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 /5

Based on 19 experiences from female travelers

2.5 /5

Based on our research and crime data

2.7 /5

Based on 7 experiences from local women

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How safe is Bolivia?

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.

Is Bolivia worth visiting?

Overall rating

4.4 /5

based on 19 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

4.4/5

Safety

4/5

Food

4/5

Budget-friendly

4.1/5

Lizeth

Spain

Bolivia, Solo travel

I spent a month in Bolivia doing volunteer work in Coroico, and after that, I took some time to explore the country. Visiting the Salar de Uyuni and Sucre, it was definitely a highlight it was absolutely stunning. At first, I was a it nervous, but people turned out to be super kind, and I made some really good friends along the way. The food wasn’t bad at all, and everything was quite affordable. Overall, it was an amazing experience!

Posted: April 13, 2025

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Constance

France

Bolivia, Solo travel

I spent one month and a half there and those were one of the best moments of my life. I felt very very safe, the people were so kind and helping, everything was cheap and I saw some of the most beautiful landscapes ever!

Posted: March 20, 2025

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Lou

France

Bolivia, Family travel

I was travelling with my family, I was 11 and it was a country where m'y father grew up, so I was in a pretty safe surrounding. I'll highly recommend to taste salteñas, or at least empañadas. Also, eating granadillas on a market place is essential! If you can, go see the lake Titicaca, it's an amazing view, and the best is to stay a night on one of the lake's islands like la Isla del sol.

Posted: January 3, 2025

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@Virguit

Peru

Santa Cruz, Solo travel

I stayed in a backpacker, airbnb near downtown, city it has not much attractions. The botanic garden was quite good and the main attraction is without doubt EL FUERTE pre Inca construction related to Tiahuanaco. Santa Cruz is completely different from the rest of Bolivia, it is a coast style city in the mountain.

Posted: September 23, 2024Experienced: March, 2024

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Bolivia, Solo travel

Definitely visit salar de uyuni the salt flats. It looks like you are in Mars. I stayed there 3 and half months and also worked to there. It's easy place to live low cost cos you cand work and get free accommodation or even some food.

Posted: July 16, 2024Experienced: November, 2014

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Bolivia, Solo travel

Bolivia is probably the cheapest country in Latin America! The locals are super welcoming and polite, and because tourist infrastructure is still developing, prices are low and it can get a bit messy to get from one place to another. Still, the country is beautiful, from salt flats, to the rainforest jungle, to crazy colonial cities. In terms of safety it felt super okay, just had to be a bit careful after dark, but not worse than any other surrounding country!

Posted: June 16, 2024Experienced: March, 2024

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Is Bolivia safe for women?

Safety index

2.7 /5

Based on 7 local experiences

Crime index

2 /5

Based on 7 local experiences

Jocelyn

Santa Cruz

It’s safe if you know how to “behave” like not showing that you have that much, not using your cellphone in public and being kind of alert of your surroundings. Also if you are with a local it would be easier cause you would know which streets or regions not to go, or to visit until what time.

Posted: May 26, 2025

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Bolivia

It al depends on which areas you are and where you walk. There are red areas, but since Bolivia is a poor country, there are a lot of people in need. You should watch out in crowded places and dark or lonely ones.

Posted: April 25, 2025

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