Bolivia

Bolivia: general info for travelers

Bolivia is a landlocked country located in South America, bordered by Peru, Brazil, Paraguay, Argentina, and Chile. Its capital city is La Paz, and its largest city is Santa Cruz de la Sierra. Bolivia is known for its rich cultural heritage and diverse landscapes, including the high Andes Mountains, the Amazon rainforest, and the salt flats of Uyuni. The country is also home to many indigenous communities and languages, including Quechua and Aymara. Bolivia's economy is primarily based on agriculture, mining, and oil production, and it is a popular destination for adventure tourism, including trekking, mountain climbing, and wildlife watching.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Bolivia, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Bolivia: places to visit

Sure, here are some of the main places to visit in Bolivia: 1. Salar de Uyuni - Located in the southwestern part of Bolivia, it is the world's largest salt flat. Visitors can explore the vast white expanse, see unique rock formations and visit nearby lagoons filled with pink flamingos.
2. La Paz - Bolivia's administrative capital, this city is set high in the Andes Mountains and boasts stunning views, bustling markets, and cultural attractions like the Witches' Market and the National Museum of Ethnography and Folklore.
3. Tiwanaku - This ancient, UNESCO-listed archeological site was once the capital of a pre-Columbian civilization that flourished in Bolivia between 400 and 900 AD. Visitors can see impressive ruins, including the Gate of the Sun and the Akapana Pyramid.
4. Lake Titicaca - This lake, situated on the border of Bolivia and Peru, is the highest navigable lake in the world. Visitors can explore the lake's islands, including Isla del Sol (Island of the Sun), and experience local indigenous culture.
5. Potosi - This colonial-era city, located in the southwest of Bolivia, is home to the Cerro Rico silver mines, which once produced vast wealth for the Spanish Empire. Visitors can explore the mines and learn about the harsh working conditions that miners experienced.
6. Sucre - Bolivia's constitutional capital, this charming city boasts beautiful colonial architecture, including the restored La Recoleta Monastery. Visitors can explore museums, art galleries, and historic buildings.
There are many other fascinating destinations in Bolivia, including the Yungas Road, known as the Death Road, the Amazon Rainforest's Madidi National Park, and the historic city of Cochabamba.
There is more to see and do in Bolivia: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Bolivia: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Bolivia, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
Bolivia has two distinct seasons: the dry season (May to October) and the rainy season (November to April). During the dry season, the weather is usually sunny with cool evenings, making it an ideal time to visit Bolivia. This time of year is particularly good if you're planning to visit the Uyuni Salt Flats or go trekking in the Andes. In the rainy season, you can expect thunderstorms and heavy rain, which can make some roads and trails impassable. However, the rain also brings lush green landscapes, and some travelers prefer this season for bird watching or exploring the Amazon Rainforest. Overall, the best time to go to Bolivia depends on what you want to do there. If you're looking for adventure and outdoor activities, then the dry season is preferred. If you don't mind occasional rain and want to take good pictures of the landscapes, then the rainy season can also be a good option.

Bolivia: activities and what to do

Bolivia has a wide range of adventure activities and sports that can be enjoyed during a trip. Here are some of the most popular ones: 1. Trekking/Hiking: Bolivia has some of the most beautiful and challenging trekking routes in South America. Popular destinations for trekking include the Cordillera Real, the Apolobamba Mountains, and the Sajama National Park. 2. Mountain Biking: Bolivia's diverse terrain makes it a perfect destination for mountain biking enthusiasts. The Death Road (La Paz to Coroico) is one of the most popular mountain biking routes in the world.
3. Rock Climbing: Bolivia has a variety of rock climbing routes suitable for both beginners and experts. Popular areas include Cochabamba and La Paz.
4. Water Sports: There are plenty of opportunities to go river rafting, kayaking, and canoeing on the many rivers in Bolivia. The Coroico River and the Tuichi River are two of the most popular ones.
5. Paragliding: Bolivia's stunning landscapes make it great for paragliding. La Paz and the Tarija region are popular places for paragliding.
6. Wildlife Watching: Bolivia has a rich diversity of wildlife and is an ideal destination for birdwatching and wildlife safaris. The Madidi National Park and the Amboro National Park are popular wildlife destinations.
These are just a few of the many adventure activities and sports you can do in Bolivia. There are many more activities available and plenty of opportunities to explore the country's stunning natural beauty.

Bolivia: few words on history and culture

Bolivia has a rich and fascinating history and culture. The country is home to several pre-Columbian civilizations, including the Tiwanaku and Inca Empires, which left a lasting impression on Bolivian culture. Bolivia was also a Spanish colony for more than 300 years, and this European influence can be seen in the country's architecture, language, and cuisine.
Bolivia is one of the most diverse countries in South America, with over 30 different indigenous groups and a large mestizo population. Each of these groups has its own unique traditions, clothing, and art, making Bolivia a fascinating destination for those interested in cultural experiences.
One of the most famous cultural events in Bolivia is the Carnaval de Oruro, which takes place each year in February. This colorful festival celebrates the country's indigenous roots, and is a unique blend of Catholic and Andean traditions.
In terms of art, Bolivia is known for its textiles and handicrafts, which are often made using traditional techniques and materials. Bolivian music includes everything from Andean folk music to contemporary pop and rock.
Overall, Bolivia is a country with a rich and diverse culture, and travellers who take the time to learn about this unique heritage will gain a deeper appreciation for the country and its people.

Bolivia: how to move around on holiday

Bolivia can be reached by air, land, and water. The main international airport in Bolivia is Viru Viru International Airport in Santa Cruz de la Sierra, followed by El Alto International Airport in La Paz. There are several airlines that offer flights to Bolivia, including Avianca, LATAM, and Boa.
If you prefer to travel by land, you can enter Bolivia by bus or car from neighboring countries such as Peru, Chile, Brazil, and Argentina. Bolivia also has several border crossings that are accessible to travelers.
Lastly, traveling by water is another option for those who wish to explore Bolivia. From Brazil, it is possible to take a riverboat that goes down the Amazon River into Bolivia, arriving in Trinidad or Guayaramerin. To hire a car to visit Bolivia, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Bolivia: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Bolivia with a full stomach:D
Sure, below are some of the main typical foods of Bolivia along with descriptions: 1. Salteñas: These are a type of savory pastry that is similar to empanadas, but with a slightly sweeter dough and a more liquid filling that can be made with meat, chicken, or vegetables.
2. Pique macho: This is a hearty dish that is made with beef, potatoes, onions, and peppers, all mixed together and served with a spicy sauce.
3. Sopa de maní: A creamy soup made with peanuts, beef, potatoes, and vegetables, with a slightly sweet flavor that is a bit unique.
4. Chuño: This is a dried potato that has been preserved for centuries by the indigenous people of Bolivia and used in many traditional dishes.
5. Lomo saltado: A popular beef stir fry dish that includes tomatoes, onions, and French fries.
6. Silpancho: A dish that is typical of the Cochabamba region, made with flattened beef, rice, potatoes, and a fried egg on top.
7. Papas rellenas: Potatoes that are stuffed with beef or cheese and then fried, resulting in a delicious crispy exterior and a warm, gooey interior.
These are just a few examples of the many delicious and unique foods that Bolivia has to offer.

Bolivia: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

Compared to some other countries in Latin America, Bolivia is relatively inexpensive for tourists. Accommodation, food, and transportation are generally affordable, and there are many budget-friendly options available. However, prices can vary depending on the city or region you visit, as well as the level of comfort and luxury you are looking for. In general, tourist destinations like La Paz and Salar de Uyuni tend to be slightly more expensive than other areas. It's always a good idea to research prices and create a budget before your trip, so you can plan accordingly.

Bolivia: where to find accodation

There are several websites you can use to look for accommodation in Bolivia. Some of the popular options are: 1. Booking.com 2. Airbnb 3. Hostelworld 4. Hotels.com 5. Agoda 6. Expedia It's always a good idea to compare prices and read reviews from previous guests before making a booking. It's also helpful to consider the location, amenities, and customer service offered by the accommodation.
You can check hotel prices in Bolivia here:
Booking.com

Bolivia: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
According to the Bolivian government, in 2019, Bolivia received approximately 1.24 million tourists. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, these numbers have decreased significantly. In terms of crowded periods, the main tourist season in Bolivia is from May to October. Especially during festivals and events like Carnival in Oruro, you may encounter crowds. However, Bolivia is not as heavily visited as other South American countries, so the crowds are generally not as overwhelming.
Bolivia is generally a safe country for tourists, but like any other destination, you should exercise caution and take necessary precautions while traveling there.
Some areas of Bolivia are more prone to crime than others, particularly in cities like La Paz and Santa Cruz. It is recommended to avoid isolated areas, particularly at night, and to be aware of your surroundings.
Additionally, there have been reports of protests and political unrest in some parts of the country in recent years, so it is important to stay informed about the current situation and avoid any areas where there may be demonstrations or strikes.
Overall, Bolivia can be a safe and enjoyable destination for tourists if you take sensible precautions and use common sense while traveling. It is always a good idea to research your destination before traveling and to stay up to date on any travel warnings or advisories issued by your country's government.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Bolivia on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Bolivia: events for tourists

Bolivia has a rich culture with diverse events and festivals throughout the year that attract many tourists. Here are some of the most interesting events for tourists in Bolivia: - Carnival of Oruro: This is the biggest carnival in Bolivia and one of the most famous ones in South America. It takes place in Oruro, a small town in the Andes, and it’s a celebration of indigenous culture and Catholicism. The carnival includes parades, music, dance, and colorful costumes.
- Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead): This is a traditional celebration that takes place on November 2nd in Bolivia, as well as in many other Latin American countries. The day is a tribute to the deceased loved ones and ancestors, and it’s a colorful and lively celebration with food, music, and parades.
- La Paz Gourmet: This is a food festival that takes place in La Paz, Bolivia’s capital, in September. The festival showcases the best of Bolivian cuisine, with food stands, cooking demonstrations, and competitions.
- Virgen de Copacabana Festival: This is a religious festival that takes place in the town of Copacabana on the shores of Lake Titicaca, in August. The festival celebrates the patron saint of Bolivia, the Virgin of Copacabana, with processions, music, and traditional dances.
- International Poetry Festival: This is a cultural festival that takes place in Sucre, Bolivia’s constitutional capital, in November. The festival brings together poets from around the world for readings, workshops, and cultural events.
These are just a few examples of the many festivals and events that take place in Bolivia throughout the year. It’s always a good idea to check the local calendar of events when planning a trip to Bolivia.

Bolivia: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Bolivia, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
Absolutely! Here's a two-week itinerary for a typical tourist visiting Bolivia: Day 1-2: La Paz - Explore the city on foot and visit some of its highlights such as the Witches' Market and the San Francisco Church - Take a cable car ride for stunning views over the city and its surroundings - Learn about Bolivia's political history at the former presidential palace, now known as the Museum of the Revolution Day 3-5: Uyuni - Take a morning flight to Uyuni, the gateway to the famous salt flats - Go on a 3-day tour of the Uyuni salt flats, the largest of its kind in the world and visit stunning landscapes such as colorful lagoons, geysers, and volcanoes - Stay in a salt hotel and experience the unique culture of the region Day 6-8: Potosi - Visit the historic mining town known for its colonial architecture and its UNESCO-listed silver mines - Take a tour of the mines and learn about their history and modern-day operations - Visit the Casa de la Moneda, a former colonial mint, now a museum dedicated to the history of colonial currency Day 9-10: Sucre - Visit one of Bolivia's most beautiful cities known for its white-washed buildings and colonial architecture - Visit the town's main square, Bolivar Park, and the Sucre Cathedral - Take a cooking class to learn about Bolivian cuisine or visit the Tarabuco Sunday Market for local crafts and textiles Day 11-14: Santa Cruz - Visit Bolivia's largest city known for its warm climate and tropical ambiance - Spend a day exploring the Biocentro Guembe nature reserve known for its diverse flora and fauna - Visit the Santa Cruz Zoo, one of the largest and most important zoos in South America - Take a day trip to the Jesuit Missions of Chiquitos, a World Heritage Site featuring beautiful churches and a unique blend of indigenous and colonial architecture I hope this itinerary helps you plan your trip to Bolivia!

Bolivia: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Bolivia described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Bermejo is a small town located in the south of Bolivia, near the border with Argentina and Paraguay. It is part of the Tarija Department and has a population of approximately 15,000 people. The town ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bermejo
- Camiri is a small city located in the Santa Cruz department of Bolivia, South America. It is situated about 205 km (127 miles) southeast of Santa Cruz de la Sierra, the largest city and capital of the... CONTINUE here for a trip to Camiri
- Chulumani is a small town located in the Yungas region of Bolivia, about 100 km away from La Paz. It is often referred to as the "Gateway to the Amazon" because it is situated in the transition zone b... CONTINUE here for a trip to Chulumani
- Cobija is a city located in the northern part of Bolivia, near the border with Brazil and Peru. It is the capital of the Pando Department and has a population of around 60,000 people. The climate in C... CONTINUE here for a trip to Cobija
- Cochabamba is a city located in central Bolivia, known for its beautiful colonial architecture, vibrant culture, and scenic surroundings. It has a population of around 630,000 people, making it the fo... CONTINUE here for a trip to Cochabamba
- Cotoca is a small town located in the department of Santa Cruz in Bolivia, just 15 kilometers away from the city of Santa Cruz de la Sierra. It has a population of approximately 25,000 people and is k... CONTINUE here for a trip to Cotoca
- El Alto is a city located in the highlands of Bolivia, adjacent to the city of La Paz. It is one of the fastest-growing urban areas in Bolivia and has a population of over one million people. It is kn... CONTINUE here for a trip to El Alto
- El Puente is a small town located in the central part of Bolivia, specifically in the department of Cochabamba, near the Chapare region. It sits at an elevation of about 320 meters above sea level and... CONTINUE here for a trip to El Puente
- Guayaramerín is a city located in the northern part of Bolivia, close to the border with Brazil. It is the capital of the Iténez Province and belongs to the Beni Department. The city has a population ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Guayaramerín
- La Paz is the administrative capital of Bolivia and the highest city in the world, sitting at an altitude of over 3,650 meters (11,975 feet) above sea level. It is located in western Bolivia, near the... CONTINUE here for a trip to La Paz
- Magdalena is a small town located in the Department of Beni in Bolivia. The town has a population of about 3,000 people and is situated on the banks of the Mamore River. Magdalena is known for its bea... CONTINUE here for a trip to Magdalena
- Montero is a city located in the Santa Cruz Department of Bolivia. It is situated approximately 40 kilometers west of the city of Santa Cruz de la Sierra. Montero has a relatively small population of ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Montero
- Oruro is a city located in the department of Oruro in Bolivia. It is known for its famous Carnival of Oruro, which is one of the largest and most colorful carnival festivals in South America. The city... CONTINUE here for a trip to Oruro
- Padilla is a small town located in the department of Chuquisaca in south-central Bolivia. It lies at an altitude of 2,668 meters (8,753 feet) above sea level and has a population of approximately 4,00... CONTINUE here for a trip to Padilla
- Potosí is a city located in southwestern Bolivia, at an altitude of over 4,000 meters above sea level. It is known for its rich history as a center of silver mining during the colonial era, and it was... CONTINUE here for a trip to Potosí
- Puerto Quijarro is a border town located in the department of Santa Cruz in Bolivia, on the border with Brazil. It is considered one of the most important commercial ports in the region as it is conne... CONTINUE here for a trip to Puerto Quijarro
- Puerto Suárez is a small city located in the eastern department of Santa Cruz in Bolivia. It is situated on the banks of the Paraguay River and is a major transportation hub for trade between Bolivia ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Puerto Suárez
- Quillacollo is a city and municipality located in the Cochabamba Department in central Bolivia. It is situated approximately 13 kilometers to the east of Cochabamba, the departmental capital. The city... CONTINUE here for a trip to Quillacollo
- Riberalta is a city located in the northern region of Bolivia, in the department of Beni. It has a population of approximately 100,000 people and is known as the "Gateway to the Amazon" due to its loc... CONTINUE here for a trip to Riberalta
- Rurrenabaque is a small town located in the north of Bolivia. It is situated in the Amazon Basin, surrounded by dense rainforest and bordered by the Beni River. Rurrenabaque is a popular destination f... CONTINUE here for a trip to Rurrenabaque
- Samaipata is a small town in the Santa Cruz Department of Bolivia. It is located about 120 km southwest of the city of Santa Cruz de la Sierra at the foot of the Andes Mountains. Samaipata is known fo... CONTINUE here for a trip to Samaipata
- San Antonio de Lomerío is a small town located in the eastern part of Bolivia, in the department of Santa Cruz. It is situated at an altitude of 800 meters above sea level and has a population of arou... CONTINUE here for a trip to San Antonio de Lomerío
- San Borja is a small town located in the Department of Beni, in the northern part of Bolivia. It has a population of approximately 15,000 people and is known for its eco-tourism opportunities, such as... CONTINUE here for a trip to San Borja
- San Ignacio de Velasco is a town located in the Santa Cruz Department of Bolivia, approximately 500km east of the Bolivian capital city, La Paz. It is known for its beautiful colonial architecture and... CONTINUE here for a trip to San Ignacio
- San Ignacio de Moxos is a town located in the Beni Department of Bolivia. It is situated in the north-eastern part of the country, close to the Brazilian border. The town is known for its historic arc... CONTINUE here for a trip to San Ignacio de Moxos
- San Ignacio de Velasco is a town located in the eastern region of Bolivia, in the Santa Cruz Department. It is known for its beautiful colonial architecture, with the San Ignacio de Loyola church bein... CONTINUE here for a trip to San Ignacio de Velasco
- San Javier is a small town located in the Santa Cruz department of Bolivia. It is situated in a lush green valley surrounded by the Chiquitania mountains. The town is known for its charming colonial a... CONTINUE here for a trip to San Javier
- San José de Chiquitos is a small town located in the department of Santa Cruz, in eastern Bolivia. It is part of the Chiquitania region, known for its beautiful landscape and its Jesuit missions, whic... CONTINUE here for a trip to San José de Chiquitos
- San Julián is a small town located in the department of Santa Cruz, east of Bolivia. It has a population of around 23,000 people and its economy is mainly based on agriculture and cattle ranching. The... CONTINUE here for a trip to San Julián
- San Lorenzo is a small town located in the northern part of the Beni Department in Bolivia. It is situated in the heart of the Bolivian Amazon rainforest, and it is known for its natural beauty and bi... CONTINUE here for a trip to San Lorenzo
- San Matías is a small town located in the northeastern part of Bolivia. It is situated in the province of Velasco, and it has a population of around 7,000 people. The town is known for its agricultura... CONTINUE here for a trip to San Matías
- San Rafael is a small town located in the eastern part of Bolivia, specifically in the province of Velasco, in the department of Santa Cruz. The town is surrounded by lush vegetation and is situated n... CONTINUE here for a trip to San Rafael
- San Ramón is a small town located in the department of Beni, in eastern Bolivia. It is situated on the edge of the Amazon rainforest and is known for its diverse flora and fauna. The town is surrounde... CONTINUE here for a trip to San Ramón
- Santa Cruz de la Sierra is the largest city in Bolivia and is located in the eastern part of the country. It is known for its warm climate, vibrant culture, and close proximity to natural attractions ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Santa Cruz de la Sierra
- Sucre is a city located in the south-central part of Bolivia, known for its well-preserved colonial architecture and rich historical and cultural heritage. It is also the constitutional capital of Bol... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sucre
- Tarija is a beautiful city located in southern Bolivia, close to the border with Argentina. It is known for its pleasant climate, beautiful scenery, and friendly people. Tarija is also a major hub of ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tarija
- Tiquipaya is a small town located in the Cochabamba Department of Bolivia. It is approximately 8 kilometers east of the city of Cochabamba and sits at an elevation of 2,580 meters above sea level. The... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tiquipaya
- Trinidad is a city located in the Beni Department of Bolivia, in the northern part of the country. It is situated on the banks of the Mamoré River, and is known for its natural beauty and wildlife. Th... CONTINUE here for a trip to Trinidad
- Vallegrande is a small town located in the department of Santa Cruz, Bolivia. It is situated in a valley surrounded by mountains, and its altitude is approximately 2,000 meters above sea level. Valleg... CONTINUE here for a trip to Vallegrande
- Villamontes is a town in southeastern Bolivia, located in the Tarija Department. It is situated on the Argentine border and is known for its oil and gas industry. The town has a hot, humid climate and... CONTINUE here for a trip to Villamontes
- Villazón is a small town located on the southern border of Bolivia. It is situated in the Potosi Department, near the border with Argentina. Villazón is known for being a busy transit point for travel... CONTINUE here for a trip to Villazón
- Warnes is a small town located in the eastern part of Bolivia, specifically in the department of Santa Cruz. It has a population of approximately 9,000 people and is known for its agriculture, particu... CONTINUE here for a trip to Warnes
- Yacuiba is a city in the Tarija Department of Bolivia, situated in the southern region of the country. It has a population of around 92,000 people and is located close to the border with Argentina. Ya... CONTINUE here for a trip to Yacuiba


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