BOLIVIA
Bolivia is a landlocked country located in the western-central part of South America, bordered by Brazil to the north and east, Argentina to the south, Chile to the southwest, Peru to the west, and Paraguay and Argentina to the southeast.
It is a country of vast natural resources and rich cultural heritage, known for its diverse geography, including the Andes mountains, Amazon rainforest, and high-altitude plateaus.
Language: The official languages are Spanish and Quechua, although many other languages are also spoken. But some people speak english, and Tourism agency speak english.- Capital city: Sucre (constitutional capital) and La Paz (seat of government).
- Population: approximately 11.8 million people.
- Area: 1,098,581 square kilometers (423,841 sq mi).
- Economy: Rich in natural resources such as tin, gold, silver, and lithium.
- Cultural heritage: Home to the ancient Inca Empire and the famous Tiwanaku ruins.
- Biodiversity: One of the most biodiverse countries in the world, with many endemic species.
- Highest capital city: La Paz is the highest capital city in the world, with an elevation of 3,640 meters (11,975 ft).
Language: The official languages are Spanish and Quechua, although many other languages are also spoken. But some people speak english, and Tourism agency speak english.Some popular tourist destinations in Bolivia include
- Salar de Uyuni: The world’s largest salt flat
- Lake Titicaca: The highest navigable lake in the world
- La Paz: The capital city with a unique blend of modern and traditional architecture
- Sucre: The constitutional capital with beautiful colonial architecture
- The SerranÃa del Sur: A mountain range with stunning scenery and hiking trails
- Amazon rainforest: A vast region of tropical rainforest
Some popular destinations in Bolivia
1. Salar de Uyuni: The world’s largest salt flat, created by the evaporation of a prehistoric lake. It’s a surreal landscape of white salt and mirror-like reflections.
2. Lake Titicaca: The highest navigable lake in the world, located at an altitude of 3,812 meters (12,507 ft). Take a boat tour to explore traditional indigenous communities and enjoy the stunning scenery.
3. La Paz: The capital city, known for its vibrant cultural scene, colorful markets, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Take a cable car ride or hike to the top of Mount Illimani for panoramic views.
4. Sucre: The constitutional capital, with a rich colonial history and architecture. Visit the Casa de la Libertad, the Palacio de Justicia, and the Catedral Metropolitana.
5. PotosÃ: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the highest cities in the world, with a rich mining history and stunning colonial architecture.
6. Amazon Rainforest: Explore the vast tropical rainforest, staying in eco-lodges or trekking through the jungle to spot exotic wildlife and indigenous communities.
7. Copacabana: A charming town on the shores of Lake Titicaca, known for its vibrant market and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
8. Uyu Uyu: A small town near Salar de Uyuni, offering breathtaking views of the salt flat and opportunities to stay in a salt hotel.
9. Rurrenabaque: A popular base for jungle treks and wildlife spotting in the Amazon Rainforest.
10. Cochabamba: A city known for its vibrant cultural scene, historic architecture, and outdoor activities like hiking and rafting.
11. Coroico: A picturesque town near La Paz, offering stunning views of the valley and opportunities for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
As a tourist, here are some important tips and information to help you plan your trip to Bolivia:
1. Visa requirements: Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa to enter Bolivia. Check the official government website or consult with your local embassy for more information. (consulted in 28-6-2024)
2. Vaccinations: Make sure you’re up to date on all routine vaccinations, and consider getting vaccinated against hepatitis A and typhoid, as well as altitude sickness medication.
3. Altitude sickness: Bolivia is a high-altitude country, with many destinations above 3,000 meters (10,000 ft). Acclimatize slowly, and drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration.
- We are in La Paz, at 3,625 meters over sea level.
- Cochabamba, at 2,558 meters over sea level.
- Santa Cruz, at 416 meters over sea level.
- Sucre, at 2,790 meters over sea level.
As we see, Bolivia has different cities with different altitudes above sea level.
4. Currency: The Bolivian boliviano (BOB) is the local currency, but USD dollars are acepted too. If you need, you can exchange currency at banks, currency exchange offices, or use ATMs.
5. Money: Credit cards are not widely accepted outside of major cities, so bring cash and have some small bills for vendors and market stalls.
6. Power adapter: Bolivia uses Type A, Type B, and Type C power sockets, with 220V and 50Hz electricity.
7. Transportation: Domestic flights are available, but buses and colectivos (shared vans) are also common. Consider hiring a taxi or shuttle service for longer trips.
8. Culture: Bolivians are known for their hospitality, but respect local customs and traditions. Dress modestly when visiting churches or attending cultural events.
9. Weather: Bolivia has a dry season (May-October) and a rainy season (November-April). Pack accordingly and be prepared for sudden changes in weather.
10. Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated for good service in restaurants and bars.
11. Internet & 4G:Internet and mobile networks are available throughout in Bolivia but are a little expensive and are not enough developed in rural areas.
In Bolivia we have a 3 Internet providers, Tigo, Entel and Viva.
You can find free internet in airports, stations, travel agencies, cafes, hotels and others. but be careful in public places. Also you can buy a SIM to have internet at all time.
12. Health: Bolivia has a high-altitude hospital in La Paz, but medical facilities may be limited in rural areas. Bring any necessary medications and consult your doctor before traveling.
13. Language: Spanish is the official language, but many Bolivians speak Quechua and other indigenous languages. Learn basic Spanish phrases to help you navigate.
Greetings: - Hello > Hola
- Good morning > Buenos dias
- Good afternoon > Buenas tardes
- Good evening > Buenas noches
- Bye or Goodbye > Adiós
Basic Phrases:
- Yes > Si
- No > No
- Thank You > Gracias
- Please > Por Favor
- How are you? > ¿Cómo estás?
- I’m fine, thank you > Estoy bien, gracias.
- Where is? > ¿Dónde esta?
- How much does it cost? > ¿Cuánto cuesta?
- I need Help > Necesito ayuda
- Sorry, i don’t speak Spanish > Lo siento, lo hablo español.
- Do you speak english? > Hablas ingles
Food and Drink:
- Water > Agua
- Beer > Cerveza
- Wine > Vino
- Food > Comida
- Restaurant > Restaurante
- Bathroom > Toilette, Baño, Sanitario.
Greetings: Directions and Transportation:
- Where is the Bus Station? > ¿Dónde queda la Terminal de Buses?
- Where is the hotel? > ¿Dónde está el hotel?
- Taxi, please > Taxi, por favor.
- Let’s go > Vamos
- Airport > Aereo Puerto
Other:
- Where is it? > ¿Dónde esta?
- Where is the Murillo Major Square? > ¿Donde queda la Plaza Murillo?
- Where is it tourist information office? > ¿donde esta la oficina de informacion turistica?
- Where is the cable car stop? > ¿Dónde está la parada del Teleférico?
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- Witches Market > Mercado de las brujas
- Sagarnaga Street > Calle Sagarnaga.
- Central Market Lanza > Mercado Lanza
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Why visit Bolivia?
Bolivia, a country of contrasts, offers an unforgettable travel experience for adventure-seekers, culture enthusiasts, and nature lovers. Here are some reasons why you should consider visiting Bolivia:
- Adventure and Thrills
- Rich Cultural Heritage
- Natural Wonders
- Unique Experiences
- Off-the-beaten-path Travel
- Affordable and Accessible
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From the majestic Andean highlands to the Amazon rainforest, Bolivia is a country of breathtaking natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.
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Nature’s Masterpiece
Bolivia is home to some of the most stunning natural wonders in the world. The Salar de Uyuni, the world’s largest salt flat, is a surreal experience like no other. The vast white expanse of salt stretches as far as the eye can see, creating a unique landscape that is unlike anything you’ve ever seen before. The surrounding landscape is dotted with ancient volcanoes, geysers, and hot springs, making it a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
The Andean highlands offer breathtaking scenery, with towering peaks, valleys, and villages perched on steep cliffs. The Amazon rainforest, which covers nearly half of the country, is home to an incredible array of wildlife and indigenous communities. Visitors can trek through the forest, stay with local families, or take a boat ride along the rivers and lakes.
Cultural Heritage
Bolivia has a rich cultural heritage that is waiting to be discovered. The country has been inhabited by indigenous peoples for thousands of years, and their traditions and customs are still alive today. Visitors can experience this firsthand by visiting local markets, attending traditional festivals, and staying with local families.
The capital city of La Paz is a vibrant metropolis with a mix of colonial and modern architecture. The city is home to many museums, art galleries, and cultural centers, as well as a lively nightlife and restaurant scene.
Adventure and Activities
Bolivia is an adrenaline junkie’s paradise. Visitors can hike to the top of Illimani mountain, go sandboarding down the dunes of Salar de Uyuni, or take a bike ride through the Andean highlands. For those looking for something more relaxing, there are hot springs, thermal baths, and scenic drives through the countryside.
Security in Bolivia
Protecting your belongings
Petty crime is common in central La Paz, in other popular tourist destinations, on buses and in crowded areas. Do not leave your bag or other belongings unattended. Always keep your passport, money and other valuable items in a safe place. On night buses, use a money belt under your clothes for important documents and credit cards; theft can occur when you are asleep.
Violent crime
There has been an increase in robberies from people taking taxis in Santa Cruz and La Paz. If you use a taxi:
- seek local advice and use established companies
- order the taxi by phone – ‘radio taxis’ have the telephone number and the name of the taxi company on the roof
- check for a sticker on the windscreen or windows – registered taxis should display one
- do not get into a taxi already carrying other passengers
Ignore anyone offering help at taxi stands and bus terminals and watch your belongings. Thieves work in teams to distract their victims.
Attacks on lone travellers taking motorbike taxis have been reported at tourist sites such as Rurrenabaque.
Fake police and crime
Express kidnappers sometimes impersonate police officers to target foreigners. They have used fake police ID cards, uniforms and even police stations to fool victims. One of the criminals pretends to be a friendly tourist. A fake police officer then approaches and asks for passports and other information. The impostors persuade the victim to get into a taxi driven by another criminal, where they rob them, sometimes by taking them to ATMs to withdraw money.
Call the Tourist Police on 800-14-0081 (toll-free) if you suspect impostors are targeting you. The police cannot search you without a written order from a state prosecutor.
Police turistic Bolivia in La Paz
Sexual assault
There have been rape and sexual assault incidents at clubs and hostels. Be cautious if you’re approached by strangers. Lock your room when you return to your hotel or hostel.
Road blockades
Groups often use road blockades as a form of protest, without warning. Avoid large crowds and demonstrations, and do not attempt to cross blockades. Blockades can disrupt public transport at very short notice. Strikes may result in widespread road blockades, including on roads to and from airports. Check road status updates from the Bolivian road authority (in Spanish) to see which roads are blocked.
If you want more info, about security
The current U.S. Department of State Travel Advisory at the date of this report’s publication assesses that travelers to Bolivia should exercise increased caution due to crime and civil unrest. Some areas have increased risk; do not travel to the Chapare region due to crime, and reconsider travel to the Yungas region due to crime. Review OSAC’s report, Understanding the Consular Travel Advisory System.
