Bolivia
Warnings and insurance
Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).
Areas where FCDO advises against travel
FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the department of La Paz, including the city of La Paz.
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.
Disruption in Central La Paz
There has been serious disruption and violence in central La Paz, particularly near government buildings. British nationals staying near Plaza Murillo or the city centre should:
- stay away from demonstrations
- remain inside accommodation and stay away from windows and balconies where possible
- avoid travelling by road, especially at night
- keep phones charged
- monitor local media, and follow instructions from local authorities
Do not attempt to cross roadblocks or approach crowds. If violence occurs nearby, shelter in place and contact the British Embassy if you need urgent assistance.
Protests and road blockades
Protests and road blockades are also impacting the department of La Paz, with the risk of them becoming violent. Follow the advice of local authorities and do not cross blockades.
The situation has the potential to deteriorate quickly and without warning. Make sure you are ready to change your plans quickly if needed.
Travel by Road
Due to the road blockades, if you purchase a bus ticket ‘condicionado’ it means the bus company may not be able to guarantee arrival to your destination. When travelling, do not use the roads on following routes until further notice:
- between La Paz and Copacabana (Lake Titicaca)
- between La Paz and Oruro
- between La Paz and Uyuni via Oruro
- between La Paz and Rurrenabaque
Walking on certain roads may be dangerous due to the risk of violence around blockades and the effects of altitude. If you are in safe accommodation along these routes, remain there and follow the advice of the local authorities.
Leaving Bolivia
If you are trying to leave Bolivia, check for messaging from your airline or tour operator for up-to-date information. Ensure your travel documents remain valid and confirm you have any required visas for onward travel.
Any British national who is currently stuck in a road blockade, or who requires urgent consular assistance, should contact us by phone on +44 (0)20 7008 5000, selecting the option: ‘Consular services for British nationals’.
If you are in Bolivia and using a phone with a local SIM please call +591 2-2010020 and select option 2.
Before you travel
No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to:
- see general advice for women travellers
- read our guide on disability and travel abroad
- see general advice for LGBT+ travellers
- read about safety for solo and independent travel
- see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad
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. Get travel advice updates
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