Guyana Health & Safety
Essential health preparations, safety guidelines, and emergency information for safe and healthy travel.
Boliva Health & Safety Information
Essential health preparations and safety guidelines for traveling to one of South America's highest and most remote destinations. Proper preparation is key to a safe and enjoyable adventure in Bolivia.
Pre-Travel Health Preparations
Bolivia's high altitude and remote locations require specific health preparations. Consult with a travel health professional 6-8 weeks before departure to ensure you're properly prepared for this unique destination.
Required & Recommended Vaccinations
Yellow fever vaccination is required if arriving from a country with yellow fever risk and recommended for travelers over 9 months going to areas below 2,300m (7,550 ft) elevation
Malaria Prevention Medication
Malaria is widespread in Bolivia in regions below 2,500 feet elevation. Antimalarials are recommended for all travelers to affected areas
- Atovaquone, doxycycline, mefloquine and tafenoquine are often prescribed
- Malaria parasites are resistant to chloroquine in Bolivia
- Risk is highest in northern Beni and Pando, especially Guayaramerin and Riberalta
- Consult travel health specialist for best medication for your itinerary
Altitude Sickness Preparation
Acetazolamide (altitude sickness pills) are available over-the-counter in Bolivia pharmacies without prescription
- Consult your doctor beforehand if opting for altitude medication
- Consider bringing medication if planning demanding treks
- Coca tea (mate de coca) and coca leaves are traditional remedies available locally
- Oxygen bottles available at airports and most hotels if needed
Personal Medications
There is a shortage of prescription medication in Bolivia. Bring enough for your entire trip plus extra for delays
- Keep medications in original containers with prescriptions
- Some legally available Canadian/US medications are controlled substances in Bolivia
- Call Bolivia's embassy to verify all prescriptions are legal to bring
Health & Safety Risks in Bolivia
Understanding common risks helps you prepare appropriately and stay safe during your Bolivia adventure. Most risks are preventable with proper precautions.
Altitude Sickness (Soroche)
La Paz sits at 3,640m (11,942ft) making it the world's highest capital. Uyuni can reach 4,500m (15,000ft) or higher. El Alto airport is at 4,084m (13,400ft)
- Above 3,000m, sleeping elevation should not increase more than 300m (1,000ft) per night
- Stay properly hydrated - drink 4-6 liters of fluids daily
- Avoid alcohol and cigarettes - worsens symptoms and causes terrible hangovers
- Don't overexert yourself - take it easy first 24 hours
- Rest for at least 3 days before booking excursions, especially to Uyuni
Mosquito-Borne Illnesses
Yellow fever, malaria, chikungunya, dengue, and Zika virus are present in different regions of Bolivia
- Cover exposed skin with long sleeves, long pants, and hats
- Use effective insect repellent on exposed skin
- Sleep under mosquito nets when necessary
- Practice strict mosquito bite avoidance at all times
- Stay in air-conditioned or screened accommodations when possible
Food and Water Safety
Food and water standards vary throughout Bolivia with higher risks in rural areas and during certain activities
- Drink only bottled or properly treated water
- Avoid ice cubes and raw foods
- Eat hot, thoroughly cooked meals
- Eat and drink regularly, wear loose lightweight clothing in heat
Road and Transport Risks
Public transport can be unsafe due to poor roads, driving and vehicle maintenance standards. Road conditions are dangerous especially in rural areas
- Use reputable transportation services
- Choose tour operator with CB radio and/or satellite phone
- During wet season (November-March), roads may experience flooding and landslides
- Be prepared for delays from melting snow and snowfalls
Emergency Contact Information
Keep these essential emergency numbers readily available. In Bolivia, having local emergency contacts can be crucial for getting help quickly.
Important Emergency Information
Essential Bolivia Safety Guidelines
Following these safety guidelines will help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience in Bolivia's diverse and sometimes challenging environments.
Personal Safety Precautions
Bolivia is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken to avoid petty crime and stay secure.
- Don't display signs of wealth and only carry small amounts of cash at a time
- Avoid walking or driving at night
- Use reputable transportation services and don't hail taxis on the street
- Always get a police report when you report a crime
- Must carry photo identification - photocopy of passport and entry stamp for Bolivia
High Altitude Precautions
El Alto airport is at 4,062m (13,327 feet) - altitude effects begin immediately upon landing
- Don't party - avoid beer and whiskey in local bars during first few days
- Drink about 1 liter more water per 1,000m of elevation than usual
- Don't drink only water if urinating frequently - add salt/sugar or drink electrolytes/sports drinks
- UV light is much stronger at high altitude - use strong sun protection
- Get enough sleep - consider non-narcotic sleep aids (Benadryl + melatonin) first few nights
General Health Safety
Bolivia's remote locations and limited medical facilities require extra health vigilance.
- Bring all medicines you might need during your trip, including extra in case of delays
- Carry a card identifying blood type, chronic conditions, allergies, and medication names in local language
- Seek urgent medical advice after any animal bite, scratch or lick to broken skin
- Prepare for activities with right clothes and protective items like bug spray, sunscreen, basic first aid kit
- Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel
Bolivia Travel Insurance Requirements
While not legally required for entry, travel insurance is strongly recommended for U.S. citizens visiting Bolivia due to limited medical facilities, potential travel disruptions, and risk of altitude-related illnesses
Essential Coverage:
- Minimum $50,000 in Emergency Medical coverage recommended
- Minimum $100,000 in Medical Evacuation coverage recommended
- Coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays essential
- Coverage for trip cancellations and interruptions due to protests and roadblocks
- Protection against theft and loss of belongings
- Emergency evacuation and assistance coverage for Bolivia's rugged terrain and high-altitude locations
- Trip Cancellation coverage to reimburse up to 100% of covered trip costs for unforeseen illness or injury