Quick facts
Budget breakdown
| Category | Budget | Midrange |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $5–10 | $15–35 |
| Food | $5–10 | $10–25 |
| Transport | $1–5 | $5–15 |
| Activities | $5–15 | $20–60 |
| Entry Fees | $1–5 | $5–10 |
| Daily Total | $20–45 | $55–145 |
Daily per-person estimates. Costs vary by season and travel style.
Practical info
Entry & Visas
- Some nationalities need a visa for Bolivia — US citizens pay $160 at the border or airport. Check requirements well in advance
- Bring passport photos and cash in USD for visa on arrival. The process can take 30-60 minutes at busy borders
- Keep passport copies and travel insurance accessible — police occasionally check documents
Health & Safety
- Altitude at 3,640m (El Alto 4,100m) is severe — acclimatise for 24-48 hours before Death Road or Chacaltaya
- Coca tea and leaves help with altitude. Tap water is not safe — drink bottled or filtered water only
- Travel insurance with altitude and evacuation coverage is essential. Medical facilities are basic outside private clinics
Getting Around
- Mi Teleférico cable cars (3 BOB/ride) are the best way to cross the city. Micro buses cost 2 BOB for any route
- Taxis do not use meters — agree the price before getting in. Cross-city trips cost 10-20 bolivianos
- The main bus terminal connects La Paz to all major Bolivian cities. Book Cruz del Sur or Todo Turismo for comfort
Connectivity
- Buy an Entel or Tigo SIM card for 10-20 bolivianos with data. Coverage is good in La Paz but patchy outside cities
- WiFi is available in most hostels and cafes but speeds are slow compared to neighbouring countries
- Download offline maps before day trips — coverage on the Altiplano and Death Road is minimal
Money
- Currency: BOB (Boliviano). ATMs in the centre; Visa most widely accepted. Cash is essential for markets and transport
- Carry small bills — vendors rarely have change for 100 or 200 boliviano notes
- Tipping: 5-10% at restaurants. Tour guides and drivers appreciate tips of 20-30 bolivianos per day
Packing Tips
- Warm layers are essential — temperatures swing from 20°C at noon to below freezing at night
- A down jacket for Chacaltaya and evening walks, rain jacket for wet season (November-March)
- Comfortable walking shoes with grip for steep cobblestone streets, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle
Cultural tips
Respect Aymara Culture
Bolivia has the largest indigenous population in South America proportionally. Aymara traditions — from the Witches' Market to cholita dress — are living cultural practices, not performances for tourists. Approach with genuine respect and curiosity. Ask before photographing and show interest in the meaning behind what you see.
Environmental Awareness
Bolivia faces serious environmental challenges from mining, deforestation, and climate change (Chacaltaya's melted glacier is a visible example). Minimise your impact — carry out all rubbish, use reusable bottles, and support eco-conscious operators. The Altiplano ecosystem is fragile and recovery is slow at high altitude.
Photography Etiquette
Always ask permission before photographing cholitas, market vendors, and indigenous people. Many are happy to pose; some are not. At cholita wrestling and festivals, photography is generally welcome but respect any restrictions. Never photograph people without their knowledge or consent.
Language
Spanish is essential in La Paz — English is very limited even in tourist areas. Learn basic Spanish greetings, numbers, and food words. Aymara is the first language for many Paceños — "Kamisaraki" (hello) and "Waliki" (thank you) in Aymara will earn warm smiles.
Support Local Economy
Bolivia is one of the poorest countries in South America. Your tourism spending has real impact when directed to locally-owned businesses. Eat at markets, buy from artisans, and choose local tour operators. Avoid international chains that extract profits from the country.
Bolivian Time
Bolivia operates on "hora boliviana" — a flexible approach to punctuality. Buses may leave late, restaurants may open late, and scheduled events may start late. Bring patience and a book. The teleférico, however, runs like clockwork.
