Question 1

What is included in the tour price and what is not? (Cost overview)

Accepted Answer

Included in the price: Private guide (Carsten) for the entire tour duration, vehicle including driver (4x4 vehicle for off-road tours), full organisation and route planning, and fuel costs for day trips around Santa Cruz. Not included: Travellers’ accommodation, meals and drinks, domestic flights (estimated prices see FAQ “Domestic Flights”), entrance fees (national parks, museums, attractions), fuel costs for multi-day tours (charged by consumption, details see FAQ “Fuel Costs”), and any boat, bus, or taxi costs if required.

Question 2

Are accommodations included in the price?

Accepted Answer

No, accommodations are not included in the tour price. Every traveller has different preferences: some prefer a simple, budget-friendly place just to sleep, while others want a high-end hotel with a pool and full comfort. This variety cannot be covered by a flat rate. Carsten is happy to provide personal recommendations – both for specific hotels and for recommended neighbourhoods and areas that suit different budgets and travel styles.

Question 3

Are fuel costs included in the price?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the tour. For day trips around Santa Cruz, fuel costs are already included in the price, as the distances are manageable and easy to calculate. For multi-day trips and longer routes, fuel costs are charged based on actual consumption. The reason: the availability of gas stations varies considerably depending on the route. Where gas (CNG) is available, it is extremely affordable – a full gas tank currently costs around 35 Bolivianos, while a full petrol tank costs around 500 Bolivianos. Since a gas tank provides only about 20% of the range of a petrol tank, the overall cost advantage of gas is roughly two thirds compared to petrol. On routes without gas supply, petrol must be used instead. In addition, on off-road terrain the fuel consumption is significantly higher than on paved roads. Carsten will give you a realistic estimate of fuel costs for your specific route before the tour.

Question 4

Are domestic flights included in the price? How much do they cost?

Accepted Answer

Domestic flights are not included in the tour price and are booked separately. For itineraries that include flights, the guide's (Carsten's) flight costs are also shared among the travel group. Estimated flight prices (as of May 2026, economy fare, BoA): Santa Cruz ↔ Sucre: 400–600 Bs | Santa Cruz ↔ La Paz: 550–800 Bs | Santa Cruz ↔ Cochabamba: 300–500 Bs | Santa Cruz ↔ Tarija: 500–800 Bs | Santa Cruz ↔ Uyuni: 1,000–1,500 Bs | La Paz ↔ Uyuni: 900–1,300 Bs | Sucre ↔ La Paz: 400–700 Bs BoA tip: On most domestic routes, a round-trip ticket costs the same as a one-way ticket. So if you're flying both ways, always book the round trip – the return flight is essentially free. Prices may vary depending on booking time and availability. Early booking is recommended.

Question 5

How do I book a tour?

Accepted Answer

Send a booking request via the contact form, WhatsApp, or Telegram. Carsten will confirm availability and send you all the details. A 50% deposit secures your booking.

Question 6

How does payment work?

Accepted Answer

How to book: 1️⃣ Go to Tours 2️⃣ Select your desired tour and click "Show tour details" 3️⃣ Click "Book now" 4️⃣ Select your travel date and complete the booking Deposit (50 %): Via PayPal or credit card Bank transfer available on request Final payment on-site: Cash: US dollars or euros All prices are listed in euros as a guideline.

Question 7

What languages are spoken? / Interpreter

Accepted Answer

Tours are offered in German, English, and Spanish. Carsten speaks all three languages fluently – including Spanish at a native-speaker level. This means: wherever a translation or interpreting service is helpful, Carsten is happy to assist. Whether in museums, conversations with locals, or at official institutions – you are always in safe linguistic hands.

Question 8

Do I need a visa for Bolivia?

Accepted Answer

It depends on your nationality. The following information applies to tourist stays (as of May 2026). Visa-free (up to 90 days per year) – including: Germany, Austria, Switzerland All EU countries USA (visa-free since December 1, 2025 – up to 90 days) Canada, Australia, New Zealand United Kingdom, Israel, South Korea, South Africa Visa required – including: Some Asian, African and Arab countries For a complete list of countries, please consult the official Bolivian immigration authority ⚠️ Important: Visa regulations can change at any time. Please check the current entry requirements with the Bolivian embassy or your country's foreign ministry before travelling. 💡 Tip for German, Austrian and Swiss citizens: Only a valid passport required (valid for at least 6 months beyond the travel date). No visa, no fees. Official sources: [Dirección General de Migración Bolivia](https://www.migracion.gob.bo/) | [U.S. Embassy La Paz – Visa-free for U.S. citizens](https://bo.usembassy.gov/message-to-u-s-citizens-visitor-visas-no-longer-required-december-3-2025/)

Question 9

Cancellation, bad weather and illness – What applies?

Accepted Answer

Bad weather: Long multi-day tours cannot be cancelled due to weather. With the right clothing, almost anything is manageable – and Carsten will flexibly adjust individual sections if needed. For short tours with off-road sections (e.g. Lomas de Arena, Amboró National Park) that may be difficult to drive in bad weather, the tour can be rescheduled at short notice or swapped for a different tour. Deposit (50% at booking): The deposit secures your booking slot and covers planning and preparation costs. Cancellation by the guest: More than 60 days before departure: full refund of the deposit 30–60 days before: 50% of the deposit is refunded 15–29 days before: 25% of the deposit is refunded Less than 15 days before: deposit is forfeited Special case – illness: If you need to cancel due to illness (with a doctor's certificate), the deposit will not be refunded but credited as a voucher for a future trip. The credit is valid for 24 months. Cancellation by Carsten (illness, force majeure): Full refund of the deposit Or free rebooking to another date of your choice 💡 Tip: A travel cancellation insurance can cover cancellation costs in case of unforeseen events (illness, accident). See the FAQ entry "Travel Insurance for Bolivia" for more details.

Question 10

Travel Insurance for Bolivia – What Is Important?

Accepted Answer

International health insurance is a sensible option for trips to Bolivia – just like for any trip outside the EU. Anyone who wishes to can take out appropriate coverage. Bolivia is not a dangerous travel destination. The altitudes (La Paz approx. 3,600 m, Salar de Uyuni approx. 3,650 m) are well tolerated by healthy adults and visited by thousands of tourists every day – without any special precautions. Possible insurance options: International health insurance (covers doctor visits and hospital stays) Trip cancellation insurance (in case of illness before departure) Luggage insurance (optional) Well-known providers: ADAC International Health Protection (for ADAC members) HanseMerkur Travel Insurance Allianz Travel ERV (European Travel Insurance) ⚠️ Note: Carsten is not an insurance advisor. This information is of a general nature.

Question 11

Are the tours private or in a group?

Accepted Answer

All tours are exclusively private. You travel only with your own travel companions – no strangers, no fixed group schedule, no compromises. What this means for you: The tour is tailored entirely to your wishes and pace No waiting for other participants You receive Carsten’s full attention The programme can be flexibly adjusted at any time

Question 12

What vehicle is used for the tours?

Accepted Answer

Carsten drives a Fiat Fullback 4x4 – a robust all-wheel-drive pickup, identical in construction to the Mitsubishi L200, specially equipped for Bolivia's demanding conditions. Vehicle highlights: Four-wheel drive for gravel roads, off-road tracks and mountain passes Air conditioning for comfortable travel in the lowland heat Ample space for luggage and equipment Regularly serviced and in excellent technical condition Special equipment for extreme terrain: Winch – for recovery situations in deep mud or when obstacles block the path Snorkel – allows safe crossings through rivers and flooded sections Dual-fuel system (LPG + petrol) – maximum range and flexibility even in remote areas without fuel stations Bull bar – reinforced front protection for off-road driving Underbody protection (skid plates) – protects oil pan, radiator and gearbox from rocks and obstacles off-road Tonneau cover / hardtop (optional) – protects luggage in the cargo bed from rain and dust This equipment makes the Fiat Fullback a true expedition vehicle – ideal for Bolivia's diverse landscapes from paved city roads to the most remote off-road tracks in the Andes and lowlands.

Question 13

How much luggage fits in the vehicle? (Especially on multi-day trips)

Accepted Answer

The Fiat Fullback has a load bed with a hardtop cover and additional space in the passenger cabin. Suitcase dimensions (approximate, subject to correction): Typical large suitcase: approx. 80 × 55 × 32 cm On tours without reserve fuel canisters (standard tours): 2 suitcases of the above size fit side by side upright on the load bed There is still space for day backpacks on top Additional luggage can be stored in the front passenger cabin On long tours with reserve fuel canisters (e.g. Lagoon Route, remote areas): The canisters take up part of the load bed 2 suitcases of the above size still fit lying flat on the load bed Day backpacks fit on top of them Additional luggage would need to go in the front, or you travel without the hardtop and stand the suitcases upright 💡 Tip: Please let Carsten know when booking how much luggage you are bringing – he will always find a suitable solution.

Question 14

Salar de Uyuni: What do I need to know?

Accepted Answer

The salt flats are one of Bolivia's most breathtaking experiences. Carsten drives you to Uyuni – the actual Salar tours (1 or 3 days) are booked there with local agencies that navigate the salt flats with specialized vehicles and experienced local guides. Three options after arriving in Uyuni: Carsten waits in Uyuni: You do the Salar tour with a local agency, then continue the journey together (e.g. to Oruro or La Paz). No daily rate applies – only the accommodation costs for the waiting period are shared proportionally. Carsten joins the Salar tour: On request, Carsten can come along (e.g. as interpreter or for extra security). In this case, the tour costs for Carsten plus a daily rate are shared proportionally. The tour ends in Uyuni: You continue independently – for example with a transfer to Chile or Argentina. This option is ideal for groups with planned onward travel abroad. Highlights of the salt flats: Altitude: up to over 5,000 m on the lagoon route – acclimatization is important! Mirror effect: only during the rainy season (Jan–Mar) with a thin layer of water Dry season: perfect white salt surface, all routes accessible Temperatures: pleasant during the day, can drop below 0°C at night Equipment: warm clothing, sun protection (UV reflection on the salt is very high) ⚠️ Note rainy season: The 1-day Salar tour (mirror effect, Isla Incahuasi) takes place even during the rainy season. The road from Potosí to Uyuni is paved and accessible year-round. However, the 3-day lagoon route (Laguna Colorada → Laguna Verde → Chilean border) may be restricted – the dirt roads in the Altiplano can be closed during heavy rain. Anyone planning a transfer to Chile should take this into account. Carsten checks current accessibility before the tour. 💡 Tip: Which option suits you best? We are happy to discuss this in advance. Just contact us via the contact form.

Question 15

When is the best time to visit Bolivia?

Accepted Answer

Bolivia can be visited year-round – every season offers its own unique experience. There is no "bad" time to travel, only different highlights. Dry Season (June–August) – High Season: Clear skies, dry roads, best views of the Andes Ideal for Salar de Uyuni, La Paz, Potosí, Lake Titicaca Perfect travel weather, all routes accessible Many festivals and events Rainy Season (November–April) – Low Season: Spectacular mirror effect on the Salar de Uyuni (Jan–Mar) Green, blooming landscapes in the highlands Oruro Carnival (Feb/Mar) – UNESCO World Heritage Fewer tourists, more authentic experiences, lower prices ⚠️ Restrictions during the rainy season: Some tours may not be possible or may be limited during the rainy season. Most affected are: Amboro National Park (trails often impassable), sand dune tours (access roads may be closed), Samaipata via the old mountain road Santa Cruz–Cochabamba (impassable in heavy rain), all off-road tracks around Samaipata (gravel roads become slippery and impassable in rain), and all routes heading towards the tropics and lowlands (Chapare, Villa Tunari, Amazon region – gravel roads and jungle tracks can be closed for weeks). The paved main roads between major cities are generally accessible even during the rainy season. Carsten will clarify before the tour which routes are currently possible. Shoulder Season (May & September–October) – Hidden Gem: The best of both worlds: good weather + lower prices + few tourists Landscapes still green or already clear Carsten’s personal favourite: May is the ideal travel month 💡 Good to know: The "best" time to travel depends on your goals. Those who want to see the mirror effect travel in the rainy season. Those who prefer dry weather and clear views choose the dry season. For the best value for money, Carsten recommends May or September. He is happy to advise you on which time suits your wishes best. Detailed information with a month-by-month guide can be found here: [Best Time to Visit Bolivia](https://bolivien-ungezaehmt.de/en/blog/beste-reisezeit-bolivien) and [Bolivia Low Season: Why April–May is Ideal](https://bolivien-ungezaehmt.de/en/blog/bolivien-nebensaison-april-mai).

Question 16

What are Bloqueos and how might they affect my trip?

Accepted Answer

Bolivia is a vibrant country with an active civil society – which means that short-notice road blockades, known as Bloqueos, can occasionally occur. These may arise from strikes, political protests, or local actions, and can temporarily make it impossible to continue by road. Carsten is well-connected and continuously monitors the current situation. However, Bloqueos cannot always be predicted or avoided. In such cases, it may possibly be necessary to spontaneously adjust the route or change daily plans. Important: Pre-booking accommodation, flights, or buses is done at your own risk. Carsten, as a tour guide, is not liable for cancellations or additional costs arising from Bloqueos. We therefore recommend choosing flexible booking options and avoiding tight onward travel arrangements immediately after the tour.

Question 17

Do I need vaccinations for Bolivia?

Accepted Answer

Yellow Fever: Bolivia officially requires proof of yellow fever vaccination only in specific cases – when entering from a yellow fever endemic country (e.g. Brazil), when travelling to Bolivian endemic areas (lowlands/Amazon), or when departing to an endemic country. In practice, these certificates are almost never checked for tourists in Bolivia, based on Carsten's experience with hundreds of travellers. However, anyone continuing to Brazil or flying back to Europe via certain transit countries should carry the certificate – it may be required there. Measles note: Bolivian nationals under 10 years of age must present proof of measles vaccination for domestic and international flights. This rule does not apply to foreign tourists. That said, it never hurts to bring a vaccination record – especially when travelling with children. Recommended vaccinations (not mandatory): Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid (especially for travel to the lowlands), Tetanus/Diphtheria (booster recommended), Rabies (for longer stays or animal contact), and Malaria prophylaxis for travel to the Amazon lowlands (not required for the highlands or Salar de Uyuni). Please consult a travel medicine specialist or tropical health clinic before your trip for personalised advice.

Question 18

Do I need to worry about altitude sickness on a Bolivia tour?

Accepted Answer

Yes, this is an important point when planning your trip. Bolivia has extreme differences in altitude: Santa Cruz sits at only 416 m, while Potosí at nearly 4,000 m is one of the highest cities in the world – and on the 3-day salt flats tour, the lagoon route in the southwest reaches over 5,000 m. Ascending too quickly risks altitude sickness (Soroche), with symptoms such as headaches, nausea, and sleep problems. For multi-day trips, a gradual acclimatisation is therefore recommended. A tried-and-tested route would be, for example: Santa Cruz (416 m) → Samaipata (1,650 m) → Sucre (2,810 m) → Potosí (approx. 4,000 m) → 3-day salt flats tour (up to 5,000 m+). This allows the body to adjust in stages rather than jumping straight from lowlands to extreme altitudes. As a rule of thumb: 1–2 days in Samaipata is a good first step, followed by 2–3 days in Sucre or Cochabamba (2,558 m) for further adjustment. That is enough for most travellers to be well prepared for the higher elevations. Carsten plans the route so that acclimatisation is naturally built into the itinerary.

Question 19

What level of fitness do I need for the tours?

Accepted Answer

No problem – the tour is individually tailored to your fitness level. Carsten plans the programme to suit you: more hiking or more comfortable 4x4 driving through the landscape. No special fitness required: All 4x4 tours through the landscape (Salar, Altiplano, Chiquitanía) Jesuit Missions route (cultural, flat terrain) City tours (Santa Cruz, Sucre, Potosí) Biocentro Guembé, Ecoparque La Rinconada Lomas de Arena (sand dunes, short walks) Moderate fitness recommended: Sandboarding on the dunes (active uphill walking) Giant ferns in Samaipata (short hike on uneven terrain) El Fuerte Samaipata (uneven ground, heat) Amboro National Park (shorter trails) Good fitness required: Espejillos viewpoint tower (steep ascent, rewarding views) Longer hikes in Amboro National Park Hikes in La Paz and surroundings (altitude over 3,600 m) Lake Titicaca tours with hiking sections (altitude over 3,800 m) ⚠️ Important regarding altitude: From around 3,000 m, altitude can affect even well-trained individuals. Anyone with cardiovascular conditions should consult a doctor beforehand. More information in the FAQ entry "Altitude Sickness". 💡 Tip: Please let Carsten know before the tour if you have any health limitations (knees, back, heart, respiratory). He will always find a suitable combination that meets your needs.

Question 20

Are the tours possible with children? Is there a minimum age?

Accepted Answer

Yes, many tours are possible with children! Here is a rough guide by age: Toddlers (up to approx. 6 years): Most tours are less suitable for toddlers – long drives, heat, and unfamiliar surroundings can be tiring. However, individual day trips in Santa Cruz work well: Biocentro Guembé (butterflies, birds, pools) Ecoparque La Rinconada (nature, ponds, gardens) City tour Santa Cruz Children (approx. 7–11 years): Villa Tunari (animal parks, nature, lots of fun for kids) Lomas de Arena (sandboarding – a highlight!) Ecoparque La Rinconada Dinosaur Park Sucre (footprints, museum – very popular with children) Samaipata / El Fuerte (cultural, manageable walk) Not recommended for toddlers: Salt flats / lagoon route (high altitude, multi-day, very cold) Long off-road stretches Multi-day Jesuit route 💡 Note: Whether a child is ready for a multi-day or longer tour is something parents can best judge themselves. Just let us know when booking how old the children are and what they enjoy – the itinerary will be adapted accordingly.

Question 21

Do I need medication for altitude sickness?

Accepted Answer

Those who acclimatise gradually – as described above – generally have no serious problems. The body adapts well when the ascent is taken step by step. For extra peace of mind, you can stock up on Sorojchi Pills as a precaution: this is an over-the-counter Bolivian remedy available at any pharmacy and specifically developed for altitude sickness. It contains aspirin, salophen, and caffeine and relieves symptoms such as headaches and dizziness. Simply pick it up in La Paz or any other city – no prescription needed. If you want an additional safety net, speak to your doctor before the trip about Acetazolamide (Diamox) – a prescription medication that actively supports acclimatisation. This needs to be obtained in advance. As a general rule: drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol during the first few days, and listen to your body.

Question 22

Drinking Water and Food on the Road – What Do I Need to Know?

Accepted Answer

Drinking Water: ⚠️ Tap water in Bolivia is NOT safe to drink – not even for brushing teeth! Always use bottled water. Bottled water (Agua purificada) is available everywhere at low cost (0.50–1.50 BOB for 0.5 l) Larger 5-liter bottles recommended for on the road (approx. 5–8 BOB) Ice and Drinks: In good restaurants and hotels: no problem In simple local eateries: avoid ice (often made from tap water) Freshly squeezed juices: only in reputable establishments Food on the Road: Bolivian cuisine is hearty and affordable. Typical dishes when traveling: Salteñas (filled pastries, perfect breakfast) Almuerzo del día (lunch menu with soup + main course, approx. 15–25 BOB) Anticuchos (grilled skewers, popular street snack) Tucumanas and Empanadas In remote areas (e.g., Salar, Lagoon Route): Meals in simple lodges or hostels Carsten coordinates meals and informs you in advance about the situation on site Own snacks (nuts, bars, dried fruit) recommended for long driving days 💡 Tip: In larger cities like Santa Cruz, La Paz, or Sucre, there is a wide variety of restaurants – from Bolivian cuisine to international dishes and vegetarian or vegan options. Anyone with special dietary requirements will find something suitable there.

Question 23

Stomach & Digestive Issues in Bolivia – What Do I Need to Know?

Accepted Answer

Stomach and digestive problems could be among the more common travel complaints in Bolivia – not because the country is particularly dangerous, but because the water, spices, and bacterial strains differ from what your body is used to at home. With the right preparation, however, the risk can be significantly reduced. Common causes: Tap water (avoid even for brushing teeth – always use bottled water) Raw vegetables and salads in simple restaurants Street food (not necessarily bad, but pay attention to hygiene) Combination of altitude, heat, and unfamiliar food Prevention – starting from home: Start taking probiotics 2–4 weeks before your trip (e.g., Culturelle Travel, available at pharmacies) – strengthens your gut flora Ask your doctor for a travel diarrhea antibiotic prescription: Azithromycin or Ciprofloxacin as emergency backup (not for prophylactic use, only when needed) Pack Loperamide (Imodium) – available over the counter – slows intestinal movement during acute diarrhea, very practical when traveling Bring electrolyte powder (e.g., Pedialyte, DripDrop) from home Hepatitis A vaccination recommended – protects against one of the most common travel illnesses transmitted through contaminated water and food What helps during acute symptoms: Drink only bottled or boiled water At local pharmacies: Suero Oral (electrolyte solution) and Loperamide are available everywhere Light diet: rice, bananas, toast (BRAT diet) Stay well hydrated – dehydration is the biggest risk ⚠️ Seek medical attention immediately if you have a fever above 38.5°C (101.3°F) or blood in your stool. ⚠️ Note: Carsten is not a doctor. This information does not replace medical advice. Please consult your doctor or a travel medicine clinic before your trip for personalized recommendations.

Question 24

Mobile Phone and Internet in Bolivia – How Do I Stay Connected?

Accepted Answer

Mobile Phone: Bolivia has three major network operators: Tigo, Entel, and Viva. A local SIM card is recommended for tourists. Buy a local SIM card: Best at the airport or in phone shops in the city (bring ID) Costs: SIM from approx. 20 BOB, data packages very affordable (e.g., 1 GB for approx. 15–20 BOB) Recommendation: Tigo or Entel have the best network coverage Network Coverage by Region: Santa Cruz, La Paz, Sucre, Cochabamba: very good 4G coverage Samaipata, Sucre surroundings, Jesuit Missions: good to satisfactory ⚠️ Salar de Uyuni, Lagoon Route, remote Amboró areas: very limited or no reception Internet: WiFi in hotels and hostels available almost everywhere Quality varies greatly – for important video calls, better to use a mobile data package Roaming with a European Contract: EU roaming does not apply in Bolivia Roaming costs can be very high – check with your provider beforehand or disable roaming Recommendation: Local SIM or eSIM (e.g., Airalo app) for South America 💡 Tip: In emergency situations, Carsten is always reachable and knows the local conditions very well.

Frequently Asked Questions

Costs & Booking