Budget to visit Bolivia

Bolivia Trip Cost Summary: A Quick Overview

Bolivia is renowned as one of South America’s most affordable travel destinations, offering incredible value for every type of traveler. Whether you’re counting every penny or seeking comfortable convenience, your money goes remarkably far here. To help you plan, we’ve broken down the potential daily costs based on three common travel styles. These figures are a general guide for your on-the-ground expenses, covering accommodation, food, local transport, and minor activities. They do not include major pre-trip costs like international flights or big-ticket tours, which we’ll detail later.

Daily Budget Estimates per Person

Here is a quick look at what you can expect to spend per day in Bolivia. These estimates provide a solid starting point for your financial planning.

A backpacker will typically stay in hostel dorms, eat at local markets and “menu del día” lunch spots, and use public transport. A mid-range traveler can afford private rooms in guesthouses, enjoy a mix of local and sit-down restaurant meals, and take occasional taxis or internal flights. The luxury budget opens the door to boutique hotels, fine dining, private tours, and greater overall comfort and convenience.

Major Pre-Trip Expenses to Factor In

Before you even step foot on Bolivian soil, a few significant costs will shape your overall budget. Planning for these expenses in advance ensures you have a clear picture of your total trip cost and can allocate your on-the-ground funds more effectively. For most travelers, flights and comprehensive travel insurance represent the two largest initial investments.

International Flights to Bolivia

Your flight will likely be the single most expensive part of your trip. Bolivia’s relative isolation means there are few direct flights from outside of South America, so prices can fluctuate significantly based on your origin, the time of year, and how far in advance you book.

• From North America: Expect to pay between $800 and $1,500 USD for a round-trip ticket. Flights typically involve a layover in a hub like Miami, Bogotá, or Lima.
• From Europe: Prices generally range from €900 to €1,600. Most routes will connect through Madrid, São Paulo, or another major South American city.
• From other parts of South America: If you’re already on the continent, flights are much more affordable. A flight from Lima, Peru, or Santiago, Chile, could cost between $300 and $600 USD.

Bolivia has two primary international gateways:

• Viru Viru International Airport (VVI) in Santa Cruz: Located in the lowlands, this is Bolivia’s busiest airport. Flying here is an excellent choice for those who want to acclimatize to the altitude gradually before heading into the Andes.
• El Alto International Airport (LPB) in La Paz: As one of the highest international airports in the world (over 4,000 meters / 13,000 feet), arriving here is an immediate introduction to the altitude. It’s convenient for travelers wanting to immediately explore La Paz, Lake Titicaca, and the Salt Flats.

Tips for Finding Cheaper Flights

• Book Well in Advance: Aim to book your flights at least 3-4 months ahead of time for the best prices, especially if traveling during the peak dry season (June-August).
• Travel in the Shoulder Season: Fares are often lower in April-May and September-October. The weather is still pleasant, and you’ll encounter fewer crowds.
• Consider Flying to a Neighboring Country: Sometimes, it can be cheaper to find a deal to a major hub like Lima, Peru (LIM), and then book a separate, low-cost regional flight or even take a scenic long-distance bus into Bolivia.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is not a recommendation for Bolivia; it’s an absolute necessity. The country’s rugged terrain, high altitudes, and focus on adventure activities mean that having robust coverage is essential for your safety and financial peace of mind. Learn more about visa and travel requirements to visit Bolivia to ensure you’re fully prepared.

The primary reasons insurance is critical include the risk of altitude sickness (soroche), which can affect anyone regardless of fitness level, and the inherent risks of popular activities like mountain biking the Death Road or trekking in the Andes. Medical facilities outside of major cities can be basic, making emergency support vital. Check out our guide to Bolivia’s geography for context on its high-altitude regions.

• Estimated Cost: For a typical 2-3 week trip, a comprehensive policy will likely cost between $50 and $100 USD, depending on the provider and level of coverage.
• Key Coverage to Look For:
  • Emergency Medical Evacuation: This is non-negotiable. Ensure your policy covers evacuation from remote areas to a facility with adequate medical care, which may even mean a flight to another country.
  • High-Altitude Trekking: Check the fine print. Many standard policies do not cover trekking above 4,000 meters. If you plan on hiking in the Andes, you must ensure your policy specifically includes this.
  • Adventure Sports Coverage: If you plan on biking, climbing, or participating in other adventure activities, verify that they are covered by your plan.
  • Trip Cancellation & Interruption: Protects your investment in flights and pre-booked tours in case of unforeseen circumstances.

On-the-Ground Costs in Bolivia: A Detailed Breakdown

Once you arrive in Bolivia, you’ll find it to be one of the most affordable countries in South America. Your daily expenses will largely depend on your travel style, but even with a modest budget, you can experience the country’s incredible highlights. Here’s a detailed look at what you can expect to spend on accommodation, food, transport, and activities.

Accommodation Costs

Bolivia offers a wide range of lodging options, from basic backpacker hostels to comfortable mid-range hotels. Prices are generally low, especially outside of major tourist hubs.

• Hostels: The go-to for backpackers, Bolivian hostels are social and incredibly cheap. A bed in a shared dormitory will set you back about 40 – 70 BOB ($6 – $10 USD). For more privacy, a private room in a hostel typically costs between 100 – 180 BOB ($15 – $26 USD).
• Budget Guesthouses (Alojamientos/Residenciales): These are simple, often family-run establishments offering basic private rooms, sometimes with a shared bathroom. They provide a more local experience than a hostel and are a great value, usually costing 70 – 140 BOB ($10 – $20 USD) per night.
• Mid-Range Hotels: For more comfort, such as reliable hot water, Wi-Fi, and included breakfast, a mid-range hotel is a great option. In cities like La Paz, Sucre, and Copacabana, expect to pay between 200 – 450 BOB ($30 – $65 USD) for a comfortable double room.

Food and Drink Budget

Food in Bolivia is delicious, hearty, and exceptionally cheap. Eating like a local is the best way to keep your food budget low while enjoying authentic flavors.

• Street Food & Local Markets: This is where Bolivian cuisine shines. For a few bolivianos, you can get a quick and tasty meal. Don’t miss out on staples like salteñas (a savory baked pastry) or tucumanas (a deep-fried version) for about 5 – 8 BOB ($0.70 – $1.20 USD). Freshly squeezed juices at the market are also a must-try, costing around 5 – 10 BOB ($0.70 – $1.50 USD).
• “Menu del Día” (Set Lunch Menus): The “menu of the day” is the single best way to eat well on a budget. For an incredible 15 – 30 BOB ($2 – $4.50 USD), you’ll typically get a soup, a main course (like chicken with rice and potatoes), and sometimes a small drink or dessert. Look for signs outside local restaurants around lunchtime.
• Mid-Range Restaurant Meals: A sit-down dinner at a more tourist-oriented or mid-range restaurant will cost more, but it’s still very reasonable. Expect a main course to be in the range of 40 – 80 BOB ($6 – $12 USD).
• Cost of Drinks: A large bottle of local beer like Paceña or Huari costs about 20 – 30 BOB ($3 – $4.50 USD) in a restaurant. A large bottle of water from a shop is around 5 – 7 BOB ($0.70 – $1.00 USD), and a soft drink will be a similar price.

Transportation Within Bolivia

Getting around Bolivia is an adventure in itself. While infrastructure can be basic, it’s functional and very affordable. Your choice between buses and flights will depend on your balance of time versus budget. For a comprehensive overview, see our guide on getting around in Bolivia.

Local Transport

Within cities, public transport is the cheapest way to travel. Micros (buses) and trufis (shared taxis with fixed routes) cost just 1.5 – 2.5 BOB ($0.20 – $0.35 USD) per ride. City taxis are also common; a short ride across town should cost between 10 – 20 BOB ($1.50 – $3.00 USD). Always agree on the fare before getting in.

Long-Distance Buses

Buses are the primary mode of transport for traveling between cities. For overnight journeys, it’s worth paying a little extra for a more comfortable seat.

• “Semi-cama” vs. “Cama”: “Semi-cama” seats recline partially (around 140 degrees), while “cama” seats are the top tier, reclining almost fully flat (160-180 degrees), making them ideal for a better night’s sleep.
• Sample Fares:
  • La Paz to Uyuni (overnight, 10-12 hours): 100 – 180 BOB ($15 – $26 USD)
  • Sucre to La Paz (overnight, 12-14 hours): 120 – 200 BOB ($17 – $29 USD)

Internal Flights

For vast distances or difficult terrain, flying can be a huge time-saver. It’s the only practical way to get from the Andes to the Amazon basin, for example. The main domestic airlines are Boliviana de Aviación (BoA) and the now less frequent Amaszonas. A one-way flight from La Paz to Rurrenabaque (for Amazon tours) can cost between $70 – $100 USD, saving you a bumpy 20-hour bus ride.

Activities and Tour Prices

While daily living costs are low, organized tours and activities will likely be the largest part of your Bolivia budget. These iconic experiences are often the reason for visiting, and they are worth every penny. This is where you should allocate a significant portion of your funds.

Salar de Uyuni Salt Flats Tour

A trip to Bolivia isn’t complete without visiting the world’s largest salt flat. The experience and cost vary significantly based on duration. Many photographers find Bolivia a dream destination, so check out our photography guide.

• 1-Day Tour: This tour focuses solely on the salt flats near Uyuni. It typically costs $25 – $40 USD.
• 3-Day/2-Night Tour: The most popular option, this comprehensive tour covers the salt flats, colored lagoons, geysers, and high-altitude deserts, usually ending in San Pedro de Atacama, Chile, or returning to Uyuni. Expect to pay $100 – $150 USD.
• What’s Included/Not Included: The price generally covers a 4×4 driver/guide, all meals, and two nights of very basic accommodation. It does not usually include the Eduardo Avaroa National Reserve entrance fee (~150 BOB), Isla Incahuasi entrance (~30 BOB), or access to hot springs (~6 BOB).

Death Road Biking Tour

Cycling the infamous “World’s Most Dangerous Road” is a major adrenaline rush. Tour prices range from $70 – $110 USD. The price difference often reflects the quality of the bikes, safety equipment, and experience of the guides. This is not an activity where you want to cut corners; choose a reputable company with excellent reviews.

Amazon Pampas or Jungle Tours

From the gateway town of Rurrenabaque, you can explore either the wildlife-rich pampas or the dense jungle. A standard 3-day/2-night all-inclusive tour (food, lodging, guide) typically costs between $150 – $220 USD. This price does not include flights to Rurrenabaque or the Madidi National Park entrance fee (~200 BOB).

Other Costs

Smaller day-to-day activity costs add up but are very manageable.

• Museum Entrance Fees: Most museums in cities like La Paz and Sucre charge a modest 10 – 20 BOB ($1.50 – $3.00 USD).
• City Walking Tours: Free (tip-based) walking tours are popular, but specialized paid tours can cost around $10 – $15 USD.
• Teleférico in La Paz: Riding the city’s incredible cable car system is a must-do. Each line costs just 3 BOB ($0.45 USD) per ride.

Sample Bolivia Travel Budgets

To help you visualize how these costs come together, we’ve created three sample daily budgets. These figures exclude major pre-trip expenses like international flights and travel insurance but include a major tour cost in the two-week estimate. Think of them as a practical guide to your daily spending once you’re on the ground. For a broader understanding of the country, consult our main Bolivia Travel Guide.

The Backpacker’s Budget: $30/day

Traveling Bolivia on a shoestring is not only possible but also a deeply rewarding way to experience the country. This budget is for the traveler who is comfortable with dorm rooms, local markets, and long bus journeys. It prioritizes experience over comfort, allowing for an extended trip and immersion in the local culture without breaking the bank.

Daily Breakdown

• Accommodation: $8 – $12 (Dorm bed in a hostel)
• Food: $10 – $12 (Street food for breakfast/dinner, a hearty “menu del día” for lunch)
• Transport: $2 – $3 (Local micros and trufis)
• Activities: $5 – $8 (Museum entrance, Teleférico ride, or saving up for a big tour)

Sample 2-Week Total Cost

A backpacker can have an incredible adventure over two weeks with this budget. The calculation includes daily expenses plus the quintessential Salt Flats tour, which is often the largest single expense.

• Daily Expenses: $30/day x 14 days = $420
• Major Tour: 3-day/2-night Salar de Uyuni tour ≈ $150
• Estimated Total: Approximately $570 USD for two weeks.

The Mid-Range Traveler’s Budget: $60/day

For those seeking a balance between affordability and comfort, the mid-range budget offers significant upgrades. This allows for private rooms, a mix of local and more formal dining experiences, occasional taxis for convenience, and the ability to participate in several of Bolivia’s signature tours without hesitation. It’s the sweet spot for many travelers.

Daily Breakdown

• Accommodation: $20 – $30 (Private room in a guesthouse or budget hotel)
• Food: $20 – $25 (A mix of “menu del día,” street food, and sit-down dinners at tourist-friendly restaurants)
• Transport: $5 – $8 (Occasional taxis, comfortable long-distance buses)
• Activities: $10 – $15 (City tours, museum entries, and other smaller excursions)

Sample 2-Week Total Cost

This budget provides a comfortable and activity-rich two-week itinerary, allowing you to experience multiple iconic Bolivian adventures.

• Daily Expenses: $60/day x 14 days = $840
• Major Tours: Salar de Uyuni tour ($150) + Death Road biking tour ($85) ≈ $235
• Estimated Total: Approximately $1,075 USD for two weeks.

The High-End Traveler’s Budget: $120+/day

If convenience, comfort, and unique experiences are your priority, this budget opens up a different side of Bolivia. It accommodates boutique hotels, a la carte dining, private transportation, and internal flights to maximize your time. You can opt for higher-end tour operators, private guides, and more exclusive experiences, such as staying in a luxury salt hotel in Uyuni.

Daily Breakdown

• Accommodation: $50+ (Comfortable mid-range or boutique hotel)
• Food: $40+ (A la carte dining at well-regarded restaurants, cocktails)
• Transport: $20+ (Private taxis, internal flights to save time on long journeys)
• Activities: $20+ (Private tours, higher-end tour operators, more frequent guided activities)

Sample 2-Week Total Cost

A high-end trip focuses on maximizing comfort and efficiency, allowing you to see and do more in less time, with a greater degree of personalization.

• Daily Expenses: $120/day x 14 days = $1,680
• Tours & Flights: Premium or private tours ($400+) + one or two internal flights ($150) ≈ $550+
• Estimated Total: Starting from $2,230 USD for two weeks, with significant potential to increase based on the level of luxury.

Top Tips for Saving Money in Bolivia

Bolivia is already one of South America’s most affordable destinations, but with a few smart strategies, you can stretch your Bolivianos even further. Adopting local habits and planning strategically will allow you to experience the best of the country without straining your wallet.

Eat the “Menu del Día”

Perhaps the single best tip for budget dining in Bolivia is to embrace the “menu del día” (menu of the day). This is a set lunch offered by countless local restaurants, from simple eateries to more established spots. For a very low price, typically between 20-35 BOB ($3-5 USD), you get a multi-course meal that usually includes a soup (sopa), a main dish (segundo) with meat, rice, and potatoes, and often a small drink or dessert. It’s a filling, authentic, and incredibly cost-effective way to have your main meal of the day. For more on local flavors, check out our guide to the Gastronomy of Bolivia.

Use Overnight Buses

Distances between Bolivia’s major attractions can be vast, and overnight buses are an efficient solution for both time and money. By traveling through the night on popular routes like La Paz to Uyuni or Sucre to La Paz, you save the cost of a night’s accommodation. While it may not be the most luxurious sleep, opting for a “cama” (lie-flat) or “semi-cama” (reclining) seat provides reasonable comfort and ensures you arrive at your next destination ready for a new day. Learn more about navigating the country with our guide to Getting around in Bolivia.

Bargain Respectfully

Haggling is an accepted and expected part of the shopping experience in certain contexts, particularly in artisan and souvenir markets like the Witches’ Market in La Paz. However, it’s important to do so respectfully. A good approach is to offer a price slightly lower than what you’re willing to pay and negotiate from there with a friendly attitude. Remember, the goal is a fair price for both you and the vendor. Bargaining is not appropriate in restaurants, supermarkets, or stores with clearly marked prices.

Travel in the Shoulder Season

To find a sweet spot of good weather, fewer crowds, and better prices, consider visiting Bolivia during the shoulder seasons. These periods, from April to May (after the rainy season) and September to October (before the rains begin), offer pleasant travel conditions. You may find more flexibility with accommodation and slightly lower prices on tours compared to the peak dry season of June through August. Understand the Weather and Climate in Bolivia to plan your visit.

Withdraw Larger Sums from ATMs

ATM fees can quietly add up. Most Bolivian banks charge a fixed fee per withdrawal, and your home bank likely does the same. To minimize these costs, plan your cash needs and withdraw larger amounts less frequently. Instead of taking out small sums every couple of days, withdraw the maximum allowable amount to reduce the number of transaction fees you’ll incur over your trip.

Team Up with Other Travelers

Traveling with others is a classic way to cut down on costs. This is especially true in Bolivia. You can easily share the cost of a taxi from the airport or for getting around a city. More significantly, you can form a small group at your hostel to negotiate a better rate for a private tour of the Salar de Uyuni or to hire a guide for a trek. Tour operators are often willing to offer a lower per-person price for a pre-organized group.

Practical Money Matters for Your Trip

Navigating the financial landscape of a new country is a key part of smooth travel. In Bolivia, a little preparation goes a long way. While it remains one of South America’s most affordable destinations, understanding its currency, cash culture, and banking system will save you time and potential headaches. For a comprehensive overview of what to expect, consult our Bolivia Travel Guide.

Currency in Bolivia (The Boliviano – BOB)

The official currency of Bolivia is the Boliviano, abbreviated as BOB. While some high-end tour operators or hotels in tourist hubs might quote prices in US dollars, all your day-to-day transactions will be in the local currency.

To give you a general idea of value, exchange rates are typically stable. As a rough guide:

• $1 USD is approximately 6.9 BOB
• €1 EUR is approximately 7.5 BOB

It’s always wise to check the current exchange rate just before your trip for the most accurate figures. Bolivian currency comes in the following denominations:

• Coins: 10, 20, and 50 centavos, as well as 1, 2, and 5 Bolivianos.
• Banknotes (Bills): 10, 20, 50, 100, and 200 Bolivianos.

A practical tip: The 100 and 200 BOB notes can be difficult to break, especially in small shops, markets, or taxis. Always try to carry a mix of smaller bills (10s, 20s, and 50s) for daily purchases.

Using ATMs and Credit Cards

Accessing your money in Bolivia is straightforward in urban areas but requires planning when you venture into more remote regions.

ATMs, known locally as cajeros automáticos, are widely available in all major cities and towns like La Paz, Sucre, Cochabamba, Santa Cruz, and Uyuni. You can find them in banks, pharmacies, and large supermarkets. However, once you travel to smaller villages or rural areas, they become extremely scarce. Always withdraw enough cash before heading off the beaten path, such as for a multi-day trek or a trip into the Amazon. For information on what to bring and general travel advice, see our Visa and travel Requirements to visit Bolivia.

Be aware of withdrawal limits, which typically range from 2,000 to 3,500 BOB ($290 – $500 USD) per transaction, depending on the bank. Most local banks will charge a small fee for foreign cards, and your home bank will likely add its own charges for international withdrawal and currency conversion. It’s often more cost-effective to withdraw the maximum amount allowed to minimize these fixed fees.

Credit card acceptance is very limited. You can generally use Visa or MasterCard at upscale hotels, high-end restaurants, major supermarkets, and some large tour agencies in La Paz or Sucre. For everything else—hostels, markets, local eateries, taxis, and entrance fees—you will need cash.

The Importance of Cash

Bolivia is overwhelmingly a cash-based society. Relying on credit cards is not a viable strategy for the average traveler. Cash is essential for the vast majority of your transactions.

• Cash is King: From a delicious salteña on the street to a long-distance bus ticket, cash is the required payment method. Ensure you always have a sufficient amount on hand for your daily needs.
• Small Bills are a Necessity: As mentioned, vendors often lack change for large bills. A common frustration is trying to pay for a 5 BOB taxi ride with a 100 BOB note. Make a habit of breaking larger notes whenever you can, for instance, when paying for a meal in a larger restaurant or buying groceries in a supermarket.
• Exchanging Foreign Currency: If you bring foreign currency to exchange, US Dollars are by far the most preferred and easiest to change. Ensure your bills are in pristine condition—crisp, clean, and free of any rips or markings, as worn notes are often rejected. The best and safest places to exchange money are official exchange houses, known as casas de cambio, which offer competitive rates. You can also exchange at banks, though the process can be slower. Avoid changing money with street vendors, as the risk of scams and poor rates is high.