Verified Facts
To get around in Bolivia, you can use a combination of domestic flights, buses, taxis, and rental cars, as well as navigate the country's limited but improving transportation infrastructure.
Quick Facts
Getting There
Bolivia has three main international airports: El Alto International Airport (LPB) in La Paz, Viru Viru International Airport (VVI) in Santa Cruz, and Jorge Wilstermann International Airport (SUZ) in Sucre. The country is connected to major hubs in South America, North America, and Europe through direct flights with airlines such as American Airlines, LATAM, and Avianca. You can also enter Bolivia overland from neighboring countries, including Brazil, Paraguay, Argentina, Chile, and Peru, with several border crossings along the way. The most popular overland entry points include the border towns of Villazón, Yacuiba, and Corumbá.
The main international airports in Bolivia are well-connected to major cities in the region, with frequent flights to destinations such as Lima, Peru, Santiago, Chile, and Buenos Aires, Argentina. Additionally, there are several land border crossings that allow for easy travel between Bolivia and its neighboring countries. Some of the most popular border crossings include the Tambo Quemado border crossing with Chile, the Yacuiba border crossing with Argentina, and the Corumbá border crossing with Brazil.
Domestic Flights
Bolivia has a moderate domestic air network, with several airlines operating flights between major cities. The main domestic airlines include Boliviana de Aviación (BOA), Amaszonas, and Ecojet. These airlines operate flights to destinations such as La Paz, Sucre, Santa Cruz, and Cochabamba, with frequent departures throughout the day. To book domestic flights, you can visit the airlines' websites or use online travel agencies such as Expedia or Skyscanner. Approximate costs for domestic flights range from $50 to $200, depending on the route and airline.
Trains & Rail
Bolivia has a limited rail network, with only a few train lines operating in the country. The most popular train route is the Expreso del Sur, which runs from Oruro to Uyuni and offers stunning views of the Altiplano. The train journey takes around 7 hours and costs approximately $20-$50. There are no high-speed train options in Bolivia, and the rail network is not well-developed. To book train tickets, you can visit the train station or use online ticketing platforms such as the Expreso del Sur website.
Buses & Coaches
Bolivia has an extensive network of intercity buses, with several companies operating routes between major cities. Some of the most popular bus companies include Ormeño, Trans Copacabana, and Flota Copacabana. The buses are generally in good condition, with comfortable seating and air conditioning. The costs for bus travel range from $10 to $50, depending on the route and company. You can book bus tickets at the bus station or through online ticketing platforms such as the bus company's website.
City Transport
| Mode | Available In | Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| City Bus | La Paz, Sucre, Santa Cruz | $0.25-$1 | Frequent departures, affordable prices |
| Taxi | Everywhere | $2-$5 | Metered taxis, available at taxi stands |
| Ride-Hailing | La Paz, Sucre, Santa Cruz | $3-$6 | Local alternatives such as Uber-like apps |
| Tuk-tuk/Rickshaw | Some cities | $1-$3 | Affordable, but not always available |
Driving
- To drive in Bolivia, you need a valid driver's license from your home country, as well as a vehicle registration document if you plan to rent a car.
- The road quality in Bolivia is generally poor, with many unpaved roads and limited infrastructure.
- Fuel costs in Bolivia are relatively low, with gasoline prices ranging from $0.50 to $1 per liter.
- Car rental companies such as Hertz and Avis operate in Bolivia, but it's recommended to book in advance to ensure availability.
- Hazards on the road include aggressive drivers, potholes, and limited road signs, so it's essential to drive defensively and exercise caution.
- Additionally, it's recommended to avoid driving at night, as the roads can be poorly lit and there may be livestock or other obstacles on the road.
Transport Tips
- Be aware of scams at bus stations and airports, where touts may try to sell you fake tickets or overpriced services.
- Always agree on a price before taking a taxi or ride-hailing service, and make sure the driver uses a meter.
- Download local apps such as Uber-like services or transportation apps to help you navigate the city.
- Payment methods in Bolivia include cash, credit cards, and debit cards, but it's recommended to have some local currency (BOB) for small transactions.
- Safety is a concern in Bolivia, especially at night, so it's recommended to avoid traveling alone and to use reputable transportation services.
- Altitude sickness can be a problem in high-altitude cities such as La Paz, so it's essential to drink plenty of water and take breaks to acclimate.
- Traffic laws in Bolivia are not always strictly enforced, but it's still important to follow basic traffic rules and regulations to avoid accidents.