Bolivia travel advice

The threat from terrorism is low. But travellers should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks, which could be against civilian targets, including places frequented by foreigners.

Travellers should be aware that there is usually an increase in petty crime activity during Carnival Weekend (13 February - 16 February).

The Embassy is aware that prison tours, particularly in San Pedro prison in La Paz, are widely advertised. These tours are against the prison rules, are inherently dangerous, and should be avoided.

As a British visitor to Bolivia, you do not need a visa. The length of stay permitted on entering Bolivia is 30 days. This can be extended for a further 60 days, at no extra charge, provided you apply before the end of the 30 day period at the Department of Immigration offices throughout the country. The Department of Immigration has imposed an annual limit for tourists of 91 days stay in Bolivia without a visa.

The political situation in Bolivia is very tense and there is the risk that demonstrations and confrontations might break out at short notice. Travellers should exercise caution and avoid large crowds. The cities of La Paz, Santa Cruz, Cochabamba, Trinidad, Sucre, Tarija and Cobija have seen major and sometimes violent public demonstrations in 2007.

There is continual risk of public protests and strikes throughout Bolivia and major roads can be blocked at very short notice by protestors with local disputes. Social protest is the traditional way of gaining government attention to address local, regional and national issues of concern. Travellers should avoid all protests and public demonstrations. Although most are peaceful, some can become violent. They can affect local travel including the interdepartmental bus routes.

The Bolivian Government has declared a national disaster in the country because of the rains and flooding in many parts of Bolivia.

Since January 2007, there has been an outbreak of dengue fever in the regions of Santa Cruz and Beni. The floods have also increased the risk of other diseases, including malaria. There have been a number of cases of Yellow Fever in the Yungas (La Paz department) and in the Chapare (Cochabamba department). You should ensure you have a valid Yellow Fever vaccination certificate before travelling to these areas.

Be aware of the dangers of altitude sickness.

There is a risk of "express kidnappings". You should exercise caution when arriving in, and travelling around, Bolivia and be aware of the general risks of crime for visitors.

This advice is based on information provided by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office in the UK. It is correct at time of publishing. As the situation can change rapidly, visitors are advised to contact the following organisations for the latest travel advice:

British Foreign and Commonwealth Office
Tel: 0845 850 2829.
Website: www.fco.gov.uk

US Department of State
Website: http://travel.state.gov/travel