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Bolivia
- Bolivia faces moderate travel risks due to notable issues with civil unrest and crime, particularly in urban areas. Protests, strikes, and blockades are common and have the potential to turn violent. Travelers should avoid large gatherings and be prepared for sudden disruptions.
- Most crimes travelers report are non-violent (e.g., petty theft). Violent crime, driven by drug trafficking, is a concern in certain areas such as the Chapare and Yungas regions.
- Natural disasters, including landslides and floods, are common during the rainy season (November to March), while altitude sickness is a concern in high-altitude areas like La Paz and Salar de Uyuni.
- Road safety is poor due to unmaintained roads and unsafe driving practices. Travelers should exercise caution, particularly in rural areas and during the rainy season.
Risk Factors
- Political tensions have been heightened in recent years, which have triggered frequent protests. Protestors are known to erect road blockades during strikes and demonstrations, particularly in urban areas like La Paz and Cochabamba.
- Protest activity can occur with little warning and can become violent. Travelers are advised to bypass the vicinity of demonstrations and monitor local developments for updates.
- Foreign nationals are advised to avoid participating in protests or large public gatherings. The security forces have previously used tear gas and force to control crowds, which poses incidental risks to bystanders.
- The majority of reported crimes in Bolivia involve non-violent petty theft such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, particularly in tourist areas like La Paz, Uyuni, and on public transportation. Keep valuables secure and be vigilant, especially on buses and in crowded places.
- Though violent crime targeting tourists is rare, the risks of violent crime in Bolivia are highest in Santa Cruz and El Alto, where incidents of armed robbery and assaults are more common compared to other regions. Avoid traveling alone at night, especially in less developed districts, and use reputable transportation.
- Express kidnappings, though rare, have been reported in Santa Cruz. The crime involves short-term abductions, often facilitated by unlicensed taxis, where victims are coerced to withdraw money or pay a quick ransom before release. Use ATMs in secure locations such as inside banks or restaurants and do not hail taxis off the street at night.
- Drink spiking has been reported in tourist areas; travelers are advised to not leave their food or drinks unattended.
- Landslides and flooding are common during the rainy season (November to March), especially in mountainous regions. These events can disrupt transportation, making roads impassable for days.
- Forest fires, particularly in southern and eastern Bolivia, impact air quality in affected regions, including La Paz. During these events, it's advisable to wear masks and stay indoors.
- Road conditions in Bolivia are often poor, with unpaved roads and inadequate infrastructure. Landslides during the rainy season pose significant risks, and roads may be closed for long periods. Due to challenging road conditions and high altitudes, consider hiring a driver who knows the local environment if you plan overland travel outside major cities.
- Public transportation is available but is often unreliable and unsafe. Accidents involving long-distance buses are common, especially at night. It’s advisable to use reputable tour operators and avoid traveling after dark.
- Always use registered radio taxis (identified by company logos and numbers) and avoid hailing taxis on the street, especially at night. Hotel-arranged transportation or ride-hailing apps such as Uber and EasyTaxi also offer enhanced security.
- Located between Cochabamba and Santa Cruz, the Chapare region is known for coca cultivation and has a history of drug-related violence, increasing safety and security concerns for travelers. This area should be avoided.
- The Yungas region of Bolivia, known for the "Death Road" or North Yungas Road, is considered unsafe due to a combination of challenging road conditions, landslide-prone areas, and criminal activity.