Protests in Bolivia have been taking place for more than six weeks, causing the UK government to advise against travel to a popular tourist destination in the country.
Clashes between security forces and those protesting against the government of President Rodrigo Paz have occurred in the city of La Paz and surrounding region.
La Paz is popular with tourists due to being home to South America’s largest lake, Lake Titicaca, and the Copacabana resort.
The crisis has led to road blockades across the country, affecting fuel, food and essential goods supplies as transportation continues to be affected.
Here is what to know if you plan to travel to Bolivia.
Is it safe to travel to Bolivia?
The FCDO is advising against all but essential travel to the La Paz Department, including the city of La Paz.
It also advises against all but essential travel to the Chapare region of Cochabamba Department, including Villa Tunari and highway routes 4 and 24 that pass through Chapare.
Other areas of Bolivia popular with tourists, such as the world’s largest salt flat, Salar de Uyuni and the city of Sucre, do not have travel advisories.
What does the UK government say?
The FCDO warns of the ongoing protests and road blockades across La Paz, Cochabamba, Oruro, Potosí and Chuquisaca.
Advice reads that British nationals should avoid large gatherings and protests and not attempt to cross roadblocks.
It adds that people should stay alert and monitor local media, take the advice of local authorities, be wary of unverified, unofficial information and allow extra time to reach a destination.
“The situation has the potential to deteriorate quickly and without warning. Make sure you are ready to change your plans quickly if needed,” the FCDO said.
Any British national who requires urgent consular assistance should contact the FCDO by phone on +44 (0)20 7008 5000, selecting the option: “consular services for British nationals”. If you are in Bolivia and using a phone with a local SIM, please call 2-2010020. For more information, see the FCDO website.
Which roads should I avoid?
Road travellers are advised to check road status updates from the Bolivian road authority (available inside Bolivia only) to see which roads are blocked.
When travelling, do not use the roads on the following routes until further notice:
- between La Paz and Copacabana (Lake Titicaca)
- between La Paz and Desaguadero
- between La Paz and Oruro
- between La Paz and Uyuni via Oruro
- between La Paz and Cochabamba
- between La Paz and Potosi
- between La Paz and Rurrenabaque
If you purchase a bus ticket “condicionado”, this means the bus company may not be able to guarantee arrival to your destination.
Walking on certain roads may be dangerous due to the risk of violence around blockades and the effects of altitude. If you are in safe accommodation along these routes, remain there and follow the advice of the local authorities.
How can I leave La Paz?
If your presence in La Paz is not essential, the FCDO says “consider departing now if you judge you can access travel options safely”.
If you are travelling to the airport by taxi, official Radio Taxis are the most reliable option.
Check for the latest updates from your airline, tour operator and local authorities. Land borders can close at short notice. Routes to El Alto Airport often close at short notice due to protests, so allow plenty of time and check with taxi companies and your accommodation before leaving for the airport.
Ensure your travel documents remain valid and confirm you have any required visas for onward travel.
Can I cancel my package holiday?
Should you decide to cancel a flight ticket, holiday, tour or excursion to areas of Bolivia under the travel advisories, speak to your travel provider.
As the FCDO advises against all but essential travel – urgent family or business commitments – to La Paz and Chapare, you may be able to cancel a package holiday without penalty for a full refund.
Package holidays must follow the Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018, with refunds issued if there has been a “significant change at your destination” before you travel. Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against advice from the FCDO.
Read more: Protesters, police clash in Bolivia after president signs law enabling a harsher crackdown
