Bolivia Safety Guide

Bolivia is one of the most affordable countries to explore in South America, but it does come with its own set of safety challenges that backpackers should be aware of. Knowing the ins and outs of navigating this vibrant nation can help you save money while staying secure.

Getting There and Around

Traveling to Bolivia is straightforward and can be budget-friendly. Most international travelers fly into El Alto International Airport in La Paz, which is only about 15 kilometers from the city center. A taxi from the airport typically costs between 60-90 bolivianos (about $8.50-$13) if you negotiate well. For a cheaper option, take the Aeropuerto Express bus for only 5 bolivianos ($0.70) that runs every 30 minutes.

Once you’re in La Paz, public transport is your best friend. The Mi Teleférico cable car system is not only a fun ride but also incredibly safe and efficient, with fares ranging from 3-5 bolivianos ($0.40-$0.70) depending on the line. For longer distances across the country, you can take a bus. Companies like Trans Omar and 6 de Octubre have nightly services to major cities like Sucre or Uyuni, with prices around 100-150 bolivianos ($14-$21) for a 12-15 hour ride.

Where to Stay

When it comes to accommodation, you have plenty of options in Bolivia that cater to the budget traveler. In La Paz, consider staying at Adventure Brew Hostel located in the Sopocachi neighborhood, offering dorm beds for about 80 bolivianos ($11) a night, with an onsite brewery that serves cheap local beers. Another solid choice is Loki Hostel, close to the Witches' Market, where dorm beds are around 90 bolivianos ($12.50) and include a party atmosphere and helpful staff.

If you’re making your way to Copacabana, the town on the shores of Lake Titicaca, check out The Hostal del Sol with prices around 60 bolivianos ($8.50) for dorms. In Uyuni, where you’ll base yourself for salt flats tours, stay at Salt Flat Hostel where beds cost about 70 bolivianos ($10) per night. Each of these places offers either free Wi-Fi, breakfast, or both, which can help stretch your budget further.

What to Eat

Bolivia's culinary scene is as diverse as its landscapes, and eating cheap is easy if you know where to go. For a quick meal, stop by a local "pueblo" market or a small restaurant called a "fonda," where a hearty lunch set can be found for around 20-30 bolivianos ($3-$4). A popular local dish to try is "salteña," a savory pastry filled with meat and vegetables, costing about 10 bolivianos ($1.40) each at La Paz’s Mercado Rodríguez. Be wary of the fresh juices, which are delicious but may not always be prepared with clean water.

In Sucre, grab a bite at the famed Café Gourmet for budget-friendly meals like “pique a lo macho” for about 35 bolivianos ($5), a feast of meats, fries, and peppers. For dinner, check out the lively area around Calle Aniceto Arce where you can find a plethora of restaurants; just avoid the tourist traps on Calle Calvo. Street food, like anticuchos (grilled beef heart skewers) for 5 bolivianos ($0.70), is both safe and delicious if you stick to busy vendors with a high turnover of food.

Practical Tips and What to Know

Staying safe while exploring Bolivia doesn’t have to be stressful, but being aware can go a long way. Always keep your belongings secure, especially when using public transport or visiting crowded markets. Here are specific tips to enhance your travel experience:

• Use a money belt to keep your cash and passport safe and avoid showing large amounts of money in public.
• When using ATMs, choose those located in busy, well-lit areas or inside banks; avoid using stand-alone ATMs in less trafficked spots.
• Consider purchasing a local SIM card from Tigo or Entel for about 50 bolivianos ($7) to avoid roaming charges and stay connected.
• Always ask your hostel about the best neighborhoods to explore and any areas to avoid after dark.