Is altitude sickness common?

Yes. Almost everyone feels it to some degree in La Paz. Take it slow, avoid alcohol for the first 48 hours, and ask your doctor about Acetazolamide before you leave.

Can I use credit cards?

Only in large hotels and high-end restaurants. Carry enough cash (Bolivianos) for markets, bus tickets, and smaller town expenses.

Is it safe to travel alone?

Bolivia is generally safe for independent travelers, but stick to official taxis (Radio Taxis) in cities and avoid walking in isolated areas after dark.

Planning a Two-Week Bolivia Trip

Focus on the high-altitude Altiplano circuit, starting in La Paz and ending in the Uyuni salt flats. Spend the first 72 hours in La Paz to acclimatize before moving to higher elevations to avoid severe altitude sickness.

Start in La Paz for acclimatization. Fly into La Paz (3,640m). Spend your first three days here taking it slow, drinking coca tea, and using the Mi Teleférico cable car system to see the city without overexerting yourself.
Book internal flights to save time. Bolivia is geographically challenging. Take a 45-minute flight from La Paz to Uyuni instead of a 10-hour bus ride to maximize your time at the salt flats.
Limit your scope. Don't try to see the Amazon basin and the Altiplano in two weeks. The travel times are too long. Stick to La Paz, Lake Titicaca, and the Uyuni circuit to spend less time in transit.
Use reputable tour operators for the Salar. Do not book your Uyuni 3-day jeep tour online at high prices. Wait until you arrive in Uyuni or La Paz to book with a company that has a physical office and recent reviews.

Is altitude sickness common?: Yes. Almost everyone feels it to some degree in La Paz. Take it slow, avoid alcohol for the first 48 hours, and ask your doctor about Acetazolamide before you leave.
Can I use credit cards?: Only in large hotels and high-end restaurants. Carry enough cash (Bolivianos) for markets, bus tickets, and smaller town expenses.
Is it safe to travel alone?: Bolivia is generally safe for independent travelers, but stick to official taxis (Radio Taxis) in cities and avoid walking in isolated areas after dark.