Foreign travel advice

Bolivia

Warning FCDO advises against all but essential travel to parts of Bolivia.

Warnings and insurance

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Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).

Areas where FCDO advises against all but essential travel   

The FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the Chapare region of Cochabamba Department including Villa Tunari and highway routes 4 and 24 that pass through Chapare.  

Find out more about why FCDO advises against travel.  

Road blockades and transport strike

Since 22 October there have been a number of blockades in place across much of the country with the situation changing daily.  Check Bolivian news websites before travelling and do not attempt to cross blockades in a motor vehicle or on a motorbike.  Pedestrians are not usually prevented from crossing blockades but exercise caution before doing so.  There are petrol and diesel shortages across the country with extremely long queues forming at service stations in anticipation of deliveries. 

For tourist excursions, please check with your operator for any restrictions imposed before travelling. If necessary, taxi drivers at El Alto International Airport may know routes into La Paz that are unaffected by blockades.  The cable car (Mi Teleférico) in La Paz and El Alto continues to operate without any restrictions.  Blockades have led to fresh food shortages in La Paz, which has restricted the availability of meat, chicken, fruit, and vegetables.

Forest Fires

Forest fires have been burning in Bolivia since August and continue to affect some parts of Southern and Eastern Bolivia. This is having an impact on air quality in the areas most affected by the fires but also in other parts of the country, including La Paz. It is advisable to wear a face mask if the air quality is particularly bad, or to stay inside.

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to: 

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

About FCDO travel advice

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice.

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