Is it safe to drink the tap water?

No. Never drink tap water. Use bottled or purified water at all times.

Can I use credit cards?

Only in high-end hotels and restaurants in La Paz and Santa Cruz. Carry enough cash in local currency for 90% of your trip.

Should I worry about the political situation?

Monitor local news for 'bloqueos' (roadblocks). Protests happen, and they can shut down intercity travel for days. Always have a flexible final day in your itinerary.

How to plan a 10-day Bolivia trip

Focus your itinerary on the Altiplano region to minimize travel time and altitude sickness. Stick to the La Paz, Uyuni, and Sucre loop using internal flights to avoid 15-hour bus rides.

Acclimatize immediately. Fly into La Paz (3,640m) and spend your first 48 hours doing nothing strenuous. Drink coca tea and avoid alcohol to prevent severe altitude sickness.
Book your Uyuni tour in advance. Do not show up in Uyuni hoping to find a spot. Book a 3-day Salt Flat tour online at least 3 weeks before you arrive to ensure a reputable operator with safe vehicles.
Use internal flights for long distances. Bolivia is geographically punishing. Fly from La Paz to Sucre (45 mins) instead of taking the 12-hour bus. Use BoA (Boliviana de Aviación) and book these tickets 2 weeks prior.
Pack for four seasons. Even in summer, the desert drops to below freezing at night. Layering is not optional; you need a down jacket and thermals.

Is it safe to drink the tap water?: No. Never drink tap water. Use bottled or purified water at all times.
Can I use credit cards?: Only in high-end hotels and restaurants in La Paz and Santa Cruz. Carry enough cash in local currency for 90% of your trip.
Should I worry about the political situation?: Monitor local news for 'bloqueos' (roadblocks). Protests happen, and they can shut down intercity travel for days. Always have a flexible final day in your itinerary.