We spent a few marvelous weeks in Bolivia in early 2023. We loved the incredible landscapes and friendly people. We wrote a few blog posts about our travels.

• We entered the country by walking over the border from Argentina and then making our way to Uyuni.
• From there we explored the unworldly Salt Flats and Nature Reserve in the southwestern corner of the country.
• We took a bus through Potosí to picturesque Sucre,
• flew across the country to explore the famous Lake Titicaca and Isla del Sol
• before concluding with a few days in La Paz.

 For those of you considering a trip to Bolivia, we’ve summarized many of the ‘practical’ things you need to know, to help you plan your time in this wonderful country.

Bolivia In a Nutshell

Phones and SIM cards in Bolivia

• Entel is your best choice of carrier.
• If possible, try to get your SIM from a large Entel office in a city. We got one at a small border town and they didn’t register it properly. Also go for the unlimited option. because for whatever reason your GB’s don’t seem to go as far in this country (hmm…)

Money and ATMs

• We used the bank Bancofie to withdraw from ATMs. They did have a CDN$10 flat fee for each withdrawal, which wasn’t great, but the ATM worked and it didn’t eat our card, so…
• Credit cards are rarely accepted except in the big cities.
• Try to keep small change on hand. Public toilets usually charge a couple of Bolivianos and not all cafes have toilets.
• Tipping is not expected in Bolivia
• You can stay and eat very cheaply. You can also stay in nice places for very reasonable prices and eat well.

Getting Around Bolivia

Buses

• Buses are easy to book the day you leave at the bus station. Just check the times they leave.
• Many places offer mini buses as well as coaches. These are not as comfortable but may be quicker.
• We didn’t find any buses or mini vans with seatbelts.
• Bolivia Hop is supposed to have better safety features but it was never convenient for us.
• Putting your (large) bag in the base of the coach is safe.
• We didn’t take buses for very long distances but they do have full bed (cama) on some buses.
• Most buses have usb ports to charge your phone.
• Drivers don’t check everyone is back on the bus after toilet breaks etc, so make sure you are back on the bus.
• Some bus stations charge a small fee so have a few Bs on hand as they collect it on the bus as it leaves the terminal.
• During long bus rides people usually get on periodically to sell food and drinks.
• Minibuses in cities are safe and well used.

Taxis

• Taxis don’t have meters.
• Drivers are usually honest with prices but it’s good to have someone you trust tell you what to expect. Ask your hostel or host.
• Always ask the price before you get in.
• People report some issues of safety with taxis but we had no problems.
• Drivers were always friendly and helpful.

Communication and General Advice

Bolivia Visas/Proof of Onward Travel

• Entering Bolivia by bus/on foot, we did not get asked for proof of onward travel. Visas are good for 30 days.
• You will be given your visa on a separate piece of paper. Keep it safe as you’ll need to hand it in on exit.

WhatsApp

• As is the case all over South America, almost everyone uses WhatsApp to communicate.

Travel Advice/Facebook Groups

• We used the Facebook group called Bolivia Travel Community.
• Backpacker Footsteps runs a few of these groups which can be useful. You can search past posts for info too.

Altitude Sickness

• Bring Panadol, drink lots of water, rest.
• If you have issues breathing and this doesn’t resolve then you may want to consider asking a pharmacist for Acetazolamide (available over the counter). We are not doctors! Do your own investigations!
• Not everyone acclimatises with time.

Weather

• It can be quite cold. Hats, gloves and a warm jacket and/or plenty of layers are needed.

People and Language

• We found Bolivians very friendly and helpful.
• It helps to have some basic Spanish as there are many places where there is no English spoken.
• If you look unsure for long enough someone will help.
• Language is an interesting thing. In Argentina they will likely greet you with Chico /chica (guy /girl). In Bolivia we heard more often ‘amigo/ amiga’ (friend).

Other Places To Consider in Bolivia

We didn’t have time to get to everywhere we would have liked. Here’s a few other places ‘for next time’ or that you might want to add to your itinerary:

Santa Cruz: Growing faster than La Paz
Tarija: The biggest wine region in Bolivia. We met some guys running a motorbike tour, and their favourite town in the country.
Samaipata: Chilled out town east of Sucre
Cochabamba: For Jungle treks.We heard it’s great but we didn’t go as we’re heading to the Ecuadorean jungle.
Sajama National Park – A lesser-known park famous for a giant volcano and high lagoons, as well as lots of llamas.