bolivia

Bolivia is located in central South America, with much of the country situated in the high Andes Mountains, making it a wonderful destination to combine with nearby Peru. It is one of the region’s most authentic regions, where incredible landscapes are home to traditional ways of living.

We have crafted high-quality holidays to Latin America since 2002, and guarantee flexibility, security and great value for money. If you’re already convinced, you can view all of our Bolivia holidays here, or continue below to find out why Llama Travel holidays to Bolivia are better.

Thinking of travelling to Bolivia?

Compared to its vast neighbours like Argentina, Brazil, and Chile, Bolivia is relatively small, but its landscapes are comparably rich, and its challenging altitude and authentic experiences combine to form one of the most authentic Latin American travel experiences.

At Llama Travel, Bolivia serves as an extension to several of our most popular Peru holidays; whether you want to explore the fascinating contrast between those two destinations, are planning a standalone trip, or returning to Bolivia, the FAQs below hope to provide insight into the nation’s travel experiences.

If you are ready to plan your holiday to Bolivia, you can enquire here or call Llama Travel on 020 7263 3000. We have sold holidays to Latin America since 2002, and many of our in-house Travel Experts have visited Mexico themselves and are more than happy to share that expertise and help build your dream holiday.

Before You Go

Q: Do I need a visa to travel to Bolivia from the UK?

A: UK citizens do not require a visa to enter Bolivia. An immigration form must be completed before passing through immigration control upon arrival. On this form, please state the purpose of your visit as Tourism.

Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months after your return home.

Q: What vaccinations do I need for Bolivia?

A: There are no specific vaccinations required to enter Bolivia, but travellers in the UK are always recommended to be up-to-date with routine vaccination courses.

Most travellers visiting Bolivia are recommended to have Hepatitis A, Tetanus and Typhoid vaccinations, but guidance depends on individual traveller circumstances. The National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC)’s TravelHealthPro collates wider travel health guidance. You can visit their page on Bolivia guidance here.

Your GP or a travel health professional will be able to provide more specific guidance for your specific scenario.

Yellow Fever precautions are usually recommended when visiting the low-lying areas in Bolivia, but not the highland region where La Paz and Uyuni are located. A Yellow Fever certificate is required when entering Australia after having visited Bolivia.

Q: What should I pack for a holiday in Bolivia?

A: Most of Bolivia sits at a high altitude, thus experiencing a dry, sunny climate with average daytime temperatures in the mid-teens. Nights can be very cold, sometimes dropping below -10°C. With this in mind, it is important to pack warm clothing that is suitable for layering.

Most of Bolivia uses 220/230 volt outlets, but beware that some older buildings use 110 volt outlets. Power sockets use 2-pronged plugs with either round pins or flat pins, so a universal adapter will be most helpful.

We recommend you carry a copy of your passport with you at all times.

Please bring any medication you may require from home, as the availability of prescription or over-the-counter medication will vary.

You can bring whichever luggage you feel most comfortable with: suitcases, soft bags and rucksacks are fine.

Practical Information

Q: Where is Bolivia, and which part will I be visiting?

A: Bolivia is a landlocked nation located in the heart of South America, bordered by Brazil to the north and east, Paraguay and Argentina to the south, and Chile and Peru to the west. Llama Travel’s Bolivia extensions include stays in La Paz, the Uyuni Salt Flats, and Villa Mar.

La Paz, the nation’s administrative capital, is a fascinating blend of indigenous traditions, colonial-era architecture, and striking modern infrastructure. It sits dramatically within a deep canyon of the Altiplano plateau, surrounded by the snow-capped peaks of the Andes. Visitors can explore vibrant local markets, such as the famous Witches' Market, and ride the city's innovative cable car system, which offers breathtaking aerial views of the sprawling metropolis below.

The Uyuni Salt Flats, buried deep in the high-altitude desert of southwestern Bolivia, is the world's largest salt flat. This mesmerising landscape illustrates the surreal natural beauty of the Andean highlands, stretching over 10,000 square kilometres of stark, glistening white salt. One of the highlights of Uyuni is the rainy season transformation, when a thin layer of water turns the flats into a giant, seamless mirror reflecting the sky. The area is also home to Incahuasi Island, a rocky outcrop covered in giant, centuries-old cacti.

Villa Mar, a serene village nestled in the rugged landscapes of the Lípez region, offers a glimpse into the remote beauty of Bolivia's high desert. It is celebrated for its proximity to spectacular geological formations, including the famous Valle de las Rocas (Valley of the Rocks), where wind-sculpted volcanic stones create a surreal, labyrinthine landscape. The surrounding area sits seamlessly within the wilderness, rich in wildlife such as llamas and vicuñas, and features ancient cave paintings that document the deep pre-Columbian history of the Andean peoples.

Q: What is the population of Bolivia?

A: The population of Bolivia is around 13 million.

Q: What is the capital city of Bolivia?

A: Sucre is the constitutional capital of Bolivia and the seat of the judiciary, while La Paz serves as the administrative capital and the seat of the government. La Paz, along with its neighbouring city, El Alto, forms the country's most populous metropolitan area, with an estimated population of over 2.2 million.

Q: What is the time difference?

A: Bolivia is five hours behind the UK. As it doesn’t observe Daylight Saving Time, it remains five hours behind year-round.

Q: How long does it take to fly from the UK to Bolivia?

A: There are currently no direct flights from the UK to Bolivia. Most flights from London require at least one layover before arriving in La Paz or Santa Cruz. Depending on the connection and layover duration, the total travel time generally ranges from 14 to 18 hours.

The journey to Bolivia on Llama Travel tours varies depending on the itinerary. When a flight is included, for example, on the Incas & Conquistadors of Peru + Salt Flats of Bolivia tour, this is generally from Cusco in Peru. The flight is short, generally taking 1 hour 15 minutes.

On other tours, like Incas & Conquistadors of Peru + Lake Titicaca + Salt Flats of Bolivia to the Atacama Desert, a minibus transfer is more convenient. The drive from Lake Titicaca to La Paz can take around four hours.

Q: What language is spoken in Bolivia?

A: The primary language in Bolivia is Spanish, which is spoken alongside dozens of official indigenous languages, including Quechua and Aymara.

Llama Travel’s guides and reps in Bolivia are always fluent in English, and most hotel staff in major tourist areas will be proficient in English.

Q: What is the currency in Bolivia?

A: The official currency in Bolivia is the Boliviano. Items are priced in the local currency. US dollars are widely accepted and can often be used for larger purchases or tourist services. Bolivianos are less commonly stocked in UK currency exchanges, so it is often easiest to exchange US dollars or use ATMs upon arrival.

Q: What’s the weather like in Bolivia?

A: The weather in Bolivia varies depending on the region you are visiting.

Generally speaking, Bolivia has a dry season from May to October and a rainy season from November to April.

In the Altiplano and Highlands (for La Paz, Lake Titicaca, and the Uyuni Salt Flats), the altitude means the climate is generally cool and dry. During the dry winter months, days are bright and sunny, but nighttime temperatures regularly drop below freezing.

Q: What should I know about local customs and etiquette in Bolivia?

A: In Bolivia, small signs of politeness and respect go a long way. Locals appreciate a proper greeting ("Buenos días" for good morning, "Buenas tardes" for good afternoon, or "Buenas noches" for good evening) before starting a conversation or transaction. “Por favor” (please) and “gracias” (thank you) are essential.

If visiting active religious sites or traditional indigenous villages, the dress code is conservative. In churches and rural communities, it is recommended to dress modestly and cover your shoulders and knees.

Additionally, always ask for permission before taking photographs of locals, especially indigenous people.

Q: Do people speak English in Bolivia?

A: English is not widely spoken in Bolivia, and English proficiency across the country is generally low. Staff at mid-to-high-end hotels and restaurants catering to international travellers usually speak good English.

Q: What is the tipping culture in Bolivia?

A: If you receive good service in Bolivia, you may want to leave a tip. This is completely at your discretion.

If you want to tip guides, US$5-10 per person per day is usual if you are in a couple or small group, and US$1-2 per person per day for larger groups. Approximately US$3-5 is usual for drivers or transfer staff when travelling as a couple or in a small group. US$1 is usual for drivers or transfer staff when in a larger group.

As tipping is not necessarily normal in restaurants, please give any tips directly to the person you would like to tip to ensure that they get it. In many restaurants, a service charge is often included; however, if you receive good service, giving an additional 5-10% is an appreciated gesture. The bill may also mention that service is not included (‘servicio no incluido’).

Health and Safety

Q: Is Bolivia safe to travel to?

A: Bolivia is a rewarding destination to visit, and many travellers experience no problems during their stay. While political demonstrations and road blockades that require careful planning occur occasionally (all of which are handled by Llama Travel and our in-destination reps on our Bolivia holidays), violent crime against tourists is rare. In major tourist areas, local economies rely heavily on international visitors, and a police presence is maintained to support safety.

However, as is the case anywhere in the world, opportunistic crime can be a problem. Tourists are often seen as wealthy and can therefore appear as attractive targets to criminals. To minimise the risk to yourself, use common sense. Do not walk around with obvious signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive-looking jewellery or carrying cameras prominently around your neck.

Keep passports and valuables in your hotel safe. When in restaurants, always keep bags (especially if they contain valuables) close to your person and out of sight. Avoid walking down empty or poorly lit streets, especially after dark, and always use registered radio taxis rather than hailing cars on the street. By taking sensible precautions and staying informed of local conditions, you should have a smooth and memorable holiday.

Please use the safe in your hotel room to store your valuables, if this is available. If there is no safe in your room, there will usually be a safe at reception where you can store your belongings.

Making sure that you stay safe during your holiday is very important. We bear this in mind when selecting hotels, but please understand that standards of health and safety in Latin America are often not as high as they are in the UK.

Q: What happens if I get ill while in Bolivia?

A: Local agents and hotel staff will be able to arrange for a doctor or hospital visit if necessary. Small local shops in most tourist areas will have a small selection of over-the-counter medication for minor illnesses.

While public healthcare facilities in Bolivia can be limited, private clinics and hospitals in major cities like La Paz, Santa Cruz, and Sucre offer a good standard of care. However, private medical treatment will come at a cost. As a condition of booking, we require all of our guests to have comprehensive travel insurance to potentially cover the cost of healthcare or emergency medical repatriation in the worst-case scenario.

We recommend packing adequate supplies of prescription medication, as the availability of specific medications varies across the country, and pharmacy stocks in smaller towns or remote areas can be limited.

Additionally, because many of Bolivia's key attractions are located at high altitudes, you may wish to consult your doctor before travelling regarding medication or precautions for altitude sickness.

Q: Do I need travel insurance for Bolivia?

A: Yes. Travel insurance protects you from the unpredictable costs of illness, accidents, or emergency repatriation. Travelling without coverage can result in significant financial expense.

TravelHealthPro, the up-to-date travel advice resource run by the National Travel Health Network and Centre, also recommends that travellers secure adequate health insurance before departure. You can read their full guidance on travelling to Bolivia here.

If you book a package or ‘Flight-Plus’ holiday (flights combined with accommodation or transport) with a UK operator, your booking should be ATOL protected. This covers you financially if an airline or tour operator ceases trading, while your travel insurance provides additional protection against trip cancellations and other unforeseen disruptions.

Connectivity and Communication

Q: What are the options for mobile data and SIM cards in Bolivia?

A: Opting for a physical SIM card is ideal if you are looking for a straightforward pay-as-you-go plan or a specific bundle of data, minutes, and texts. Bolivia’s main network operators—Entel, Tigo, and Viva—all provide prepaid SIM cards, which can be purchased at official network stores, local kiosks, and convenience shops. Keep in mind that you will need to present your passport to verify your identity and register the line when setting it up.

Alternatively, an eSIM is a highly convenient choice if you want to connect to the internet the moment you land, bypassing the need to source and insert a physical SIM card. Digital providers such as Airalo, Holafly, and Maya Mobile offer Bolivia-specific data packages. While these eliminate the hassle of a physical swap, they do require an eSIM-compatible smartphone, so it is best to verify your device's capabilities before buying.

Q: How do I call Bolivia from the UK?

A: To phone Bolivia from the UK, dial the international dialling code for Bolivia (+591) and then the telephone number.

Q: How do I call the UK from Bolivia?

A: To phone the UK from Bolivia, dial the international dialling code for the UK (+44) and then the UK telephone number, leaving out the ‘0’ in the area code.

Getting Around

Q: How do I get around in Bolivia?

A: On Llama Travel’s small group tours of Bolivia, transport between cities and to/from excursions is pre-arranged at no additional expense. Most transport will be via private, comfortable minibuses, with some sightseeing excursions and guided tours combining walking and local transport in major hubs like La Paz.

Taxis in Bolivia are generally very affordable and represent a convenient way to navigate major cities. To guarantee your security and ensure a fair rate, we highly recommend asking your hotel receptionist to call a registered taxi whenever possible. Ridesharing apps like Uber and Yango are also increasingly available and economical in major cities like La Paz. Taxis in Bolivia do not use meters; instead, they operate on fixed rates based on zones. Because of this, it is essential to agree on the price with the driver before starting your journey. Our local representatives or hotel staff can easily advise you on the approximate cost of any taxi ride.

La Paz features a unique and spectacular cable car system called Mi Teleférico, which is inexpensive, highly efficient, and an excellent way to travel between different parts of the city during the day while enjoying panoramic views. While a basic grasp of Spanish helps navigate local transport, we strictly recommend taking a taxi when travelling after dark. Always ask your hotel receptionist to arrange one rather than hailing a random vehicle on the street.

Food and Drink

Q: What’s the food like in Bolivia?

A: Corn, potatoes and beans are traditional staples in Bolivia, and now lots of rice and meat are also eaten. Street vendors sell salteñas, a Bolivian pasty filled with various types of meat, vegetables and a sauce, which are often eaten as a mid-morning snack in La Paz.

Q: Can I drink tap water in Bolivia?

A: No. Bolivian tap water is not safe to drink. Most supermarkets and convenience shops keep a good supply of bottled water, which we recommend sticking to for drinking and brushing your teeth.

In hotels and established restaurants, ice will likely have been made with purified water, so this is mostly safe. Smaller street food stands and rural restaurants may not, so exercise caution at those places.

Q: Is alcohol available in Bolivia?

A: Yes. Most bars & restaurants (in cities and hotels), supermarkets, and off-license style shops carry a variety of alcoholic drinks. Like the UK, the drinking age is 18.

Q: What drinks are available in Bolivia?

A: Bolivia has several unique local beverages. Singani, the national liquor, is a potent brandy distilled from Muscat of Alexandria grapes, and is often combined with black tea and spices to make Té con Té, a high-altitude mountain drink, or with ginger ale or lemonade for a cocktail known as chuflay.

The country has several high-altitude vineyards, celebrated for their world-class wines, especially Malbecs and Tannats.

International imports are widely available, too.

What to See

Q: What are the highlights of Bolivia?

A: Most of the highlights of a holiday to Mexico revolve around the country’s vibrant cities and storied history.

La Paz is impressively situated in a shallow canyon in the Andes Mountains, sheltered from the harshest weather conditions experienced in the high altiplano. There are several museums located on or around Calle Jaén, one of the principal streets in the city’s old town. Among these is the Museo del Litoral Boliviano, the Museum of Contemporary Art, the Gold Museum and the National Museum of Ethnography and Folklore, all housed in historic La Paz buildings. Most visitors to La Paz will try a cup of coca tea, made from the coca leaf, to help counter the effects of the high altitude.

Uyuni and the Salt Flats sit at an altitude of over 3,600 metres, the solitary town of Uyuni is fringed on all sides by a largely flat, desert-like altiplano landscape. The image of sparkling, snow-white salt plains, stretching far off into the distance, is a sight like no other. Each year, thousands of tourists travel to Bolivia in search of the unique and magical experience of standing in the middle of the flats, surrounded by a sea of white. Uyuni is perhaps the best place in the world for taking perspective photographs and visitors usually get creative, playing with different visual effects and often using props. Guides in Uyuni are on hand with tips on how to take a perfect shot.

Q: Where are the Salt Flats in Bolivia? Are they worth visiting?

A: The Uyuni Salt Flats are nestled in the southwest corner of the Bolivian Altiplano, positioned between the high-altitude hub of Uyuni and the dramatic peaks of the Andean cordillera.

The landscapes here are far vaster and more surreal than other salt pans across South America, a result of the prehistoric Lakes Minchin and Tauca drying up thousands of years ago to leave behind a blindingly white expanse. The defining highlights within this otherworldly terrain include Other sights in this eye-opening region include the dormant Tunupa Volcano, which provides excellent views of the salt flats. It is also home to a cave where you will find the Mummies of Coquesa, a group of exceptionally well-preserved mummies.

Q: Where is La Paz? Should I visit?

A: La Paz is a bustling metropolis nestled deep in a dramatic canyon of the Andes, a striking city in western Bolivia near the shores of Lake Titicaca. The urban landscape, comprised of steep winding streets, historic colonial plazas, and modern high-rises, reached a pivotal point in its growth during the peak of the Spanish colonial silver trade and has since evolved into the world's highest administrative capital.

The vibrant, high-altitude city is made even more mystic and atmospheric by the looming presence of the snow-capped Mount Illimani and the traditional culture that fills its streets, including indigenous Aymara women in traditional attire and bustling open-air markets.

Still have questions about travelling to Bolivia?

Our team is happy to help. Call us on 020 7263 3000 or explore our Bolivia holidays to start planning your trip.