Bolivia: Overview

Travel Warning: Protests and Blockades - Potosí Mine Tour Warning - Salar De Uyuni Warning

Street protests, strikes and demonstrations are reasonably common in Bolivia and have the potential to become violent. Some protests, particularly in rural areas, can lead to road blockades that disrupt transport and can remain in place for weeks or months. Lately, various provinces have been holding referendums on whether to become autonomous; some violence has been reported. Travelers should avoid becoming caught up in such events and check local news sources to be aware of any developments.

Travelers contemplating a visit to the silver mines of Potosí should be aware of the potential health risks before they set out. Check the Potosí pages of World Guide for more details.

At least sixteen people have been killed in vehicle accidents on the Salar De Uyuni salt plains since May 2008. Four people were killed in the latest accident on July 13 - a tour company driver, two French tourists and a Belgian tourist. The driver reportedly braked suddenly causing the vehicle to spin and flip over. Passengers were not wearing seat belts. There have been alarming reports of ill-equipped vehicles, speeding tour operators and a lack of emergency equipment - travellers must be cautious and ensure they are dealing with reliable tour companies.

severity: Mid-level alert