what to pack to visit la paz bolivia
If you're interested in pilus-raising adventures, breathtaking scenery, and incredibly unique culture, then backpacking Bolivia is the right trip for you. Located right in the middle of Southward America, this is i of only two landlocked countries in all the Americas.
Republic of bolivia is a very ethnically diverse land. It'south actually the most indigenous country in the Americas, with a majority of the population having Native American ancestry.
Unlike its neighbours Peru, Republic of chile, and Brazil, Bolivia remains an off the beaten path destination. Intrepid travellers who brand it hither are rewarded with an abundance of take a chance activities and some of the most beautiful landscapes on the continent.
Ane of the best parts about backpacking Republic of bolivia is that all of this can be washed on a bankrupt backpacker upkeep. This guide teaches you all tips and tricks, routes, itineraries and important data you need when backpacking Bolivia.
Why Go Backpacking in Bolivia?
Where yous choose to spend your time in Bolivia volition depend on how long you were planning on travelling and what your onward travel plans are. There aren't many corking options for international connections by air here, and then backpacking Bolivia is best combined with visits to neighbouring countries such as Peru, Chile, or Brazil.
Photo: Sasha Savinov
The best way to plan your Bolivia chance is figuring out how yous'll get in and out of the land, and then connecting the dots in between with your allocated fourth dimension-frame. As we mentioned above, most travellers enter Bolivia via one neighbouring country so exit to some other.
While Republic of bolivia isn't a huge country, the long and winding mountain roads that accept you between many points of interest means you might take to spend quite a few days sitting on long-altitude buses to see it all. Travel in Bolivia tin be slow and bumpy (but information technology sure is scenic).
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Best Travel Itineraries for Bolivia
Nosotros've mapped out a couple of possible itineraries to give you an idea of what you tin can see and do while backpacking Republic of bolivia with anywhere from i calendar week to one month since most travellers can only stay up to thirty days per entry in Republic of bolivia, that's the maximum amount of time we'll look at.
7 Days: Lake Titicaca, Isla del Sol, La Paz, Common salt Flats
If you lot merely take a calendar week to spend in Bolivia, you should consider visiting overland afterwards travelling in Peru. Doing then ways you lot can start your backpacking Bolivia adventure at the gorgeous Lake Titicaca. The lake is split betwixt 2 Southward American countries, Peru and Republic of bolivia, so you lot may as well visit both sides as they both have something different to offer.
You'll want to spend at least 1 dark at Lake Titicaca, and you lot tin choose to do then in a few dissimilar places. On the Bolivian side, yous can stay in the lakeside town of Copacabana or take hold of a ferry and overnight on the remote Isla del Sol.
From the lake, it'south just a few hours by charabanc to La Paz. This is one of two capitals in the state (yes, Bolivia is a funky place) and it's 1 of the biggest cities. At that place's a lot to see and do in and around La Paz, including the famed Death Road bicycle trip. Don't permit the name freak y'all out – information technology's actually relatively prophylactic.
Most visitors to Bolivia hope to brand it to the stunning Salar de Uyuni, so that's where this whirlwind trip volition stop. Every bit the most popular attraction in the country, information technology's not hard to hop on a two or three-day tour headed there. After the Salt Flats, you tin can either continue overland to Republic of chile or take hold of a quick flying back to La Paz to make your connectedness home.
14 Days: Highlights Plus National Parks and Sucre
With two weeks at your disposal in Republic of bolivia, you lot tin follow the one-week itinerary higher up and add a few more stops forth the way. You lot tin can as well add a night or 2 to Lake Titicaca and La Paz in order to dive a chip deeper.
Photo: Sasha Savinov
In improver to those major highlights, you can striking i or two of Republic of bolivia'southward national parks. Your best bet is visiting the twin national parks of Amboro and Carrasco, as they're located right next to each other. This is the most bio-diverse department of the state and information technology's absolutely gorgeous.
Rather than making a beeline to the Common salt Flats, y'all'll accept enough fourth dimension to linger for a few days in the "White Metropolis" of Sucre. This beautiful city has a very laidback vibe and is the perfect place to relax for a bit in between those epic adventures.
30 Days: All Across Republic of bolivia
Those who take a full month to explore Republic of bolivia will exist able to enjoy a comprehensive tour of the country. If you're just focusing on Bolivia and not planning to head to whatsoever of its neighbours, you'll want to book round-trip flights to La Paz for this one.
After spending a few days taking in the sights and getting acclimated to the loftier altitude of La Paz, you're set up to embark on ane of Bolivia'south most epic adventures – climbing Huayna Potosi. Don't worry if you're non equipped with the proper gear, as it'south very easy to rent equipment in La Paz.
Alternatively, yous could catch a short flying from La Paz to Rurrenabaque, which is the jump-off point for Bolivian Amazon adventures. You'll have the chance to spot a lot of wildlife, go fishing, and stay in remote villages. Just be warned that the mosquitoes are absolutely horrendous here, so it's all-time to make sure you've had a Yellow Fever vaccination, stay covered up, and wear enough of strong bug spray.
Rather than heading correct to the same national parks, yous can spend a day or two hanging out in Cochabamba. This is the third-largest city in Bolivia and it has a pleasant, moderate climate. From here, you tin can easily join a tour to check out the national parks.
After visiting the national parks, you can then move on to Bolivia'due south largest urban center of Santa Cruz de la Sierra. Spend a few days here to do some sightseeing and then head out to visit the Jesuit Missions of the Chiquitos. These are six remote towns founded by the Jesuits in the 17th and 18th centuries and they're very interesting places to check out.
From Santa Cruz, you can grab a flight to Sucre and hang out there for a while before embarking on your Common salt Flats bout.
If in that location's nevertheless time, you tin check out the town of Potosi for a twenty-four hours earlier heading dorsum to La Paz. Air current the trip down with a few days of relaxing on Lake Titicaca. Afterwards that huge month-long trip in Bolivia, a trivial bit of R&R is but what you need!
Photograph: Sasha Savinov
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Places to Visit in Republic of bolivia
Backpacking La Paz
Most travellers will stop up in La Paz at some point on their journey while backpacking Bolivia. While it's true that yous'll probably detect the best prices on flights via La Paz, Bolivia's administrative capital is far more a place to grab a flying. The city is a skilful interaction to Bolivia and there are loads of cheap La Paz hostels where you can come across like-minded travellers.
The first thing to note about La Paz is just how freaking high the urban center is. The altitude ranges from 3,100 meters all the way upwards to iv,058, making it the highest capital urban center in the earth. If you lot're not used to the altitude, you'll definitely demand to spend at to the lowest degree a few days here to go acclimated.
Photo: Sasha Savinov
Information technology should be noted that when y'all wing in, you're not actually in La Paz at all. The airport is located in El Alto, which was once a office of La Paz but became its ain city in 1987. At some signal in your trip, you should definitely come back up here to bank check out the twice-weekly street market, which is absolutely massive and quite interesting to wander effectually.
A great mode to admire the dazzler of La Paz is to ride one of the urban center'southward many cable car lines. Not but are these a magnificent feat of technology, but they're also a great and inexpensive way to see the metropolis.
There'southward enough to run into and practise hither to warrant sticking around for a few days. Y'all've got tons of museums, quirky witches markets, fantabulous viewpoints, and even the world's highest golf course.
Photo: Sasha Savinov
On Thursdays and Sundays, you lot can sentry the incredible cholitas wrestlers. Information technology's similar lucha libre in United mexican states but with long-haired ladies instead of masked luchadores. These ladies throw down in the ring dressed in their traditional clothing, and information technology's pretty awesome.
A major highlight of travelling in La Paz is visiting some of the stunning natural wonders in the area, such equally the Valle de la Luna (Valley of the Moon) or the Muela del Diablo (Devil'due south Molar) for a scrap of hiking. There are several other trekking opportunities within an hr or and so drive of the city too.
Backpacking Uyuni
The boondocks of Uyuni isn't much, only it'southward the jumping off signal for tours in the incredible Salar de Uyuni. Visiting the Common salt Flats is definitely the highlight of backpacking Bolivia, and you've got a few options for doing so.
Those backpacking Bolivia on a budget, looking for the cheapest option, can do a one-solar day tour of the Salt Flats out of Uyuni. Every Uyuni hostel and travel agent here runs tours, so yous can shop around a bit before making a choice.
If you've got a fleck more time and money to burn, you can practise two or iii-day tours, where y'all visit some awe-inspiring landscapes in improver to the Salt Flats. You tin see the Dali Desert, lagoons full of flamingos, and soak in natural hot springs.
Photo: Sasha Savinov
In my humble opinion, the best way to visit the Salt Flats is on the 3-day bout that begins in San Pedro de Atacama in Chile. Travelling this way allows y'all to visit all the awesome places mentioned above and then some. It as well ways you stop with the Salt Flats on the concluding morning.
Doing the tour in reverse would be a bit anti-climactic equally you'd visit them get-go, but if that'south your merely option you should still go for it.
Backpacking Sucre
Sucre is known as La Ciudad Blanca (the White Urban center) for its lovely white buildings made of volcanic rock. It's probably the nicest city in Republic of bolivia and it is the perfect identify to relax for a few days between all those crazy adventures you're sure to take.
The biggest tourist attraction in Sucre is the Bolivian version of Jurassic Park. Here yous can see a vast collection of dino footprints on a large quarry wall that used to be a lake flooring. In that location are also some life-sized dinosaur statues spread out across the grounds and a few exhibits you can check out.
Photo: Sasha Savinov
Other than checking out the dino prints, the best office nearly Sucre is just soaking upwards the laid-back vibe and admiring the beautiful architecture. Information technology might be the most tranquila metropolis in all of South America, so take it easy and enjoy yourself!
Sucre is as well ane of the best places to study Castilian on the continent. There are several unlike Spanish schools to cull from, classes are cheap, and Bolivians are known for their clear, relatively slow style of speaking Spanish.
Backpacking Lake Titicaca
Lake Titicaca is the highest navigable lake in the world, sitting at an pinnacle of 3,821 meters. For travellers coming from or headed to Peru, it's the perfect spot to begin or end your trip backpacking Bolivia.
The principal tourist centre on the Bolivian side of the lake is the town of Copacabana. Here you'll discover plenty of budget hostels, restaurants, and bars to choose from. Every tour operator in town runs boat trips around the lake or out to the secluded Isla del Sol.
Photograph: Sasha Savinov
If you've got a couple of days, it'south worth information technology to stay a night or two on this Isla del Sol. It's a beautiful place with a actually chilled out vibe. There are a few walking trails you tin utilise to explore the island, or you lot can only kick back and relax.
Getting Off the Beaten Path in Bolivia
The fact that you're in Bolivia already ways you're sort of off the beaten path. This land receives far fewer international visitors than its neighbors, and it is a unique destination in its own right.
That being said, there definitely is a "browbeaten path" in Republic of bolivia. Most visitors only hit a combination of Lake Titicaca, La Paz, Sucre, and the Common salt Flats, myself included. While these destinations are all amazing and can hands fill 2-three weeks, there's a lot more to detect in Bolivia.
The principal reason y'all'll drift from the typical tourist route is to head out on some adventures. Those seeking to explore the Amazon can caput to the modest jungle town ofRurrenabeque. From here you can hands sign up for a tour that might include swimming with pink dolphins or pirahna fishing.
Another good pick is Cochabamba, Bolivia's quaternary largest city. It's far less touristy than the other big cities in Bolivia, and it's a great place to chill out for a few days before embarking on more adventures. From here you tin easily join a multi-day excursion to visit remote ethnic communities.
Even Bolivia's largest city, Santa Cruz de la Sierra means getting off the beaten path since La Paz receives far more than attending.
Those really looking to go off the beaten path in Bolivia volition desire to expect into the various trekking and hiking tours, every bit there are plenty of hiking, mountaineering, and extreme sport activities in Bolivia.
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Tiptop Things to Do in Bolivia
Some people recollect Top 10 lists are cheesy. I love them and always have. Here's my rundown of the top things to do in Republic of bolivia.
one. Table salt Flats Bout
A multi-day tour that includes the Bolivian Salt Flats volition non only be the highlight of your fourth dimension in Bolivia, merely information technology just might be the all-time thing you practise in all of S America. Trust me, it'due south that awesome.
Photo: Sasha Savinov
While it'south possible to visit the Table salt Flats on a one-24-hour interval tour out of Uyuni, yous're much meliorate off signing up for a 3-day tour coming from or headed to Chile. You'll run into some otherworldly landscapes, sleep in remote villages, and become to take in the sunrise over the Table salt Flats.
The Table salt Flats are famous for the whacky perspective photos that you can take there. Be sure to option up a toy or another props to help you in your quest for that perfect Instagram shot. In the rainy season when the Salt Flats are flooded those perspective shots are a bit tough to set up, just yous exercise get a actually cool mirror outcome.
2. The Death Road
Adrenaline junkies and thrill-seekers volition definitely desire to prowl downwardly the legendary El Camino de la Muerte (Death Route) outside of La Paz. On this mount biking take chances, you'll fly downhill around hairpin turns with some incredible scenery blowing by you lot.
While the name sounds terrifying, this trip is very safe and then long as you're an experienced rider and you go with a reputable visitor. The final thing you want when you're hurtling downward a windy road in Republic of bolivia is shotty brakes! We didn't actually do the tour, just friends recommended going with Gravity Republic of bolivia.
3. Cholitas Wrestling
If y'all've read my backpacking guide to Mexico, you'll know that I'one thousand a huge wrestling fan. Fifty-fifty if you're not that into it, yous've got to cheque out the legendary cholitas wrestlers in La Paz. Matches become downwardly on Thursdays and Sundays, with Sunday beingness the more than exciting show packed full of locals.
Photo: Sasha Savinov
The term "cholita" was one time a derogatory term for indigenous women in Bolivia. These days, the word has more than positive connotations of fashionable, resourceful, and downright badass women. When backpacking Bolivia, you'll see proud cholitas on the streets, decked out in the signature hats and long skirts.
To be honest, I wasn't expecting much from the cholitas throwing down and duking it out in the band. Male child was I wrong! They do backflips, wing out of the ring, snatch beers from the fans, and just put on an all-around incredibly entertaining show.
4. Learn Spanish
If yous're in Bolivia, chances are you're on an extended backpacking trip around Southward America. And if y'all are, chances are your gringo/gringa ass could use some help with your español. No offense though…
Photograph: Sasha Savinov
Few places in S America are better than Bolivia for studying Spanish. For i, it'southward 1 of the cheapest countries in the region. There are tons of not bad Castilian schools in La Paz and Sucre with skilful reputations and skillful results. Get beyond "una mas cervesa, por favor" and start to have more meaningful interactions with locals past learning the language.
5. Explore a National Park (or 2)
Bolivia is home to several national parks, where you can go out and enjoy nature. The twin national parks of Amboro and Carraso are located right side by side to each other, making for a nifty one-ii dial. Be sure to include a few days between these gorgeous national parks on your backpacking Republic of bolivia adventure.
6. Visit a Train Graveyard
Many tours of the Common salt Flats as well include a stop at the train graveyard that's just outside the town of Uyuni. If you don't end up on a bout that does, it's piece of cake to visit yourself from town. Here you'll detect an abundance of one-time, rusty trains that yous can climb on and in to get some pretty cool photos.
Photo: Sasha Savinov
vii. Climb a Mountain
Those looking to do a bit of climbing and/or trekking are in luck, equally Bolivia has several bang-up options. One of the most popular treks is El Choro, due to its piece of cake accessibility from La Paz and stunning scenery. If you're upward for a huge challenge, yous can try to tackle the 6,080-meter tall Huayana Potosi.
eight. An Amazon Adventure
If you're hoping to visit the Amazon during your Due south America risk, Bolivia is a peachy identify to do so. Amazon tours hither are more than budget-friendly than they are in Brazil and they are just equally expert, if not better. It'southward possible to find a three-24-hour interval tour between $150-175. The almost pop jump-off point for a tour is the small town of Rurrenabaque.
9. Visit a Witch Md
To say that Bolivia has a unique and interesting culture is an understatement. It's very common to visit a witch dr., where you tin can take your fortune read in coca leaves. There are entire streets in La Paz that are full of witch doctors.
Photograph: Sasha Savinov
Your best bet for visiting them is with a knowledgeable guide. The friendly folks at Cherry Cap tours come highly recommended, particularly their tours on Thursday and Lord's day that also include a visit to the massive outdoor market and the cholitas wrestling.
10. Explore Pre-Inca Ruins
Those interested in history and archaeology will desire to visit the pre-Inca ruins at Tiwanaku. Information technology'southward a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is hands visited on a twenty-four hour period trip from La Paz. While non quite as amazing as Machu Picchu, it's a great warm-up for those who are headed on to Peru.
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Backpacker Accommodation in Bolivia
Broke Backpackers will exist happy to hear that accommodation is of not bad value in Bolivia. Overall, it's one of the cheapest countries in Latin America to travel in. In the popular tourist areas, you can easily find excellent backpacker hostels or budget hotel rooms.
Photo: Sasha Savinov
All-time Places to Stay in Bolivia
Bolivia Backpacking Costs
A Daily Budget in Republic of bolivia
| Expense | Broke Backpacker | Frugal Traveler | Creature of Comfort |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adaptation | $5-7 | $10 | $15-25+ |
| Food | $5-10 | $10 | $15 |
| Transport | $2-5 | $5 | $10-fifteen+ |
| Nightlife | Stay Sober | $5-ten | $10-20+ |
| Activities | $five-15 | $xv-xxx | $30-100 (similar for a guided bout or trek) |
| Total | $25-thirty | $thirty-40 | $40-60+ |
Money in Bolivia
Republic of bolivia'due south currency is the Boliviano. There are ATMs hither, though information technology'southward always wise to bring cash with you to remote and rural areas of Bolivia, like the Amazon. I doubtfulness they accept cards in the jungle!
It's wise to take greenbacks on you in general, especially at the markets or at small shops. Avoid carrying huge sums of money around with yous – considering if you lot get robbed or lose it – it is gone!
Travel Tips – Bolivia On a Budget
- Campsite: Check out this mail service for a breakdown of the best tents to take backpacking. Or, if yous're feeling real adventurous and want to save some cash, consider picking up a backpacking hammock.
- Melt your own nutrient:If y'all are on a tight budget, you can salve money by cooking your ain food – I recommend bringing a portable backpacking stove.
- Couchsurf: While it's not exactly huge in Bolivia, information technology's worth it to check out Courchsurfing, especially when the pandemic calms downwards. Check out Couchsurfing to brand some real friendships and see this country from the perspective of locals.
- Pack a travel water bottle and save money every day!
Why You Should Travel to Republic of bolivia with a Water Bottle
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All-time Time to Travel to Republic of bolivia
The weather in Bolivia changes with altitude and not latitude. In the high desert of the Altiplano, it may be scorching hot during the solar day but freezing at night. Down in the Amazon, information technology tends to be hot and moisture. The best time of year actually depends on what kind of activities you'll be doing and which regions you lot'll exist visiting.
Generally speaking, May to October is considered the most pleasant time to travel in Bolivia. This is the driest time of twelvemonth and temperatures are usually quite mild. This is the country'southward wintertime, though, so information technology tin can be quite cold in the highlands.
You know that saying "when information technology rains, it pours"? Well that'due south definitely truthful in Bolivia. The rainy season lasts from Nov to March and landslides are quite common. This means road closures and delayed flights, which tin can really muck up your trip. Information technology too means that all those awesome outdoor activities might exist washed in a downpour.
Photo: Sasha Savinov
One thing most travellers desire to know is what is the all-time fourth dimension of year is to visit the Salt Flats. The reply really depends on you. When the Table salt Flats are flooded betwixt December and April, y'all get that cool mirror effect but there are sure parts y'all can't visit.
From June to August the Salt Flats are a giant, white desert. This makes for fun perspective photos merely it can be bitter cold in the morning. There really is no bad fourth dimension to visit the Slat Flats. Only keep in heed that tours do not run on Christmas or New year's day's.
Festivals in Bolivia
With several different ethnic groups, it's no surprise that Bolivia has many festivals throughout the year. Information technology may not get as much attending every bit the political party in Rio, merely there'due south a massive Carnaval celebration in the Bolivian city of Oruro. Just be warned that accommodation in this small city books up far in advance.
Every bit in many other Latin American nations, Bolivia celebrates the Mean solar day of the Dead and All Saint'south Solar day at the starting time of November. At this fourth dimension, people visit cemeteries to decorate the graves of their ancestors and welcome them dorsum.
Some other huge festival in Bolivia is the Aymara New Twelvemonth. The Aymara are the primary indigenous grouping in Republic of bolivia and they celebrate their New year's day on the winter solstice (June 21 in Bolivia). The town of Tiwanaku hosts a massive party full of music and bonfires.
What to Pack for Bolivia
What yous decide to pack for South America, especially Republic of bolivia, volition depend on the time of year you go, and what blazon of activities you have planned. It'southward all-time to have a mixture of warm-weather and cold-weather condition clothing just and then you're prepared.
Definitely make certain to have a practiced jumper, equally it can go quite chilly, and windy. Those looking to climb a mountain like Huayana Potosi volition want to have the proper gear and warm clothing. It'south likewise possible to rent stuff if y'all demand to.
If you're headed to the Amazon, y'all'll desire to make sure you have clothes that volition cover you up. Yes it will be hot and glutinous, but unless you desire a ton of mosquito bites yous have no choice.
Somewhere to hibernate your cash
Somewhere to hide your greenbacks
Agile Roots Money Belt
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A travel water bottle
A travel water canteen
GRAYL Geopress Filtered Bottle
Having a filtered water bottle ways you can drink from only about whatever source. The GRAYL Geopress is hands-down the most effective one we've always used every bit well!
For those unexpected messes
For those unexpected messes
Active Roots Microfiber Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and accept forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry speedily, are meaty, lightweight, and tin can exist used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
When the ability goes out
When the power goes out
Petzl Actik Core Headlamp
A decent caput torch could save your life. If you want to explore caves, unlit temples, or simply observe your way to the bath during a blackout, a headtorch is a must.
Slumber anywhere
Sleep anywhere
Agile Roots Camping Hammock
Taking a tent backpacking is not e'er applied just hammocks are lightweight, cheap, strong, sexy (chicks dig hammocks), and let you to pitch upwardly for the night pretty much anywhere.
To stay a make clean backpacker
To stay a make clean backpacker
Hanging Toiletry Bag
I always travel with a hanging toiletry purse every bit information technology's a super-efficient style to organize your bathroom stuff. Well worth having equally information technology helps to accept quick access to all your stuff.
Staying Safe in Bolivia
Mostly speaking, Bolivia is a safe state to travel in. And then long equally you're mindful of your surroundings, taking good intendance of your valuables, and avoiding sketchy situations, you'll exist just fine. That being said, there are a few things to take into consideration.
First of all, with the ascent in popularity of Bolivia equally a tourist destination, at that place are now several less than trustworthy tour operators. Definitely do your enquiry earlier heading off on a iv×four bout of the Table salt Flats or the Death Road cycle trip. Y'all'll want to verify the track record and quality of the company earlier embarking on such a trip.
While drugs are readily available in Bolivia (more on that in the next section), they are yet illegal. Ownership and using drugs there can state yous in some serious trouble that your embassy back domicile is not likely to help out with. Besides, doing cocaine at the loftier altitude here tin can have some very adverse side effects, and can even be deadly.
The San Pedro prison in La Paz is definitely an interesting place, only it's not one y'all want to go to. For starters, tours there are at present officially illegal. Practise non have whatever offer to get visit the prison house. There's no guarantee of your safety in there and you'll be hard-pressed to find help.
Across the land, you're brash to avoid wandering effectually at night. Republic of bolivia is usually quite safe during the day but things have a turn for the worse after dark. It'due south becoming increasingly mutual for tourists to be robbed, assaulted, and even kidnapped. That doesn't hateful y'all can't go out at all; just be cautious, stick with a grouping, and take a taxi instead of walking.
Scams to Be Aware Of
Speaking of taxis, there are plenty of nefarious drivers out in that location. You should avoid hailing a cab on the street, specially in La Paz. While Uber isn't available here, there are other local apps where y'all tin get a trusted ride for a good price.
There are plenty of scams in Bolivia that target strange tourists. Ane example is the notorious "fake police officeholder" scam. Someone dressed like a cop will approach you, demand your ID, and insist you've broken some law and demand to pay a large fine on the spot.
They may try to take off with your ID likewise. If someone approaches you lot, need to see a warrant and demand to contact your Diplomatic mission.
Sex activity, Drugs and Rock 'N Curl in Republic of bolivia
Bolivia is the tertiary largest producer of cocaine in the globe, and so it should come as no surprise that the white lady is readily available hither. It is, nevertheless, all the same very much illegal. While personal possession is not supposed to carry a jail sentence, there isn't a clear definition of what that is. Go caught with accident in Bolivia and you could exist looking at an eight-year jail sentence, even if it's only a small amount.
Weed is pretty mutual hither and evidently not too difficult to find. If you lot score a handbag, yous'll definitely want to avoid openly puffing in public. Local police will be happy to find a reason to extort a large sum of money out of tourists. I beloved getting stoned equally much as the next guy, only I decided it wasn't worth it to try and score some in Bolivia. Yous'll get loftier enough off the altitude!
Photo: Sasha Savinov
Hallucinogens similar the San Pedro cactus and ayahuasca are becoming more mutual here. They're definitely in a sort of grey area, but if caught with them you lot can expect to go slapped with a fine at the least. Better to salve that wild trip for when you become to Peru and practise information technology aslope a proper shaman.
As far as partying goes, people definitely similar to toss dorsum a drink or 2 in Bolivia. The nightlife in La Paz gets quite rowdy, with tons of dissimilar bars and clubs to choose from. Simply think to proceed an eye on your beverage and don't accept drinks from random people.
Confined in Bolivia are immune to serve booze until 4AM. You'll observe some speakeasies that volition happily ignore this law and proceed the party going until sunrise. Merely keep in mind that you lot tin can be penalized but for being at i of these places, so it's better to caput domicile at 4 and get some slumber.
Prostitution is legal in Bolivia for adults xviii and over. There are, all the same, several underage girls forced into information technology. Human being trafficking is a huge problem in Bolivia. In improver to the potential of hiring an underage girl (which comes with a hefty jail sentence), the risk of contracting an STD here is very high, equally there are few protections for workers. You're better off trying to pick someone up at the hostel bar.
Travel Insurance for Republic of bolivia
Traveling without insurance to Republic of bolivia would be risky and then do consider getting good backpacker insurance sorted before you head off on an adventure.
It'southward proficient to get lost sometimes, but it'south likewise good non to become too lost. There are people that want y'all domicile in 1 piece.
There'southward 1 travel insurance provider The Broke Backpacker trusts for all his wildest shenanigans… Globe Nomads!
Click the button below to get a quote on your insurance or read our in-depth review of Earth Nomads' coverage. And then… permit the shenanigans begin. 😉
How to Become Into Republic of bolivia
Most visitors to Bolivia will arrive at the international airport in La Paz. At that place are too international flights headed to Santa Cruz. Unless you're flying from a neighboring South American country, you'll almost likely need to make a connectedness in one. In this section, we'll take a closer look at the entry requirements for Bolivia and how to get around the state.
Entry Requirements for Bolivia
There are three different groups when it comes to entry requirements for Bolivia:
- Countries that do not demand a visa: Several nationalities practice not need a visa to visit Bolivia for stays of up to 90 days.
- Countries that demand a visa, which can be obtained in advance or on arrival.
- Countries that must obtain a visa in advance with special authority.
To find out where y'all fit in that complicated mess, y'all're advised to check out the visa policy of Bolivia. I can speak from experience and say that Americans fall into Group 2, and we also take the most expensive visa for Bolivia at $160. Ouch.
Traveling Bolivia in Covid Times
As of Dec 18, 2020, Bolivia remains airtight to foreigners at all land edge crossings. It does appear to be possible for foreigners to enter Bolivia by air, but they must present a negative PCR certificate.
Although commercial international flights accept resumed, there are strict motility restrictions in place around Republic of bolivia.
So if yous are planning to get backpacking Bolivia now be enlightened that many activities and places are not what they were pre-pandemic and it may exist wise to postpone your travel plans until further detect. We update this article regularly and do our all-time to keep this department upwardly to appointment.
And if you do see some misinformation, please go out a (constructive) comment so that we tin patch it up! Nosotros really do capeesh your back up and input in these weirdest of times.
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How to Go Around Republic of bolivia
When travelling in Bolivia, you'll likely employ a combination of planes and buses. Flights between major cities tin can be quite inexpensive if booked in accelerate. Keep in mind that airports tend to be pretty far out of the metropolis center. For case, the La Paz airport is actually in El Alto and the aerodrome in Sucre is almost an 60 minutes drive from the center.
Photo: Sasha Savinov
Bus travel can be slow on Bolivia's less than stellar roads, only it'southward cheap and relatively comfy. Information technology's even possible to book tickets online in English. Y'all may desire to impress your ticket out in addition to having it on your phone, just in case.
Hitchhiking in Bolivia
Hitchhiking isn't really a affair in Bolivia, bated from poor locals trying to hitch a ride into the city. If you're on the side of the road looking for a ride, about people volition probably just point you in the direction of the double-decker station.
Motorcoach travel is quite cheap in Bolivia and is honestly your all-time bet. Some travellers have had success hitchhiking in Bolivia, though. Yous'll definitely need a decent level of Castilian and be prepared to at least pay a small-scale amount of money if information technology's requested. For more hitchhiking tips, bank check out Volition's hitchhiking 101 post.
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Onwards Travel from Bolivia
Those on an extended South America backpacking trip have a few options for moving on from Bolivia. You can cross the border at Lake Titicaca and experience both the Bolivian and Peruvian sides for one. Another option is to to the 3-day Common salt Flats tour that brings y'all to San Pedro de Atacama in Republic of chile. If you want to go backpacking in Brazil side by side, yous can hands travel oveland too.
Photo: Sasha Savinov
Headed in the other direction, a swell option to get from Bolivia to Peru is taking the Peru Hop motorbus. It's besides called Bolivia Hop, so don't get the two dislocated as they're the same thing. This is a dandy pick every bit they have English language-speaking guides and also offer solid discounts on hostels and tours. For more, read our extensive guide to taking the Peru Hop bus.
For flying out of Republic of bolivia, your best bets are to notice a flight out of La Paz or Santa Cruz. From these cities, yous can find directly flights to several cities in South and Key America. Outside of Latin America, the only places yous can go directly flights to or from are Washington DC, Miami, and Madrid.
Working in Bolivia
Before Covid hit, Bolivia was condign an bonny option for digital nomads looking for a South American metropolis to live in for a while. Outside of the cities though, the cyberspace is not slap-up.
In terms of getting a proper task inside Bolivia, go along in heed the pay is not and then peachy and if you are doing something similar bartending – be aware that you may exist stealing the task a local person could do (and probably needs).
While the internet isn't fantastic in Bolivia, information technology'due south good enough in the cities for doing basic things like checking your social media and booking your adjacent flight. We were able to piece of work from our Airbnb spot in Sucre with no issues, and our friends in La Paz besides have a pretty skilful connection.
Most hostels will accept gratis WiFi, although it can exist tiresome exterior of common areas.
Of course, you can't expect to get a great connection in remote areas like the Salt Flats or national parks. Meliorate to just put the telephone away and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
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Teaching English in Bolivia
To follow upward on the to a higher place… yous might be able to score a job instruction English to people in Bolivia.
In addition to giving yous the qualifications to teach English online, TEFL courses open up a huge range of opportunities and you can notice didactics work all over the world. To detect out more about TEFL courses and how y'all can teach English language effectually the world, read my in-depth report on teaching English abroad.
Broke Backpacker readers become a 35% discount on TEFL courses with MyTEFL (simply enter the lawmaking BACKPKR), to discover out more, please read my in-depth report on didactics English away.
Volunteering in Bolivia
Volunteering abroad is an amazing way to experience a culture whilst giving something dorsum. There are loads of unlike volunteer projects in Bolivia ranging from teaching, to fauna care, to agronomics to pretty much everything!
Bolivia is withal a developing land and there are plenty of opportunities to volunteer equally a result. Backpackers can make a huge difference past pedagogy English or offering a helping paw in hospitality and housekeeping. Other opportunities include conservation in the jungle and gardening in eco-resorts. Keep in mind that you'll need to apply for a Volunteer Visa before entering the state.
If you want to discover volunteering opportunities in Bolivia, then we recommend that you lot Signup for Worldpackers – a volunteer platform that connects local hosts directly with traveling volunteers. As a Broke Backpacker reader, you'll as well get a special disbelieve of $10 when you lot sign up. Just employ the discount code BROKEBACKPACKER and your membership is discounted from $49 a year to only $39.
Volunteer programs run through reputable work exchange programs similar Worldpackers are ordinarily very well-managed and reputable. However, whenever y'all are volunteering, do stay vigilant especially when working with animals or children.
Worldpackers: connecting travellers withmeaningful travel experiences.
What to Eat in Republic of bolivia
While Bolivian cuisine is not quite as famous equally Peruvian or Brazilian, in that location is still plenty of delicious local food to dig into hither. Eating out in Bolivia is also a great bargain, as y'all can usually get a gear up meal for as little as $2-3.
Here are a few of the highlights that you'll just have to endeavor:
- Salteñas – These oven-baked pastries are stuffed with meat and vegetables that are drowning in a sweet and spicy gravy. They're Bolivia's reply to empanadas, and they're inexpensive, tasty, and very messy.
- Antichucho – While grilled cow hearts may not sound appetizing, these are a local favourite in Bolivia and are actually quite good. They're typically served alongside a grilled potato with a spicy peanut sauce.
- Pique Manlike – Are you macho enough to handle this mountain of food? Information technology'southward a plate of fries covered in beef, sausage, peppers, onions, and boiled eggs.
- Picante de Pollo – Fried chicken smothered in a thick, spicy sauce and served with potatoes and rice. This is a popular meal throughout Bolivia.
- Buñelos – A fried snack that is often stuffed with cheese. They come in both sweet and savory flavors.
- Mondongo – This is a spicy pork stew that is the near famous dish in Sucre. It'due south known to be a bang-up hangover cure in Bolivia.
Photo: Sasha Savinov
Bolivian Civilization
There are just around xi million people living in Bolivia. That may not sound like much, but the population of Bolivia has tripled in the last fifty years. A vast majority of people alive in the La Paz, Santa Cruz, and Cochabamba regions.
As I mentioned earlier, Bolivia is a very ethnically diverse state. In that location are about three dozen native groups hither, which account for around half of the population in total. Republic of bolivia has the largest proportion of indigenous people in all of Latin America. The Aymara and Quechua are the two biggest groups, totaling around 2 meg each.
At that place are many people in Republic of bolivia who are descendants of the Spanish colonizers. Around 25% of Bolivia's population are mestizo, significant a mix of indigenous and European descendants. Many people assume their mestizo identity, simply as well identify with i or more indigenous groups.
Photo: Sasha Savinov
People in Bolivia are more often than not quite conservative. A vast bulk (around fourscore%) of them are Catholic, and religion plays a large function in society here.
Bolivians may seem a bit shy, but they're quite welcoming and friendly. They also speak Spanish slowly and conspicuously, which really helps if you're a gringo struggling with the language.
Bolivia Travel Phrases
A little flake of Spanish goes a long mode in Republic of bolivia and other parts of Due south Amrica. Here are some useful Castilian phrases that volition help you out on your trip.
Hola = Hello
¿Cómo está(s)? = How are you?
Mucho gusto = Overnice to meet you
Estoy bien = I'k fine
Por favor = Please
Gracias = Thank you
De nada/Con gusto = Y'all're welcome
¿Cuánto? = How much?
Adiós = Cheerio
Sin bolsa de plastico – No plastic bag
No paja por favor – No harbinger please
No hay cubiertos de plástico por favor – No plastic cutlery
Lo siento = I'm sad
¿Dónde está el baño? = Where is the bathroom?
¿Qué es esto? = What's this?
Quiero una cerveza. = I want a beer.
¡Salud! = Cheers!
Books to Read Virtually Republic of bolivia
- Lone Planet Bolivia Travel Guide: Read up on the history and civilization of Bolivia and get tons of tips on where to stay and eat in the newest Lonely Planet guide.
- Bolivia in Focus: A Guide to the People, Politics, and Culture: Your trip to Bolivia volition be a lot more than rewarding if you take the time to learn about the people and culture of this amazing country.
- Evo's Bolivia: Continuity and Change: Evo Morales has been president of Bolivia for quite some time, and thanks to changes in the constitution he'll likely be around a while longer. Learn almost his rise and his government in this groovy book.
- Whispering in the Giant's Ear: Author William Powers lived in Bolivia equally an assist worker at a time when the state emerged as a flashpoint against globalisation. Read all nigh it in his fascinating book.
A Cursory History of Bolivia
Like then many other nations in Latin America, Bolivia was conquered by the Castilian in 1538. During this fourth dimension, it was known equally Upper Peru. Spanish colonial dominion lasted until 1825, when Bolivia gained its independence. The country was named afterward the liberator Simon Bolivar, who became its first president.
Early on, Bolivia entered into a federation with Republic of peru. This didn't last long, though. The federation crumbled when Peru was defeated by Republic of chile in 1839.
Speaking of Chile, Bolivia went on to lose its Pacific coastline to its neighbour. The country has been fighting to reclaim its access to the body of water ever since, even bringing the case to the Hague this year.
Unfortunately, this would non exist the only time Bolivia lost territory. The rubber-rich province of Acre was lost to Brazil, and they besides lost territory to Paraguay after the Chaco War. This horrible defeat discredited the ruling class and led to a revolution in 1952.
Photo: Sasha Savinov
Victor Paz Estenssoro became president after the revolution and introduced sweeping reforms such as universal suffrage and the nationalization of the tin mines. For the first time, the land attempted to incorporate the massive indigenous populations. However, afterwards 12 years he was overthrown in a military coup by his vice president, Rene Barrientos.
Bolivia would go on to experience nearly twenty years of armed services dominion. Things didn't go well for Barrientos, who died in a plane crash in 1969. There were coups and counter-coups, until Hugo Banzer Suarez came to power. The economy grew, simply political freedoms were suppressed.
Photo: Sasha Savinov
Mod-Day Politics in Republic of bolivia
In 2003, President Sanchez de Lozada resigned amid all the force per unit area from protests and was replaced by Carlos Mesa. Ascent fuel prices soon triggered even more anti-regime protests. Mesa himself tried to resign several times, only to be denied by Congress. The tertiary time is the charm, and he finally left part in 2005 equally protests connected.
Socialist candidate Evo Morales came to power and became the outset ethnic Bolivian to exist president. He delivered on his promise to nationalize the gas fields of Bolivia, which had been demanded by indigenous groups for some time. In 2009, a new constitution was approved giving greater rights to the ethnic majority in Bolivia. This led to Morales being re-elected with 60% of the vote.
Morales has been a controversial figure, to say the least. He really won a 3rd term in 2014, despite maxim he wouldn't run for re-election.
At that place'southward actually a term-limit in Republic of bolivia, but Morales put forth a referendum recently to allow himself to run for a quaternary term next year. Even though he lost the referendum, the courts ruled in his favor and basically said in that location are no term limits.
Must-Effort Experiences in Bolivia
Most backpackers come to Bolivia with two main goals – to visit the Common salt Flats and to ride the Death Route. These are far and away the well-nigh popular activities to do when backpacking Bolivia. Equally such, it'southward very easy to find a spot on a tour. It'south worth information technology, however, to practise a little research beforehand to find a reputable operator.
Chances are y'all'll observe yourself in La Paz at some betoken on your trip. This vibrant city has enough of must endeavour experiences. Be sure to visit the massive outdoor marketplace, a witch doctor, and the cemetery to learn more virtually Bolivian civilization and behavior.
Photo: Sasha Savinov
Bolivia is a country total of epic adventures, whether it's climbing a massive mountain or exploring the Amazon. There are enough of bout operators in La Paz, Sucre, and Santa Cruz that tin help you lot go on a bout.
Wherever you travel in Bolivia, make sure you lot visit the local markets to endeavor Bolivian cuisine. Pull up a plastic stool and consume like a local. You can get a substantial meal at these markets for just around $2-3 and then add together a fresh juice or smoothie for another cadet.
DON'T DIE OUT THERE! …Please 🙂
Things go incorrect on the road ALL THE Fourth dimension. Be prepared for what life throws at you.
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Joining an Organized Bout in Republic of bolivia
For most countries, Republic of bolivia included, solo travel is the proper noun of the game. That said, if you are short on time, energy, or just want to be part of an awesome group of travelers you can opt to join an organized bout. Joining a tour is a great way to see a bulk of the country apace and without the endeavour that goes into planning a backpacking trip. However—not all tour operators are created equal—that is for sure.
K Adventures is a solid down-to-globe bout visitor catering to backpackers but like you, and their prices and itineraries reflect the interests of the backpacker crowd. You tin score some pretty sweet deals on epic trips in Bolivia for a fraction of the price of what other tour operators charge.
Bank check out some of their crawly itineraries for Bolivia hither…
Final Advice Earlier Visiting Bolivia
Backpacking Bolivia is an feel you'll never forget. While it's not ever easy, the juice is well worth the squeeze hither. Afterwards travelling all over South America for the better part of a year, I can say from feel that there's no identify quite similar Bolivia. It'southward got this mystical energy that's but incommunicable to put into words.
It'south true that Republic of bolivia is home to some of the purest cocaine in the world, only just beware that if you lot buy it hither you're supporting a pretty awful industry that most likely involves things like human trafficking. The same goes for hiring a prostitute here, as many underage girls are sold into it. I advise y'all to stick to booze and trying to selection up fellow backpackers.
In addition to being home to the otherworldly Salt Flats, Bolivia has bustling cities, stunning national parks, ancient ruins, so some. It really is an adrenaline junkie's paradise, with mount biking, epic hikes, and adventures deep in the Amazon. Bolivia as well has a fascinating culture that you'll go to experience along the style
If you're planning an extended backpacking trip in South America, be sure to add this gem of a country to your itinerary.
Photograph: Sasha Savinov
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