Accommodation in Bolivia
Explore Bolivia's diverse lodging options, from salt hotels to eco-resorts.
Types of Accommodation in Bolivia
Hotels
From the bustling streets of La Paz to the serene Salar de Uyuni, hotels in Bolivia range from no-frills to five stars. Expect the usual amenities but also a dose of local flavor, such as a breakfast of salteñas (Bolivian empanadas).
Hostels
The backpacker’s mecca, hostels are everywhere. They’re the go-to for travelers looking to pinch pesos while making friends over communal breakfasts or a round of singani (Bolivian brandy).
Guesthouses
These are the cozy middle ground between a hostel and hotel, offering a more personal touch. Don’t be surprised if the owner knows your name and your favorite breakfast before you check out.
Apartments
For those who fancy a home away from home, renting an apartment can be a wallet-friendly option, especially for long stays. Bonus: you get to play house with the local fresh produce.
Eco-Lodges
Nestled in the heart of nature, eco-lodges offer a unique experience. It’s all about reducing your carbon footprint while still enjoying the whispers of the Amazonian night.
Homestays
Yearning for an authentic slice of Bolivian life? A homestay is your ticket. Eat, sleep, and live like a local, and maybe learn how to whip up a mean llajwa (spicy sauce) while you’re at it.
Accommodation by Region
La Paz and the Altiplano
The high altitude might take your breath away, both metaphorically and literally. La Paz boasts everything from luxury hotels to artsy hostels. Outside the city, traditional style and rustic comfort rule.
Santa Cruz and the Lowlands
Seekers of tropical vibes and business travelers converge here. Santa Cruz offers sleek hotels and private villas alongside budget-friendly hostels.
Cochabamba and the Valleys
Nicknamed ‘The City of Eternal Spring’, Cochabamba’s accommodations are as blooming and varied as its flowers. Snag a balcony room to enjoy the climate.
Sucre and Potosi
Colonial charm oozes from every guesthouse and boutique hotel. The white walls of Sucre’s lodgings are a canvas for sunsets, while Potosi offers a historic stay near the famed silver mines.
Budget-Friendly Options
Backpacker Hostels
In Bolivia, a pittance can still get you a bed and camaraderie. Hostels aren’t just a place to crash; they’re your information hub and sometimes even your party central.
Budget Hotels
No need to break the bank for a few creature comforts. Budget hotels often surprise with extras like cable TV and ensuite bathrooms, ensuring you’ll have enough bolivianos for a cholita wrestling match.
Local Guesthouses
Family-run and full of heart, local guesthouses can be a steal. Brush up on your Spanish; these gems are a goldmine for cultural exchange.
Camping
For those who find a tent and a starry sky to be five-star accommodation, Bolivia’s national parks and natural reserves beckon.
Mid-Range Accommodations
Boutique Hotels
Personality-packed and brimming with charm, these hotels often reflect Bolivia’s eclectic culture through their decor and service.
Private Cabins
Escape to a cabin in the woods or by a serene lake. They’re the perfect base for daily adventures, and some even come with a llama as your nearest neighbor.
B&Bs
Bed and Breakfasts in Bolivia can be quaint or modern, but they always come with a morning feast. It’s fuel for your day of exploration, served with a smile.
Luxury Stays
High-End Hotels
Think plush robes, gleaming lobbies, and perhaps a spa where you can get a quinoa facial. Bolivia’s luxury hotels are an oasis of comfort.
Luxury Resorts
Whether it’s a golf resort or a spa retreat, these are where you’ll find infinity pools looking out over the Andes or the Amazon.
Exclusive Retreats
Seclusion, personalized service, and settings that would make National Geographic jealous. These retreats aren’t just a stay; they’re a full-blown experience.
Unique Bolivian Experiences
Salt Hotel at Salar de Uyuni
Imagine a hotel made of salt blocks, on the largest salt flat in the world. It’s as surreal as it sounds, and yes, licking the walls is frowned upon.
Amazon Jungle Lodges
Jungle lodges range from rustic to the height of luxury. Here, the sounds of civilization are replaced by howler monkeys and chirping toucans.
Community-Based Tourism
Stay in a village and participate in daily activities. It’s not just an eye-opener; it’s a heart-opener. And your visit supports the local economy – talk about a win-win.
Booking Tips
Best Time to Book
Dry season (May to October) is high season. Book ahead if you don’t want your accommodation choices to evaporate like morning mist over the Yungas.
Websites and Apps
Harness the power of the internet. Websites like Booking.com and Airbnb are your friends, and don’t underestimate the clout of a well-placed review.
Local Agencies
Local agencies often know the nooks and crannies of the accommodation landscape. Trust them to find you a place that’ll make your Instagram followers green with envy.
Safety and Comfort
Areas to Avoid
Every city has its no-go zones. Do your homework, and if locals say it’s dodgy, believe them unless you fancy an adrenaline rush for all the wrong reasons.
Essential Amenities
Hot water is a hot commodity, and altitude can chill you to the bone. Ensure your abode offers warmth, and Wi-Fi is always a plus for bragging to friends back home.
Accessibility
Bolivia can be a challenge for those with mobility issues. Check ahead to ensure your accommodation doesn’t turn into an unintended hike.
Cultural Considerations
Respect Local Traditions
When in Bolivia, do as the Bolivians do. Respect local customs, and don’t haggle too hard at the markets – it’s not a good look.
Language Barriers
A little Spanish goes a long way. Download a translation app or carry a phrasebook; it could mean the difference between ordering a delicious meal and accidentally insulting the chef.
Sustainable and Responsible Travel
Supporting Local Communities
Choose accommodations that give back or are locally owned. Your money can help preserve cultural heritage and support sustainable practices.
Environmental Impact
Think green. Opt for lodgings that prioritize eco-friendly practices. Mother Earth will thank you, and so will future generations of travelers.
