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.
State of Emergency
A State of Emergency has been declared in Bolivia, giving police and armed forces powers to remove roadblocks, disrupt protests and detain those not complying with the new measures for up to 8 hours without charge. This could lead to violence. Follow the advice of local authorities, be wary of unverified or unofficial information, stay alert and keep away from protests and roadblocks.
Protests and roadblocks
Do not try to cross roadblocks. The situation has the potential to deteriorate without warning. Allow extra time to reach your destination and make sure you are ready to change your plans quickly if needed.
Any British national 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 2-2010020.
Travel by Road
Check road status updates from the Bolivian road authority (available inside Bolivia only) to see which roads are blocked.
If you purchase a bus ticket ‘condicionado’ it means the bus company may not be able to guarantee arrival to your destination.
Leaving Bolivia
Ensure your travel documents remain valid and confirm you have any required visas for onward travel.
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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