Bolivia offers a diverse range of stunning sceneries that are worth exploring. One of the highlights is the Salar de Uyuni, the world's largest salt flat, which transforms into a mesmerizing mirror-like surface during the rainy season. The …
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Backpacking Bolivia in 2025
A complete guide for backpacking in Bolivia with best places to go, best time to visit, what to bring and safety advice.
Visit Bolivia
Welcome to Bolivia, a backpacker's paradise where the Andes meet the Amazon, offering a tapestry of cultural richness and natural wonders. Pros? Immerse in the vibrant markets of La Paz, trek through the Uyuni Salt Flats, and experience affordability unmatched in South America. However, Bolivia's rugged terrain and less developed infrastructure may pose logistical challenges. For the intrepid traveler, Bolivia stands out as a destination where authentic experiences and breathtaking landscapes merge, making it a budget-friendly and culturally rich adventure unlike any other in the world.
Why to go?Why backpacking in Bolivia
Scenery
Mountains
Bolivia is home to some of the most stunning and diverse mountain ranges in the world, making it a great destination for mountain exploration. The Andes Mountains, which run through the western part of the country, are particularly popular for their …
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Backpackers
The backpacker scene in Bolivia is vibrant and diverse, offering a unique experience for travelers. Bolivia is a popular destination for backpackers due to its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and affordable prices.
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Cheap
The average costs for backpacking in Bolivia are relatively low compared to other South American countries. Accommodation in budget hostels can range from $5 to $15 per night, depending on the location and amenities. Food is also inexpensive, with …
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💡 HighlightsTop-5 things to do in Bolivia
- Uyuni Salt Flats: The largest salt flats in the world offer a surreal and otherworldly experience. The vast expanse of white salt, mirror-like reflections, and unique rock formations make it a must-visit destination.
- La Paz: Bolivia’s capital city is located at a high altitude and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Explore the colorful markets, visit the unique Witches’ Market, and take a ride on the exhilarating cable car system.
- Tiwanaku: This ancient archaeological site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was once the capital of a powerful pre-Columbian civilization. Explore the ruins, including the impressive Akapana Pyramid and the Gate of the Sun.
- Amazon Rainforest: Take a trip to the Bolivian Amazon and immerse yourself in the incredible biodiversity of the region. Explore the dense jungle, go wildlife spotting, and learn about the indigenous cultures that call the rainforest home.
- Potosi: Known as the ”City of Silver,” Potosi was once one of the wealthiest cities in the world due to its silver mines. Visit the historic center, explore the mines, and learn about the city’s rich colonial history.
But Bolivia offers more...
Six month backpacking trip through Bolivia, Peru and central America: update 1/14
Bolivia | I’ve only been awake for 3 hours in Bolivia, but I feel like I can already ramble on for 3 pages. What have I experienced so far?The journey On paper, it seems so simple: Schiphol - La Paz. But in reality, you first fly to Madrid. The plane was delayed by 2 hours, so we missed our connection, and they dropped us on the last flight to Sou...
Read more Six month backpacking trip through Bolivia, Peru and central America: update 2/14
Bolivia | I actually want to write to you every day because I keep experiencing strange things here. However, I promised you, after seeing the fearful faces when you heard that you were also on Johan’s-in-Bolivia email list, that I wouldn’t bombard you with daily emails full of uninteresting and then-and-then-and-then stories. But hey, I’m the author h...
Read more Six month backpacking trip through Bolivia, Peru and central America: update 3/14
Bolivia | First off, let me explain why there are no tall Bolivians. The water here is heated electrically, and the showers are kinda low. Anyone over 1.75 meters (that’s me) risks getting electrocuted while showering. I’ve had about three shocks so far, but hey, I’m still kicking.Spent 10 days in Tupiza, basically the Costa del Sol without the Costa...
Read more Six month backpacking trip through Bolivia, Peru and central America: update 4/14
Bolivia | Thought I’d have a nice extra hour to write this post, turned out Bolivia doesn’t do daylight saving time. So, unfortunately, this had to be a quick one.Since my last post, I’ve been through some stuff. I can finally check off the “armed robbery” from my list. But let me start with the laundry.In Cochabamba, it was time to take my ent...
Read more Six month backpacking trip through Bolivia, Peru and central America: update 5/14
Bolivia | I’M STILL ALIVE!!! I believe I ended the last post by mentioning that I was going downhill mountain biking on the world’s most dangerous road. Even back on the bus, I survived.After the mountain biking tour and three days chilling in a mountain village (Coroico), I took the bus to Rurrenabaque. Even though Rurrenabaque sounds like a first-cla...
Read more Traveled route: La Paz, Potosí, Sucre, Tupiza, Uyuni, Salar de Uyuni, Cochabamba, Villa Tunari, Coroico, Rurrenabaque,Most Dangerous Road of the World, Isla del Sol
🌤️ When to go?Best time to go backpacking Bolivia
The best time to visit Bolivia for backpacking is during the dry season, which typically runs from May to October. During this time, the weather is generally mild and there is less chance of rain, making it easier to explore the country's diverse landscapes and outdoor activities. Additionally, popular tourist destinations such as the Salar de Uyuni and Lake Titicaca are more accessible and enjoyable during the dry season. However, it's important to note that temperatures can drop significantly at night, especially in high-altitude areas, so be prepared with warm clothing.
Risk level: medium (50%)Safety advice for Bolivia
- Political and civil tensions are ongoing, and events can be unpredictable. Large-scale political demonstrations, protests and events can occur with little warning. This may result in travel disruptions and can be violent. Avoid demonstrations and protests.
- Civil unrest is common in Bolivia. Roadblocks, demonstrations, protests (some violent), and strikes could occur at any time. Don't cross roadblocks set up by protesters. Avoid crowds as they can become violent.
- Violent crime, associated with drug trafficking, poses a risk in some parts of the country, particularly Chapare and the Yungas regions. Take care in these areas. Travellers can be victims of drug-related crime near borders. Take extra precautions in these areas.
- Petty theft is common in tourist areas, buses and bus stations. Be alert to attempts to distract your attention from your luggage. Violent crime against foreigners occurs, including armed robbery, assault, and food and drink spiking. Don't leave your food or drink unattended.
- Criminals can pose as taxi drivers. Use only well-known radio taxi companies with the phone number displayed on the vehicle's roof. Don't hail taxis off the streets.
source: smartraveller.gov.au
BoliviaMy tips to get you on the way!Does Bolivia sound like your next backpacking destination? Use these steps to get you on the way.
Get inspiration 📚
While guidebooks used to be the backpacker’s holy grail for finding accomodation, nowadays that’s more conveniently accomplished online. However, guidebooks remain an excellent resource for familiarizing oneself with the country, gaining inspiration, and discovering itineraries. I enjoy reading them before my travels and then leaving them behind at home when I embark on my journey.
While guidebooks used to be the backpacker’s holy grail for finding accomodation, nowadays that’s more conveniently accomplished online. However, guidebooks remain an excellent resource for familiarizing oneself with the country, gaining inspiration, and discovering itineraries. I enjoy reading them before my travels and then leaving them behind at home when I embark on my journey.
Prepare your trip ✅
Before embarking on your journey, several essential checks are crucial: passport, visa, vaccinations and insurance. Some countries mandate that your passport remains valid for 3 to 6 months post your return. Additionally, it is important to verify the specific visa requirements for Bolivia. These differ per country of origin. While you can handle visa arrangements independently, online visa services streamline the process as they know exactly what’s needed for each country. Bolivia may require certain vaccinations. Make sure to timely check which ones you still need. Lastly, if you don’t have a travel insurance yet, Safety Wing is a good choice as they are tailored for backpackers.
Before embarking on your journey, several essential checks are crucial: passport, visa, vaccinations and insurance. Some countries mandate that your passport remains valid for 3 to 6 months post your return. Additionally, it is important to verify the specific visa requirements for Bolivia. These differ per country of origin. While you can handle visa arrangements independently, online visa services streamline the process as they know exactly what’s needed for each country. Bolivia may require certain vaccinations. Make sure to timely check which ones you still need. Lastly, if you don’t have a travel insurance yet, Safety Wing is a good choice as they are tailored for backpackers.
Book your flight ✈️
The flight may be the most expensive part of your trip. Therefore it’s worth spending a bit of time finding the right one. Flight search engines like Skyscanner and Kayak are the best to compare all possible options. A good tip is to be flexible with your exact travel dates. Traveling one or two days earlier/later may save you some bucks. Also booking about three months in advance can help making the best deal for you (though I’m not the best one myself to follow this advice as I tend to decide last-minute). A final tip would be to check airports in neighbouring countries. Not necessarily for cost saving but it can be intriguing to journey into Bolivia, travel overland to one of its neighbours and fly back home from there.
The flight may be the most expensive part of your trip. Therefore it’s worth spending a bit of time finding the right one. Flight search engines like Skyscanner and Kayak are the best to compare all possible options. A good tip is to be flexible with your exact travel dates. Traveling one or two days earlier/later may save you some bucks. Also booking about three months in advance can help making the best deal for you (though I’m not the best one myself to follow this advice as I tend to decide last-minute). A final tip would be to check airports in neighbouring countries. Not necessarily for cost saving but it can be intriguing to journey into Bolivia, travel overland to one of its neighbours and fly back home from there.
Book your first night(s) 🛌
Depending on your travel style, you can either plan a detailed day-to-day route and pre-book your accommodations, providing peace of mind, or opt to book them spontaneously, offering greater flexibility to adjust your plan. Personally, I am a big fan of the latter approach, but I always ensure to book the first night(s) in advance.
Depending on your travel style, you can either plan a detailed day-to-day route and pre-book your accommodations, providing peace of mind, or opt to book them spontaneously, offering greater flexibility to adjust your plan. Personally, I am a big fan of the latter approach, but I always ensure to book the first night(s) in advance.
My personal packing list 🎒
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Over the years, I’ve learned the importance of packing minimally. It’s so much easier to jump on the back of a truck or squeeze yourself into the last spot of a minibus without that supersized backpack. If you’re headed to a warm destination, leave your winter jacket at home; for colder regions, opt for thin thermal underlayers. Instead of packing your entire wardrobe, bring just three sets of clothes, as laundry facilities are available everywhere.
Money & Documents
Clothing
Electronics
Health
Others
Over the years, I’ve learned the importance of packing minimally. It’s so much easier to jump on the back of a truck or squeeze yourself into the last spot of a minibus without that supersized backpack. If you’re headed to a warm destination, leave your winter jacket at home; for colder regions, opt for thin thermal underlayers. Instead of packing your entire wardrobe, bring just three sets of clothes, as laundry facilities are available everywhere.Money & Documents
Clothing
Electronics
Health
Others
Moneybelt
[Amazon]
“Best way to carry your important documents”
Quick dry pant
[Amazon]
“Nothing beats these quick dry and light pants when traveling”
Light rain jacket
[Amazon]
“Hiking in rainy season? These keep you dry”
Thermo underwear
[Amazon]
“Less weight and volume than bulky sweaters or jackets”
Quick dry towel
[Amazon]
“Normal towels get smelly and heavy when traveling”
Power bank
[Amazon]
“Pick a small and light one, with 10.000mAh or more”
Travel adapter
[Amazon]
“Needed as each country has its own electricity plugs”
Number lock
[Amazon]
“No chance of losing your key; handy for lockers in dormitories”
Packing cubes
[Amazon]
“Keep your wet or dirty clothes separate from the rest”
Travel pillow
[Amazon]
“Light and great for flights and long bus journeys”
last page update: 29 September 2024