Do’s and Don’t in Bolivia

Cultural Etiquette and Social Interactions

DO: Greet People Politely

A simple greeting goes a long way in Bolivia and is a fundamental sign of respect. Politeness is woven into daily interactions, and acknowledging others is a crucial part of the social fabric. A simple handshake is the standard physical greeting for men and women in most settings.

• When entering a room, shop, or even a small group, it’s customary to offer a general greeting. Use standard Spanish phrases appropriate for the time of day: Buenos días (Good morning), Buenas tardes (Good afternoon), or Buenas noches (Good evening/night).
• In smaller shops and businesses, it’s polite to say permiso (excuse me, with your permission) upon entering and gracias or hasta luego when you leave.
• These small gestures are noticed and appreciated, setting a positive tone for any interaction that follows.

DON’T: Be Overly Direct or Impatient

The rhythm of life in Bolivia is often more measured and unhurried than what many travelers are accustomed to. Punctuality is not always strictly observed, and things may take longer than expected. Embracing this relaxed pace is key to a pleasant experience. Avoid being pushy or appearing agitated in conversations, restaurants, or while waiting for services. Patience is not just a virtue here; it’s a practical tool that will yield far better results than frustration. A calm and understanding demeanor will be met with warmth and cooperation.

DO: Dress Modestly

While Bolivia’s major cities like La Paz and Santa Cruz have a modern, international feel, a conservative approach to dress is generally well-received throughout the country. This is particularly important when visiting religious sites such as churches and cathedrals, or when traveling through more traditional rural and indigenous communities. To show respect, it’s advisable for both men and women to cover their shoulders and knees. Packing lightweight long-sleeved shirts, trousers, or long skirts is a practical way to adapt to different environments while respecting local customs. Learn more about what to pack for Bolivia to ensure you’re prepared.

DON’T: Discuss Sensitive Topics Insensitively

Like any nation, Bolivia has a complex history and contemporary challenges. Topics such as national politics, poverty, the historical loss of coastline, and coca leaf production (often conflated with the “war on drugs”) can be sensitive subjects. It’s best to avoid initiating these conversations. If a local brings up such a topic, approach it with curiosity and an open mind. The most respectful role you can play is that of a listener, seeking to understand a different perspective rather than imposing your own views or offering unsolicited solutions.

Health, Safety, and Acclimatization

Bolivia’s dramatic landscapes, from the Andes to the Amazon, offer unparalleled adventure. However, its ruggedness and high altitudes require a thoughtful approach to health and safety. Paying attention to your body and surroundings is key to a comfortable and memorable journey.

DO: Acclimatize to the Altitude Slowly

Many of Bolivia’s most iconic destinations, including La Paz, Lake Titicaca, and the Salar de Uyuni, are situated at breathtakingly high altitudes. The thin air can cause altitude sickness, or soroche, with symptoms like headaches, dizziness, and shortness of breath. The most effective way to prevent this is to give your body time to adjust.

• Plan your itinerary to ascend gradually if possible. If flying directly into a high-altitude city like La Paz (3,640 meters / 11,942 feet), dedicate your first 24 to 48 hours to rest.
• Avoid strenuous activities upon arrival. Gentle walks are fine, but save any demanding hikes or tours for after you’ve acclimatized.
• During your first day, opt for light meals and stay well-hydrated with water or coca tea. Avoid alcohol, as it can exacerbate the effects of altitude.

DON’T: Underestimate the Sun

The intensity of the sun at high altitude is deceptive. The air may feel cool, but the thinner atmosphere provides less protection from powerful UV rays. Sunburn can happen much faster than you might expect, even on overcast days. Protect yourself diligently by making sun care a non-negotiable part of your daily routine. Always wear a high-SPF sunscreen (SPF 50+ is recommended), a wide-brimmed hat to protect your face and neck, and quality sunglasses that block UV rays.

DO: Drink Bottled or Purified Water

For travelers, the tap water in Bolivia is not considered safe for consumption. To avoid stomach ailments, it is essential to stick to bottled or properly purified water. This rule extends beyond just drinking water; use it for brushing your teeth as well. Be mindful of other potential sources of untreated water, such as ice in your drinks or fresh salads that may have been washed in tap water. When in doubt, especially at street stalls or in more rustic eateries, it’s safest to stick to bottled beverages and hot, cooked foods.

DON’T: Walk Alone at Night in Certain Areas

Like any country, Bolivia requires standard safety awareness. While generally a safe place for travelers, it’s wise to be cautious, particularly after dark in large cities. Crowded areas like markets and bus terminals can be hotspots for petty theft, so keep a close eye on your belongings. When you need to travel at night, avoid hailing unmarked taxis from the street. Instead, use registered radio taxis, which you can book by phone or have your hotel call for you, or utilize trusted ride-sharing apps available in the major cities. Being aware of your surroundings is the best way to ensure your travels remain safe and positive. Understanding the best ways to navigate the country is crucial; consult our guide on getting around in Bolivia.

Food and Drink

DO: Try the Local Cuisine

One of the most rewarding ways to connect with Bolivian culture is through its food. Be adventurous and step into local restaurants and markets to sample the country’s hearty and flavorful traditional dishes. The experience is as much about the atmosphere as it is about the taste.

• Salteñas: This is Bolivia’s quintessential morning snack. It’s a baked pastry with a distinctive teardrop shape, filled with a savory, slightly sweet and spicy stew of meat or chicken, potatoes, and vegetables. Be careful with the first bite—they are famously juicy.
• Sopa de Maní: A surprisingly delicious and creamy peanut soup. It’s a comforting and hearty dish, often served with fries, macaroni, and parsley, that showcases the Andean love for wholesome ingredients.
• Pique Macho: A challenge for those with a big appetite, this is a massive platter designed for sharing. It consists of a bed of french fries topped with chopped beef, hot dogs, onions, bell peppers, boiled egg, and a spicy chili sauce.

For the most authentic experience, explore the local mercados (markets), where you can find these dishes and many more prepared with local pride.

DON’T: Be Afraid of Street Food (But Be Smart)

Street food is a vibrant and delicious part of daily life in Bolivia, and avoiding it means missing out on some fantastic flavors. While caution is always wise when eating abroad, you can enjoy street food safely by following a few simple guidelines.

• Choose vendors who are busy and have a steady stream of local customers. High turnover is a good sign that the food is fresh.
• Opt for food that is cooked to order and served piping hot right in front of you. This helps ensure any potential bacteria has been killed.

DO: Drink Coca Tea (Mate de Coca)

In the high-altitude regions of Bolivia, you will quickly become familiar with mate de coca. This mild herbal tea, made from coca leaves, is a traditional and effective remedy for alleviating the symptoms of altitude sickness, known locally as soroche. It is offered in nearly every hotel and café in places like La Paz and Uyuni. You will also see locals chewing coca leaves, a traditional practice that is perfectly legal within Bolivia. It’s important to know, however, that while consuming coca in these forms is fine locally, exporting the leaves or tea bags is illegal in most countries.

DON’T: Forget to Tip (Modestly)

While tipping culture in Bolivia isn’t as ingrained or obligatory as it is in North America or Europe, it is certainly appreciated as a gesture for good service. There’s no need to overdo it, but a modest tip can go a long way.

• In mid-range to more upscale restaurants, leaving a tip of around 10% of the bill is a customary and polite way to show your appreciation for attentive service.
• For tour guides and private drivers, a tip is generally expected if you were satisfied with their expertise and service throughout your trip.

Money, Bargaining, and Shopping

DO: Carry Small Bills and Coins

Navigating daily transactions in Bolivia is much smoother when you have small change on hand. The local currency is the Boliviano (BOB), and while larger notes of 100 or 200 exist, they can be difficult to use for everyday purchases. Many small shopkeepers, market vendors, and taxi drivers simply won’t have enough change to break them.

• Make it a habit to break larger notes whenever you have the opportunity, such as at a bank, a large supermarket, or your hotel reception.
• Always try to have a mix of 10, 20, and 50 Boliviano notes, as well as a handful of coins, for things like bus fares, snacks, and small souvenirs.

DON’T: Accept Torn or Damaged Banknotes

When you receive change, take a moment to glance at the condition of the bills. In Bolivia, banknotes that are badly torn, taped together, or excessively worn can be difficult to spend. Other vendors may refuse to accept them, leaving you with unusable cash. If you are handed a bill that looks to be in poor shape, it’s perfectly acceptable to politely ask for a different one. A simple “¿Podría darme otro billete, por favor?” (Could you give me another bill, please?) will usually do the trick.

DO: Bargain Respectfully in Markets

Visiting a local artisan market, like the Witches’ Market in La Paz, is a quintessential Bolivian experience, and bargaining is an integral part of it. This isn’t about getting the lowest possible price but is a friendly, light-hearted social exchange. Approach it with a smile and a respectful attitude. If a price seems too high, it’s customary to offer a counter-proposal. A good strategy is to suggest a price a bit lower than what you are ultimately willing to pay, allowing you and the vendor to negotiate and meet at a fair middle point. This interaction is part of the cultural fabric and can be a rewarding experience.

DON’T: Bargain in Formal Stores

While haggling is expected in open-air markets, it is not appropriate in more formal retail environments. In places like supermarkets, pharmacies, established boutiques, and restaurants, prices are fixed and non-negotiable. Attempting to bargain in these settings would be out of place and likely cause confusion. Save your friendly negotiation skills for the vibrant local markets where they are welcomed.

Photography and Local Interactions

Bolivia’s landscapes and vibrant cultures are incredibly photogenic, but capturing these images comes with a responsibility to be respectful and aware. Photography is not just about taking a picture; it’s an interaction that should be approached with sensitivity and understanding. For tips on what to bring to capture these moments, check out our guide on what to pack for Bolivia.

DO: Always Ask for Permission Before Taking Photos of People

This is perhaps the most important rule of photography etiquette in Bolivia. For many indigenous people, a photograph is more than just an image; it can hold deep cultural or spiritual significance. Simply pointing your camera at someone without their consent is considered invasive and deeply disrespectful. Instead, always approach the situation with courtesy.

• A friendly smile and a simple gesture towards your camera is often enough to communicate your intention.
• Learn a simple Spanish phrase like, “¿Puedo tomar una foto, por favor?” (May I take a photo, please?).
• If someone declines, either verbally or with a gesture, respect their wishes immediately and without question. Do not try to sneak a photo afterward. This simple act of respect will go a long way in fostering positive interactions.

DON’T: Take Photos of Military or Government Buildings

As a general rule in many countries, photographing sensitive infrastructure is prohibited, and Bolivia is no exception. Avoid taking pictures of military installations, police stations, presidential buildings, and border checkpoints. Doing so can attract unwanted attention from authorities, who may ask you to delete your photos or, in more serious cases, question you further. It’s a matter of national security, so it’s best to keep your camera away when near these types of official buildings.

DO: Be Prepared to Offer a Small Payment for Posed Photos

In popular tourist destinations, you will often see locals, particularly women in beautiful, traditional attire (cholitas) or children with llamas, who pose for photographs. For many, this is a source of income. It is customary and expected to offer a small payment in exchange for taking their picture. It’s wise to agree on the small fee beforehand to avoid any misunderstanding. Having a few small coins or bills (e.g., 5-10 Bolivianos) on hand is useful for these situations. View it not as a transaction, but as a fair exchange for their time and for the memorable image you get to take home. You can find some of the most visually stunning locations for these interactions in our guide to the best photography spots in Bolivia.

DON’T: Use a Drone Without Checking Regulations

While the idea of capturing aerial footage of the Salar de Uyuni or the Andes is tempting, drone laws in Bolivia can be strict and are subject to change. Flying a drone, especially in national parks, near archaeological sites like Tiwanaku, or in urban areas, often requires special permits. Regulations are enforced, and flying illegally can result in hefty fines or confiscation of your equipment. Before you pack your drone, take the time to research the current, specific regulations from official Bolivian civil aviation authorities to ensure you are flying legally and responsibly.