Last updated: February 2026
In This Article
Getting Around Overview Public Transportation Taxi & Ride-Hailing Fuel & Driving Costs Intercity & Long-Distance Transport Tips
Verified Facts
Official Name Plurinational State of Bolivia
Capital Sucre
Population 11.4 million
Area 1,098,581 km² (424164 sq mi)
Languages Aymara, GuaranĂ, Quechua, Spanish
Currency Bolivian boliviano (Bs.)
Timezone UTC-04:00
Region Americas / South America
Drives on Right
Source: REST Countries API
Economic Indicators
GDP per Capita (PPP) $12,878 (2024)
Inflation Rate 5.1% (2024)
Health Spend per Capita $255 (2023)
Out-of-Pocket Health Spend 27.3% (2023)
Education Spend (% GDP) 8.3% (2023)
Source: World Bank Open Data
The cost of transportation in Bolivia varies depending on the mode of transport, with a monthly transit pass costing around $20-$30 USD and taxi start rates ranging from $1-$2 USD.
Quick Facts
Monthly Transit Pass ($25 USD)
Taxi Start Rate ($1.50 USD)
Fuel (per liter) ($0.70 USD)
Ride-Hailing Available (Yes — Uber, Cabify)
Currency BOB
Getting Around Overview
Bolivia has a range of transportation options, including public buses, minibuses, taxis, and ride-hailing services. The quality of public transit varies between cities, with larger cities like La Paz and Santa Cruz having more comprehensive and efficient systems. In rural areas, transportation options are limited, and many people rely on colectivos (shared taxis) or trufis (minibuses) to get around. Most people in Bolivia get around using public transportation, which is relatively affordable, with a single fare on a city bus costing around $0.20-$0.30 USD.
The country's geography, with its rugged terrain and high altitudes, can make transportation challenging, especially in rural areas. However, the government has invested in improving the road network, and many cities have modernized their public transportation systems. In La Paz, for example, the Teleférico (cable car) system provides a convenient and scenic way to get around the city, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Public Transportation
Transport Type Single Fare (USD) Monthly Pass (USD) Notes
City Bus $0.25 $20 Good coverage in larger cities Metro / Subway N/A N/A Not available in most cities Minibus / Shared Taxi $0.50 N/A Limited routes, but convenient for short trips Commuter Train $1-$2 $30 Limited availability, mostly in La Paz and Santa Cruz
Taxi & Ride-Hailing
Service Base Fare (USD) Per km (USD) Typical City Ride (USD) Notes
Metered Taxi $1.50 $0.50 $3-$5 Available in most cities Ride-Hailing App $2 $0.50 $4-$6 Uber and Cabify available in larger cities Airport Transfer N/A N/A $10-$20 To city center, depending on traffic
Fuel & Driving Costs
Item Cost (USD) Notes
Gasoline (per liter) $0.70 Diesel (per liter) $0.60 Car Rental (per day) $40-$60 Economy car, depending on the rental agency Parking (per hour, city) $1-$2 Limited parking options in larger cities Toll Roads (typical) $2-$5 Limited toll roads, mostly on highways
Intercity & Long-Distance
Route Type Cost Range (USD) Notes
Intercity Bus (4-5 hrs) $10-$20 Depending on the route and bus company Domestic Flight $50-$100 Typical route, e.g., La Paz to Santa Cruz Train (long-distance) $20-$50 Limited availability, mostly on tourist routes
Transport Tips
To save money on transportation, consider using public buses or colectivos for shorter trips.
Use ride-hailing apps like Uber or Cabify for convenient and affordable rides in larger cities.
Always negotiate the fare before getting into a taxi, especially if you're not using a metered taxi.
Be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded buses or markets.
Consider purchasing a tarjeta de transporte (transport card) for convenient and discounted travel on public buses.
Download the Moovit app for helpful route planning and real-time information on public transportation in Bolivia.