Bolivia International Travel Information (2024)

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

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Embassy Messages

Alerts

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]

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 can apply to extend their initial 30-day stay. They can do this through the Dirección General de Migración (National Migration Service). They have 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 got the Bolivian visa at a land border or entry port and you lose your passport, you'll need to get a new visa. You'll also need to pay the $160 US visa fee to leave the country. If you got 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, you will not need to pay the visa fee.  
• Bolivian citizen minors traveling alone or with one parent, who have stayed in Bolivia for over 90 days, will need permission from the non-traveling parent or parents to leave Bolivia. They may also need to show the original birth certificate. For more information, pleasecontact the Embassy. 

Dual Nationality: When entering and/or exiting Bolivia, U.S.-Bolivian citizens may need to show a valid Bolivian identity document. This could be 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.

Chapare Region:Criminal groups operate in this region. Also, authorities have used force in past confrontations with residents over coca eradication. Pro-coca groups may try to target U.S. interests.Contact the Embassybefore traveling to this 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 Cochabambanext to the main bus terminal, due to crime.
• Use caution if you plan to travel fromCopacabana 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 putting a substance on their bags. They use this trick to get the victims to give up their bags. Never leave personal items unattended.

Demonstrationsoccur frequently. They may happen in response to political or economic issues. They also happen on important 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 theEmbassy’s website.

International Financial Scams:See theDepartment of Stateand theFBIpages 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 at110and 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 at800-14-0081. 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 onhelp for U.S. victims of crime overseas.

We can:

• 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 onvictim’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. Inspectors rarely check equipment and facilities for safety. Hazardous areas and activities might lack proper signs. Staff may lack training or certification by the host government or by recognized authorities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in/near major cities. First responders can't reach areas outside major cities. They can't provide urgent medical treatment there. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchasemedical evacuation insurance.

Criminal Penalties:You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. People starting a business or practicing a licensed profession should seek information from local authorities. They need to do this before practicing or operating.

Bolivian authorities aregenerallyrequired to press official charges within 24 hours of arrest. They must release a detainee within 48 hours if no formal charges are brought. However, investigative and pre-trial periods may drag onindefinitely.

Bolivian law lets police detain any foreigner. They can detain them until they show proof of legal status in the country. This proof can be a 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 oncrimes against minors abroadand theDepartment of Justicewebsite.

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. Bolivian authorities could seize any protected species that is sold or transported. This applies to live animals or products, like food, drinks, leather, crafts, or clothes. Some products, including live animals, require special permits to leave 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 ourwebpagefor further information.

• In Bolivia, suspects can be held up to 18 months without charges. The detention period can then 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. No matter your medical history or fitness, the high altitude may harm you. Exercise extreme caution when trekking or climbing in Bolivia.

• Trekkers must have enough clothing and gear. These are not always available locally. They should be experienced in the mountains.
• 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 right away. Also, consider seeking medical attention.
• Trekkers and climbers should buy insurance. It should cover emergency services, like 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:Counterfeit and pirated goods are common in many countries, but they may still be illegal under local laws. You may also pay fines or have to give them up if you bring them back to the United States. See theU.S. Department of Justice websitefor 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.

SeeourLGBTQI+ Travel Informationpage and section 6 of ourHuman Rights reportfor further details.

Travelers with Disabilities:Bolivian law prohibits discrimination against persons with disabilities. But it is unevenly enforced. Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is as prevalent as in the United States. The most common accessibility issues may include: accessible facilities, information, and communication. Also, access to services and ease of movement. When traveling, public transportation, lodging, and communication may not be easy to use. Infrastructure can also pose accessibility limitations.

Students:See ourStudents Abroadpage andFBI 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 forWomen 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 ourmedical assistance page.

The Servicio Departamental de Salud (SEDES) is the agency that regulates COVID-19 testing in Bolivia. 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. Hospitals cannot handle serious conditions. The 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 rare. 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 ourwebpagefor more information on overseas insurance. Visit theU.S. Centers for Disease Control andPreventionfor more information. They can tell you what type of insurance to consider before you travel overseas.

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Always carry your prescription medication in its original packaging. Also bring your doctor’s prescription.

Vaccinations:Be up to date on allvaccinationsrecommended 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: VisitAirNow Department of Statefor information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

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

Health facilities in general:

Private hospitals usually need payment upfront, or they need 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. They are not subject to the same rules and regulations. Anyone interested in medical travel should ask their local doctor before going. They should also visit theU.S. Centers for Disease Control and Preventionwebsite 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 medicine is common. It may not work, be too strong or weak, or contain harmful ingredients. You should buy medication in consultation with a medical professional. Buy it from reputable sellers.

• 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 theU.S. Customs and Border Protectionand theFood and Drug Administrationwebsites 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 ourART and Surrogacy Abroadpage.

Water Quality:

• In many areas, tap water is not potable. Bottled water and drinks are generally safe but be aware that many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless you ask for bottled water. Be aware that ice for drinks may be made using tap water.

Altitude:

• 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 aboutTravel toHigh Altitudes.

Adventure Travel:

• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information aboutAdventure Travel.

The following diseases are prevalent in Bolivia:

• Malaria
• Dengue
• Rabies
• Yellow Fever
• Chikungunya
• Zika
• Use the repellents the U.S. Centers for Disease Control recommends. Also, sleep under mosquito nets impregnated with insecticide. Chemoprophylaxis is recommended for all travelers even for short stays.
• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information. It has resources for travelers about specific issues in Bolivia.

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 recommendedfor 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. Some vehicles lack lights. Also, there are intoxicated or overly tired drivers. This includes 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 ourRoad Safety pagefor more information.

• Avoid taking unlicensed taxis anduse radio taxiswhenever 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 theFAA’s safety assessment page.

Please see Fact Sheet for this country/area.