Is Bolivia Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Bolivia can be generally safe for solo female travelers, but exercising certain precautions is crucial. Be cautious about petty thefts and pickpocketing commonly occur in crowded places. Solo female travelers may receive unwanted attention, but this can be avoided by dressing modestly and acting confidently. It's recommended to avoid isolated places, especially at night and always inform someone trustworthy about your whereabouts. Using official taxis instead of mini-buses can help ensure safety in terms of transportation. Although instances of political unrest may occur, these are usually confined to certain areas and can be avoided by staying updated with local news.

Safety rating

4.6 /5

Based on 7 experiences

2.5 /5

Based on research and crime data

Safety overview

Safety at night:Unsafe

Walking alone at night in Bolivia can be risky as petty crimes and muggings are reported, especially in major cities like La Paz and Santa Cruz. It is always advised to use a reputable taxi company if you're traveling at night rather than walking. And, when possible, stay in well-lit areas and avoid less crowded places for personal safety reasons.

Public transportation: Moderate

Public transportation in Bolivia is quite an experience. It is mostly reliable, but can be chaotic and unpredictable in big cities. Buses, trams, and taxis can be crowded, especially during rush hour. While rare, there have been instances of crime in public transportation, usually petty theft. It's not uncommon to encounter issues with road safety and driving standards. As a female traveler, it is advised to keep your belongings secure and try to travel during daylight hours when possible. However, for the most part, locals are friendly and will go out of their way to help if you are showing signs of discomfort or confusion.

Street harassment: Moderate

In Bolivia, street harassment is present but not excessively prevalent. Travelling as a woman alone can attract unwanted attention and catcalling in various cities especially in major tourists spots and city centers. Although some female travellers have reported incidents, many have not experienced this at all. It is encouraged to take precautions such as avoiding isolated areas particularly at night and dressing modestly.

Petty crimes:Moderate

In Bolivia, occurrences of petty crimes like theft and pickpocketing are quite common, especially in crowded places and tourist-heavy areas. There is a tendency for distraction scams to be run by small crews focusing on unsuspecting travelers. Personal belongings need to be monitored closely at all times and it would be wise not to display valuable possessions conspicuously. It's important to take safety measures such as staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

Tap water:Unsafe

Tap water in Bolivia is commonly considered not safe to drink, especially for foreigners or travelers who are not accustomed to the environment as it might cause gastrointestinal issues. Always opt for bottled water or bring a reliable water purification system to mitigate risks.

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Travel experiences

Overall rating

4.6 /5

based on 7 experiences

Rating summary

Things to do

4.6/5

Safety

4.6/5

Food

4.6/5

Budget-friendly

4.6/5

Solo travel experience

I was solo traveling in Bolivia for 20 days. I started my trip in Sucre, went to Uyuni, and then La Paz. I was worried before, but now I can say that I felt really safe. I used local buses, and taxis, and explored so much. My only recommendation in Bolivia is to be aware of scams. One guy sold me a bus ticket to another city for double the price.

Posted: October 24, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5
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Solo travel experience

Felt pretty safe as a female solo traveler but of course with some general awareness. Bolivia is such a beautiful country with lovely people and I totally recommend going. I flew into La Paz and it was a bad idea, as I got altitude sickness. I would recommend flying into a lower city as it's truly hard to know if you are susceptible or not.

Posted: October 11, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5
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Group travel experience

I had no issues at all in Bolivia, although did do a tour for half of it. It's actually one of my favorite countries in the world, so underrated and the people are lovely. Also a lot better for vegetarians compared to Brazil and Peru.

Posted: October 11, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5
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Solo travel experience

I was in Bolivia, and I really liked this country because of its diversity. It has mountains with glaciers, lakes full of flamingos, endless salt flats, jungle, and pampas. As for safety, I was alone, didn't speak Spanish, and I felt safe.

Posted: September 3, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5
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Solo travel experience

Bolivia is an underrated and hidden gem. Incredible urban landscapes (the cable cars of La Paz), Amazon jungle, desert, salt flats, a tranquil island in Lake Titicaca. I felt totally safe the whole time and it was pretty inexpensive. I don't speak much Spanish but I was glad for the little I have. To get around, I used domestic flights, long and short-haul busses, taxis, and cable cars. Spend 2 weeks and can't recommend it enough.

Posted: August 16, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5
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Solo travel experience

I visited La Paz, Lake Titicaca, Cochabamba, and Oruro for Carnaval. Overall it was fun and cheap. Lots of history and culture especially being that I visited during Carnaval. The only drawback was the altitude sickness. I had massive headaches, terrible shortness of breath, and vomiting for about 5-7 days. The altitude was about 12,000 feet for most of my trip.

Posted: July 24, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5
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Solo travel experience

I was in Bolivia last summer. I loved the unique charm of La Paz. And the Salt Flats tour was my highlight. I hope to return soon and see more of Bolivia.

Posted: April 30, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5
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Local experiences

I’d say Bolivia is quite safe. You definitely need to be street-smart, as you’d have to be in most places. The altitude might be the bigger problem so it's better to start somewhere at a lower altitude and gradually make your way up there. Also, be careful with the water, it's best to avoid drinking it entirely while visiting Bolivia.

Posted: October 13, 2023
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Meet locals in Bolivia

Maria

Maria

Speaking

About Me

I’m a traveler, teacher and curious girl. I am very interested in knowing the world, different perspectives and culture.

Countries I’ve Visited

🇧🇩 Bangladesh, 🇧🇴 Bolivia, 🇧🇷 Brazil, 🇨🇱 Chile, 🇨🇴 Colombia, 🇩🇴 Dominican Republic, 🇪🇹 Ethiopia, 🇫🇷 France, 🇩🇪 Germany, 🇬🇷 Greece, 🇮🇹 Italy, 🇯🇵 Japan, 🇵🇭 Philippines, 🇵🇪 Peru, 🇪🇸 Spain, 🇨🇭 Switzerland, 🇹🇭 Thailand, 🇺🇸 United States

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Marina

Marina

Speaking

About Me

Hi, I‘m a 24 year old student from Switzerland currently solo-traveling in Bolivia. I‘d love to meet other travelers to explore La Paz with and maybe go hiking in the beautiful Andes :)

Countries I’ve Visited

🇦🇹 Austria, 🇧🇪 Belgium, 🇧🇴 Bolivia, 🇧🇼 Botswana, 🇨🇱 Chile, 🇭🇷 Croatia, 🇫🇷 France, 🇩🇪 Germany, 🇮🇸 Iceland, 🇮🇹 Italy, 🇲🇹 Malta, 🇳🇦 Namibia, 🇳🇴 Norway, 🇵🇹 Portugal, 🇿🇦 South Africa, 🇪🇸 Spain, 🇨🇭 Switzerland, 🇸🇿 Swaziland, 🇺🇸 United States, 🇿🇲 Zambia, 🇬🇧 United Kingdom, 🇮🇪 Ireland, 🇮🇳 India, 🇪🇬 Egypt, 🇦🇺 Australia, 🇦🇷 Argentina

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Kiara

Kiara

Speaking

About Me

Hello🦋 I am Kiara, nice to meet you! I am a 24 year old solo multidisciplinary female traveler from Bolivia 🇧🇴 (LATAM). Looking for travel buddies/ hosts to feel safer and enrich our trip experience from spending time together and having great conversations ✨ I speak Spanish native and English fluent! 💬 I am a very easygoing, attentive to my surroundings and curious when traveling. In general terms I am respectful, honest, clean and funny. I am open to experience the world with other female travelers and share life time memories 🌸 📸 I love taking pictures! So don’t doubt that you will always have that “camera friend” who will be delighted to take pictures from your trip 😊

Countries I’ve Visited

🇺🇸 United States, 🇨🇱 Chile, 🇵🇪 Peru, 🇹🇹 Trinidad and Tobago

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Stay with locals in Bolivia

Stephany

Stephany

Speaking

You can stay for:

1 day

About me

Hi, My name is Stephany and I'm interested in dancing, food & cuisine, nightlife, solo travel, languages, events & social, fashion, shopping and photography

Countries I’ve Visited

🇦🇷 Argentina, 🇧🇴 Bolivia, 🇧🇷 Brazil, 🇨🇦 Canada, 🇩🇴 Dominican Republic, 🇲🇽 Mexico, 🇨🇭 Switzerland, 🇦🇪 United Arab Emirates, 🇺🇸 United States, 🇺🇾 Uruguay, 🇫🇷 France, 🇬🇷 Greece, 🇮🇹 Italy, 🇪🇸 Spain, 🇹🇷 Turkey, 🇻🇦 Vatican City

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marcy

marcy

Speaking

You can stay for:

7 days

About me

Hi, I'm marcy and I'm interested in animals, camping, culture, dancing, languages and trekking

Countries I’ve Visited

🇧🇴 Bolivia

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Yarmila

Yarmila

Speaking

You can stay for:

3 days

About me

Hey!, I'm Yarmila and I'm interested in backpacking, camping, hiking, photography, writing, cycling, books, art, food & cuisine, nature, science and solo travel

Countries I’ve Visited

🇦🇷 Argentina, 🇧🇴 Bolivia, 🇨🇱 Chile, 🇲🇽 Mexico, 🇺🇸 United States, 🇵🇪 Peru

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Upcoming visitors to Bolivia

Elli

Elli

Speaking

About Me

Hi! I'm Elli, I was born in Italy but I've been studying and working in the Netherlands for the last few years. I decided to quit my job to explore places around the world for some months. I want to connect with local people and cultures and do some volunteering, especially in farms and nature :) I am quite an adventurous and expressive person, I love to laugh, dance and have interesting conversations with people. As a solo traveller, I think it's great we have a community where you can feel safe as a woman, share experiences and get in touch with like-minded ladies, so looking forward to meeting you 😊

Countries I’ve Visited

🇨🇺 Cuba, 🇨🇿 Czech Republic, 🇩🇰 Denmark, 🇫🇷 France, 🇩🇪 Germany, 🇬🇷 Greece, 🇮🇩 Indonesia, 🇮🇪 Ireland, 🇮🇹 Italy, 🇯🇵 Japan, 🇲🇾 Malaysia, 🇲🇨 Monaco, 🇳🇱 Netherlands, 🇵🇹 Portugal, 🇵🇱 Poland, 🇸🇲 San Marino, 🇸🇬 Singapore, 🇪🇸 Spain, 🇨🇭 Switzerland, 🇸🇪 Sweden, 🇬🇧 United Kingdom, 🇺🇸 United States, 🇻🇦 Vatican City, 🇭🇷 Croatia, 🇲🇪 Montenegro

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Inara

Inara

Speaking

About Me

Hi, I'm Inara and I'm interested in animals, books, art, culture, cinema, cycling, nature, running, photography, skiing, van life, trekking, live music, dancing and writing

Countries I’ve Visited

🇦🇩 Andorra, 🇧🇪 Belgium, 🇨🇱 Chile, 🇫🇷 France, 🇩🇪 Germany, 🇬🇪 Georgia, 🇮🇳 India, 🇮🇩 Indonesia, 🇮🇪 Ireland, 🇮🇹 Italy, 🇱🇦 Laos, 🇪🇸 Spain, 🇹🇭 Thailand, 🇰🇭 Cambodia, 🇦🇪 United Arab Emirates

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Silvia

Silvia

Speaking

About Me

Since I started working I’ve been travelling around. I’m open minded, down to earth and always ready for some fun. I like change and I like to keep on moving. The next big step is South America in the late 2023, I’m looking for a travel buddy!

Countries I’ve Visited

🇦🇺 Australia, 🇦🇹 Austria, 🇪🇬 Egypt, 🇫🇷 France, 🇩🇪 Germany, 🇭🇺 Hungary, 🇲🇻 Maldives, 🇲🇦 Morocco, 🇺🇸 United States, 🇬🇧 United Kingdom

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Local discussions

Solo travelWhat suggestions do you have for an 8-10 day itinerary in Bolivia?

Hi, I’m going to Bolivia for 8-10 days. Any suggestions for an itinerary? Want to see La Paz and the salt flats but open to suggestions. thanks

Posted: October 10, 2022
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Safety in Bolivia