Welcome to Bolivia

Often mistakenly underrated, Bolivia should certainly be on your radar. It’s a country brimming with adventure travel activities, bustling cities, colorful festivals, fun markets, diverse cultures and incredible natural beauty.

Don’t miss the treasured Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world – the Incas believed it was the birthplace of their empire. In UNESCO-listed Tiwanaku, explore pre-Columbian ruins, which in some cases, boggle modern architectural minds.

And in La Paz, in the shadow of snow-capped peaks, mingle with the locals in cafes lining historic plazas, dine at upscale restaurants and peruse traditional markets.

Unique Facts

• Bolivia is home to one of the world’s largest butterfly sanctuaries. It’s open 365 days a year.
• There is an incredible dangerous road in Bolivia – the North Yungas Road, or “Road of Fate.” Improvements have been made to avoid accidents, but it’s a harrowing drive for thrill seekers, nevertheless.
• The world’s largest salt flat is in Bolivia – the Salar de Uyuni. It’s 4,086 square miles and 100 times larger than the famous Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah. It contains between 50 and 70 percent of the world’s lithium reserves.
• Massive Madidi National Park is one of the world’s largest protected areas, home to at least 8,500 documented species, with an estimated total of over 11,000.
• Interestingly, San Pedro Prison is a tourist attraction in Bolivia. It’s renowned for the fact that inmates are allowed to live with their families in the prison, work, earn and buy or rent their accommodations.

Language

Bolivia’s official languages are Spanish 36 indigenous languages.

When To Go

The best time to go to Bolivia is May through November.

Airports

El Alto International Airport

Passport Validity

Passport must be valid for six months beyond entry date.

Visa Required By US Citizen?

None

Vaccinations

The CDC recommends the following vaccine for all travelers when visiting Bolivia: Measles and routine vaccinations. Most travelers should receive Hepatitis A and Typhoid vaccines. Some travelers should receive the Hepatitis B, Malaria and Rabies vaccines.

Electrical Outlets

Power plugs and sockets: types A and C. Standard voltage: 230V. Frequency: 50Hz.

Currency

Official local currency: Bolivian Boliviano

Getting Around

The highways in Bolivia generally lack shoulders, fencing, barriers or adequate lane markings. La Paz, Santa Cruz and Cochabamba are linked by highways. Other roads are mainly unpaved.

Radio-dispatched taxis and intercity minibus travel is available. Petty theft is common on public transportation.

Driver’s License

A valid US driver’s license is required.

US Embassy Info

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
Hours: Monday to Thursday: 08:00 – 17:30 and Friday: 08:00 – 12:00 (except U.S. and local holidays)
ConsularLaPazACS@state.gov

Local Visitor Info

Casa de Turismo
Bustillos No. 131
Between Dalence and Colón Streets
Tel: 591-4-645-2599
info@casadeturismo.com.bo
www.casadeturismo.com.bo

Local Emergency Phone Numbers

Ambulance: 108
Fire: 101
Police: 100

Safety and Security

The crime rate is high in Bolivia. Pickpocketing, theft after ATM withdrawals and car theft are common. Do not leave personal belongings unattended. Avoid the Coronilla Hill area in Cochabamba. Use only radio-dispatched taxis. Do not travel alone.