Welcome to Bolivia 😊

Quick Facts About Bolivia

Money and Finances

The official currency of Bolivia is the Bolivian boliviano (BOB). Coins come in denominations of 10, 20, and 50 centavos, and 1, 2, and 5 bolivianos. Notes come in denominations of 10, 20, 50, 100, and 200 bolivianos.

ATM Network

ATMs are available in major cities and towns, but may not be widely available in rural areas and smaller towns. It is recommended to carry cash as a backup.

Credit Cards

Credit cards are accepted in larger cities and tourist areas, but may not be accepted in smaller shops and restaurants. Visa and Mastercard are more widely accepted than AMEX, and it is recommended to have a backup payment method.

Internet and Phones

Internet speeds in Bolivia can vary widely, with average download speeds of around 6 Mbps and upload speeds of around 1 Mbps. While there is some government censorship of the internet, it is not widespread.

Phone Plans and SIM Cards

There are several telco companies in Bolivia, including Entel, Tigo, and Viva. The average cost of a mobile phone plan is relatively low, and there are generally no sim compatibility issues.

Dialling to Bolivia

To call Bolivia from another country, dial +591 followed by the area code and local number. Area codes in Bolivia are generally two or three digits long.

Transport Around Bolivia

Air Travel

The major airports in Bolivia are El Alto International Airport (located near La Paz), Viru Viru International Airport (located near Santa Cruz), and Jorge Wilstermann International Airport (located near Cochabamba).

Train Travel

Bolivia does not have a well-developed inter-city train network.

Metro / Local Trains

Bolivia does not have a metro system.

Buses

Buses are the most popular mode of transportation in Bolivia, with many different companies offering services. Example ticket prices and journey times include a 4-hour journey from La Paz to Cochabamba for $10 and a 10-hour journey from Santa Cruz to La Paz for $25.

Rideshare

Rideshare companies such as Uber and Cabify operate in major cities in Bolivia, with average prices similar to those in the United States.

Driving by Car

Driving in Bolivia can be challenging due to narrow and winding roads in mountainous areas and poorly maintained roads in rural areas. The usual speed limit on highways is 80 km/h and Bolivia uses right-hand drive.

Local Customs

In Bolivia, tipping is not typically expected but rounding up to the nearest whole number on the bill is common. Locals greet each other with a handshake or a kiss on the cheek. It is important to use formal titles when addressing older or more senior individuals. It is uncommon to strike up conversations with strangers, but if you do, it is best to be polite and respectful. Men and women typically address each other using formal titles, such as 'Senor' or 'Senora'.

Health and Diseases

Medical System

Bolivia's public healthcare system is limited and many hospitals lack basic supplies and equipment. Private healthcare is generally better, but can be expensive. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical evacuation, as this may be necessary in case of a serious illness or injury. The approximate cost of a visit to a doctor in Bolivia can range from $10 to $50 USD.

COVID Situation

Bolivia has been hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic. As of September 2021, there have been over 500,000 confirmed cases and over 19,000 deaths. The country has implemented various restrictions and protocols to curb the spread of the virus, including mandatory mask-wearing and limited capacity in public spaces. The situation is constantly evolving, so it is recommended to regularly check official sources for updates and follow local guidelines.

Common Health Risks

Some common health risks in Bolivia include altitude sickness, especially in the highlands, as well as mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue fever and malaria in certain areas. Food and water-borne illnesses, such as traveler's diarrhea, are also common. It is important to take preventative measures such as drinking only bottled water, avoiding street food, and using insect repellent. In addition, some areas of Bolivia have been affected by political unrest and violence, so it is recommended to research the current situation before traveling.

Laws and Regulations

Alcohol Consumption

In Bolivia, the legal drinking age is 18 years old. Alcohol consumption is legal and widely accepted, but public drunkenness is not allowed. There are restrictions on the sale of alcohol in some areas, particularly during election periods or public holidays. Traditional alcoholic beverages, such as chicha, are also commonly consumed, but their distribution and consumption may be regulated at the local level.

Recreational Drugs

Drug use and trafficking are illegal in Bolivia. Even possession of small amounts of drugs, including marijuana, can result in severe penalties, including imprisonment. However, coca leaves are legal and widely used in Bolivia for traditional medicinal and cultural purposes.

Pre-Marital Relationships

There are no laws criminalizing premarital relationships in Bolivia. However, extramarital affairs may be considered a civil offense, and adultery can be grounds for divorce under Bolivian law.

LGBTQ and Same-Sex

Although same-sex sexual activity is legal in Bolivia, LGBTQ individuals may face discrimination and violence. Same-sex marriage and civil unions are not legally recognized in Bolivia. There are efforts to expand legal rights for LGBTQ individuals in Bolivia, but progress has been slow and limited.

Firearms / Guns

Gun ownership in Bolivia is heavily regulated. Firearms can only be owned by individuals with a permit, and the possession of unregistered firearms can result in prison time. Bolivia has strict laws regulating the use of firearms, including a prohibition on carrying a firearm in public places.