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South America

Bolivia

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.

Bolivia is currently ranked #29 safest country for solo female travellers. Check the full ranking.

4.6 /5

Based on 7 experiences

2.5 /5

Based on research and crime data

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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4.6 /5

based on 7 experiences

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