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Travel Advisory for Plurinational State of Bolivia

This page provides a comprehensive comparison of official government travel advisories for Plurinational State of Bolivia from multiple trusted international sources including the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, France, Spain, Ireland, and Japan. Each government assesses travel risks independently based on their own intelligence, diplomatic relationships, and risk assessment criteria. By comparing these different perspectives, travelers can make more informed decisions about their safety and security when visiting Plurinational State of Bolivia.

The information below is aggregated from official government sources and analyzed to provide you with a unified view of the current travel situation. Last updated: 2026-08-24

AdvisoryAtlas.com Risk Level

Level 3 - Reconsider Travel
Range: Level 2 to Level 3

AdvisoryAtlas.com Safety Index

45
Safety Index Score

Overview

Bolivia requires a high degree of caution due to ongoing political and social tensions, which can lead to demonstrations, roadblocks, and travel disruptions. Crime, including petty theft and more serious incidents like express kidnappings, is prevalent, particularly in urban centers and tourist areas. Travelers should also be aware of health risks associated with high altitudes and various insect-borne diseases.

Detailed Advisory Summary

Bolivia presents a complex travel landscape where vigilance and preparedness are paramount. The country experiences frequent social and political unrest, manifesting as demonstrations, strikes, and roadblocks that can escalate quickly and disrupt essential services and travel routes without warning. These events necessitate constant monitoring of local media and adherence to official advisories.

Crime is a significant concern, ranging from common petty theft in crowded tourist areas and public transport to violent incidents like armed robberies and express kidnappings. Travelers are particularly vulnerable to scams involving fake police officers and drugged food or drinks. Specific regions, such as the Chapare and border areas, carry elevated risks due to drug trafficking and associated criminal activity.

Health considerations are crucial, especially given Bolivia's diverse geography. Many popular destinations are at high altitudes, posing a risk of altitude sickness. Insect-borne diseases like yellow fever, dengue, malaria, and Zika are prevalent in lower, tropical regions, making vaccinations and mosquito bite prevention essential. Access to quality medical care is limited outside major cities, and private facilities often require upfront payment or comprehensive travel insurance.

Road conditions are generally poor, and driving standards are low, contributing to a high incidence of traffic accidents. Public transport, including intercity buses and taxis, often lacks adequate safety standards. Adventure tourism activities, while popular, also come with inherent risks due to a lack of regulated safety standards for operators. Overall, a proactive approach to personal safety, health, and travel planning is vital for a secure visit to Bolivia.

Risk Level Summary by Government Source

Source Risk Level Updated Official Link
Global Affairs Canada Level 4 - Do Not Travel 2026-08-21 View Source →
U.S. Department of State Level 4 - Do Not Travel 2026-07-02 View Source →
Ministère des Affaires Étrangères Level 4 - Do Not Travel 2026-07-10 View Source →
Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office Level 4 - Do Not Travel 2026-08-21 View Source →
Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution 2026-07-24 View Source →
Ministerio de Asuntos Exteriores Level 4 - Do Not Travel 2026-08-21 View Source →
Department of Foreign Affairs (Ireland) Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution 2026-07-08 View Source →
Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution 2026-07-21 View Source →
Auswärtiges Amt Level 3 - Reconsider Travel 2026-07-09 View Source →
New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade Level 3 - Reconsider Travel 2026-08-10 View Source →
Département fédéral des affaires étrangères (DFAE) Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution 2026-08-19 View Source →
Regjeringen (Norway) Level 4 - Do Not Travel 2026-06-24 View Source →
Nederland Wereldwijd (Netherlands) Level 3 - Reconsider Travel 2026-08-24 View Source →
Viaggiare Sicuri (Italy) Level 4 - Do Not Travel 2026-08-19 View Source →
BMEIA (Austria) Level 3 - Reconsider Travel 2026-08-20 View Source →
0404 (Korea) Level 4 - Do Not Travel 2026-08-03 View Source →
Ministry for Foreign Affairs (Finland) Level 3 - Reconsider Travel 2026-08-14 View Source →

Safety and Security Analysis

Vaccination Information

Required Vaccines

  • Yellow Fever: Required if coming from a country where yellow fever occurs, or if traveling to specific low-altitude regions in Bolivia (e.g., Beni, Pando, Santa Cruz, parts of Chuquisaca, Cochabamba, La Paz, Tarija). An International Certificate of Yellow Fever Vaccination (Yellow Card) is needed. The vaccination is lifelong valid since July 11, 2016.

Recommended for Most Travelers

  • Routine vaccines: Ensure all routine vaccinations (e.g., Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR), Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis (whooping cough), Polio, Varicella (chickenpox), Meningococcal disease, Seasonal flu) are up-to-date.
  • Hepatitis A: Recommended due to risk of exposure through contaminated food or water.
  • Typhoid: Recommended due to risk from contaminated food or drinking water, especially in areas with poor sanitation.

Recommended for Some Travelers

  • Hepatitis B: Recommended for travelers who may be exposed to blood or bodily fluids (e.g., sexual contact, medical treatment, tattooing), or for frequent/prolonged stays.
  • Tuberculosis: Recommended for children under 15 years in case of frequent or prolonged stays, or for high-risk travelers visiting prisons, refugee camps, or hospitals.
  • Rabies: Recommended for those at higher risk of exposure, such as veterinarians, wildlife workers, children, adventure travelers, and spelunkers, or those in close contact with animals.
  • Malaria: Recommended depending on itinerary and time of year for certain areas below 2,500 meters, especially in the north (Beni, Pando) and Santa Cruz.
  • Chikungunya: Recommended in case of epidemics or prolonged stays in affected areas.
  • Dengue: Recommended in case of active epidemics or prolonged stays in endemic zones.
  • Zika Virus: Travelers, especially pregnant women or those planning pregnancy, should discuss travel plans with a healthcare provider and consider deferring non-essential travel.
  • Oropouche Virus Disease (OVD): Protection from midge and mosquito bites is crucial; pregnant women or those planning pregnancy should discuss risks and may be advised to avoid nonessential travel to outbreak areas.
Consult a travel health care provider well in advance of your trip to determine the appropriate vaccines and medications based on your itinerary and activities. Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times by covering exposed skin, using insect repellent, and ensuring accommodation is insect-proof. Practice safe food and water precautions to prevent digestive illnesses. Be aware of the risks of high-altitude illnesses in many parts of Bolivia and acclimatize gradually.

Visa Information

Visa Types

Type Requirement Stay Limit Cost Conditions Details
Tourist Free 90 days (per calendar year) Free Passport valid for 6 months on entry, proof of onward travel may be requested.
  • Initial Entry Stamp: 30 days (can be extended twice for 30 days each, up to 90 days total).
  • Online Registration: All foreign residents and tourists must complete web-based registration (SIGEMIG) within 48 hours of arrival, including lodging information. Failure to comply may result in fines.
  • Land Border Entry: Ensure your passport is stamped upon exiting the previous country and entering Bolivia; otherwise, fines will apply upon departure. For Argentina border, stamp may not be explicitly required due to bilateral agreement but is recommended to avoid issues.
Business Required / Free (short stay) 90 days (short stay) / 1 year (long stay) Check Embassy (long stay) Short stay (<90 days) may be visa-free; long stay (>90 days) requires a specific consular multiple visa.
  • Short Stay Business Visa: Not required for stays up to 90 days (Canadians, French, US, Irish).
  • Long Stay Business Visa (visa consular multiple): Required for stays over 90 days. Valid for 1 year with multiple entries/exits.
  • Application: Long stay visa application must be made at the Bolivian Embassy in your country of residence.
Student Required Varies Check Embassy Specific documentation required; contact the Bolivian Embassy.
  • Application: Must be obtained from the Bolivian Embassy in your country of residence.
Volunteer Work Required Varies Check Embassy Specific documentation required; ensure reliability of host organization.
  • Application: Must be obtained from the Bolivian Embassy in your country of residence.
  • Recommendation: Confirm the reliability and seriousness of the host organization and terms of stay. Register with your national foreign affairs service (Fil d’Ariane, ROCA, Smartraveller).
Long Stay (General) Required Varies Check Embassy For stays over 90 days for any purpose, a specific visa is needed.
  • Application: Contact the Bolivian Embassy in your country of residence for specific requirements.
  • Registration: For stays over 6 months, registration with your national foreign affairs service (Registre des Français établis hors de France) is recommended.

Entry & Legal Compliance

  • Passport Validity Needed: 6 months from date of entry
  • Blank Pages Required: 2
  • Dual Citizenship Policy: Recognized, but dual nationals may be required to show a Bolivian ID/passport and may be subject to compulsory military service for males aged 18+.
  • Proof Of Onward Travel: May be requested by customs officials or airlines
  • Currency Limit Declaration: USD10,000 or equivalent (declare amounts between USD10,000 and USD50,000 to customs; USD50,000 to USD500,000 requires prior central bank approval)
  • Drone Usage Law: Not explicitly mentioned, but general photography rules and caution in remote/sensitive areas apply.

Emergency Contacts

  • Police: 110
  • Firefighters: 119
  • Ambulance (La Paz): 165
  • Ambulance (Santa Cruz): 118, 161
  • Ambulance (Cochabamba): 165
  • Ambulance (Sucre, Tarija, Cobija): 118
  • Tourist Police (La Paz): +591-2-222-5016
  • Tourist Police (English-speaking): 800-14-0081
  • Gender-based violence hotline: 800-14-0348
  • Domestic violence hotline (Bolivian Police): 800-14-038
  • Child and Adolescent Protective Services (Defensoría de la Niñez y Adolescencia): 800-10-8004

Common Scams & Tourist Traps

  • Criminals often pose as police officers to stop travelers, demand to see documents, and then rob them or force them into unmarked vehicles to extract money.
  • Express kidnappings involve criminals (often fake taxi drivers) abducting victims and forcing them to withdraw funds from ATMs for immediate ransom.
  • There are reports of criminals spiking food and drinks in nightclubs, bars, restaurants, and on public transportation to facilitate robbery or sexual assault.
  • Real estate scams are common, with U.S. citizens reportedly losing property due to actions by lawyers, notaries, and government officials.
  • Dating websites are a source of scams where illegal drugs are hidden in luggage that an acquaintance asks travelers to transport.

Cultural Etiquette in Plurinational State of Bolivia

Do

  • Always ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially children, and in remote areas, as locals may find it intrusive.
  • Carry photocopies of your passport and Bolivian entry stamp at all times for identification checks, keeping original documents in a secure location.
  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions, particularly when visiting indigenous communities or historical sites.
  • For long trips, inform friends or family of your itinerary, especially when traveling to areas with limited communication networks like Salar de Uyuni or Madidi National Park.
  • When using ATMs, choose well-lit public areas or inside banks/businesses and cover the keypad when entering your PIN.

Don't

  • Do not attempt to cross roadblocks or engage with protesters, as situations can quickly turn violent and aggravate the situation.
  • Do not accept food or drinks from strangers or leave your beverages unattended in public places like bars and nightclubs.
  • Do not photograph military buildings or objects, as this is strictly prohibited and can lead to arrest.
  • Do not touch or feed stray animals, especially dogs, due to the risk of rabies and potential aggression.
  • Do not engage in any form of drug activity, including possession or use of coca leaves or related products, as penalties are severe and prison conditions are poor.

Advisory Comparison by Government Source

Global Affairs Canada

Updated: 2026-08-21
Level 4 - Do Not Travel
The Canadian advisory highlights a 'high degree of caution' for Bolivia due to demonstrations, roadblocks, crime, and social tensions. A specific warning is issued to 'avoid all travel' to the Chapare Region due to unstable security, anti-foreigner sentiment, and criminal activity like drug trafficking and kidnapping. It uniquely mentions a 90-day nationwide state of emergency declared on June 20, 2026, to stabilize the security situation, emphasizing that localized restrictions on movement or commercial activity may occur during security operations. The advisory also details the risks of spiritual cleansing ceremonies involving hallucinogenic substances, citing serious illness, injury, assault, and even deaths among tourists, urging travelers to avoid them.

U.S. Department of State

Updated: 2026-07-02
Level 4 - Do Not Travel
The U.S. Travel Advisory issues a 'Level 2 - Exercise increased caution' for Bolivia overall, with a 'Do Not Travel' advisory for Chapare Province due to narcotrafficking-related crime and limited U.S. government ability to provide emergency services. It specifically advises 'Reconsider Travel' to La Paz due to unrest, noting that hospitals there may not be fully functional due to protest blockades. The advisory provides unique details on Bolivian child travel rules, requiring special government permission for dual U.S.-Bolivian citizens or U.S. citizens who have stayed over 90 days to travel internally or exit the country. It also alerts travelers to real estate scams where U.S. citizens have lost property due to actions by local lawyers, notaries, and officials.
Level 4 - Do Not Travel
France Diplomatie advises 'vigilance renforcée' (increased vigilance) for most of Bolivia, with specific 'zones déconseillées sauf raison impérative' (avoid unless absolutely necessary) for the border zone with Brazil due to drug trafficking and high weapon circulation. The advisory provides detailed regional warnings for specific tourist destinations like the Salar de Uyuni, Sud Lipez, and the Yungas Road ('death road'), emphasizing the importance of selecting serious tour agencies, checking vehicle conditions, and ensuring proper safety equipment. It uniquely highlights the risk of Burundanga (scopolamine) intoxication in bars and nightclubs, advising travelers not to leave drinks unattended, and notes the high rates of feminicide and sexual violence against women despite progressive legislation.
Level 4 - Do Not Travel
The UK FCDO advises 'against all but essential travel' to the Chapare region of Cochabamba Department due to high levels of gang-related violent crime linked to illegal drugs. It highlights a State of Emergency declared on June 21 which grants police and armed forces powers to remove roadblocks and detain non-compliant individuals for up to 8 hours without charge, warning this could lead to violence. The advisory uniquely mentions the economic crisis and dollar shortage in Bolivia contributing to an increase in crime rates. It also provides specific warnings about illegal prison tours and the dangers of consuming Ayahuasca, emphasizing its classification as a Class A substance in the UK and serious health risks.
Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution
The Australian Smartraveller advisory advises 'Exercise a high degree of caution' for all of Bolivia, noting a 90-day nationwide state of emergency declared on June 20 for security forces to clear roadblocks. It highlights violent crime associated with drug trafficking in the Chapare region and warns of methanol poisoning from poorly distilled alcohol, which has caused deaths and serious illness among locals and foreigners. The advisory also provides unique detail on cyber-based threats, advising against connecting to public Wi-Fi, using shared computers, and commenting on local or political events on social media due to potential legal consequences or data compromise.
Level 4 - Do Not Travel
Spain's advisory characterizes Bolivia as having a higher level of citizen security compared to the regional average, while still cautioning against specific crimes like express kidnapping and taxi robberies, sometimes involving fake police. It uniquely mentions that the Argentine entry stamp can be considered 'double' for entry into Bolivia via the La Quiaca-Villazon border, though advises confirming this due to potential issues. The advisory details specific health risks like Chagas disease and Leishmaniasis prevalence in certain departments. It also provides extensive information on bringing medications into Bolivia, emphasizing the complex regulations and the potential for severe penalties if not properly declared and authorized by the Ministry of Health.
Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution
Ireland's Department of Foreign Affairs advises a 'High Degree of Caution' for Bolivia, emphasizing the continual risk of social unrest, demonstrations, and strikes that can disrupt travel. It uniquely provides a specific English-speaking tourist police number: 800-14-0081. The advisory highlights the risk of Zika Virus, Dengue Fever, and Oropouche virus disease, especially noting concerns about Oropouche virus transmission from pregnant persons to unborn babies, with potential for serious negative pregnancy outcomes. It also details the severe fuel shortage since October 2025, advising travelers to consider its impact on private and public transport arrangements and potential delays.
Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution
Japan issues a 'Level 1: 十分注意してください (Exercise sufficient caution)' for specific areas including La Paz, El Alto, Santa Cruz, Chapare, Carrasco, and border regions with Brazil and Paraguay. It uniquely reports on the intensification of conflicts between drug trafficking organizations in Santa Cruz following the arrest of a leader in March 2026. The advisory details the prevalence of fake banknotes and the invalidation of 'B series' Boliviano notes due to a military plane crash, advising travelers to verify serial numbers and reject suspicious currency. It also provides specific examples of Japanese nationals falling victim to armed robbery, theft, and 'neck-choking' robberies in tourist areas, offering detailed countermeasures.

Auswärtiges Amt

Updated: 2026-07-09
Level 3 - Reconsider Travel
Level 3 - Reconsider Travel
New Zealand advises 'Exercise increased caution' for Bolivia, with 'Avoid non-essential travel' to the Chapare Region due to criminal activity. It highlights that on June 19, President Paz signed an agreement to end civil unrest, indicating a recent resolution to widespread protests. The advisory provides a specific warning against prison tours, stating they are illegal and unsafe. It also details the strict rules for bringing prescription medications into Bolivia, noting that some common medications can cause problems at the border and that travelers have been detained for carrying them, recommending a doctor's letter and original packaging.
Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution
Switzerland notes a 'situation générale tendue' (tense general situation) following the change of government in 2025, leading to widespread discontent over supply difficulties and rising prices. It highlights the 'état d'urgence à l’échelle nationale' (nationwide state of emergency) proclaimed on June 20, 2026. The advisory uniquely warns about indigenous populations sometimes exercising local justice, where imposed penalties are often more severe than ordinary justice, and cases of lynching occur. It also advises that in the event of passport loss, the wait for a provisional passport can be up to two weeks, during which exit from Bolivia is not possible.

Regjeringen (Norway)

Updated: 2026-06-24
Level 4 - Do Not Travel
Level 3 - Reconsider Travel
The Netherlands advises a 'kleurcode geel' (yellow code - caution) for most of Bolivia and 'oranje' (orange - essential travel only) for parts of the Chapare province due to illegal coca cultivation and drug trade. It notes the state of emergency since June 20, 2026, which grants police extra powers. The advisory uniquely warns that Bolivian airlines are not always reliable and safe, recommending travelers check if an airline is an IATA member. It also emphasizes that local populations do not need passport stamps to travel between Peru and Bolivia, and drivers may tell border guards there are no tourists to save time, urging travelers to remain alert for necessary stamps.

Viaggiare Sicuri (Italy)

Updated: 2026-08-19
Level 4 - Do Not Travel
Italy advises 'particolare cautela' (particular caution) for Bolivia due to the evolving political and social situation, with potential for sudden protests and roadblocks. It uniquely lists specific 'aree di particolare cautela' (areas of particular caution) including Muela del Diablo and Palca near La Paz due to armed robberies, and warns of increased thefts on the road between Santa Cruz and Cochabamba. The advisory details the complex and changing regulations for personal medication, requiring a doctor's prescription, certificate, and purchase invoice, and potentially declaring medicines at customs and obtaining import authorization from UNIMED. It also highlights that for emergency medical care, surgical interventions or complex treatments may not be available locally, recommending travel to Europe or the United States.

BMEIA (Austria)

Updated: 2026-08-20
Level 3 - Reconsider Travel
Austria assigns a 'Sicherheitsstufe 3 (regional)' (Security Level 3 - high risk) for Cochabamba, El Alto, La Paz, and Santa Cruz, and Sicherheitsrisiko (Sicherheitsstufe 2) for the rest of the country. It highlights a 'Gesundheitswarnung' (health warning) due to a sharp increase in Chikungunya infections, particularly in Santa Cruz. The advisory uniquely specifies that for minors traveling without both legal guardians, an apostilled birth certificate and parental consent form are required, and recommends checking with the Bolivian Embassy in Vienna and the airline. It also notes that cremefarbiger Notpass (cream-colored emergency passport) is accepted for entry.

0404 (Korea)

Updated: 2026-08-03
Level 4 - Do Not Travel
Level 3 - Reconsider Travel
Finland's advisory highlights the unstable political situation and frequent unrest, noting that police clashes can turn violent and disrupt all forms of transport. It specifically warns that some travelers have faced problems due to missing passport stamps upon entry. The advisory emphasizes that there is no general emergency number in Bolivia but provides specific police and fire numbers. It also notes that the Swedish Embassy in Bolivia provides assistance to Finnish citizens, as Finland does not have its own embassy. The advisory also mentions that drone import may require separate permits and that photographing prohibited sites can lead to arrest or confiscation of equipment.

Important: This is an aggregated summary from multiple government sources. Always consult official government travel advisory websites before making travel decisions.

About Travel Advisories for Plurinational State of Bolivia

This comprehensive travel advisory page for Plurinational State of Bolivia aggregates official government warnings and recommendations from eight major international sources. Each country's foreign affairs department maintains its own travel advisory system based on unique assessment criteria, intelligence gathering, and diplomatic considerations.

The United States Department of State, Global Affairs Canada, UK Foreign Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), Australia's Smartraveller, France's Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs, Spain's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ireland's Department of Foreign Affairs, and Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs each provide independent assessments of travel risks to Plurinational State of Bolivia.

By comparing these multiple perspectives, travelers can gain a more complete understanding of the current situation in Plurinational State of Bolivia and make better-informed decisions about their travel plans. Remember to always check the official government websites directly before finalizing any travel arrangements.

Last updated: 2026-08-24