Budget Travel Guide to Bolivia

Budget Accommodation in Bolivia

Bolivia is cheaper than it's immediate neighbours and this is reflected in the price of accommodation. You can find a hotel room for around US$5, the main thing to be aware of is the hot water schedule and the curfew, which will probably be strictly kept.

Camping is allowed anywhere and fuel for most types of stove is also readily available in all towns with the exception of Coleman fuel. Try to avoid camping right next to settlements but it seems even this is ok if it's unavoidable.

A Traveller's Budget for Bolivia

Eating out can be done cheaply if you take full advantage of the dish of the day (comida del dia) in any restaurants. Good nutritious breakfasts can usually be picked up in markets as can lunch but you should only eat freshly cooked food. Llama meat can contain parasites and salads amoeba so be careful with these two.

To get around the country the public transport is, unsurprisingly, bus, local bus, intercity bus and minibus. Reserve and pay for your seat well in advance for an economy ride, or take your chances on the day as there's huge competition between companies to fill seats and you could end up with a great bargain. Travel during the day as there's less chance of the driver falling asleep.

Activities for the Budget Traveller

Mountaineering in the Andes - the real thing, don't expect to be rescued if you cock up.

Mountain biking - it's still relatively new but the potential is huge. Be a pioneer.

Trekking in the slightly more gentle foothills or on the Inca trails.

Visit the salt flats and see amazing wildlife on the way

Fly into La Paz, the world's highest Capital, and have your breath taken away, literally.

Visit Isla del Sol in Lake Titicaca and discover the birthplace of the Incas.