru (3.3), Argentina (3.2), Brazil with 3.1 and Paraguay with 3 (of 5).

Current informationen on Covid-19 in Bolivia

There are currently no officially reported cases of infections with SARS-CoV-2 (or Coronavirus) in Bolivia. As reported by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control this morning (~8:30am CET).

There are currently no officially reported deaths related to this disease in Bolivia.

Source: www.ecdc.europa.eu

Advice scoring history for Bolivia

Chart of the risk level over that last 200 days. This is the daily calculated travel risk for Bolivia.

Chart of the number of sources over that last 200 days. This is the daily number of advisory sources (of any rating) that have been active on that day.

Note: Changes happening on the 28th/29th of July 2019 are related to a change in the software and number of sources processed.

Rating Details (single travel warnings)

These are the individual advisories published by other countries about the destination Bolivia from a travellers perspective. The scoring of all messages combined is the foundation for the current rating 3.2 out of 5.0 .

This is the general advisory usually covering the country as a whole.

Advisory issued by: New Zealand

Exercise increased caution in Bolivia due to the potential for civil unrest and violent crime (level 2 of 4).

Source: https://www.safetravel.govt.nz/bolivia

Advisory issued by: United States

Reissued after annual review. Exercise increased caution in Bolivia due to civil unrest. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. Do not travel to: Chapare region due to crime. Country Summary: Demonstrations, strikes, and roadblocks can occur at any time in Bolivia. Demonstrations can result in violence. Roadblocks and ...

Source: http://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/bolivia-travel-advisory.html

Advisory issued by: Finland

Iaktta normal försiktighet - Det politiska läget är instabilt och oroligheter kan förekomma i hela landet.

Source: https://um.fi/resemeddelande/-/c/BO

Advisory issued by: Canada

The Canadian goverment suggests: Exercise a high degree of caution.

Source: https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/bolivia

Individual rating changes for Bolivia

This is the recent history of individual changes of travel advices that affected the total asessment of Bolivia. Most recent events first.

Changes from August 7th 2020

The total rating for Bolivia changed from 3.3 to 3.8 . Here are the influencing details:

The United States government increased their existing warning for Bolivia to 5.0 (of 5.0) from the previous rating of 2.0 (by +3.0).

Changes from June 24th 2020

The total rating for Bolivia changed from 3.2 to 3.3 . Here are the influencing details:

The United States government increased their existing warning for Bolivia to 2.0 (of 5.0) from the previous rating of 1.0 (by +1.0).

Changes from March 25th 2020

The total rating for Bolivia changed from 3.3 to 3.2 . Here are the influencing details:

The United States government decreased their existing warning for Bolivia to 1.0 (of 5.0) from the previous rating of 2.0 (by -1.0).

Changes from March 22nd 2020

The Canadian government increased their existing warning for Bolivia to 4.0 (of 5.0) from the previous rating of 3.0 (by +1.0).

Changes from March 18th 2020

The total rating for Bolivia changed from 3.0 to 3.2 . Here are the influencing details:

The Australian government increased their existing warning for Bolivia to 5.0 (of 5.0) from the previous rating of 4.0 (by +1.0).

Changes from March 15th 2020

The total rating for Bolivia changed from 2.8 to 3.0 . Here are the influencing details:

The Irish government increased their existing warning for Bolivia to 4.0 (of 5.0) from the previous rating of 3.0 (by +1.0).

Changes from March 14th 2020

The total rating for Bolivia changed from 2.7 to 2.8 . Here are the influencing details:

The Australian government increased their existing warning for Bolivia to 4.0 (of 5.0) from the previous rating of 3.0 (by +1.0).

Changes from January 7th 2020

The total rating for Bolivia changed from 3.2 to 2.7 . Here are the influencing details:

The United States government decreased their existing warning for Bolivia to 2.0 (of 5.0) from the previous rating of 5.0 (by -3.0).

Changes from December 17th 2019

The Finnish government decreased their existing warning for Bolivia to 3.0 (of 5.0) from the previous rating of 4.0 (by -1.0).

Changes from December 11th 2019

The total rating for Bolivia changed from 3.5 to 3.3 . Here are the influencing details:

The Irish government decreased their existing warning for Bolivia to 3.0 (of 5.0) from the previous rating of 4.0 (by -1.0).

Changes from December 6th 2019

The total rating for Bolivia changed from 3.8 to 3.5 . Here are the influencing details:

The New Zealand government decreased their existing warning for Bolivia to 2.0 (of 5.0) from the previous rating of 4.0 (by -2.0).

Changes from December 4th 2019

The total rating for Bolivia changed from 4.0 to 3.8 . Here are the influencing details:

The Canadian government decreased their existing warning for Bolivia to 3.0 (of 5.0) from the previous rating of 4.0 (by -1.0).

Changes from December 3rd 2019

The total rating for Bolivia changed from 4.2 to 4.0 . Here are the influencing details:

The Australian government decreased their existing warning for Bolivia to 3.0 (of 5.0) from the previous rating of 4.0 (by -1.0).

Changes from November 14th 2019

The total rating for Bolivia changed from 4.0 to 4.2 . Here are the influencing details:

The Finnish government increased their existing warning for Bolivia to 4.0 (of 5.0) from the previous rating of 3.0 (by +1.0).

Changes from November 13th 2019

The total rating for Bolivia changed from 3.8 to 4.0 . Here are the influencing details:

The United States government increased their existing warning for Bolivia to 5.0 (of 5.0) from the previous rating of 4.0 (by +1.0).

Changes from November 12th 2019

The total rating for Bolivia changed from 3.2 to 3.8 . Here are the influencing details:

The New Zealand government increased their existing warning for Bolivia to 4.0 (of 5.0) from the previous rating of 2.0 (by +2.0).

The Australian government issued a new warning for Bolivia with a rating of 4.0.

Changes from November 11th 2019

Changes from november 9th 2019.

The total rating for Bolivia changed from 2.6 to 3.0 . Here are the influencing details:

The United States government increased their existing warning for Bolivia to 4.0 (of 5.0) from the previous rating of 2.0 (by +2.0).

Changes from October 29th 2019

The total rating for Bolivia changed from 2.4 to 2.6 . Here are the influencing details:

The Finnish government increased their existing warning for Bolivia to 3.0 (of 5.0) from the previous rating of 2.0 (by +1.0).

Changes from October 24th 2019

The total rating for Bolivia changed from 2.2 to 2.4 . Here are the influencing details:

Changes from September 25th 2019

The total rating for Bolivia changed from 0.0 to 0.0 . Here are the influencing details:

The Finnish government issued a new warning for Bolivia with a rating of 2.0.

The United States government issued a new warning for Bolivia with a rating of 1.0.

The Canadian government issued a new warning for Bolivia with a rating of 3.0.

The New Zealand government issued a new warning for Bolivia with a rating of 2.0.

The Irish government issued a new warning for Bolivia with a rating of 3.0.

About Bolivia

Bolivia with its capital Sucre is a country in South America (South America), slightly less than three times the size of Montana (1,098,580 km²). The country is located Central South America, southwest of Brazil. The climate can be described as varies with altitude; humid and tropical to cold and semiarid. The landscape is rugged Andes Mountains with a highland plateau (Altiplano), hills, lowland plains of the Amazon Basin. With a population of about 9.25 million citizens.

Bolivian flag

Introduction Video

Basic Statistics and Facts

Environmental problems and natural hazzards.

These are problems Bolivia is facing. Environmental issues refer to damages of the nature due to industry and society. Natural hazzards refer to potential dangers originating in nature.

Environmental problems

desertification
industrial pollution of water supplies used for drinking and irrigation
loss of biodiversity
soil erosion from overgrazing and poor cultivation methods (including slash-and-burn agriculture)
the clearing of land for agricultural purposes and the international demand for tropical timber are contributing to deforestation

Natural hazzards

flooding in the northeast (March to April)
volcanic activity in Andes Mountains on the border with Chile; historically active volcanoes in this region are Irruputuncu (5,163 m), which last erupted in 1995, and the Olca-Paruma volcanic complex (5,762 m to 5,167 m)

Top Industries and Agricultural Products

These are the main product industries and agricultural products of Bolivia. This list indicates what this country is good at producing.

handicrafts

Agriculture products

Brazil nuts

Bolivian Imports and Exports

These are the main product categories of imports and exports to and from Bolivia.

Export products

natural gas
soy products

Import products

petroleum products

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current travel advisory for bolivia.

Bolivia is currently rated at 3,2 out of a possible 5.0. Collected from 5 official sources. We advise caution when travelling to Bolivia.

Is it safe to travel Bolivia in 2024?

Visiting the country Bolivia is usually fine. The score is at 3,2 Just keep an eye open, obey local rules and you'll most likely be fine.

How many travel advisories do you know for Bolivia?

We currently evaluate 11 official sources each morning. Today, we know of active advisories from 5 individual sources for Bolivia.

What is the current Corona virus situation in Bolivia?

What is the size of Bolivia?

Bolivia has a size of 1,098,580 km² or 424,164 mi² which is slightly less than three times the size of Montana.

Common Frequently Asked Questions

For non-country specific questions, please check our global F.A.Q.

Travel safety map for Bolivia and bordering countries.

If you want to embed Bolivia travel warning information into your website or application, check out these tools.

Is Bolivia safe to travel?
What's the safety situation in Bolivia?
Are there security warnings for Bolivia?

2020-03-10: Integrated data from European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (COVID-19/ SARS-CoV-2/ Coronavirus).

2019-09-01: Added timeline charts for risk level and number of advisories.

2019-07-29: Added two more sources (Finland and Denmark). Affects country ratings.

2019-07-15: South-Sudan was missing and was added today.

2019-05-18: Performance improvements for API users.

2019-03-23: Introduced professional API with more data.

2019-02-13: Added three more sources (Cyprus, Ireland and Malta). Affects country ratings.

US reissues travel advisory for Bolivia amid protests: 'Exercise increased caution'

The U.S. reissued a travel advisory for Bolivia Thursday amid recent protests.

The State Department reissued its Level 2 warning for the country, advising travelers to "Exercise Increased Caution" due to civil unrest.

Across the country, Bolivians participated in a "national assembly" led by the opposition Wednesday to discuss proposals, including whether or not to resume protests that began in December following the arrest of Santa Cruz Gov. Luis Fernando Camacho.

Protesters ended blockades earlier this month that had largely isolated the rich Santa Cruz region from the rest of Bolivia for more than 15 days, but leaders said the roadblocks could resume to press demands that the government free the region’s governor.

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Camacho, who is widely considered a leader of the opposition to Bolivia’s left-leaning national government, was detained late last year on "terrorism" charges related to previous demonstrations.

What did the State Department's Bolivia travel advisory say?

"Demonstrations, strikes, and roadblocks can occur at any time in Bolivia," The State Department said on its website . "Demonstrations can result in violence. Roadblocks and strikes may cut off traffic and restrict the flow of goods and services around the country.

The agency also both domestic and international flights may be delayed or canceled without warning.

Roadblocks went up in Santa Cruz, the eastern region that is Bolivia's economic engine and farming hub, shortly after Camacho was detained on Dec. 28.

He is held on charges stemming from protests that led to the 2019 resignation of then-President Evo Morales. Morales's party, which has since returned to power, accuses Camacho of orchestrating the protests and calls them a coup. The unrest resulted in 37 deaths.

What else did the State Department say?

The State Department warned travelers not to travel to the rural Chapare region and urged them to reconsider travel to the Yungas region because of crime, and said the U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to travelers in those areas.

The agency also reissued a travel advisory for Iran Thursday. The country has a Level 4 advisory, warning not to travel there "due to the risk of kidnapping and the arbitrary arrest and detention of U.S. citizens," according to its website .

The State Department advised exercising increased caution because of wrongful detentions.

Contributing: The Associated Press

Travel Advisories

There are currently 2 active travel advisories for Bolivia.

The most recent advisory was issued 14 days ago by 🇨🇦 , which recommended Increased Caution .

14 days ago

Issued by 🇨🇦

19 days ago

Issued by 🇺🇸

Reissued after annual review.

Exercise increased caution in Bolivia due to civil unrest. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Do not travel to:

Chapare region due to crime.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Bolivia.

If you decide to travel to Bolivia:

Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans.
Contact your airline or travel agency prior to travel.
Avoid demonstration and crowds.
Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
Follow the Department of State on Facebook , Twitter , and Instagram .
Review the Country Security Report for Bolivia.
Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist .

Chapare Region: Do Not Travel

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas .

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Foreign travel advice

Warnings and insurance

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide and see support for British nationals abroad for information about specific travel topics.

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

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South America

Capital Sucre

Population 10,985,059

Area 1,098,581 km 2

Bolivia is a country located in South America. There are 5 countries ( Argentina , Brazil , Chile , Paraguay , Peru ) that Bolivia shares its borders with. As for languages, the country’s residents speak Spanish, Aymara and Quechua . Unfortunately, if you speak English, it might be problematic to communicate fluently unless you know Spanish .

In the EF English Competency Index (EF EPI) , which assesses the language proficiency of non-native speaking countries, Bolivia was ranked 41st out of 100 countries in 2021.

The national currency in Bolivia is Bolivian boliviano (BOB). The boliviano ($b) is subdivided into 100 centavo .

Bolivian Banknotes

$b10 $b20 $b50 $b100 $b200

Bolivian Coins

10 20 50 $b1 $b2 $b5

Check with your bank before your trip to find out if there are any fees for using your card abroad. Some banks do not charge fees when you use a foreign ATM or pay in foreign currency, but others may charge a fixed cost for each transaction or allow a limited number of free withdrawals. The travel card provided by Wise.com , Revolut or Monose might be an excellent option to cut down on transaction fees.

Ookla® Speedtest No data available.

ATM Density The number of ATMs per person in Bolivia is close to the world average. 43.26 ATMs per 100,000 people. The global average is 39.49.

SIM Registration In order to purchase a SIM card in Bolivia, a passport or ID is required as identification.

Socket types

There are 2 socket types used in Bolivia. Type A & Type B are widespread in North America (incl. the U.S.), Central America, Japan, and the Philippines. Type C is a popular socket type throughout Europe (except the United Kingdom), Russia, and certain Asian countries.

Type A 115 V, 230 V, 50 Hz Type C 115 V, 230 V, 50 Hz

The sockets’ shapes and voltage differ from country to country and a travel plug adapter may be required. Portable devices, such as phones, notebooks or tablets, usually handle the entire range of voltages used across the world (110-240V).

Public holidays

In the year 2024, Bolivia will celebrate 12 national public holidays. The next one Agrarian Reform Day will take place on August 2.

EF English Proficiency Index (EF Education First)
Speedtest Global Index® (Ookla®)
Automated teller machines (ATMs) (per 100,000 adults) (The World Bank Group)
Registration Policies Per Country (Prepaid Data SIM Card Wiki)

What hotel chains are present in Bolivia?

There are Mariott hotels in Santa Cruz de la Sierra .

The Hilton hotel chain operates in Bolivia .

There are no IHG hotels in Bolivia.

There are no Best Western hotels in Bolivia.

There are Radisson hotels in Santa Cruz de la Sierra .

The Accor hotel chain operates in Bolivia .

What fast food chains are present in Bolivia?

The McDonald’s chain operates in Bolivia .

The KFC chain operates in Bolivia .

The Burger King chain operates in Bolivia .

The Subway chain operates in Bolivia .

The Domino’s Pizza chain does not operate in Bolivia .

The Starbucks chain operates in Bolivia .

Country by National Dish (Samson Daniel)

What is the weather like in Sucre?

Weather data for Sucre (capital city) by Open-Meteo.com

Railways There are no passenger trains available.

Subway Systems There is no subway system in any city.

Taxi Apps You can use Uber in 2 cities . Bolt is not available in Bolivia .

Car Rental Avis , Hertz are available, but Sixt is not present in Bolivia.

Road Connectivity Index (2016) With a score of 3.4 , Bolivia is placed 110th out of 129 nations.

Driving Side In Bolivia traffic is right-handed .

List of high-speed railway lines (Wikipedia)
List of metro systems (Wikipedia)
Left- and right-hand traffic (Wikipedia)
The Global Enabling Trade Report 2016: Road connectivity (World Economic Forum)

Theft Occurrence Rate 43.00 thefts per 100,000 people in 2018. The global average is 544.

Road Traffic Casualties 21.10 deaths per 100,000 people in 2019. The global average is 16.74.

Travel Advisory Level (U.S. DoS) Level 2 : Exercise increased caution.

Emergency phones in Bolivia

Bolivia Travel Advisory (United States: Department of State)
Travel Advice for Bolivia (United Kingdom: The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office)
Mortality caused by road traffic injury (The World Bank Group)
Corruption & Economic Crime (United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime)

Smoking & Alcohol

Smoking ban Smoking is forbidden in all public indoor locations , with limited exceptions.

Cananbis legality Recreational usage: Decriminalized up to 50g Medical usage: Illegal

List of smoking bans (Wikipedia)
Legality of cannabis (Wikipedia)

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Chicago woman reported missing in Bahamas amid US-issued travel advisory for island

In january, the u.s. issued a "level 2" travel advisory for the bahamas, warning that travelers should "exercise increased caution in the bahamas due to crime.", by staff • published june 24, 2024 • updated 6 mins ago.

A Chicago woman was reported missing during a trip to The Bahamas, according to the Royal Bahamas Police Force.

Taylor Casey, 41, of Chicago, was last seen June 19 in the area of Paradise Island in Nassau, a flier posted to the Royal Bahamas Police Force Facebook page showed.

Watch NBC Chicago local news and weather without login

According to Royal Bahamas police, Casey is currently listed as a missing person.

Sunday, a Facebook group called " Find Taylor Casey " was created to "help spread the word far and wide to bring our beloved Taylor home."

In January, the U.S. issued a " Level 2" Travel Advisory for The Bahamas , warning that travelers should "exercise increased caution in The Bahamas due to crime."

"The majority of crime occurs on New Providence (Nassau) and Grand Bahama (Freeport) islands," the advisory said. "Violent crime, such as burglaries, armed robberies, and sexual assaults, occur in both tourist and non-tourist areas. Be vigilant when staying at short-term vacation rental properties where private security companies do not have a presence. "

Teen charged with first-degree murder of retired Chicago police officer, 2nd suspect sought

NBC Chicago has contacted Taylor Casey's family in an effort to learn more. This story will be updated as more information becomes available.

Feeling out of the loop? We'll catch you up on the Chicago news you need to know. Sign up for the weekly Chicago Catch-Up newsletter here.

This article tagged under:

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IMAGES

Travel Advisory: Updated Information for Bolivia (January 27, 2023)
Levels of risk of traveling to different countries in Latin America
US reissues travel advisory for Bolivia amid 'civil unrest'
US To Bolivia Travel Restrictions, Flights News & Travel Ban In 2021
Travel Advisories Re-Issued for Central America Countries
Bolivia Travel Advice & Safety

COMMENTS

Bolivia Travel Advisory
Bolivia - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution. U C. Reissued after annual review. Exercise increased caution in Bolivia due to civil unrest. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. Do not travel to: Chapare region due to crime. Country Summary : Demonstrations, strikes, and roadblocks can occur at any time in Bolivia.
Travel Advisory: Updated Information for Bolivia (January 27, 2023)
January 27, 2023. Travel Advisory: Updated Information for Bolivia (January 27, 2023) Last Update: Reissued after periodic review with updates to information about the Chapare and Yungas regions. Exercise increased caution in Bolivia due to civil unrest.
Travel Advisories
Bolivia Travel Advisory: Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution: June 6, 2024: Bosnia and Herzegovina Travel Advisory: Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution: ... Saba Travel Advisory: Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions: October 16, 2023: Take 90 Seconds for Safer Travel. Travel Advisory Levels.
Bolivia
Level 1 Practice Usual Precautions. ... If your travel plans in Bolivia include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip. ... Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State. Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). Leave a copy of your itinerary ...
Bolivia International Travel Information
Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). See the State Department's travel website for the Worldwide Caution and Travel Advisories.
Travel advice and advisories for Bolivia
The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. ... If you travel to Bolivia, bring enough prescription and over-the-counter medication for the duration of your trip. ... IMPORTANT:The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians ...
Bolivia Travel Advice & Safety
Zika virus is also a risk. If you're pregnant, discuss your travel plans with your doctor before you leave. In areas below 2500m, there's a risk of malaria and dengue. Ensure your accommodation is insect-proof. Use insect repellent. Consider taking anti-malaria medication. Many parts of Bolivia are at high altitudes.
Bolivia Travel Advisory
These are the individual advisories published by other countries about the destination Bolivia from a travellers perspective. The scoring of all messages combined is the foundation for the current rating 3.2 out of 5.0. Danger level: 2 - Travel is usually safe. This is the general advisory usually covering the country as a whole.
US reissues travel advisory for Bolivia amid 'civil unrest'
2:13. The U.S. reissued a travel advisory for Bolivia Thursday amid recent protests. The State Department reissued its Level 2 warning for the country, advising travelers to "Exercise Increased ...
Bolivia Travel Advisories
There are currently 2 active travel advisories for Bolivia. ... Chapare Region: Do Not Travel. Due to a high level of violent crime, the U.S. government is limited in its ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in the Chapare region. U.S. government employees must obtain special authorization to travel there.
Bolivia travel advice
FCDO travel advice for Bolivia. Includes safety and security, insurance, entry requirements and legal differences. ... Get email alerts Warnings and insurance Still current at: 22 June 2024 ...
Bolivia
Since July, 2021 the United States has donated 5,750,820 safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine doses with the people of Bolivia. This includes 4,742,820 Pfizer and 1,008,000 J&J doses. Of the 5,750,820 vaccine doses, 100% were donated in partnership with COVAX. The United States is committed to leading an international and coordinated effort to ...
Traveling to Bolivia: What You Need to Know
Yes, a visa is mandatory for all US citizens traveling to Bolivia, and wishing to enter as tourists. The cost of a visa is $160 per US citizen and is valid for 10 years. However, you can not simply enter and stay for 10 consecutive years. Instead, each visa holder is granted a period of 30 to 90 days in the country per year.
COVID-19 Bolivia Travel Restrictions
LATEST BOLIVIA COVID-19 NEWS: 29th April 2022 - Bolivia no longer requires unvaccinated travellers to quarantine upon arrival. From 26th January 2022, vaccination certificates (or negative PCR test results taken within the last 48 hours) will be required to enter any public building (including banks, bars and supermarkets), buses and internal ...
Is Bolivia Safe to Visit in 2024?
Most countries have Bolivia under an advisory level of elevated concern due to the crime levels. For example, the Australian government tells its citizens to exercise a high degree of caution in Bolivia due to a high risk of serious crime in addition to the political tensions mentioned in other travel advisories.
Bolivia
If you are planning international travel at this time, please read our COVID-19 related travel advice here, alongside our destination specific travel advice below. Exercise increased caution. Exercise increased caution in Bolivia due to the potential for civil unrest and violent crime (level 2 of 4).
Travel Advisory For Bolivia
The travel card provided by Wise.com, Revolut or Monose might be an excellent option to cut down on transaction fees. Ookla® Speedtest The average fixed internet speed in Bolivia is 44.02 Mbps and mobile is 18.14 Mbs.
US travel Alert -Level 3 Entire Country
Bolivia - Level 3: Reconsider Travel to Bolivia due to civil unrest. Read the entire Travel Advisory. There are recurring demonstrations, strikes, roadblocks, and marches in major cities in Bolivia. Demonstrations and marches are centered on city plazas and major thoroughfares.
Information on Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements
Visit the Embassy of Bolivia website for the most current visa information. Entry requirements: Valid U.S. passport with at least 6 months validity remaining. International Certificate of Yellow Fever Vaccination. With a visitor visa, you may stay 30 days per trip, not to exceed 90 days per year. A Bolivian visitor visa costs $160 US and can be ...
Bolivia Travel requirements, advice , Coronavirus status and Visa
Check Bolivia Travel Advisory, visa Requirements and more.. Bolivia Travel requirements, advice , Coronavirus status and Visa Policy. 2023-06-06 16:19:02. Bolivia is located in Latin America and the Caribbean. ... Chapare Region: Do Not Travel. Due to a high level of violent crime, the U.S. government is limited in its ability to provide ...
Celebrate democracy this 4th of July by ensuring you are prepared to
FVAP regularly sends information about election dates and deadlines through their Voting Alerts. Email [email protected] to subscribe or follow FVAP on Facebook or Twitter. Learn more at the Federal Voting Assistance Program's (FVAP) website, FVAP.gov.
Four Participants from Comoros Selected for the 2024 Mandela Washington
The U.S. Embassy in Madagascar and Comoros is proud to announce that four participants from Comoros have been selected to participate in the 2024 Mandela Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders. This year also marks the tenth anniversary of the Mandela Washington Fellowship.
Worldwide Caution
In an emergency, please contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or consulate or call the following numbers: 1 (888) 407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1 (202) 501-4444 from other countries. Private U.S. citizens should not travel to any country to participate in armed conflict. U.S. citizens are reminded that fighting on behalf of ...
Fulbright Program in Vietnam
Travel Advisory Level 1: Exercise Normal Caution Travel Advisory Level 1: Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Exercise normal precautions in Vietnam. Read More...
Travel advisory for Reynosa, Mexico
Currently, the Department of State's travel advisory for Tamaulipas, which is the state in which Matamoros lies, is Level 4: Do Not Travel due to crime and kidnapping.
Alerts Archives
Travel Advisory Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution Travel Advisory Level 2: Reissued after annual review. Read More... U.S. Embassy in Bolivia. Language. Menu Emergency Assistance; Alerts for U.S. Citizens; U.S. Visas; U.S. Passports ... Outside of Bolivia: [011](591-2) 216-8000.
Joint Statement
Joint Statement on the Occasion of the 29th Budapest Pride Festival. June 20, 2024 . On the occasion of the 29th Budapest Pride Festival, we the undersigned embassies and cultural institutes express our full support for members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and intersex (LGBTQI+) community in Hungary and their rights to equality and non-discrimination, freedom of expression ...
Chicago woman reported missing in Bahamas amid US-issued travel
In January, the U.S. issued a "Level 2" Travel Advisory for The Bahamas, warning that travelers should "exercise increased caution in The Bahamas due to crime." NBC Universal, Inc. A Chicago woman ...
Ten Malagasy Leaders Selected for Regional YALI Program
Congratulations to ten outstanding Malagasy leaders on their selection for the 21st cohort of the YALI Regional Leadership Center SouthThe U.S. Embassy in Madagascar and Comoros is proud to announce that eleven participants from Madagascar have been selected to participate in the 2024 Mandela Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders.
Homepage
Travel Advisory Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution Travel Advisory Level 2: Reissued after annual review. Read More... U.S. Embassy in Bolivia. Language. Menu Emergency Assistance; Alerts for U.S. Citizens; U.S. Visas ... Joe Tordella joined the U.S. Embassy in Bolivia as the Deputy Chief of Mission in June 2023. Prior to this assignment, he ...

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