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Bolivia FAQ

Is tipping customary in Bolivia?

While tipping isn't mandatory in Bolivia, it's customary to add spare change or a small amount to restaurant bills. Although most restaurants and bars may already include a 10% service charge within the bill, feel free to add more if the service was good. Taxi drivers generally don't expect tips.

What is the internet access like in Bolivia?

Internet cafes can be found in Bolivia's large cities and towns frequented by tourists. Internet availability is less widespread in rural and remote areas, so be prepared to disconnect for a while when travelling out of the city.

Can I use my mobile/cell phone while in Bolivia?

You should be able to use your mobile phone in Bolivia's cities, but prepare for less coverage in remote or mountainous areas. Ensure you have global roaming enabled before leaving your home country.

What are the toilets like in Bolivia?

Bolivia has a mix of flushable toilets and squat toilets so expect both. It's a good idea to carry your own toilet paper and hand sanitiser, as these aren't always provided.

What will it cost for a…?

City bus fare = 1.50 BOB
Cup of coffee in a cafe = 10 BOB
Bottle or can of beer = 10 BOB
Simple lunch = 20-25 BOB
Dinner in a restaurant = 80 BOB

Can I drink the water in Bolivia?

Drinking tap water isn't recommended in Bolivia. For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Instead, fill a reusable water bottle or canteen with filtered water - ask your leader where filtered water can be found. It's also advisable to avoid ice in drinks and peel fruit and vegetables before eating.

Are credit cards accepted widely in Bolivia?

Credit cards can be used at most top-end hotels, restaurants, shops and other tourist establishments. Expect to pay cash when dealing with smaller vendors, family-run restaurants and market stalls.

What is ATM access like in Bolivia?

ATMs can be found in most of Bolivia's major cities and tourist areas. ATMs are far less common in rural areas and small villages so have enough cash to cover purchases when travelling away from the larger cities.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before travelling in Bolivia?

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

What public holidays are celebrated in Bolivia?

Jan 1 New Year's Day
Feb 11 Carnival
Mar 29 Good Friday
May 1 Labour Day
May 30 Corpus Christi
Aug 6 Independence Day
Nov 1 All Saints' Day
Dec 25 Christmas Day

Please note these dates are for 2013. For a current list of public holidays go to: http://www.worldtravelguide.net/bolivia/public-holidays

Do I need a visa to travel to Bolivia?

Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveller. The visa requirements for your trip vary depending on where you are from and where you are going. As a general rule most countries expect that you will have at least 6 months' validity on your passport. On arrival visitors may be asked to present return tickets and evidence of means to cover your intended stay.

We keep the following information up to date as much as possible, but rules do change - it's important that you check for yourself. Residents from other countries must consult the relevant embassies or your travel agent.

  • BOLIVIA TOURIST VISA
    Australia: Not required
    Belgium: Not required
    Canada: Not required
    Germany: Not required
    Ireland: Not required
    Netherlands: Not required
    New Zealand: Not required
    South Africa: Not required
    Switzerland: Not required
    United Kingdom: Not required
    United States: Yes - in advance

    Please note: if you are required to apply for a visa to enter Bolivia, you will need the following to support it:
    - a copy of the Intrepid voucher that you receive after purchasing your trip
    - a copy of the Itinerary which you can obtain from the Trip Notes for your specific trip on our website.
  • BOLIVIEN TOURISTENVISUM:
    Australien: Nicht erforderlich
    Belgien: Nicht erforderlich
    Kanada: Nicht erforderlich
    Deutschland: Nicht erforderlich
    Irland: Nicht erforderlich
    Niederlande: Nicht erforderlich
    Neuseeland: Nicht erforderlich
    Südafrika: Nicht erforderlich
    Schweiz: Nicht erforderlich
    Großbritannien: Nicht erforderlich
    USA: Nicht erforderlich

    BEACHTEN: Sollten Sie ein Visum für Bolivien beantragen müssen, werden folgende Unterlagen benötigt:
    - eine Kopie des Intrepid Buchungsbeleges, den Sie nach Kauf der Reise erhalten
    - eine Kopie des Reiseverlaufes, den Sie auf unserer Website in den Trip Notes der jeweiligen Reise erhalten.

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Bolivia at a glance

  • 45
  • Sucre (constitutional, population 225,000); La Paz (administrative, population 880,000)
  • 9.9 million
  • Quechua, Spanish, Aymara
  • BOB
  • (GMT-04:00) La Paz
  • Type A (North American/Japanese 2-pin), Type C (European 2-pin)
  • +591

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