Bolivia - basics - Countries Guide

Time: GMT -4.

Electricity: 220 volts, 50Hz. US flat two-pin plugs and one with round grounding pin are used.

Language: Spanish is the official language, but only 60 to 70% of the people actually speak it, and then often only as a second language. The other main languages are Quechua and Aymar.

Health: A yellow fever vaccination is strongly advised, as outbreaks do occur, particularly after flooding, and it is a requirement for those entering from infected areas. Typhoid and Hepatitis A immunisations are recommended. Altitude sickness is the most common complaint in Bolivia with much of the country lying above 10,000ft (3,050m). This is particularly relevant to diabetics, those with heart complaints or chest problems, who should seek advice before travelling to Bolivia. Malaria is prevalent in some parts of the country, and dengue fever is on the increase. Sanitation and hygiene are poor in some areas so be wary of what is eaten; avoid under-cooked meat and unpeeled fruit and vegetables, and only drink bottled water. Medical insurance is strongly recommended.

Tipping: A service charge is normally added to restaurant and hotel bills but it is customary to add a 5 to 10% tip. Hotel porters also expect a small tip. Taxi drivers are not usually tipped unless they are hired for a full day, in which case 10% is acceptable.

Safety: Street protests and strikes often affect La Paz, Cochabamba and Santa Cruz as well as the regions of the Central Highlands (Altiplano) and the Yungus. Main tourist centres may be affected and visitors should keep up to date with current conditions. Strikes also often disrupt transport to and from the international airport in La Paz and to the regions. Travellers should avoid demonstrations and not attempt to pass through or go around roadblocks, and monitor the local media. Due to operational difficulties being experienced by national airline LAB, air travel in Bolivia can be disrupted and flights have been cancelled. Although Bolivia is generally a safe country, visitors should still be vigilant at all times. Pick-pocketing on buses or in crowded areas is common and baggage theft occurs at stations. Many thieves work in teams to distract their victims. Female tourists should avoid taking jungle and pampas tours on their own and always avoid unlicensed guides. Express kidnappings are also on the increase and travellers should be vigilant at all times. Penalties for drug possession are extremely severe and visitors should be vigilant with luggage and any belongings. Criminals posing as police officers and taxi drivers are targeting foreign tourists; there have been increasing incidents of robberies of this nature and visitors are warned to be cautious at all times. Violent attacks have occurred recently in Copacabana, especially targeting those travelling overland between Peru and Bolivia. Months of heavy rainfall are usually responsible for flooding and mudslides throughout the country, which can severely affect transport; the rainy season is usually from November to March.