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HomeRoad TripsSouth AmericaBolivia

Road Trips in Bolivia

Bolivia is a South American country that boasts some of the most diverse landscapes and breathtaking natural wonders, making it a fantastic destination for road trips. From the Altiplano, the Andes Mountains, the Amazon Basin, and the Subtropical Lowlands, Bolivia offers an array of breathtaking vistas that can only be fully appreciated by taking a road trip. Driving along the roads and highways that connect the various regions and cities of Bolivia, one will encounter charming colonial-style towns, indigenous villages, and bustling cities that offer a glimpse into the country's rich cultural heritage.

One of the most famous road trips in Bolivia is the "Death Road" or "Camino de las Yungas." This historic route connects La Paz and Coroico and is considered one of the world's most dangerous roads. The road hugs the edge of a cliff and is only one lane wide in most parts, with no guardrails. Despite the danger, this road trip is a popular adventure for tourists and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Another must-see road trip is the "Potosi Silver Road" which takes visitors through the Andes Mountains to the city of Potosi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Potosi was once the center of the silver-mining industry in South America, and the city still boasts several colonial-style buildings and churches that reflect the city's rich history.

Finally, the "Road of Joy" or "Camino de la Alegría" takes visitors from La Paz to the charming town of Sorata, offering stunning views of the Andes Mountains and the Amazon Basin. Sorata is famous for its trekking opportunities and is considered one of the best destinations for outdoor adventures in Bolivia.

In conclusion, Bolivia is a fantastic destination for road trips, offering an array of diverse landscapes and breathtaking natural wonders. Whether one is seeking adventure, history, or stunning vistas, Bolivia has something to offer everyone.

Expect on your itinerary

Value Value
Landscape Landscape
Nature Nature
Benefit-stress ratio Benefit-stress ratio
Urban life Urban life
Culture Culture
Historical sites Historical sites
Security Security

Best months to drive

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Discover Road Trips in Bolivia

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Bolivia Road Trip Bolivia Road Trip
Bolivia Road Trip
2,518 km 57 km/h 16 days roadtrip
Across Salar de Uyuni Road Trip Across Salar de Uyuni Road Trip
Across Salar de Uyuni Road Trip
572 km 31 km/h 3 days scenic
Ocean to Ocean Road Trip Ocean to Ocean Road Trip
Ocean to Ocean Road Trip
6,736 km 54 km/h 30 days roadtrip
Andes to Atacama Road Trip Andes to Atacama Road Trip
Andes to Atacama Road Trip
4,688 km 68 km/h 25 days roadtrip
Between Lima and La Paz Road Trip Between Lima and La Paz Road Trip
Between Lima and La Paz Road Trip
2,299 km 53 km/h 21 days roadtrip
Yungas Road Yungas Road
Yungas Road
106 km 29 km/h 1 days scenic

Road Trip Highlights in Bolivia

Depending on what you’re interested in, there exist plenty of equally interesting starting points for sightseeing around Bolivia. However, it would be a pity to overlook one of Bolivia’s most interesting cities – La Paz. The capital of Bolivia can boast one of world’s most spectacular locations at an altitude of over 3,500 m above sea level. Bolivia’s commercial hub, La Paz offers a wide choice of must-see attractions, including colonial city centre, Museo Nacional del Arte, and Metropolitan Cathedral.

Bolivia is known for its diversity of beautiful panoramas that it encompasses. However, no one should leave this country without a stop at Lake Titicaca located around 80 km from the capital. This high-altitude lake is the quintessence of Bolivian ambiance. Due to being surrounded by rolling summits on all sides, the lake will impress even the most demanding nature lovers. The best starting point to reach the lake is Copacabana, a tiny settlement and the most important place of pilgrimages in the country.

Are you interested in excellent examples of colonial architecture? Sucre is where you should seek. A religious and political hub in the past, it is studded with small churches, brilliant museums, and mansions reminding residents and tourists about the times of Spanish rule. Other fine examples of architectural pieces from this particular historic period can be found in the towns of Tarabuco and Cochabamba, surrounded by charming hinterlands. 

Bolivia is also valued for its natural reserves. An example here can be the Parque Nacional Carrasco located a short drive from Chapare, where the foothills of towering Andes give way to the lush and fecund Amazon basin. Interestingly, this particular area is infamous for being the main source of the world’s cocaine supply. 

The fans of history will be surely amazed at the beautiful pre-Inca archaeological sites that can be found in El Fuerte near Samaipata, a popular resort town with several accommodation options of varied standards. Nearby, you’ll also have an opportunity to pay a visit to La Higuera, where one of Che Guevara’s last guerrilla campaigns had its fiasco.

Suggested Road Trips in Bolivia

Bolivia offers a variety of scenic and culturally rich road trip options for visitors. Here are three of the best:

Regardless of which road trip you choose, Bolivia offers a wealth of natural beauty and cultural diversity that is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Car Rentals in Bolivia

For a relatively affordable means of transport it’s best to resort to Bolivia’s bus system. However, the crowded and humid interiors of many of public vehicles will be unbearable for some holidaymakers. At your disposal, you’ll also have trains which are considerably slower in comparison to buses.

Although buses and trains come in different forms and all travellers may find something that will suit their needs, many decide to opt for a rental car. You will find multiple car rental companies in larger cities, in the capital, and at international airports. Due to the fact that Bolivia can’t boast impeccable roads, it’s often best to rent a 4x4 vehicle.

Bolivia: traffic regulations

Bolivia follows right-hand traffic which will be good news for all motorists who are slightly apprehensive about new driving environments. In order to drive a car in Bolivia, you should have your driver’s licence. It is additionally recommended to have an International Driving Permit. Apart from your driver’s licence, you’ll be required to have your registration documents and a proof of insurance. A mandatory piece of equipment that has to be carried at all times is a warning triangle. 

You need to be 18 in order to drive a car in Bolivia, and some of the car rental companies require motorists to be 25 to rent a vehicle. There’s also another requirement – you will be frequently expected to have more than one year of experience behind the wheel. 

Most traffic regulations are similar to European and North American standards. You need to drive with your seatbelts fastened, observe the speed limits, and avoid drinking and driving. The permitted blood alcohol level is 0.07%. Also, you should avoid using horn during the day and at night. It should be used only in case of an emergency or to prevent a car accident. However, you are obliged to use it before slopes and sharp turns on mountain roads.

When taking a Road Trip in Bolivia

When taking a road trip in Bolivia, there are a few important things to keep in mind:

Overall, taking a road trip in Bolivia can be a rewarding and unforgettable experience, but it's important to be prepared and respect the local culture and environment to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Best Time for taking a Road Trip in Bolivia

The best time to take a road trip in Bolivia is from April to November, during the dry season. During this period, the roads are clear and free of mud, making it easier to travel through the countryside. The weather is also more stable and less likely to cause unexpected road closures or detours. The temperatures during this period are pleasant, making it more comfortable for outdoor activities and sightseeing. However, it is still important to be prepared for changes in weather, especially in higher altitudes where sudden rain or snow can occur. Keep in mind that during peak tourist season, popular destinations may be more crowded, so it is advisable to plan ahead and book accommodations in advance.

How expensive is a Road Trip in Bolivia

Bolivia is a budget-friendly destination, making it an excellent choice for a road trip on a budget. The cost of a day, week, or month-long road trip in Bolivia will depend on several factors, including the type of accommodations, food choices, and activities planned.

Accommodations in Bolivia range from budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses to luxury hotels. A budget traveler can expect to pay around $10-20 USD per night for a hostel dorm room, while mid-range hotels will cost around $30-50 USD per night. Luxury hotels and resorts can cost upwards of $100 USD per night.

Food and drink costs in Bolivia are generally very affordable, especially if you stick to local markets and street food stalls. A basic meal from a local eatery can cost as little as $2-3 USD, while a nice dinner at a mid-range restaurant can cost around $10-20 USD per person. Alcohol prices are also reasonable, with a beer costing around $1-2 USD and a cocktail around $3-5 USD.

As for transportation, renting a car in Bolivia is relatively inexpensive, with rental prices starting at around $30-40 USD per day. However, it is important to note that driving conditions in Bolivia can be challenging, especially for inexperienced drivers. Another popular option is to travel by bus, which is the most common form of transportation in Bolivia. Bus fares vary depending on the distance traveled, but generally range from $1-5 USD per hour of travel.

Overall, a road trip in Bolivia can be done on a budget of around $20-30 USD per day for basic accommodations, food, and transportation. However, this cost can increase significantly if you choose more luxurious accommodations or activities.

Guidebooks and Road Maps for Road Trip in Bolivia

Here are some recommended guidebooks and road maps for a road trip in Bolivia:

These guidebooks and road maps are great resources for planning a road trip in Bolivia, offering both practical information and cultural insights to help you make the most of your journey

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