Safety and Security Tips and Requirements for US Citizens Traveling to Bolivia

What is the current safety situation in Bolivia, and are there any travel advisories or warnings?

The current safety situation in Bolivia is generally considered to be safe, however, travelers are advised to take caution when traveling in certain areas of the country due to high levels of crime and potential security risks. The US Department of State has issued a Level 2 travel advisory for Bolivia recommending travelers exercise increased caution and be aware of the potential for civil unrest, violent crime and drug trafficking. It is advised that travelers research their destinations and exercise common sense when traveling throughout Bolivia.

Are there specific areas in Bolivia that I should avoid due to safety concerns?

Yes, areas tourists should avoid include the Pando region near the Brazilian border, the Tarija region near the Argentine border, and El Alto, just outside of La Paz. Additionally, travelers are advised to check with local authorities before traveling to rural areas in the Chuquisaca and Potosi regions. In general, travelers should be aware of their surroundings and exercise caution in any area of Bolivia.

What are the emergency contact numbers for local authorities and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate in Bolivia?

Local Authorities
-Police: 110
-Fire: 119
-Ambulance: 118

U.S. Embassy or Consulate in Bolivia
La Paz: +591 2 216-8000
Santa Cruz: +591 3 351-3477

Are there any health risks or vaccinations I should be aware of before traveling to Bolivia?

Travelers should be aware of the risk of contracting hepatitis A and B, yellow fever, and typhoid in Bolivia. Vaccines against these illnesses are recommended before traveling. Other health threats include dengue fever, Zika virus, rabies, and Chagas disease. Travelers should also practice safe food and water precautions. Malaria is present in some parts of Bolivia, so travelers should use insect repellent and take antimalarial medication if advised by their doctor. Finally, travelers should make sure they have travel health insurance before departing for Bolivia.

What measures can I take to ensure the safety of my belongings and valuables in Bolivia?

1. Invest in a sturdy, quality lock for luggage and hotel rooms.
2. Keep expensive items out of sight and secure them in a safe or locked suitcase.
3. Don’t carry large amounts of cash or valuable items with you when you are out and about.
4. Avoid walking around alone at night, and stay in well-lit areas.
5. When booking accommodation, choose properties that have adequate security measures in place, such as lockable doors and windows.
6. Be mindful of your surroundings and trust your instincts if you feel uncomfortable in a particular area or situation.
7. Make photocopies of your important documents, such as your passport and ID cards, and keep them in a secure place separate from the originals.
8. Purchase travel insurance to cover any unexpected losses or thefts while in Bolivia.

Are there any specific safety tips for using public transportation in Bolivia?

Yes, there are a few safety tips to keep in mind when using public transportation in Bolivia:

1. Be aware of your surroundings and take note of any suspicious activity.

2. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash, jewelry, or other valuables when taking public transportation.

3. Do not accept rides from strangers or enter unlicensed cabs.

4. Be mindful of pickpockets and keep your personal belongings close.

5. If possible, travel with a companion for added safety.

6. If you have an issue or need help, find a police officer or other authority figure who can assist you.

What is the local emergency medical care system like in Bolivia, and how can I access it if needed?

Bolivia’s emergency medical care system is operated by a network of public hospitals and private medical clinics, as well as some specialized facilities. The Ministry of Health is responsible for providing medical and health services in the country and works with other government departments to provide emergency services.

The local services are available 24/7, but response times can be slow due to the underdeveloped nature of the country. To access emergency medical care, you can call 911 or go directly to the nearest hospital or clinic. The Ministry of Health also provides mobile medical units and mobile clinics that can be dispatched to provide care in remote areas.

What precautions should I take to prevent common travel-related illnesses in Bolivia?

1. Make sure to get vaccinated before traveling to Bolivia, as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Vaccinations are recommended for yellow fever, typhoid, hepatitis A, polio, and meningococcal.

2. Drink bottled or boiled water, and avoid ice cubes or raw fruits and vegetables that may have been washed in contaminated water.

3. Wear insect repellent to avoid malaria and dengue fever, which are common in certain parts of Bolivia.

4. Practice safe sex to avoid contracting HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases.

5. Be aware of the risk of altitude sickness in the higher altitudes of Bolivia, and drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated while traveling in these regions.

Are there any cultural practices or customs that can enhance my safety and security in Bolivia?

1. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in quiet areas.
2. Stay alert and be aware of your surroundings.
3. Don’t carry large amounts of cash; use an ATM and credit card whenever possible.
4. Avoid public displays of affection in areas where you may draw unwanted attention or be subject to harassment.
5. Don’t accept drinks from strangers, as they may contain drugs or alcohol that can impair your judgment.
6. Avoid carrying valuable items such as expensive jewelry and cameras, and store them in a hotel safe when possible.
7. Don’t leave your bags unattended in public places.
8. Don’t trust strangers easily; be especially wary of people who offer you helpful advice or services without seeming to expect anything in return.
9. Learn basic Spanish to better understand local customs and protocols.
10. Respect local customs and dress conservatively, especially in areas where traditional clothing is the norm.

What is the best way to stay informed about local news and developments in Bolivia?

The best way to stay informed about local news and developments in Bolivia is to follow news outlets that specialize in Bolivian news. Additionally, local newspapers, radio stations, and television networks offer up-to-date information on the country. Social media platforms like Twitter and Facebook are also great resources for news and updates.

Are there any specific safety measures for outdoor activities or excursions in Bolivia?

Yes, there are specific safety measures that should be taken into consideration when participating in outdoor activities or excursions in Bolivia. These include being aware of the local environment and weather conditions, such as altitude sickness, as well as taking important precautions to avoid mosquito-borne diseases, such as carrying insect repellent. It is also important to be aware of the political situation in Bolivia and to be mindful of safety if travelling to remote areas. When travelling in a foreign country, it is always best to purchase travel insurance and to be familiar with the local laws and customs. Additionally, it is important to research any specific safety measures that might be recommended for the activity or excursion you plan on taking part in.

How can I ensure the safety of my personal information and data while in Bolivia?

1. Use a secure internet connection: Make sure to use a secure, encrypted connection when accessing the internet. This will help protect your information and data from being intercepted or stolen.

2. Use strong passwords: When creating passwords for online accounts, use strong passwords that are difficult to guess. Avoid using passwords that are easy to guess, such as birthdays or pet names.

3. Don’t click on suspicious links: Avoid clicking on links or attachments in emails from unknown sources. This could contain malicious software or lead to sites that contain malware or viruses.

4. Use two-factor authentication: If your online account offers two-factor authentication, use it. This adds an extra layer of security to your account by requiring two forms of identification in order to sign in.

5. Update your security software regularly: Make sure your anti-virus and anti-malware software is up to date. This will help protect your device from viruses, malware, and other online threats.

What is the local law enforcement’s reputation, and how can I seek assistance if needed in Bolivia?

The local law enforcement in Bolivia has a mixed reputation. On the one hand, there is a perception that some law enforcement officers are corrupt and can be easily bribed. On the other hand, the Bolivian government has been improving law enforcement in the country in recent years, and there are some law enforcement officers who are dedicated to their work and who take their job of protecting the public seriously.

If help is needed from local law enforcement in Bolivia, you can contact the police at 911 or contact the tourist police at +591 2-232-8444. Additionally, there are a few foreign consulates in Bolivia (e.g. the U.S., U.K., Germany, France etc.), and it may be possible to receive assistance from them as well.

Are there any safety considerations for LGBTQ+ travelers in Bolivia?

Yes. LGBTQ+ travelers should exercise caution when in Bolivia. Same-sex sexual activity is legal; however, there is no legal protection against discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity. As a result, there have been reports of discrimination and hate crimes against members of the LGBTQ+ community. Additionally, Bolivia does not recognize same-sex marriage or civil unions.

What steps can I take to reduce the risk of encountering scams or fraudulent activities in Bolivia?

1. Avoid responding to unsolicited emails, phone calls or text messages, even if they appear to be from a legitimate company or government agency.

2. Do not pay money upfront for goods and services, especially if it is a large sum.

3. Research any company or individual you are considering doing business with. Check that they are registered and have a good reputation.

4. Be aware of counterfeit currency and verify currency before accepting it.

5. Be cautious when using ATMs or credit cards and take extra steps to protect your information, such as using a card holder with a lock.

6. Understand the terms of any agreement before signing it and ensure that all paperwork is legitimate.

7. Do not give out personal information, such as bank account details or your social security number, to anyone you do not trust.

8. Be aware of online scams, including phishing emails or requests for personal information on social media sites.

What are the local customs regarding interactions with strangers or making new acquaintances in Bolivia?

1. Maintain eye contact when greeting someone.

2. Greet people with a handshake and a “Buenos Días” or “Buenas Tardes” (good morning/afternoon).

3. Respect the culture’s formality and address people with their proper titles, such as “Señor” or “Señora” (Mr/Mrs).

4. Bolivians are friendly and welcoming to visitors, so don’t be afraid to strike up conversations with locals.

5. Don’t be offended if Bolivians don’t smile or greet back right away – they may just need a few moments to warm up to you.

6. Avoid discussing sensitive topics such as politics and religion in public settings.

What transportation options are considered safer for travel within Bolivia?

The safest form of transportation in Bolivia is bus travel. Bus companies such as Bolivia Hop and Todo Turismo offer reliable and safe bus services between major cities and towns throughout the country. Taxis are also a safe form of transportation, but it is important to use only official, registered taxis. You can recognize them by their yellow license plates. Other forms of transport such as car rental and hitchhiking are not recommended for safety reasons.

Are there any cultural or religious events that may impact safety conditions in Bolivia?

Yes, there are several cultural and religious events that can impact safety conditions in Bolivia. These include Semana Santa (Holy Week), Carnaval, and Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead). During these events, civil unrest and protests may take place, particularly in large cities like La Paz and Santa Cruz. Additionally, there may be an increase in crime and alcohol-related incidents in some areas. It is important to exercise caution and remain aware of your surroundings during these events.

What are the local norms regarding the consumption of food and water to ensure a safe experience in Bolivia?

1. Always make sure to drink bottled water and never consume tap water.
2. Peel fruits and vegetables before eating them.
3. Avoid eating raw meat, fish, and eggs.
4. Avoid street food vendors unless they appear to be clean.
5. Avoid uncooked food from markets.
6. Wash your hands and use hand sanitizer often to avoid getting sick.
7. Avoid unpasteurized dairy products.
8. When dining out, make sure the restaurant looks clean and observe good hygiene practices among the staff.
9. If eating from a buffet, make sure the food is served from a heated source and has been kept hot throughout the meal.
10. Be aware of altitude changes in Bolivia, as some people may experience mild symptoms of altitude sickness such as dizziness or nausea when consuming large amounts of food or water at high altitudes.

How can I register with the U.S. embassy or consulate in Bolivia for updates and assistance during my stay?

You can register with the U.S. Embassy in Bolivia by visiting their website at https://bo.usembassy.gov/u-s-citizen-services/citizenship-services/ and clicking on the Register/Update Your Information link. From there, you will need to fill out the registration form with information about yourself, your trip, and any contact information for family members in the U.S. Once you submit the form, the embassy will contact you with any updates or assistance they can provide during your stay in Bolivia.