Travel Facts
US State Dept Travel Advisory
The US Department of State currently recommends US citizens exercise increased caution in Bolivia due to civil unrest. Consult its website via the link below for updates to travel advisories and statements on safety, security, local laws, and special circumstances in this country.
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories.html
Passport/Visa Requirements
US citizens should make sure their passport will not expire for at least 6 months after they enter the country even if they do not intend to stay that long. They should also make sure they have at least 1 blank page in their passport for any entry stamp and or visa that will be required. A visa is required. US citizens will need to get in touch with the country’s embassy or nearest consulate to obtain a visa prior to visiting the country.
US Embassy/Consulate
[591] (2) 216-8000; US Embassy in La Paz, Avenida Arce 2780, Casilla 425, La Paz, Bolivia; https://bo.usembassy.gov/; ConsularLaPazACS@state.gov
Telephone Code
591
Local Emergency Phone
911
Vaccinations
An International Certificate of Vaccination for yellow fever is required for travelers arriving from countries with a risk of yellow fever transmission and for travelers having transited through the airport of a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. See WHO recommendations.
http://www.who.int/
Climate
Varies with altitude; humid and tropical to cold and semiarid
Currency (Code)
Bolivianos (BOB)
Electricity/Voltage/Plug Type(s)
110 V, 220 V, 230 V / 50 Hz / plug types(s): A, C (Most use 220-230 V, older buildings use 110 V)
Major Languages
Spanish, Quechua, Aymara, Guarani
Major Religions
Roman Catholic 70%, Evangelical 14.5%, Adventist 2.5%, Mormon 1.2%, agnostic 0.3%, atheist 0.8%, other 3.5%, none 6.6%
Time Difference
UTC-4 (1 hour ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
Potable Water
Opt for bottled water
International Driving Permit
Suggested; additionally, if you plan to drive in Bolivia, you will need an Inter-American Driving Permit issued by the AAA
Road Driving Side
Right
Tourist Destinations
Sajama National Park; Oruro Carnival; Jesuit Missions of the Chiquitos; La Paz (includes the Metropolitan Cathedral of Our Lady of Peace); Torotoro National Park; Tiwanaku; Yungas Road cycle route (“Death Road”); Qhapaq Nan/Andean Road System
Major Sports
Soccer, trompo (top game with attached string)
Cultural Practices
Bolivians use both maternal and paternal surnames.
Tipping Guidelines
In restaurants, a tip of 5-10% is in order if you are happy with the service. Taxi drivers do not expect tips unless you hire them for the day, in which case 10% is appropriate.
Souvenirs
Native pottery and handicrafts, paper mache and copper decorations, llama and alpaca woolen items, woven ponchos, jewelry and "good luck" charms
Traditional Cuisine
Salteñas (empanadas) — savory pastries filled with beef, pork, or chicken mixed in a sweet, slightly spicy sauce containing olives, raisins, and potatoes
Please visit the following links to find further information about your desired destination.
World Health Organization (WHO) - To learn what vaccines and health precautions to take while visiting your destination.
US State Dept Travel Information - Overall information about foreign travel for US citizens.
To obtain an international driving permit (IDP). Only two organizations in the US issue IDPs:
American Automobile Association (AAA) and American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA)
How to get help in an emergency?
Contact the nearest US embassy or consulate, or call one of these numbers:
from the US or Canada - 1-888-407-4747 or from Overseas - +1 202-501-4444
Page last updated: Wednesday, October 05, 2022
