Bolivia trip 2026: The ultimate checklist for your perfect planning

Why 2026 is the perfect year for your trip to Bolivia

The year 2026 offers special advantages for travelers to Bolivia. After the challenges of recent years, the tourist infrastructure has improved significantly, while the country is still considered an insider tip and is not overrun with tourists. The political situation has stabilized, new hotels and restaurants have opened, and the roads to the main attractions have been upgraded.

The development in the area of sustainable tourism is particularly encouraging. More and more local communities are offering authentic experiences that benefit both travelers and locals. In addition, flight connections have improved, making travel from Europe easier and often cheaper.

Another advantage for 2026 is the availability of German-speaking guides and services. The German-speaking community in Bolivia has grown, which means that you can have authentic experiences even without perfect Spanish skills. Private tours with German-speaking guides are now available at fair prices and offer enormous added value through cultural insights and safety.

The most important decisions first: the basics of your travel planning

Before you get into the details, you need to make some basic decisions that will determine the scope of your trip. These decisions will influence all further planning steps, so you should take your time here. Read our articles on visas & entry requirements, packing lists, and safety.

Determine the duration of your trip

The ideal length of your trip to Bolivia depends on what you want to see. For a first impression of the highlights ([La Paz](/en/blog/la-paz-sights-2026), Salar de Uyuni, Lake Titicaca), you should plan at least ten to fourteen days. If you also want to visit the Amazon, Sucre, and Potosí, three weeks is ideal. For a comprehensive round trip with time to acclimatize and enjoy spontaneous experiences, four weeks is ideal.

When planning, keep in mind that Bolivia is a large country with sometimes long travel times. The high altitude also requires acclimatization time, especially if you come from lowland areas. Don't plan too much in too short a time – quality is more important than quantity. Three well-planned weeks with time to enjoy yourself are better than four rushed weeks spent rushing from bus to bus. You can find more tips on altitude adjustment in our packing list.

Determine your budget

Your budget will largely determine your travel style and options. Bolivia is one of the cheapest countries to travel in South America, but the range between budget backpackers and comfort travelers is enormous. For realistic budget planning, you should calculate the following daily budgets:

Backpacker budget:

Thirty to fifty euros per day will get you by if you stay in hostels, eat at local restaurants, and use public transportation. However, you will have to be selective with tours and activities.

Mid-range budget:

Sixty to one hundred euros per day will allow you to stay in good mid-range hotels, eat at more upscale restaurants, and book several tours. For most travelers, this is the optimal compromise between comfort and cost.

Comfort budget:

With 130 to 200 euros per day, you can travel in great comfort with upscale hotels, private tours, and a German-speaking guide. You don't have to worry about costs and can make spontaneous decisions.

Don't forget to factor in international flights (typically $800 to $1,500 from Europe) and travel insurance (around $50 to $100).

Choose your travel dates

The choice of travel time has a huge impact on your Bolivia experience. Bolivia has two main seasons: the dry season from May to October and the rainy season from November to April. Each season has its advantages and disadvantages.

High season (June to August):

This is the best time to visit the Salar de Uyuni, as the salt is dry and you can experience the endless white expanse. The weather is stable and visibility is clear, perfect for photography. However, prices are higher and the main attractions are more crowded. You should book hotels months in advance.

Mid-season (May, September, October):

These months offer the best value for money. The weather is still good, but there are significantly fewer tourists. Prices are more moderate, and you have more flexibility when booking. For many travelers, this is the ideal time.

Rainy season (November to April):

During this time, you can experience the spectacular mirror effect on the Salar de Uyuni when a thin layer of water reflects the clouds. The landscape is greener, and prices are at their lowest. However, roads can become impassable, and some tours are canceled. Flexibility is especially important during this time.

Plan your itinerary

Route planning depends on the length of your trip and your interests. Here are the three classic routes for different time budgets:

Ten to fourteen days - The highlights:

La Paz (three days), Lake Titicaca with Copacabana and Isla del Sol (two days), Salar de Uyuni tour (three days), Uyuni and return flight (one day). This route covers the absolute must-sees and is perfect for first-time visitors with limited time.

Three weeks - The classic round trip:

La Paz (three days), Lake Titicaca (two days), Salar de Uyuni (three days), Potosí (two days), Sucre (three days), optional Torotoro or Samaipata (three days), Santa Cruz (two days), return flight. This route offers a good mix of nature, culture, and adventure.

Four weeks – The grand tour:

All of the above locations plus Rurrenabaque for the Amazon jungle (four to five days), more time in each location to acclimatize and enjoy, optional side trips such as Death Road, Huayna Potosí, or trekking tours. With four weeks, you have time for spontaneous decisions and can experience the real Bolivia.

Documents and formalities: What you need to do before your trip

The bureaucratic preparation is less exciting than route planning, but just as important. Here is your checklist for all the necessary documents and formalities.

Passport and visa

For tourist travel, German, Austrian, and Swiss citizens are generally visa-free for up to 90 days (depending on nationality/regulations, often listed as 90 days per calendar year). You will receive a free stamp in your passport upon entry. Your passport must be valid for at least six months upon entry. The current official information before departure is decisive.

It is important that you can prove upon entry that you will be leaving Bolivia again. This can be a return flight ticket or a bus ticket to a neighboring country. Sometimes proof of sufficient financial means is also requested, although this is rarely checked in practice. A bank statement or credit card is usually sufficient.

If you want to stay longer than ninety days, you can apply for an extension at the local immigration office. This costs about thirty US dollars and requires some paperwork, but is usually possible without any problems. Alternatively, you can leave the country briefly and re-enter Peru or Chile to get another ninety days.

Vaccinations and health care

When traveling directly from Europe, there are usually no general vaccination requirements. However, some vaccinations are strongly recommended, especially if you are traveling to the jungle or staying in the country for a longer period of time.

Standard vaccinations:

Make sure your standard vaccinations are up to date, especially tetanus, diphtheria, and hepatitis A. You should have these anyway, regardless of Bolivia.

Yellow fever:

Vaccination may be recommended for travelers to certain lowland regions (especially low-lying areas east of the Andes, below approx. 2,300 m). Proof of vaccination may also be required when entering from countries at risk of yellow fever. Some lodges require proof. The vaccination must be given at least ten days before entry and is then valid for life. Check with official authorities or during a travel medicine consultation depending on your route and transit country.

Other recommended vaccinations:

Hepatitis B (for longer stays), typhoid (especially in poor hygienic conditions), rabies (if you are traveling extensively in rural areas). Discuss with your doctor or a tropical medicine specialist which vaccinations are appropriate for your specific trip.

Altitude sickness prevention:

The biggest health challenge in Bolivia is not a disease, but the altitude. La Paz is located at 3,600 meters, and many attractions are even higher. Some travelers take Diamox (acetazolamide) as a preventive measure to facilitate altitude adjustment. However, you should definitely discuss this with a doctor.

Travel insurance

Good travel insurance is absolutely essential for Bolivia. Medical care is limited outside the major cities, and in the event of serious problems, repatriation may be necessary, which can quickly cost five-figure sums.

Your travel insurance should cover at least the following: medical treatment including hospital stays, repatriation to the US in an emergency, rescue from remote areas (important for trekking), theft and loss of luggage and valuables, trip interruption and cancellation.

Make sure that activities such as trekking, mountain biking (Death Road), and mountaineering (Huayna Potosí) are covered. Some insurance companies exclude such "risky sports" or charge an additional fee. The cost of good travel insurance is around fifty to one hundred euros for three weeks, depending on your age and the services you choose.

Copy important documents

Make copies of all important documents and also save them digitally in the cloud. These include: passport (data page), airline tickets, hotel reservations, travel insurance policy with emergency number, credit cards (with blocking number), vaccination card, driver's license (if you want to rent a car).

Keep the physical copies separate from the originals, preferably in a different piece of luggage. This way, you'll have all the important information at hand in case of theft or loss. This will save you a lot of stress and speed up the process of replacing documents.

Booking flights: How to find the best connections

Flight booking is often the biggest expense of your trip and should be well planned. Bolivia has two international airports: La Paz (El Alto) and Santa Cruz. Most Europeans fly to La Paz because the main attractions are closer there.

Best time to book

For flights to Bolivia, the rule of thumb is: the earlier, the better. You will typically find the cheapest prices three to six months before departure. For the high season (June to August), you should book even earlier, as prices rise quickly and flights can be fully booked.

Use price comparison websites such as Skyscanner, Google Flights, or Momondo to get an overview of prices. Set price alerts to be notified when prices drop. Be flexible with your dates – you can often save hundreds of euros by flying a few days earlier or later.

Flight connections and airlines

There are no direct flights from Europe to Bolivia. You will have to change planes at least once, typically in Madrid, Amsterdam, or a South American city such as São Paulo, Lima, or Bogotá. The total travel time is usually between eighteen and twenty-five hours.

Good airlines for flights to Bolivia:

Iberia via Madrid, KLM via Amsterdam, LATAM via São Paulo or Lima, Avianca via Bogotá, Copa Airlines via Panama City. Compare not only the price, but also the transfer times and baggage regulations. Some cheap offers only include hand luggage, which is impractical for a trip lasting several weeks.

Domestic flights

Bolivia is a large country, and some routes are very long by bus. Domestic flights can save time and are often surprisingly inexpensive. The most important connections are La Paz – Santa Cruz (one hour by plane instead of ten hours by bus), La Paz – Sucre (one hour instead of ten hours), La Paz – Rurrenabaque (forty minutes instead of eighteen hours).

Boliviana de Aviación (BoA) is a major provider of domestic flights. The airlines that actually fly your route are subject to change – check the currently operating companies and connections before booking. Prices are usually between fifty and one hundred and fifty US dollars per route. It is best to book domestic flights directly on the airlines' websites or at local travel agencies. Prices are often cheaper locally than online, especially if you pay in cash.

Important tip:

Domestic flights in Bolivia are sometimes unreliable. Delays and cancellations occur, especially during the rainy season. Allow for extra time and do not book international connecting flights on the same day as a domestic flight.

Accommodation: From hostels to boutique hotels

There is a wide range of accommodation options in Bolivia to suit every budget. Quality has improved significantly in recent years, especially in tourist hotspots.

Booking strategies

For the high season (June to August), you should book accommodation in popular places such as La Paz, Uyuni, and Copacabana several months in advance. In the off-season, you can often book spontaneously and even negotiate better prices on site.

Use platforms such as Booking.com, Hostelworld, or Airbnb for research and booking. Read the reviews carefully, especially regarding location, cleanliness, and heating (important at high altitudes!). Many smaller hotels and hostels cannot be booked online—you can only find them on site. This can be cheaper, but requires flexibility.

Types of accommodation and prices

Hostels (eight to fifteen euros per night in a dormitory):

Bolivia has a good hostel scene, especially in La Paz, Sucre, and Copacabana. The hostels are usually clean, have Wi-Fi, and often a shared kitchen. Perfect for backpackers and solo travelers who want to meet other travelers. Private double rooms in hostels cost fifteen to twenty-five euros.

Budget hotels (twenty to forty euros per night):

These family-run hotels offer simple but clean rooms with private bathrooms. The service is often more personal than in large hotels. The price-performance ratio is excellent. Breakfast is sometimes included, sometimes not.

Mid-range hotels (fifty to ninety euros per night):

In this category, you get Western standards with comfortable beds, good Wi-Fi, often a restaurant, and sometimes even heating. The hotels are usually centrally located and offer professional service. Perfect for travelers who want comfort without luxury prices.

Boutique hotels and luxury accommodations (one hundred to two hundred and fifty euros per night):

Bolivia has some excellent boutique hotels, especially in La Paz and Sucre. These hotels offer first-class service, stylish furnishings, often in historic buildings, and excellent restaurants. Special mention should be made of the Palacio de Sal on the Salar de Uyuni – a hotel built largely from blocks of salt.

Special accommodations

Homestays:

Stay with local families in the countryside or on the islands of Lake Titicaca. This is the most authentic way to get to know Bolivian culture. The accommodations are simple, but the experience is priceless. Prices range from fifteen to thirty euros, including meals.

Jungle lodges:

If you travel to Rurrenabaque, you can stay in lodges in the middle of the jungle. These are usually all-inclusive (accommodation, food, tours) and cost fifty to one hundred and fifty euros per night. The accommodations are rustic, but the experience is unique.

Salt hotels:

On the way to Salar de Uyuni, there are several hotels built largely from salt blocks. The most famous is the Palacio de Sal. A night in a salt hotel is a special experience and costs around sixty to one hundred euros.

Packing list: What you really need

Packing for Bolivia is a challenge, as you need to be prepared for extreme climate differences. From freezing cold nights at over four thousand meters above sea level to tropical heat in the jungle, anything is possible.

Clothing according to the onion principle

The onion principle is essential in Bolivia. Temperatures fluctuate greatly between day and night, and you will be moving between different altitudes and climate zones.

Base layer:

functional underwear (merino wool is ideal), several T-shirts, long-sleeved functional shirt, lightweight hiking pants, jeans, or comfortable pants for the city.

Middle layer:

fleece jacket or sweater, light down jacket or Primaloft jacket (important for cold nights at high altitudes!), additional warm sweater.

Outer layer:

windproof and waterproof jacket (hardshell), rain pants (especially for the rainy season), warm hat, gloves, scarf, or buff.

Special clothing:

Swim trunks/swimsuit (for hot springs), light clothing for the jungle (long sleeves to protect against mosquitoes), wide-brimmed sun hat, sunglasses with UV protection (the sun is extremely strong at high altitudes!).

Shoes:

Sturdy hiking boots (broken in!), comfortable sneakers or sandals for the city, flip-flops for hostel showers.

Equipment and technology

Backpack:

A good trekking backpack (50 to 70 liters) is ideal if you are traveling a lot. Alternatively, a sturdy wheeled suitcase plus a daypack. The daypack (20 to 30 liters) is important for day trips and as hand luggage on the plane.

Sleeping bag:

For the Salar de Uyuni tour, you will need a warm sleeping bag (comfort range minus ten degrees). Many tour operators rent out sleeping bags, but the quality is often questionable. If you have room, bring your own.

Technology:

Smartphone with offline map app (Maps.me), camera (the photo opportunities are spectacular!), power bank (power is not reliable everywhere), universal adapter (Bolivia uses type A and C), headlamp or flashlight (important in case of power outages), e-reader or book for long bus rides.

Other:

High SPF sunscreen (UV radiation at high altitudes is extreme!), lip balm with UV protection, water bottle (at least one liter), water filter or purification tablets, first-aid kit (see next section), earplugs (buses and hostels can be noisy), sleep mask, pocket knife (in checked luggage!), clothesline and clothespins, zip-lock bags for wet clothes.

First-aid kit

A well-stocked first-aid kit is important in Bolivia, as pharmacies outside the cities are poorly stocked and you may not be able to get specific medications.

Basic medications:

painkillers (ibuprofen, paracetamol), diarrhea medication (Imodium), electrolyte powder for dehydration, antibiotics (after consulting a doctor), antihistamines for allergies, medication for motion sickness.

Altitude sickness:

Diamox (acetazolamide) after consulting a doctor, coca tea (available locally and very effective), painkillers for headaches.

Wound care:

Bandages in various sizes, blister plasters (important for hiking!), disinfectant, sterile compresses, elastic bandages, tweezers, scissors.

Miscellaneous:

Insect repellent with DEET (for the jungle), after-sun or aloe vera gel, eye drops (the air is very dry), nasal spray, sufficient quantities of personal medication plus prescription.

Money and finances: Currency, cards, and budget

Financial planning for Bolivia has its peculiarities. Cash is king, and the current currency crisis makes the situation even more complicated.

Currency and money exchange

The Bolivian currency is the boliviano (BOB). The official exchange rate has been fixed at around 6.96 Bs per USD (sell) / 6.86 Bs (buy) for years. Due to the currency crisis, there is also an informal/parallel exchange rate, which can vary depending on the city and market situation (as of January 2026: approx. 9.5-10 Bs/USD). Check the current exchange rate at reputable exchange offices on site.

Important:

Bring enough cash in euros or US dollars! ATMs often have no money, and if they do, the exchange rate is poor. In La Paz, Santa Cruz, and other larger cities, you will find exchange offices (Casas de Cambio) that offer better rates than banks. Ask your guide or hotel staff for trustworthy exchange offices.

Do not exchange all your money at once, but in tranches. This allows you to remain flexible and minimizes the risk of theft. Keep larger amounts of money safe in the hotel safe and only carry what you need with you.

Credit cards and ATMs

Credit cards are accepted in larger hotels, restaurants, and tour operators, but often with a surcharge of three to five percent. In smaller towns and at local providers, cash is required. Visa and Mastercard are the most widely accepted, while American Express is rarely accepted.

ATMs (cajeros) can be found in all major cities, but availability, limits, and fees vary by bank and location and can change at short notice. Therefore, plan to have a cash reserve and expect fees per withdrawal and rather conservative withdrawal limits.

Tip:

Inform your bank of your plans before you travel so that your card is not blocked for security reasons. Make a note of the blocking number and keep it separate from the card.

Daily expenses and tips

The cost of living in Bolivia is low, but as a tourist you often pay more than locals. Here are realistic average prices for 2026:

Food:

Almuerzo (daily special) two to four euros, simple restaurant four to eight euros, upscale restaurant ten to twenty euros, street food one to three euros, beer in a restaurant two to three euros, water (bottle) zero point five to one euro.

Transportation:

City bus 0.30 euros, taxi in the city 2 to 5 euros, long-distance bus 10 to 30 euros (depending on distance and comfort), domestic flight 50 to 150 euros.

Activities:

Salar de Uyuni tour (three days) €100 to €180, Death Road mountain bike tour €60 to €80, jungle tour (three days) €150 to €250, museum admission €2 to €5.

Tipping:

In restaurants, ten percent is customary if the service was good. On tours, it is customary to tip the guide and driver (five to ten euros per person per day for good service). Taxi drivers do not expect tips, but rounding up is appreciated.

Communication: Internet, SIM card, and language

Good communication is important when traveling, both for navigation and to stay in touch with family and friends.

Internet and SIM card

Wi-Fi is available in most hotels, hostels, and restaurants, but the quality varies greatly. In larger cities, it is usually good, but in rural areas it is often slow or unstable. Don't rely on always being online.

A local SIM card is inexpensive and practical. The three main providers are Entel, Tigo, and Viva. You can get SIM cards in their shops in any major city. Bring your passport with you, as registration is required. A SIM card with five GB of data costs around ten to fifteen euros and lasts for two to three weeks.

Network coverage is good in cities, but often non-existent in rural areas and in the mountains. You will usually have no network coverage on the Salar de Uyuni tour. Download important maps and information offline.

Tip:

The Maps.me app is perfect for Bolivia. You can download and use maps offline, even without the internet. This saves data volume and also works in remote areas.

Language and communication

The official language in Bolivia is Spanish, but many indigenous languages such as Quechua and Aymara are also spoken. In tourist areas, some people speak a little English, but outside the tourist trails, Spanish is essential.

If you don't speak Spanish, a few basic skills are very helpful. At least learn greetings, numbers, and important questions such as "Where is...?", "How much does...? cost", "I need help". Bolivians are patient and appreciate any attempt to speak their language.

Phrase books and apps:

A small phrase book is handy. Apps like Google Translate also work offline if you download the language beforehand. The camera translation feature is useful for menus and signs.

German-speaking guides:

If you are unsure or want to immerse yourself more deeply in the culture, a German-speaking guide is worth their weight in gold. You will understand the context better, be able to ask questions, and feel more confident. Private tours with German-speaking guides are now available at fair prices.

Safety: Be realistic and prepared

Bolivia is generally safe for travelers, but as everywhere, there are risks that you should be aware of and minimize.

Crime and theft

Pickpocketing and petty crime occur in tourist areas and markets. Violent crimes against tourists are rare but not impossible. You can minimize the risks considerably by using common sense and caution.

Practical safety tips:

Carry valuables close to your body in a fanny pack or under your clothing. Do not openly display expensive cameras, smartphones, or jewelry. Use the hotel safe for your passport, extra money, and electronics. Be especially careful in crowds and on public transportation. Avoid isolated areas at night, especially in La Paz. Take taxis at night instead of walking (use apps like Uber or have the hotel call a taxi). Be careful when withdrawing money – use ATMs in banks, not on the street.

Scams:

Fake police officers who want to check your documents and money (real police officers do not do this on the street), taxi drivers who charge too much (negotiate the price in advance or use apps), overpriced tours from street vendors (book with established agencies).

Health and altitude sickness

The biggest health challenge in Bolivia is the altitude. La Paz is located at 3,600 meters, and El Alto Airport is even higher at 4,100 meters. Many travelers underestimate the effects of altitude.

Symptoms of altitude sickness:

headaches, nausea, dizziness, shortness of breath, fatigue, sleep disturbances, loss of appetite. These symptoms are normal in the first one to three days and usually disappear once the body has acclimatized.

Prevention and treatment:

Ascend slowly – spend the first few days in La Paz doing light activities. Drink plenty of water (at least three to four liters per day). Avoid alcohol and heavy meals during the first few days. Drink coca tea (mate de coca) – it really helps! Take painkillers for headaches if necessary. If symptoms are severe: descend! The only real treatment is to go to lower altitudes.

When to see a doctor:

If symptoms worsen instead of improving, if you experience shortness of breath at rest, confusion or coordination problems, or fluid in the lungs (rattling breath). These are signs of severe altitude sickness, which can be life-threatening.

Road traffic

Road traffic in Bolivia is chaotic and dangerous. Bolivia has one of the highest traffic fatality rates in South America. Buses are regularly involved in accidents, especially on mountain roads.

Safety tips for bus travel:

Choose reputable bus companies, even if they are a little more expensive. Avoid night trips on mountain roads. Choose seats in the middle of the bus (safer than the front or back in case of accidents). Fasten your seatbelt if there are seatbelts. Trust your gut feeling – if the bus or driver seems unsafe, take another one.

Walking:

Be extremely careful when crossing roads – cars rarely stop for pedestrians. Use crosswalks and traffic lights, but don't rely on them blindly. Walk defensively and always expect that cars will not stop.

Cultural preparation: Respect and understanding

Bolivia has a rich indigenous culture that is very different from European culture. A basic understanding and respect for local customs will enrich your trip and help you avoid cultural faux pas.

Dos and Don'ts

Do:

Greet people in a friendly manner (Hola, Buenos días). Ask permission before taking photos of people (especially indigenous women in traditional clothing). Dress respectfully, especially in rural areas and churches. Try local food and show interest in the culture. Learn a few words of Spanish – the effort will be appreciated. Be patient – things often take longer in Bolivia than in Europe.

Don't:

Take photos of people without asking – this is considered disrespectful. Don't criticize the country or culture in public. Don't show affection openly in public (Bolivia is conservative). Don't expect European standards and punctuality. Don't compare Bolivia negatively with other countries. Don't give money to every beggar (this encourages dependency), but support local projects instead.

Understanding of time and punctuality

Time is different in Bolivia. "Mañana" (tomorrow) does not necessarily mean tomorrow, but "sometime." Buses often run later than scheduled, shops do not always open on time, and appointments are flexible. This can be frustrating for Germans, but it is part of the culture.

Accept this more relaxed understanding of time and allow for buffers. Don't stress if something takes longer – use the time to observe your surroundings or strike up a conversation with locals. This serenity is part of the Bolivian way of life.

Photography

Photography is a sensitive issue in Bolivia, especially among indigenous people. Many believe that photographs steal their souls or bring bad luck. Others have had bad experiences with tourists who treated them like objects.

Respectful photography:

Always ask for permission before photographing people. Accept a no without argument. Some people expect a small payment for photos (one to two bolivianos) – this is normal in tourist areas. Do not photograph children without their parents' permission. Be discreet during religious ceremonies. Show people the photos on your camera – this often breaks the ice.

Booking tours and activities

The best way to experience Bolivia's highlights is on organized tours. The question is: book online in advance or on site?

Booking online vs. on site

Advantages of booking online:

security (you know you have a place), reviews from other travelers, often German-speaking customer service, secure payment, good planning possible.

Advantages of booking on site:

Often cheaper (ten to thirty percent), you can see the agency and equipment in advance, more flexible (you can decide spontaneously), better negotiation opportunities, you directly support local providers.

Recommendation:

For the most important tours (Salar de Uyuni, jungle tours) in high season: book online in advance. For smaller tours and in the off-season: book on site and compare. Private tours with an English-speaking guide: definitely organize in advance, as availability is limited.

The most important tours

Salar de Uyuni (three days):

The absolute highlight of Bolivia. The tour takes you through the salt flats, colorful lagoons, geysers, and surreal landscapes. Cost: one hundred to one hundred and eighty euros, depending on the season and comfort level. Choose a tour with a maximum of six people per jeep for more comfort.

Lake Titicaca and Isla del Sol:

Boat trip on the highest navigable lake in the world, overnight stay on the Island of the Sun, Inca ruins. Cost: thirty to sixty euros for two days. Can also be organized independently.

Rurrenabaque jungle tour (three to four days):

Pampas (lots of animals, easier) or jungle (more strenuous, more authentic). Cost: 150 to 250 euros all-inclusive. Choose a lodge with good reviews in terms of safety and sustainability.

Death Road mountain bike tour:

Pure adrenaline on the "most dangerous road in the world." Cost: sixty to eighty euros including transport, equipment, lunch. Choose an agency with good safety equipment and experienced guides.

Huayna Potosí climb (two days):

Climb a six-thousander without any technical knowledge (but good fitness required!). Cost: $200 to $300 including guide, equipment, transportation. Only with a reputable agency and with good acclimatization!

Private tours with an English-speaking guide

Private tours with a German-speaking guide are significantly more expensive than group tours, but offer enormous added value. You can set your own pace, ask questions whenever you want, gain deeper cultural insights, feel safer, and can flexibly adjust the route.

The cost is about twice as high as group tours, but for many travelers it is absolutely worth it. Private tours are ideal for families, older travelers, or people with limited time. Book such tours several months in advance, as German-speaking guides are limited in availability.

Checklist: The last few weeks before departure

Four weeks before departure: - [ ] Check your passport (still valid for at least six months?) - [ ] Keep your vaccination appointments (yellow fever for lowlands/jungle at least ten days in advance!) - [ ] Take out travel insurance - [ ] Book important tours (Salar de Uyuni, jungle) - [ ] Book accommodation for the first few nights - [ ] Inform your credit card company and bank about your trip

Two weeks before departure: - [ ] Put together a first-aid kit - [ ] Make a packing list and check your equipment - [ ] Make copies of all documents and save them digitally - [ ] Download important apps (Maps.me, translator, etc.) - [ ] Download offline maps - [ ] Get cash (euros or dollars)

One week before departure: - [ ] Pack suitcase (don't wait until the last day!) - [ ] Prepare apartment (plants, mail, etc.) - [ ] Last-minute shopping (sunscreen, snacks for the flight) - [ ] Check in online for your flight - [ ] Give emergency contacts to family/friends - [ ] Keep valuables safe

On the day of departure: - [ ] Pack passport, tickets, credit cards, cash - [ ] Charge cell phone and camera - [ ] Pack power bank - [ ] Final check: stove off, windows closed, doors locked - [ ] Arrive at the airport early enough (three hours for long-haul flights)

Conclusion: Well prepared for adventure

A trip to Bolivia requires more preparation than a trip to Mallorca, but that's exactly what makes it a real adventure. With this checklist, you'll be well prepared and can look forward to the incredible experiences that await you.

Bolivia is a country that will change you. The breathtaking landscapes, the warm people, the fascinating culture, and the countless adventures will create memories that will last a lifetime. Yes, it's different from Europe. Yes, it's sometimes challenging. But that's exactly what makes the trip so worthwhile.

Don't forget to leave room for spontaneity in all your planning. The best experiences often happen unplanned – a conversation with a local, a hidden restaurant, an unexpected sunset. Be open, be flexible, and embrace the adventure that is Bolivia.

As a German-speaking guide who has lived in Bolivia for years, I can assure you: the preparation is worth it. But the journey itself is even more worthwhile. Bolivia will welcome you with open arms and give you experiences that you will still be telling your grandchildren about.

Ready for your Bolivia adventure in 2026? Let's plan your perfect trip together!

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• Bolivia packing list - What to pack?
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