Booking Domestic Flights in Bolivia
Book your flights directly through the airline's official website using a desktop browser, or visit a local travel agency in person. International credit cards often fail on Bolivian airline websites, so have a backup plan ready.
- Choose your airline. Your main options are BoA (Boliviana de Aviación) for most routes and EcoJet for smaller, regional airports. BoA is the state carrier and the most reliable for major city connections.
- Use the official website. Go to boa.bo or ecojet.bo. Avoid third-party aggregators like Expedia or Kayak, as they often fail to sync correctly with local ticketing systems, leading to booking errors.
- Bypass payment issues. If your credit card is declined—which happens frequently with non-Bolivian cards—select the 'Pay at Office' or 'Reserve' option if available. This holds your seat for 12-24 hours, giving you time to go to a local airline office in a city like La Paz or Santa Cruz to pay in cash.
- Visit a local travel agency. If the website proves impossible, find a 'Agencia de Viajes' in any major city. They can book domestic flights instantly for a small commission (usually $5-$10 USD). This is the most stress-free method.
- Can I use my credit card online?
- Sometimes, but expect it to fail. If you have a card with no foreign transaction fees and 3D Secure enabled, you have a better chance, but keep a backup payment method.
- How early should I arrive at the airport?
- Arrive at least 2 hours before domestic flights. Bolivian airports can be chaotic, and lines for security can move slower than you expect.
- Are delays common?
- Yes, especially during the rainy season (November to March). Fog in La Paz often causes morning flight delays or cancellations.