Bolivia - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

There was no change to the advisory level or risk indicators. Advisory summary was updated.

Exercise increased caution in Bolivia due to crime and civil unrest. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Do Not Travel to Chapare Province due to crime.

Advisory Summary

• U.S. government employees working in Bolivia need special authorization to travel to Chapare Province due to a higher incidence of crimes associated with narcotrafficking.
• Petty crime is common, especially in popular tourist spots. Stay aware of your surroundings.
• U.S. government employees working in Bolivia are encouraged to pay extra attention to their surroundings in El Alto because of petty crime.
• Large demonstrations about local politics and the economic situation can happen with little warning. Demonstrations may block transportation and other essential services.
• Medical services for routine and emergency procedures are limited in rural areas. Review the Health section of the Travel Guidance for more information.
• Consider the risk of traveling to high altitude locations in Bolivia.

Level: 4 – Do not travel

Chapare Province
Do not travel to Chapare Province due to crime.

• Do not travel to Chapare Province for any reason.
• Significant amounts of coca are produced illegally in Chapare province.  Local police presence is limited and there is a higher prevalence of violent crime associated with narcotrafficking.
• U.S. government employees working in Bolivia need special authorization to travel to Chapare Province.
• The U.S. government has limited ability to offer emergency services to U.S. citizens in Chapare Province.
• Review our information on Travel to High-Risk Areas.

If you decide to travel to Bolivia:

• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy or consulate.  Enrolling helps the U.S. embassy or consulate contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency.
• Review the Country Security Report.
• Review our information on Crime Abroad and for Victims of Crime.
• We highly recommend that you buy travel insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancelation coverage.
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
• Stay aware of your surroundings.
• Stay alert in tourist spots.
• Carry a copy of your passport and visa (if applicable).  Leave originals in your hotel safe.
• Have a plan to leave in an emergency that does not depend on U.S. government help. Review our information on Crisis and Evacuations.
• Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
• Check local media for breaking news.  Be prepared to adjust your plans.
• Refer to our list of medical providers.
• Review the CDC’s page on Travel to High Altitudes.
• Make sure your insurance includes medical evacuation coverage.
• Check with your doctor about required vaccines and shots for high-risk exposure before you go to Bolivia.  Review the Health section in the Travel Guidance for Bolivia.
• Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for Bolivia.
• Whether you’re a first time or frequent traveler, use the International Travel Checklist.