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: 2026-09-08
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 travelers to exercise a high degree of caution due to ongoing civil unrest, crime, and potential travel disruptions. Key concerns include frequent demonstrations, roadblocks, and various forms of theft, particularly in urban and tourist areas. Health considerations include high-altitude sickness and mosquito-borne diseases, necessitating comprehensive travel insurance.
Detailed Advisory Summary
Bolivia is a diverse country that offers rich cultural experiences and stunning natural landscapes, but travelers should be prepared for a dynamic and sometimes challenging environment. The nation frequently experiences social and political tensions, leading to demonstrations, strikes, and roadblocks that can severely impact travel plans and access to essential services. These events can escalate quickly and without warning, sometimes involving violence or the use of dynamite by protesters. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, is prevalent in major cities like La Paz and Santa Cruz, as well as in crowded tourist areas and on public transportation. There's also a risk of more serious incidents, including armed robberies, express kidnappings, and scams involving individuals posing as police officers or taxi drivers. Specific regions, such as the Chapare Province and border areas, carry elevated risks due to drug trafficking and associated violent crime, with some advisories recommending avoiding all but essential travel to these locations.
Health-wise, visitors must contend with the challenges of high-altitude sickness in many popular destinations like La Paz, Uyuni, and Potosí. Access to quality medical care is limited, especially in rural areas, and private hospitals often require upfront payment or proof of insurance. Travelers are strongly advised to secure comprehensive travel insurance that includes medical evacuation. Additionally, several mosquito-borne diseases like yellow fever, dengue, and chikungunya are present in lower-altitude and Amazonian regions, making vaccination and insect bite prevention crucial. Road safety is generally poor due to inadequate infrastructure, reckless driving, and poorly maintained vehicles, making night travel particularly hazardous. Local laws are strict regarding drug offenses, and dual citizens, especially males over 18, may face compulsory military service. Respect for local customs, particularly concerning photography and interactions with indigenous communities, is also important for a smooth trip. Overall, a proactive approach to safety and thorough preparation are essential for a rewarding experience in Bolivia.
Health-wise, visitors must contend with the challenges of high-altitude sickness in many popular destinations like La Paz, Uyuni, and Potosí. Access to quality medical care is limited, especially in rural areas, and private hospitals often require upfront payment or proof of insurance. Travelers are strongly advised to secure comprehensive travel insurance that includes medical evacuation. Additionally, several mosquito-borne diseases like yellow fever, dengue, and chikungunya are present in lower-altitude and Amazonian regions, making vaccination and insect bite prevention crucial. Road safety is generally poor due to inadequate infrastructure, reckless driving, and poorly maintained vehicles, making night travel particularly hazardous. Local laws are strict regarding drug offenses, and dual citizens, especially males over 18, may face compulsory military service. Respect for local customs, particularly concerning photography and interactions with indigenous communities, is also important for a smooth trip. Overall, a proactive approach to safety and thorough preparation are essential for a rewarding experience in Bolivia.
Risk Level Summary by Government Source
| Source | Risk Level | Updated | Official Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Global Affairs Canada | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-09-01 | 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 | 2026-09-03 | View Source → |
| Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-08-21 | View Source → |
| Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade | Level 3 - Reconsider Travel | 2026-08-31 | 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 | 2026-09-07 | View Source → |
| Viaggiare Sicuri (Italy) | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-08-19 | View Source → |
| BMEIA (Austria) | Level 3 - Reconsider Travel | 2026-09-03 | 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 (if arriving from a country with risk of transmission or if traveling to specific high-risk areas within Bolivia)
Recommended for Most Travelers
- Routine vaccines (Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR), Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis, Polio, Varicella)
- Hepatitis A
Recommended for Some Travelers
- Hepatitis B (for frequent/prolonged stays or high-risk exposure)
- Typhoid fever (depending on conditions and duration of stay)
- Rabies (for children, rural stays, close contact with animals, or adventure travelers)
- Tuberculosis (for children under 15 with frequent/prolonged stays)
- Chikungunya (during epidemics or prolonged stays)
- Dengue (during active epidemics or prolonged stays in endemic areas)
It is crucial to consult a travel health care provider well in advance of your trip to determine the most appropriate vaccinations based on your itinerary and activities. Be aware that some medications legal in other countries may be controlled substances in Bolivia, requiring special authorization to import. Always carry prescription medications in their original containers with a copy of the prescription. High-altitude illnesses are a significant concern; understand the symptoms and know that immediate medical attention at a lower altitude may be necessary. Public healthcare facilities often have limited resources and may not meet international standards, making private facilities and comprehensive travel insurance essential.
Visa Information
Visa Types
| Type | Requirement | Stay Limit | Cost | Conditions | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist | Free | 90 days (per calendar year) | Free | Passport valid for 6 months, proof of onward travel, lodging info. |
|
| Business | Required | Check Embassy | Check Embassy | Specific purpose other than tourism, may require a 'visa consular multiple'. |
|
| Student | Required | Check Embassy | Check Embassy | For study purposes, specific documentation needed. |
|
| Volunteer Work | Required | Check Embassy | Check Embassy | For volunteer work, specific documentation needed. |
|
Entry & Legal Compliance
- Passport Validity Needed: 6 months from arrival date
- Blank Pages Required: 2
- Dual Citizenship Policy: Recognized; may be subject to different entry/exit rules and compulsory military service for males over 18.
- Proof Of Onward Travel: Required by authorities (return or onward ticket)
- Currency Limit Declaration: USD 10,000 (or equivalent in other currency)
- Drone Usage Law: Not specified
Emergency Contacts
- Police: 110
- Firefighters: 119
- Ambulance (La Paz): 165
- Ambulance (Santa Cruz): 118 or 161
- Tourist Police (La Paz): +59122225016
- Tourist Police (English-speaking): 800140081
- Gender-based violence hotline: 800140348
- Domestic violence hotline: 80014038
- Emergency Watch and Response Centre (Canada): +16139968885 (collect calls accepted)
- Consular Agency Santa Cruz (US): +59133513477 or +59133513479
- Emergency after-hours (US Embassy La Paz): +59122168500
- Emergency after-hours (Irish Embassy Buenos Aires): +5491159457483
- Emergency after-hours (New Zealand Embassy Santiago): +56226163000
- Helpline DFAE (Switzerland): Check website for number
Common Scams & Tourist Traps
- Criminals often pose as police officers to stop travelers, demand to see documents, search belongings, or even escort them to bogus police stations to commit theft.
- Thieves work in teams to distract victims (e.g., staging a fight, blocking a sidewalk, throwing liquid on victims) while an accomplice steals valuables.
- Fraudulent taxi drivers may pick up victims, then stop to pick up accomplices who commit express kidnappings, forcing withdrawals from ATMs.
- There are reports of criminals adding drugs (e.g., Burundanga/scopolamine) to food and drinks in bars, nightclubs, 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.
- Individuals may offer to exchange currency at 'good rates' on the street, leading to fake currency or being robbed in secluded locations.
Cultural Etiquette in Plurinational State of Bolivia
Do
- Always carry a photocopy of your passport and Bolivian entry stamp; keep original documents in a secure location.
- When photographing people, especially in rural areas, always ask for permission first to avoid causing offense.
- Dress modestly and respectfully, particularly when visiting religious sites or indigenous communities.
- Be prepared to pay in cash (Bolivianos), especially for smaller transactions and outside major urban centers.
- Monitor local media and official sources for information on protests, roadblocks, and weather conditions.
- Register your travel with your country's embassy or consulate (e.g., ROCA for Canadians, STEP for US citizens, Fil d'Ariane for French citizens) to receive important updates.
Don't
- Do not openly display signs of wealth, such as expensive jewelry, watches, or large sums of cash, to avoid attracting unwanted attention from criminals.
- Do not attempt to cross roadblocks or engage with protesters, as situations can quickly become violent.
- Do not consume hallucinogenic substances (e.g., ayahuasca, San Pedro) in spiritual cleansing ceremonies, as these are unregulated and carry significant health and safety risks.
- Do not leave food or drinks unattended in public places, especially in bars and nightclubs, to prevent drink spiking.
- Do not take photos of military installations or government buildings, as this is strictly prohibited and can lead to arrest.
- Do not touch or feed stray animals, especially dogs and bats, due to the risk of rabies.
Advisory Comparison by Government Source
Global Affairs Canada
Updated: 2026-09-01
The Canadian advisory highlights a "high degree of caution" for Bolivia overall, with a specific "avoid all travel" warning for the Chapare Region due to unstable security, anti-foreigner sentiment, and criminal activity like drug trafficking and kidnapping. It uniquely mentions a nationwide 90-day state of emergency declared in June 2026 to clear roadblocks, emphasizing that while the situation improved, it could worsen.
The advisory provides extensive detail on various crime types, including fraudulent police officers who demand to examine belongings or escort travelers to bogus stations. It also offers specific advice for adventure tourism, noting the lack of official safety standards and risks in areas like Salar de Uyuni and the 'Death Road'. A key administrative point is the mandatory web-based registration process (SIGEMIG) for all foreign residents and tourists prior to arrival, including lodging information for the entire stay, with fines for non-compliance.
The advisory provides extensive detail on various crime types, including fraudulent police officers who demand to examine belongings or escort travelers to bogus stations. It also offers specific advice for adventure tourism, noting the lack of official safety standards and risks in areas like Salar de Uyuni and the 'Death Road'. A key administrative point is the mandatory web-based registration process (SIGEMIG) for all foreign residents and tourists prior to arrival, including lodging information for the entire stay, with fines for non-compliance.
U.S. Department of State
Updated: 2026-07-02
The U.S. advisory issues a Level 2 "Exercise Increased Caution" for Bolivia, with a Level 4 "Do Not Travel" for Chapare Province due to narcotrafficking-related crime and limited U.S. government ability to provide emergency services there. It uniquely highlights specific health concerns such as hospitals in La Paz not being fully functional and lacking medical supplies due to protest blockades, advising travelers to refer to their list of medical providers.
The advisory also details specific areas of risk like Coronilla Hill in Cochabamba and the 16 de Julio market in El Alto for crime. It provides unique advice for travel with children, differentiating rules for dual U.S.-Bolivian citizens and U.S. citizens staying over 90 days, who need special government permission for internal travel or leaving the country. The U.S. also specifically warns against importing coca-derived products into the United States, even if legal in Bolivia, and against consuming hallucinogenic plants like ayahuasca and San Pedro due to severe adverse effects and lack of medical access in remote ceremony locations.
The advisory also details specific areas of risk like Coronilla Hill in Cochabamba and the 16 de Julio market in El Alto for crime. It provides unique advice for travel with children, differentiating rules for dual U.S.-Bolivian citizens and U.S. citizens staying over 90 days, who need special government permission for internal travel or leaving the country. The U.S. also specifically warns against importing coca-derived products into the United States, even if legal in Bolivia, and against consuming hallucinogenic plants like ayahuasca and San Pedro due to severe adverse effects and lack of medical access in remote ceremony locations.
Ministère des Affaires Étrangères
Updated: 2026-09-03
France Diplomatie advises "vigilance renforcée" for most of Bolivia, but strongly recommends avoiding the border zone with Brazil due to drug trafficking, contraband, and high weapon circulation. It uniquely identifies El Alto's Feria as a pickpocket hotspot and warns about specific parts of Isla del Sol being restricted due to community conflicts. The advisory also emphasizes the dangers of the Yungas Road (Death Road) for cyclists and the necessity of trained local guides for mountaineering above 5,000 meters.
A distinctive warning is given about the drug Burundanga (scopolamine), which can be slipped into drinks in bars and nightclubs, leading to loss of will and amnesia, facilitating theft or sexual assault. The advisory also mentions that for minors staying over 90 days, a judicial permit from the Juez del Menor is required to leave the territory, a crucial detail for families. It also highlights the strict regulations on bringing certain controlled medications into Bolivia, requiring specific import authorizations from the Ministry of Health.
A distinctive warning is given about the drug Burundanga (scopolamine), which can be slipped into drinks in bars and nightclubs, leading to loss of will and amnesia, facilitating theft or sexual assault. The advisory also mentions that for minors staying over 90 days, a judicial permit from the Juez del Menor is required to leave the territory, a crucial detail for families. It also highlights the strict regulations on bringing certain controlled medications into Bolivia, requiring specific import authorizations from the Ministry of Health.
Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
Updated: 2026-08-21
The UK FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the Chapare region of Cochabamba Department, including specific highway routes, due to high levels of gang-related violent crime linked to drug trafficking. It specifically notes an increase in crime rates linked to Bolivia's economic crisis and dollar shortage. The advisory uniquely warns about prison tours being illegal and unsafe, emphasizing no guarantees for safety inside prisons.
The FCDO highlights that while ayahuasca consumption is not illegal in Bolivia, the brew contains DMT (a Class A substance in the UK), and participants have suffered serious illnesses, assaults, and deaths. It also provides specific guidance on the 1949 International Driving Permit (IDP) requirement, noting it cannot be purchased outside the UK. The advisory also mentions that Bolivia no longer stamps passports at the border with Argentina, but travelers must register their exit with Argentine immigration, who then pass the information to Bolivian authorities.
The FCDO highlights that while ayahuasca consumption is not illegal in Bolivia, the brew contains DMT (a Class A substance in the UK), and participants have suffered serious illnesses, assaults, and deaths. It also provides specific guidance on the 1949 International Driving Permit (IDP) requirement, noting it cannot be purchased outside the UK. The advisory also mentions that Bolivia no longer stamps passports at the border with Argentina, but travelers must register their exit with Argentine immigration, who then pass the information to Bolivian authorities.
Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade
Updated: 2026-08-31
Australia's Smartraveller advisory advises "Exercise a high degree of caution" overall, with a specific "Reconsider your need to travel" to the Chapare region due to violent crime linked to illegal drug trafficking. It uniquely mentions that the Bolivian government declared a 90-day nationwide state of emergency on June 20 for security forces to clear roadblocks and stabilize the situation. The advisory highlights that methanol poisoning from poorly distilled alcohol has caused deaths and serious illness, recommending branded, sealed beverages.
The advisory also points out that many parts of Bolivia's tourism industry, including transport and tour operators, may not meet Australian safety or maintenance standards, specifically mentioning "Death Road" mountain biking tours, Uyuni salt plains tours, and Potosi mine tours. It provides detailed advice on carrying a photocopy of passport bio page and entry stamps, and warns about specific areas like Coronilla Hill in Cochabamba for violent crime and Rurrenabaque for assaults on hikers.
The advisory also points out that many parts of Bolivia's tourism industry, including transport and tour operators, may not meet Australian safety or maintenance standards, specifically mentioning "Death Road" mountain biking tours, Uyuni salt plains tours, and Potosi mine tours. It provides detailed advice on carrying a photocopy of passport bio page and entry stamps, and warns about specific areas like Coronilla Hill in Cochabamba for violent crime and Rurrenabaque for assaults on hikers.
Ministerio de Asuntos Exteriores
Updated: 2026-08-21
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.
Department of Foreign Affairs (Ireland)
Updated: 2026-07-08
Ireland's advisory maintains a "High Degree of Caution" for Bolivia, specifically noting a continual risk of demonstrations and strikes that can affect main tourist areas and transportation without notice. It uniquely provides a direct phone number for English-speaking tourist police: 800-14-0081. The advisory also highlights a specific concern regarding serious road accidents involving jeep tours in areas like Uyuni and other Salt Flats, strongly recommending reputable tour companies, vehicle checks, and seatbelt use.
The advisory points out that Bolivia is experiencing outbreaks of Oropouche virus disease (OVD), with concerns about its transmission from pregnant individuals to unborn babies, potentially leading to stillbirth or congenital microcephaly. It also stresses the importance of carrying an international driving permit and having adequate insurance if planning to drive, while also warning against handing over a passport as security when hiring a vehicle.
The advisory points out that Bolivia is experiencing outbreaks of Oropouche virus disease (OVD), with concerns about its transmission from pregnant individuals to unborn babies, potentially leading to stillbirth or congenital microcephaly. It also stresses the importance of carrying an international driving permit and having adequate insurance if planning to drive, while also warning against handing over a passport as security when hiring a vehicle.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan
Updated: 2026-07-21
Japan's advisory issues a Level 1 "Exercise Increased Caution" for major cities and specific regions. It uniquely details the intensification of conflicts between drug trafficking organizations in Santa Cruz Department following the arrest of a key leader in March 2026. The advisory also highlights concerns about armed groups involved in illegal coca cultivation and drug distribution in the Chapare and Carrasco regions of Cochabamba Department, noting the withdrawal of national police due to escalating anti-government activities.
A specific warning is given about the circulation of counterfeit currency and the confusion caused by the Bolivian Central Bank invalidating a large quantity of unused "B series" banknotes after a military plane crash in February 2026. The advisory also provides detailed examples of how criminals operate, including specific locations and methods for pickpocketing, express kidnapping, and scams involving fake police officers, often targeting Japanese tourists in areas like San Francisco Church and El Alto Airport.
A specific warning is given about the circulation of counterfeit currency and the confusion caused by the Bolivian Central Bank invalidating a large quantity of unused "B series" banknotes after a military plane crash in February 2026. The advisory also provides detailed examples of how criminals operate, including specific locations and methods for pickpocketing, express kidnapping, and scams involving fake police officers, often targeting Japanese tourists in areas like San Francisco Church and El Alto Airport.
Auswärtiges Amt
Updated: 2026-07-09
New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade
Updated: 2026-08-10
New Zealand's advisory recommends "Exercise increased caution" for Bolivia, with an "Avoid non-essential travel" warning for the Chapare Region due to criminal activity like drug trafficking, kidnapping, and extortion. It uniquely mentions that on June 19, President Paz signed an agreement to end the civil unrest that had been ongoing since early May 2026. The advisory also specifically warns against transferring at the Desaguadero border crossing with Peru due to high risk of "express kidnappings."
The advisory provides detailed strategies used by organized criminal groups to distract victims, such as staging a fight or throwing objects. It also offers specific guidance on medication, noting that Bolivia has very strict rules about bringing in prescription medicine and that some common medications can cause problems at the border, even leading to detention. It advises travelers to carry a doctor's letter and keep medicines in original packaging.
The advisory provides detailed strategies used by organized criminal groups to distract victims, such as staging a fight or throwing objects. It also offers specific guidance on medication, noting that Bolivia has very strict rules about bringing in prescription medicine and that some common medications can cause problems at the border, even leading to detention. It advises travelers to carry a doctor's letter and keep medicines in original packaging.
Département fédéral des affaires étrangères (DFAE)
Updated: 2026-08-19
Switzerland's advisory notes a national state of emergency proclaimed on June 20, 2026, in response to intensifying protests and roadblocks, which had interrupted access to La Paz. It uniquely emphasizes that indigenous populations may exercise local justice, which can involve harsher penalties than ordinary justice, with cases of lynching occurring. The advisory also warns that for vehicles with foreign license plates, fuel prices are higher than for locals, and some stations may refuse to sell fuel to foreign cars.
The advisory highlights that the maintenance of aircraft does not conform to international standards, and domestic flights are suspended on national election days. It also specifies that foreign nationals must register online with the Bolivian migration authority within 48 hours of entry, and that Swiss representations in Bolivia transmit all consular affairs to the Regional Consular Centre of the Andes in Lima, Peru, which can lead to up to two weeks wait for provisional passports, during which exit from Bolivia is not possible.
The advisory highlights that the maintenance of aircraft does not conform to international standards, and domestic flights are suspended on national election days. It also specifies that foreign nationals must register online with the Bolivian migration authority within 48 hours of entry, and that Swiss representations in Bolivia transmit all consular affairs to the Regional Consular Centre of the Andes in Lima, Peru, which can lead to up to two weeks wait for provisional passports, during which exit from Bolivia is not possible.
Regjeringen (Norway)
Updated: 2026-06-24
Nederland Wereldwijd (Netherlands)
Updated: 2026-09-07
The Netherlands' advisory issues a "yellow" code for most of Bolivia, with an "orange" code (only necessary travel) for parts of the Chapare province due to illegal coca cultivation and drug trade. It uniquely states that since June 20, 2026, a state of emergency has been declared for 90 days across Bolivia to restore free passage on roads and make basic provisions available, granting police extra powers.
The advisory specifically warns that Bolivian airlines are not always reliable and safe, recommending checking if an airline is an IATA member. It also emphasizes that for land travel, drivers sometimes tell border guards that there are no tourists on board to save time, and travelers should be alert to this to ensure they get entry stamps. The advisory also mentions that if traveling with a non-Bolivian registered vehicle, it must be registered in advance with Bolivian customs online or via the An sivetur app.
The advisory specifically warns that Bolivian airlines are not always reliable and safe, recommending checking if an airline is an IATA member. It also emphasizes that for land travel, drivers sometimes tell border guards that there are no tourists on board to save time, and travelers should be alert to this to ensure they get entry stamps. The advisory also mentions that if traveling with a non-Bolivian registered vehicle, it must be registered in advance with Bolivian customs online or via the An sivetur app.
Viaggiare Sicuri (Italy)
Updated: 2026-08-19
Italy's advisory notes that the political and social situation in Bolivia is constantly evolving, with potential for sudden protests and roadblocks. It uniquely highlights the presence of Tripanosomiasi americana (Chagas disease), dengue (including hemorrhagic variant), and leptospirosis (white leprosy) as endemic diseases, particularly in eastern and Amazonian departments. The advisory also warns of a concerning increase in cases of hemorrhagic fever caused by the Chapare Virus in rural areas of La Paz and Cochabamba, which is difficult to diagnose and has no current antiviral treatment.
The advisory emphasizes that for those with dual Bolivian citizenship, local authorities will require a Bolivian identity document upon entry. It also provides specific guidance on bringing medications, noting the complexity due to local laws (Ley 1008) that classify some common medicines as controlled substances, requiring a doctor's prescription, certificate, purchase invoice, and potential import authorization from UNIMED or declaration at customs.
The advisory emphasizes that for those with dual Bolivian citizenship, local authorities will require a Bolivian identity document upon entry. It also provides specific guidance on bringing medications, noting the complexity due to local laws (Ley 1008) that classify some common medicines as controlled substances, requiring a doctor's prescription, certificate, purchase invoice, and potential import authorization from UNIMED or declaration at customs.
BMEIA (Austria)
Updated: 2026-09-03
Austria's advisory assigns a "Hohes Sicherheitsrisiko" (Security Level 3) to Cochabamba, El Alto, La Paz, and Santa Cruz, and "Sicherheitsrisiko" (Security Level 2) for the rest of the country. It uniquely highlights a sharp increase in Chikungunya infections in the Santa Cruz Department in recent weeks, with several thousand cases reported, and advises increased mosquito protection. The advisory also notes that during Carnival, the frequency of thefts, robberies, and travel fraud significantly increases.
A distinctive warning is given about the airport tax that must be paid at the airport, even for domestic flights, if not already included in the ticket. For minors traveling without both legal guardians, the advisory specifies the need for an apostilled birth certificate and a notarized consent form, a detailed requirement for specific family situations. It also cautions that for the import and export of currencies between USD 50,000 and USD 500,000, prior approval from the Bolivian Central Bank is required.
A distinctive warning is given about the airport tax that must be paid at the airport, even for domestic flights, if not already included in the ticket. For minors traveling without both legal guardians, the advisory specifies the need for an apostilled birth certificate and a notarized consent form, a detailed requirement for specific family situations. It also cautions that for the import and export of currencies between USD 50,000 and USD 500,000, prior approval from the Bolivian Central Bank is required.
0404 (Korea)
Updated: 2026-08-03
Ministry for Foreign Affairs (Finland)
Updated: 2026-08-14
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: 2026-09-08