Travel Vaccines and Advice for Bolivia
Bolivia is a beautiful, geographically diverse country. With regions of the Andes as well as the basin of the Amazon, it is the ultimate destination for a taste of what South America has to offer.
There are a variety of one-of-a-kind places in Bolivia. If you want to a taste of the rich geographical scenery, check out the Amboro and Carrasco National Parks.
For a journey to the wild side, visit the Madidi National Park, known for being one of the most extensive biodiversity reserves on the planet.
If you are more interested in history, consider visiting Tiwanaku, a UNESCO World Heritage site, home of the ancient ruins of the pre-Columbian Tiwanaku culture.
No matter what your ideal travel activities are, you are bound to find something interesting to see and enjoyable to do in Bolivia.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Bolivia?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Bolivia
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Bolivia?
What Is the Climate Like in Bolivia?
How Safe Is Bolivia?
See Beautiful Sucre
What Should I Take to Bolivia?
U.S. Embassy in Bolivia
Do I Need Vaccines for Bolivia?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Bolivia. The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Bolivia: typhoid, hepatitis A, polio, yellow fever, chikungunya, rabies, hepatitis B, influenza, COVID-19, pneumonia, meningitis, chickenpox, shingles, Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) and measles, mumps and rubella (MMR).
See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunizations:
- Typhoid –
Food & Water –
Shot lasts 2 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator. - Hepatitis A –
Food & Water –
Recommended for most travelers. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travelers to any destination. - Yellow Fever –
Mosquito –
Required if arriving from a country with yellow fever. Recommended for all travelers over 9 months traveling east of the Andes at altitudes under 7,500 ft. - Chikungunya –
Mosquito –
Bolivia is a higher risk region. Vaccination is recommended if traveling to regions under 10,000 ft. - Rabies –
Saliva of Infected Animals –
High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travelers and those who may come in contact with animals. - Hepatitis B –
Blood & Body Fluids –
Recommended for travelers to most regions. - Influenza –
Airborne –
Vaccine components change annually. - COVID-19 –
Airborne –
Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. - Pneumonia –
Airborne –
Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. - Meningitis –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. - Chickenpox –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. - Shingles –
Direct Contact –
Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended. - TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) –
Wounds & Airborne –
Only one adult booster of pertussis required. - Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) –
Various Vectors –
Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended.
See the table below for more information:
Recommended Travel Vaccinations for Bolivia |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Typhoid | Food & Water | Shot lasts 2 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator. |
| Hepatitis A | Food & Water | Recommended for most travelers. |
| Polio | Food & Water | Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travelers to any destination. |
| Yellow Fever | Mosquito | Required if arriving from a country with yellow fever. Recommended for all travelers over 9 months traveling east of the Andes at altitudes under 7,500 ft. |
| Chikungunya | Mosquito | Bolivia is a higher risk region. Vaccination is recommended if traveling to regions under 10,000 ft. |
| Rabies | Saliva of Infected Animals | High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travelers and those who may come in contact with animals. |
| Hepatitis B | Blood & Body Fluids | Recommended for travelers to most regions. |
Routine Vaccinations for Bolivia |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Influenza | Airborne | Vaccine components change annually. |
| COVID-19 | Airborne | Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. |
| Pneumonia | Airborne | Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. |
| Meningitis | Direct Contact & Airborne | Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. |
| Chickenpox | Direct Contact & Airborne | Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. |
| Shingles | Direct Contact | Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. |
| TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) | Wounds & Airborne | Only one adult booster of pertussis required. |
| Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) | Various Vectors | Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended. |
Specific Vaccine Information
- Typhoid – Typhoid is a potentially serious bacterial infection caused by Salmonella Typhi. It spreads through contaminated food and water. To prevent it, practice good hygiene and consider vaccination when traveling to high-risk areas.
- Hepatitis A – Contagious hepatitis A, caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV), spreads through contaminated food, water, or close contact. Prevention involves vaccination and practicing good hygiene, particularly when traveling to high-risk areas.
- Yellow Fever – Yellow fever, transmitted through mosquito bites, can lead to serious illness. Prevention is key. The yellow fever vaccine is a must for travelers visiting at-risk regions. The vaccine provides lifetime protection.
- Chikungunya – Chikungunya is a viral disease transmitted by infected mosquitoes and can also spread through other means like blood transfusion. To prevent it, use mosquito repellents or wear protective clothing. Vaccination is available and considered the best form of protection.
- Rabies – Rabies, a deadly viral infection, spreads through the saliva of infected animals via bites or scratches. Timely vaccination is crucial to prevent the disease in humans. Pre-exposure vaccination is recommended for high-risk individuals, while post-exposure prophylaxis is essential after potential exposure.
- Hepatitis B – The hepatitis B virus causes liver infection, spreading through contact with infected bodily fluids. Prevention measures include safe practices and, notably, hepatitis B vaccination. This vaccine effectively triggers the immune system to produce antibodies, offering reliable, long-term protection against the virus.
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella are highly infectious diseases, emphasizing the importance of vaccination. The MMR vaccine, given in two doses, is the key to personal and public health safety. It strengthens immunity, minimizing the risk of infection, and is a critical component in halting the spread of these contagious viruses.
Yellow Fever in Bolivia
Yellow fever is primarily found east of the Andes in Bolivia. Regions over 7,500 feet do not have the virus. All travelers over 9 months should be vaccinated if traveling to the eastern regions.
Malaria in Bolivia
Malaria is widespread in Bolivia in regions below 2,500 feet elevation. Antimalarials are recommended for all travelers to the country. Atovaquone, doxycycline, mefloquine and tafenoquine are often given to travelers to Bolivia. Malaria parasite are resistant to chloroquine in the region. Be sure to consult with a travel health specialist on which antimalarials are best for your itinerary and health situation.
Bolivia requires proof of yellow fever vaccination if arriving from a country with the virus. The vaccine is recommended for travel to Beni, Pando, Santa Cruz, Cochabamba, La Paz and Tarija departments. It is not recommended for regions under 2,300 meters (7,500 feet) in elevation.
Travelers should practice enhanced precautions to avoid contracting the Zika virus . Local mosquitoes can spread the virus, creating more risk for travelers. The virus can cause birth defects. Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant should avoid traveling to Bolivia or take extra precautions.
To prevent mosquito bites, travelers should wear long-sleeved shirts and pants (preferably permethrin-treated), and stay in buildings with window screens.
To find out more about these vaccines, see our vaccinations page. Ready to travel safely? Book your appointment either call or start booking online now.
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Bolivia
Prevent Bug Bites in Bolivia
Bug bite prevention strategies involve wearing appropriate clothing and utilizing EPA-approved repellents such as DEET or picaridin, as suggested by the CDC. Stay cautious during peak bug activity periods, clean the affected area, refrain from scratching, and consider over-the-counter remedies while promptly consulting a healthcare professional for severe reactions.
Food and Water Safety in Bolivia
Abroad, make wise food choices by familiarizing yourself with local cuisine and favoring established restaurants. Frequent hand-washing is crucial, and it’s advisable to steer clear of street food, opting for thoroughly cooked options. A travelers’ diarrhea kit is recommended for travel to all regions throughout the world.
Altitude Sickness in Bolivia
Avoid altitude sickness by gradually ascending to high elevations, allowing your body to acclimatize. Stay hydrated, avoid alcohol and caffeine, and consider medication like acetazolamide. If symptoms such as headaches or dizziness occur, descend promptly to lower altitudes and seek medical assistance if necessary.
Infections To Be Aware of in Bolivia
- Chagas disease (American Trypanosomiasis) – Chagas disease, also known as American Trypanosomiasis, is a tropical parasitic infection transmitted by kissing bugs. Preventing Chagas disease involves using repellents and avoiding contacting with the insects.
- Dengue – According to the CDC, dengue fever, caused by a virus from mosquito bites, manifests through fever, headaches, and severe muscle pain. Preventative measures include using insect repellent and wearing protective clothing. While no specific treatment exists, early medical intervention can mitigate severe complications.
- Leishmaniasis – Leishmaniasis is transmitted by sand flies’ bites. To prevent its spread, individuals should use insect repellents, wear long-sleeved clothing and limit outdoor activities during sand fly activity periods. Eliminating breeding sites and early diagnosis are crucial for effective prevention.
- Zika – Zika, transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, can lead to birth defects during pregnancy. Prevention includes mosquito bite avoidance, safe sex, and travel precautions.
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Bolivia?
Every time you enter or exit Bolivia, you will need to get an exit or entry stamp. You are required to have both a passport and a valid travel visa to visit Bolivia.
Bolivia Entry Requirements |
||
| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Bolivia? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | |
|
| Business Visa | |
|
| Vaccinations | |
|
Sources: Embassy of Bolivia and U.S. State Department
For minors traveling alone or with a parent who has Bolivian citizenship, you will need to have authorization from a non-traveling parent (or parents) to return to the United States.
Passport Health has partnered with industry leaders in travel document services, RushMyPassport and G3 Travel Services. These teams will walk you through the Bolivia visa process step-by-step and handle the sometimes difficult communication with embassies and consulates. Start your visa process today!
What Is the Climate Like in Bolivia?
Bolivia’s climate differs from region to region. The three main climates are:
- Llanos (lowlands) – These areas include Santa Cruz, Cobija, Rurrenabaque, and Trinidad. In these regions, the weather can be expected to be an average of 86 °F and very rainy. The best time to visit this area is from May to September when the temperature is cooler and less rainy.
- Altiplano (highlands) – These areas include Lake Titicaca, Oruro, La Paz, Sucre, Cochabamba and Uyuni. The weather is dry and sunny in the highlands, with temperatures between 60°F and 80°F.
- Yungus valley (Amazonian lowlands) – These areas include Chulumani, Sorata, and Coroico. The weather is warm and humid, but cool, refreshing breezes keep temperatures tolerable.
How Safe Is Bolivia?
Travelers visiting Bolivia should take precautions to ensure their safety.
When in crowded areas, like markets and tourist sites, keep an eye on your belongings, so they don’t get stolen. It’s also important to be cautious when using public transportation, as pickpocketing and theft can occur. Avoid unlicensed taxis and use a reputable taxi service if possible.
Political demonstrations can also be dangerous, so it’s best to stay away from them.
Altitude sickness is a risk in Bolivia, especially since the country has high altitude. Before traveling, speak to your doctor about any precautions or medications you should take to prevent altitude sickness. It’s also important to be careful with food and water to avoid getting sick. Don’t drink tap water or use ice cubes, and be careful with raw fruits and vegetables.
Knowing some basic Spanish can also be helpful to communicate with locals.
Keep a low profile, dress modestly, and avoid drawing attention to yourself as a tourist. By following these tips, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to Bolivia.
See Beautiful Sucre
Avoid mosquitoes and other bugs
Insect-borne disease are a
threat throughout the world.
Keep the bugs away with
Passport Health’s repellent options!
Sucre is a city in Bolivia known for its beautiful old buildings and interesting culture. Many tourists visit Sucre to see the old buildings and learn about the city’s history.
There are also many museums and cultural attractions to visit in Sucre that showcase Bolivia’s art and culture. Visitors can try the local food like chicha, a fermented corn drink, and salteñas, a type of baked empanada.
If you’re visiting Sucre, there are several nearby attractions to check out too, like the Tarabuco Sunday market, the dinosaur footprints at Cal Orcko, and the Maragua Crater. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or want to experience something new, Sucre is a great place to visit.
What Should I Take to Bolivia?
Here are some essential items to consider for your trip to Bolivia:
- Spanish-English Dictionary – The majority of Bolivians will not know English. Having some sort of translation available will help make traveling easier.
- Layers of Clothing – Bolivia’s weather conditions vary from region to region. It is important to pack layers of clothes to prepare for any sort of conditions that you may encounter.
- Water Filtration – Safe drinking water can be hard to find in some parts of Bolivia. Having a water filter or filtration tablets can make brushing your teeth or everyday drinking easier.
- Medication – Purchasing prescription medication can be difficult in Bolivia. Make sure you bring all necessary medications with you. Altitude sickness medication is recommended for those going to the Altiplano.
U.S. Embassy in Bolivia
The U.S. embassy in Bolivia offers various services to U.S. citizens traveling abroad.
Some of the services include help with passports and visas, emergency assistance, and support for Americans who may be detained in the country.
The U.S. embassy in Bolivia is located at:
U.S. Embassy La Paz
Avenida Arce 2780
La Paz, Bolivia
Telephone: +(591) (2) 216-8000
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(591) (2) 216-8000
Hours: Monday to Thursday: 08:00 – 17:30 and Friday: 08:00 – 12:00 (except U.S. and local holidays)
Email: ConsularLaPazACS@state.gov
Visit the Embassy to Bolivia website before departure to confirm correct contact details for the office.
If you have any further questions about health and safety precautions when traveling to Bolivia, schedule a visit with a Passport Health medicine clinic today by calling or book online now.
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for Bolivia
Overall rating: 5 stars – 9 reviews
★★★★★
“Great Service“
“I had looked everywhere to inquire about my trip requirements to go to Bolivia. Finally, I simply searched and Passport Health came up. I was grateful. Upon arriving and talking with the nurse, I was given full details, and a personally prepared folder with any question I may have. It was great. I also left there with my first two shots, and all I needed. THANK YOU”
Submitted by: Jo Ann
★★★★★
“Very helpful!“
“The nurse who helped me was very thorough in explaining all the situations I might encounter in Bolivia and the precautions I could take. She gave me recommendations, but I never felt I was being forced to go ahead with vaccinations or pills I didn’t want. She also covered things like food and drink and travelers’ insurance that I would never have considered on my own. She was excellent! I will recommend Edina Passport Health to my friends and family.”
Submitted by: Virginia
★★★★★
“Very thorough, and educational“
“The nurse took care of me was clear, concise and very knowledgeable about everything I needed to know about my trip to Bolivia. You’re in good hands at this place. I’d recommend it anyone.”
Submitted by: Chris
★★★★★
“Passport Health was excellent to deal with!“
“The Travel Nurse we worked with was highly informed, great to work with and made extra effort to make sure that we got all that we needed and wanted for our daughter’s travel to Bolivia. So nice to work with an agency that has all needed information along with the vaccinations and scripts on site!! The information sheet that we submitted previous to the appointment was obviously looked at and a special report specific to our traveler’s needs was prepared for her upon our arrival.”
Submitted by: Victoria
★★★★★
“Very Knowledgeable!“
“I brought my 13 yo to the clinic for required shots for a trip to Bolivia. Our clinician went over the prepared book she had made for him, detailing the areas of concern. Not only did she give him choices (shots or pills) but she also gave him invaluable advice about AVOIDING traveler’s issues.”
Submitted by: Ellen
★★★★★
“Excellent Clinic“
“My parents had gone here before so they knew it was where I should go before my trip to Bolivia. They actually got me in and out very quickly, and they were very nice. I would tell any of my friends who will also be traveling on mission trips to go there to be sure they are going safely on their trip.”
Submitted by: Frankie
★★★★★
“Excellent Service – Competent, Qualified, Caring“
“We are heading to Bolivia for a medical mission trip and were able to get all the info we needed, travel advice and all needed vaccinations in one stop for three members of our family. I feel confident that we received what we needed for disease and sickness protection. Nice peace of mind !”
Submitted by: carol
★★★★★
“Quick, Easy, and Organized“
“The nurse administering my shots was super nice and had everything ready when I got there. She had a booklet ready for me with all of the information I could possibly need for Bolivia. The shot was quick, easy, and painless. It was all said and done within 30 minutes.”
Submitted by: Jensen
★★★★★
“Convenient and Easy“
“Nurse took time to explain everything. Clinic was very well organized and clean. Nurse went over all the immunizations required or suggested for Bolivia.”
Submitted by: Dane
“I had looked everywhere to inquire about my trip requirements to go to Bolivia. Finally, I simply searched and Passport Health came up. I was grateful. Upon arriving and talking with the nurse, I was given full details, and a personally prepared folder with any question I may have. It was great. I also left there with my first two shots, and all I needed. THANK YOU”
“The nurse who helped me was very thorough in explaining all the situations I might encounter in Bolivia and the precautions I could take. She gave me recommendations, but I never felt I was being forced to go ahead with vaccinations or pills I didn’t want. She also covered things like food and drink and travelers’ insurance that I would never have considered on my own. She was excellent! I will recommend Edina Passport Health to my friends and family.”
“The nurse took care of me was clear, concise and very knowledgeable about everything I needed to know about my trip to Bolivia. You’re in good hands at this place. I’d recommend it anyone.”
“The Travel Nurse we worked with was highly informed, great to work with and made extra effort to make sure that we got all that we needed and wanted for our daughter’s travel to Bolivia. So nice to work with an agency that has all needed information along with the vaccinations and scripts on site!! The information sheet that we submitted previous to the appointment was obviously looked at and a special report specific to our traveler’s needs was prepared for her upon our arrival.”
“I brought my 13 yo to the clinic for required shots for a trip to Bolivia. Our clinician went over the prepared book she had made for him, detailing the areas of concern. Not only did she give him choices (shots or pills) but she also gave him invaluable advice about AVOIDING traveler’s issues.”
“My parents had gone here before so they knew it was where I should go before my trip to Bolivia. They actually got me in and out very quickly, and they were very nice. I would tell any of my friends who will also be traveling on mission trips to go there to be sure they are going safely on their trip.”
“We are heading to Bolivia for a medical mission trip and were able to get all the info we needed, travel advice and all needed vaccinations in one stop for three members of our family. I feel confident that we received what we needed for disease and sickness protection. Nice peace of mind !”
“The nurse administering my shots was super nice and had everything ready when I got there. She had a booklet ready for me with all of the information I could possibly need for Bolivia. The shot was quick, easy, and painless. It was all said and done within 30 minutes.”
“Nurse took time to explain everything. Clinic was very well organized and clean. Nurse went over all the immunizations required or suggested for Bolivia.”
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