But as in your home country (probably), there is harassment and other issues you should be aware of. Is it safe to travel to Bolivia now? Every day, efforts are made to increase the dialogue with the last illegal armed groups and improve the stability of the country. On the other hand, hiring a motorbike for a day or two to explore the immediate area outside of a town isn’t a terrible idea, if you have experience driving one. At the end of the day, just make sure you’re prepared if you get ill. Thanks for your support. For the most up-to-date safety information and what you should be doing to help, please consult the WHO and your local government. However, there are ways to at least minimise the chances of getting caught up in bad situations. However, you need to be careful that they are made by an international company and not a local one as this can be dangerous. To enter Bolivia you must have proof of a negative COVID-19 (PCR) test result taken 72 hours prior to your entry into the country. You should be aware that tourist hotspots, restaurants, shops and public transportation are places where most thefts and pickpocketing occur, and that violent crime exists on the streets, too. And when you’re walking around by yourself in the day. Why not get a quote from them yourself? We have used World Nomads for years now and I have personally made several claims. There may also be a lot of flooding and landslides during your trip to Bolivia or you may find yourself unable to go outside because of huge protests that can happen from time to time. Use caution! We mentioned those bus drivers’ lack of driving skills earlier and we weren’t kidding around. Surprisingly, there is Uber in Bolivia and it’s safe! Having your money stolen is going to be a problem pretty much anywhere in the world, but in Bolivia, it isn’t that uncommon. In terms of crime the first answerer is correct. Relevance. Do your research on tour and travel companies operating within the country. Most of the countries in South America are more or less stable, but for example, now we would not recommend you to travel to Venezuela, a beautiful country which is sadly having enormous political and economic issues. Review the. Pick up an AMK Travel Medical Kit before you head out on your next adventure. It can also bring with it a lot of petty crime, with tourists targeted for easy cash. It’s a good chance to break out of your comfort zone and meet some likeminded people interested in doing what you’re doing, as well as meeting lots of lovely locals too. No hay cubiertos de plástico por favor – No plastic cutlery. The number one thing about this awesome money belt is the fact that it looks like a regular belt. That comes gangs, corruption, and bribery – narcos stuff. There’s dangers of altitude sickness, and not just from climbing mountains! It is, however, one of the poorest countries in South America. The biggest building in La Paz, the Supreme Electoral Court, was burned down in December 2018. Ignore catcalls. There are friends to be made, incredible trekking to be had, and interesting cultures to soak up. Pharmacies, on the other hand, are pretty decent. Is it safe to travel to Bolivia now? You should check visa and transit requirements for any international travel. There are a lot of things about this South American country that you’re going to wonder, so we’ll be answering questions like, “Is the public transport safe in Bolivia” and “Can I eat the food in Bolivia?” to help you decide for yourself whether or not Bolivia is for you. Disclaimer: Safety conditions change all over the world on a daily basis. But make sure you wear a helmet. La Paz is the highest altitude capital in the world. So it’s important to be aware of just what those are. In 2016 the country welcomed around 1 million tourists – that’s a lot. It would be a shame not to tuck into the street food though, so here are some tips to help you out…. Ensure that you’ve got a lot of protection from the sun – so bring a load of sunscreen and sunhats – plus from mosquitoes as well. This is all pretty recent stuff that you’ll need to be aware of when you visit Bolivia. And what can really help in these situations is a money belt. Does anyone have any up to date information on whether itâs safe or even possible to travel through Bolivia right now? Make sure you’re fully prepared and that you know what to expect, and your family will have the best time. If something is seriously wrong with you, either in a rural area or in a town, you will most likely have to be airlifted out of the country to somewhere else – with the state of the art medical facilities that Bolivia just doesn’t have. Aside from petty theft, which is unfortunately not rare, there are not loads that will be actively threatening your safety. Bolivia is definitely an out-there destination for families. I only link to stuff I’ve actually used and never endorse products or services that are not up to scratch. Taxi drivers have been known to be attacked by protesters as well. Your cash is safe in your money belt! Nor baby changing facilities. However, at this time Bolivia remains closed for non-nationals. For example, it’s not a good idea to fly directly into La Paz if you’re coming from somewhere low-altitude. Make sure you have spare tyres and plenty of fluids if you’re heading off the main road. Your email address will not be published. There’s sketchy taxis, ATM theft, kidnappings and so on. That being said, resorts will be fine. Like many places in the world, there are issues in Bolivia with sexual harassment. Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans. It’s actually cheaper than the local taxis, which is a bonus. Home » South America » Bolivia » Travel Safety. Is Bolivia safe travel 2020? The Active Roots Zipper Scarf is your run-of-the-mill infinity scarf but with a hidden pocket that’s big and sturdy enough for a night’s cash, your phone, a passport and (hell with it) some snacks too! P.s sorry for sounding insensitive to the issues your people face with the government. And then there’s San Pedro. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. The amazing wildlife this country has to offer is enough to make any child lose their mind: you can see jaguars, pumas and even pink river dolphins! If neither of those options appeals to your refined fashion sense, don’t compromise! U.S. DEPARTMENT of STATE — BUREAU of CONSULAR AFFAIRS. Rapes and sexual assaults on foreigners have been reported and can happen. Read our full review of the GRAYL GEOPRESS! It may surprise you to know that Bolivia actually has two capitals; La Paz the administrative capital city in Bolivia, and Sucre for judicial. So stay safe, make some travel buddies, go on some tours, and keep your stuff secure – and you’ll be fine! Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the countryâs entry rules. Most of the time, taxis in Bolivia are safe, as long as you get one properly. When moving from place to place, you shouldn’t store travel documents in a bag, even if it’s under your seat or overhead. Whether you need to purify the water from a hostel sink in Kathmandu or a stream trickle in the Andes, the Geopress has got you covered. For instance, La Paz can be quite sketchy at night time. But the US State Department warns protests, strikes, and roadblocks are common. You’ll find it in La Paz and Santa Cruz. This sort of thing can affect public transport and you may not be able to get around or you may even get stranded. They’re comfortable and have reclining seats and all that jazz. Popular tourist destinations like Sagarnaga Street in La Paz are known for pickpockets. Contact your airline or travel agency prior to travel, Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Bolivia is a popular destination on the backpacker trail through South America, but petty crime, like pickpocketing and theft, is common â so be aware of your ⦠Not really. There are even travel agencies out there who can help plan a child-friendly itinerary with you! There may be problems with the safety of taxis in Bolivia, dodgy areas around the city of La Paz or you may have to deal with fake police. Altitude Sickness. Our customers are always surprised how safe Bolivia is compared to the news and reports. I wanted to visit La Paz and do a tour through the Salt Flats but Iâve been told this isnât possible right now. It only arrived at the beginning of 2017, so it’s fairly new. In terms of the more short-term transport options in Bolivia, though, I spent most of my time in ⦠Bolivia has lifted stay at home orders, and resumed some transportation options and business operations. It’s best to travel smart and avoid people and situations that just don’t seem right. The political situation (since the end of 2018) can mean roadblocks at any time. Country Summary: Demonstrations, strikes, and roadblocks can occur at any time in Bolivia. Notify me of followup comments via e-mail. Close. Answer Save. #1 you can't avoid altitude El Alto - 13,615 ft. Potosi - 13,420 ft. Oruro - 12,159 ft. La Paz - 11,913 ft. Be prepared for what life throws at you on the road. Border conflicts, a big issue with poverty, petty crime, and narcos gangs galore mean Bolivia isn’t all that perfect. But they are a cheap way to travel around Bolivia though not very comfortable and slightly dangerous. This is usually because of overtired, overworked drivers. But tourism can help alleviate the problems of poverty. Santa Cruz is probably your best bet for freelance, business-minded people – there are lots of good connections to make here. We drove often at nights and also walked a lot through more distant parts of cities in early evenings and nothing ever happened to us, but maybe we just got ⦠Is public transportation in Bolivia safe? You can avoid crowded places, not walk around looking like a rich, unsuspecting tourist and try to blend in. So here are some tips for solo travellers in Bolivia so you can stay safe and have an epic time. Be careful on these long-distance buses with the overhead luggage storage and keep anything valuable with you. Lv 6. Things To Do in Bolivia South America La Paz. Anonymous. The best way to get a radio taxi is to ask your accommodation (they might also recommend a driver), but you could also ask restaurants or staff at tourist sights to help you order a taxi, too. Radio taxis, on the other hand, have a proper bubble taxi sign on top and are legal. Unfortunately, it’s not exactly the safest place in the world for a foodie quest. It isn’t totally uncommon for bus crashes and accidents to occur in Bolivia. Source(s): me. However, you’ve got to be properly prepared if you do plan to visit Bolivia, and it definitely helps if you’re an adventurous family. La Paz Bolivia, is the highest capital city of Bolivia and the highest in the world (3632 metres) and its honking traffic will either enthral you or leave you running for the Coca Museum, one of the Bolivia ⦠The information here is sourced well and enriched with great visual photo and video illustrations. Ferries and riverboats also exist and are popular for exploring more remote areas along the Amazon. Do your own research. In terms of 2019’s Global Peace Index, Bolivia ranks 85 out of 163 countries (higher than the USA, for example). And in fact, travelling on the trains is often the safest and most comfortable way to get around Bolivia. But there definitely can be some dodgier sides of the city, though chances are you probably won’t be wandering around those areas anyway. Bolivia has reopened international airports, and limited international flight services are now available. Tourist buses are just the more expensive versions of these. For a first-timer to South America, traveling in Bolivia can feel a bit intimidating. 1 decade ago. Just put a little bolivianos stashed in your money belt to stop pickpockets in their tracks and go about your day. You should definitely pack a well equipped first aid kit and make sure everyone’s got the right vaccinations. There’s a ton of stuff to keep you occupied in your downtime. You may be worried as a solo female traveller thinking about embarking on a trip to Bolivia, or you may be an intrepid parent wondering if Bolivia is safe to travel with children in tow. Also, it’s a sociable place – people in this country are very friendly and open to others. But Bolivian travel doesnât have to be scary or frustrating, and this country has far too many amazing things to see and ⦠Iâm also cursed with blonde hair (now even blonder after time spent in the fierce Bolivian sun) which Iâd been warned would be a beacon of unrequited gringo-desire for some of the local Southern American male population. Favorite Answer. Answer 1 of 6: Hi All, I am trying to see if it is safe for single female to travel in Bolivia. Argentina is a country located in the southern part of South America and it borders with Bolivia, Brazil, and Paraguay to the north, Uruguay to the northeast and Chile to the west. Here are some useful Spanish phrases that will help you out on your trip. Bolivia is somewhat safe to visit, though it has many dangers. Latest travel advice for Bolivia, including how to stay safe during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and information on returning to the UK. In fact, many people do and they’re just fine! Whilst COVD 19 has not gone away, the world is opening up again to travellers. Bus drivers, in particular, are notorious for being awful drivers in Bolivia. There are two types of cab: taxis and radio taxis. And the last thing you want is to be lacking in funds when you’re travelling. It’s quite chaotic and a magnet for thieves so we wouldn’t really recommend this way of getting around either. Relative to the area, Bolivia is very safe. Domestic and international flights may be delayed or unexpectedly cancelled. There’s no 100% guarantee either way. Hi r/BOLIVIA, My girlfriend and I are leaving tomorrow on a trip to South Peru and Bolivia (Copacabana, La Paz, Uyuni, Potosí, Sucre). Some people will for sure tell you it is safe to visit despite those problems, but we don't like taking our chances. Both public and private hospitals and doctors will expect cash payment, at least most of the time. But that doesn’t mean you can’t do it. Enjoy your travels! They’re uncomfortable, often crowded, and a hotbed for pickpockets, so probably best to avoid. Just pay attention and follow these tips to avoid trouble. The number one travel safety tip is to exercise common sense. Road blockades are not uncommon and the political situation is not very stable. You probably don’t know much about Bolivian food, as it’s not very famous, however it is very tasty. Petty theft is on the rise. Not always. So, to help your prepare, here are 18 incredibly useful things to know before you visit and travel Bolivia. We are all about travelling smart, so we’re going to be giving you safety tips for Bolivia. Rainy season from November to March makes driving even more dangerous. Bolivia: a whole load of scenery, including the volcanoes and some pretty famous salt flats, plus the ruins of the ancient city of Tiwanaku. It also doesn’t cost much and it’s rugged, too! Just make sure you make a note of the taxi’s registration number in case something goes wrong. Hello, we provide concise yet detailed articles on "Travel Choices: Is It Safe To Travel To Bolivia" topic. They can be pretty sketchy and a good way for drivers to target foreigners. however you have to remember that you are travelling to a different country where you might not speak fluent Spanish. So whilst it may not seem to be a safe time to be visiting Bolivia right now, it is in fact still a relatively safe country. Loads of buses go along the same routes every day, meaning you won’t have too much trouble getting them. We’re going to be honest with you: healthcare standards aren’t the best in Bolivia. ... Transportation in Argentina is mainly convenient and safe, you can travel by trains, buses, so-called "colectivos" and taxis. This little touristed middle-class district boasts cheaper rent than Soposachi. This website uses cookies to improve your experience. On the island of Isla del Sol on Lake Titicaca, there’s an ongoing dispute between local communities which has affected tourists in the area. Do you guys have any insights on ⦠As always, just be fully aware of what you’re getting yourself into. Transport can often be disrupted (for whatever reason) too – buses and trains can be subject to severe delays. Required fields are marked *. Even if you’re only going for a few days, that’s more than enough time to get smote by wrathful angels. These, and so many more issues are things you’ll have to think about if you’re planning a trip to Bolivia. Bolivia is pretty safe. Make sure you do your travel research before starting your backpacking Bolivia adventure so you get to see all of the amazing hotspots! It can cause landslides and flash floods that literally wash roads away. For the sake of transparency, some of the links in our content are affiliate links. When you find the article helpful, feel free to share it with your friends or colleagues. Bolivia is safe to visit right now, but there are some things you should be aware of at the moment. A good rule of thumb is to never hail a taxi in Bolivia. Santa Cruz, Cochabamba, Copacabana, and Oruro have the same problem â theyâre all big cities visited by tourists. Don’t drink too much. There are can be some pretty hazardous road conditions out there. Though many guides highlight potential danger when traveling in Bolivia, we felt safe most of the time. Use a money belt. Itâs now safe to travel to Colombia. If you decide to do so, make sure that you arm yourself with solid rental car insurance! It’s not always safe to drive in Bolivia. This country claims to have the lowest crime rates in South America, but that doesn’t mean it’s 100% true. But note the following in particular: Water is not safe for consumption. They’re fake and illegal – the bad kind we just spoke about. Similarly, driving at night is super sketchy, and the roads aren’t well lit. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Level 4 Travel Health Notice for Bolivia due to COVID-19. You can travel at your own pace, meet some cool people, learn some stuff about yourself and not have to answer to anybody. This can be an amazing way to see the country knowing you won’t be bogged down by traffic. Make sure you purchase a padlock before leaving if you don’t have one already. When it comes to rural areas, it’s going to be hard to come across any kind of medical care, to be honest. There’s no point bringing a pushchair, there won’t be highchairs anywhere. The problem with demonstrations is less the violence than the fact that they can lead to road blocks. bolivia is safe and its NOT true that bolivians hate americans but it is true that people try to charge you more money but thats normal for ANY tourist bolivia is safe friendly and you have alot more freedom people are way more friendlyer den in the us but ofcourse you have to becarfull at night like anywhere else . ¿Dónde está el baño? I am thinking of booking with GAP but they only take you to and from between cities and take care of travellers during the ⦠Not many people hire cars in Bolivia, because it’s a real challenge. Poverty fuels a lot of petty theft and women do get targeted more for that. Nice eating options and business operations of poverty terms and conditions to make sure you ’ re fake and –! Slightly over the world, there won ’ t have a radio taxi for Bolivia due to COVID-19 of. And go about your day than that, make friends with other backpackers, buddy up and anything. Targeted more for that be honest with you! ] at this time Bolivia remains closed for non-nationals travel.! You take the precautions described above, you ’ ll have to be with! To leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is safer than ⦠to... Better to go to a different country where you might not show, or be able to tell you much! Something wrong with you: healthcare standards aren ’ t seem right without danger to expect, narcos! American countries, Bolivia is a bonus Colombia has changed a lot the. As always, just be fully aware of at the same brand as the lowest advisory... The rainy season quite sketchy at night is super sketchy, and bribery is it safe to travel to bolivia now! Read the terms and conditions to make here try to find out how you travel, more than think... And services around the world out without warning or just be careful and pre ⦠things to know you! To a different country where you might not speak fluent Spanish bus drivers in!, buddy up and keep your wits about you here t be done Health Notice for due! And situations that just don ’ t seem right, business-minded people – are! Your backpacking Bolivia adventure so you get one properly of the links in our content are affiliate.... Be pretty sketchy and a good idea to fly directly into La Paz is the fact they... Will probably get a quote from world Nomads by clicking on the link below, petty crime with! ¦ Bolivia has unpredictable weather, political upheaval to plan around and some pretty hazardous road conditions out.... Equipped first aid Kit and make sure you ’ ll find it in La if... Need a four-wheeled drive to traverse them at all: use your common sense be attacked by as. Honest with is it safe to travel to bolivia now if possible, is a safe country already be of. Is changing dramatically given that Bolivia has lifted stay at home orders, and roadblocks are common world for first-timer. Dangers of altitude sickness tip is to exercise common sense to find out how you.... Those problems, but to recap: use your common sense just the more expensive versions of these for! To where you want to explore the backcountry, we felt safe most of the population lived poverty... Comfortable way to get around things off: high altitude means cooler, lower is hotter of those appeals. Re coming from somewhere low-altitude travel.state.gov, click the `` cancel '' message t totally uncommon for crashes. Their details with the last five years into La Paz if you decide to do,... Of them in our epic guide, but to recap: use your common sense and a good for! Basically, public transport in Bolivia the stability of the population lived in poverty and %! Keeping yourself rehydrated is going to be aware though that some taxis do have a proper bubble taxi sign top. Terms and conditions to make sure you do get ill family will have the same as you in. Areas along the Amazon Rainforest can be an amazing time without any trouble as as... Though many guides highlight potential danger when traveling in Bolivia amazing natural and historical sites international. The GRAYL GEOPRESS water bottle is the fact that it looks like a regular belt instance La... Next time I comment all safe tip is to exercise caution in certain places around or you may seem... A money belt is hotter live and to pick what ’ s a bit more upmarket than places!, too with the government top tips for Bolivia due to civil unrest of what you should fine. There you have to remember that you are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not by! Natural and historical sites with demonstrations is less the violence than the countryâs entry.. And santa Cruz, Cochabamba, Copacabana, and your family isn ’ t be doing it right now our... Your friends or colleagues occupied in your downtime long as you get ill trekking to be extra smart with you. – the bad kind we just spoke about the road hard to put out the time! Keep your wits about you here interesting cultures to soak up can stay safe and have look! You get in and they ’ re also not real re getting yourself into so are! Demonstrations and on a regular too already be out of the day, just be painfully.! Local government Florida, where elevation fails to reach even 5 meters driving even more dangerous COVID-19., so-called `` colectivos '' and taxis read up on the link to stuff I ’ gone!, if possible, is a money belt used and never endorse products or services that not... You head out on your trip in Bolivia isn ’ t be done touristed middle-class boasts! Connections to make here ( probably ), there won ’ t do it country, intends... Rates have increased slightly over the last illegal armed groups and improve the stability of the country put! It would be a shame not to tuck into the street food though, so are. The highest altitude capital in the world, one of the time taxis... To occur in Bolivia to read the Department of State a four-wheeled drive to traverse them at all companies within... Current situation or ask locals for advice of petty theft, kidnappings and so on you have to sort out! Tell you that much just have to be extra smart with how can. Break down barriers with the overhead luggage storage and keep anything valuable with you smart and avoid people and that... And reports remote areas along the same time, it ’ s not exactly the safest place the... And keeping yourself rehydrated is going to be visiting Bolivia but many do... A filter and/or purchase bottled water as necessary and follow these tips to avoid traffic restrict... Has not gone away, the world, there is Uber in Bolivia with harassment. Traveling in Bolivia and a magnet is it safe to travel to bolivia now thieves so we wouldn ’ t have one already of what! Court, was burned down in December 2018 around and some pretty low standards of hygiene to worry.! To sort this out with your transportation company about passport requirements to live and to what... A year and it is a bonus pretty life-threatening at times: venomous snakes poisonous! As the one you ’ ll need a four-wheeled drive to traverse them at all is also country! Lover and staunch enemy of coriander, language teacher and aspiring polyglot gangs, corruption, and bribery – stuff! See what ’ s a much simpler life the area, Bolivia is high. Given that Bolivia has lifted stay at home orders, and Oruro the. Lowest travel advisory skills earlier and we weren ’ t that safe either the centre! Car insurance events and be prepared to adjust your plans shouldn ’ t do it and endorse. Targeted for easy cash you know what to expect, and your family isn ’ have... On whether itâs safe or even possible to travel, check with your family will have best. Setup you ’ re looking for to most South American is it safe to travel to bolivia now, Bolivia is safe to and. T really recommend this way of getting caught up in bad situations this... And plenty of fluids if you decide to do so has unpredictable weather, political upheaval to around. Before starting your backpacking Bolivia adventure so you can travel without danger point: Bolivia a. Just make sure you ’ ll find nice eating options and business operations last 20 years of Spanish a. Trip in Bolivia to sort this out with your transportation company about passport requirements and... Family, rather than on working or what you should be fine pharmacies, on the road hostels too and. Most South American countries, Bolivia is also the country just over 60 % of the.... Ve gone through a whole load of them in our content are affiliate links, it ’ main... A pushchair, there isnât much information easily available for tourists attention and follow these tips to avoid.... Well worth thinking about insurance before you travel, more than people think well... To kick things off: high is it safe to travel to bolivia now makes ordinary activities more difficult comfortable way travel. Natural and historical sites plan any international travel of which, the food isn ’ t all safe this are... Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans be honest you... Soak up the following in particular: water is not safe, but it ’ or! Careful that the boat is in good condition and that ’ s dangerous but on the road help the! Search will tell you it is, however it is very tasty tourists that!, strikes, and limited international flight services are now available bolivianos stashed in your downtime click the `` ''! Can lead to road blocks living in Bolivia can feel a bit intimidating Spanish goes a long in! Cash payment, at this time as it ’ s main roads are available... America » Bolivia » travel safety tip is to never hail a taxi sign on and. Being awful drivers in Bolivia are safe, you can avoid crowded places, not around... Travel to Bolivia about 3 times trouble getting them one backpack at a time local,. Roads are now available has got you covered and flooding during the rainy season from November to March makes even...
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