Bolivia is one of the most budget-friendly countries in South America. Whether you’re backpacking or just looking for a cheaper way to travel, Bolivia offers plenty of opportunities to stretch your budget. Here’s how you can travel through this beautiful country without breaking the bank, while still enjoying everything it has to offer.
Accommodation: Where to Sleep on a Budget
Bolivia is packed with affordable lodging options. If you’re traveling on a tight budget, hostels are your best option. You can find dorm beds in cities like La Paz, Sucre, and Cochabamba for around $5-10 USD a night. Some places even include breakfast.
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Want a private room but still want to keep costs low? Budget hotels are not hard to find, starting at $15-20 USD per night. Many of these places are simple but clean with basic amenities. Locations outside of main tourist zones may be even cheaper.
Alternative Options
For those who want a different experience, Couchsurfing is also an option. You can connect with locals and stay for free. It’s a great way to meet people, learn about the culture, and save money. Remember to check the reviews of hosts for safety purposes.
Camping
If you’re trekking or heading into Bolivia’s rural areas, camping is possible in some places. Keep in mind that it’s not as common here as in other countries, so you’ll need to ask locals for permission. However, it’s a great way to avoid extra costs when traveling through nature.
Food: How to Eat Cheap in Bolivia
Bolivian food is both tasty and affordable. Street food is your best bet for saving money. You can find hearty meals for just $1-2 USD at local markets and food stalls. Popular options include empanadas, anticuchos (grilled meat skewers), and salteñas (meat-filled pastries).
If you want a sit-down meal, local restaurants, known as “comedores,” offer set meals (almuerzo) for as little as $2-3 USD. These typically include soup, a main dish, and sometimes dessert or a drink.
Markets
Markets are where the locals shop and eat. La Paz and Cochabamba are known for having huge local markets where you can get a meal and buy fruit, fresh bread, and other snacks for very little money.
Supermarkets
If you’re staying in hostels with kitchens, buying groceries and cooking your own meals is a good way to cut down on costs. You can easily find pasta, rice, vegetables, and other staples for an affordable price in supermarkets.
Transportation: Getting Around Bolivia Affordably
Public buses are the cheapest way to get from place to place in Bolivia. For longer distances, buses are very cheap compared to many other countries. For example, a bus ride from La Paz to Sucre (approximately 10 hours) is around $10-20 USD.
If you’re traveling within a city, local minibuses or shared taxis (called “trufis”) usually cost around $0.25-0.50 USD per ride. These can take a bit of time and patience to figure out, but they’re part of the authentic Bolivian experience and the cheapest mode of transportation.
Flight Options
If you’re short on time but still want to keep costs low, compare flights for better deals on domestic routes. Airlines like BOA (Boliviana de Aviación) sometimes offer affordable flights between major Bolivian cities. While flying is usually more expensive than buses, it can save valuable time if you’re on a tighter schedule.
Shared Transport
For a more comfortable experience that’s still budget-friendly, you can take advantage of Bolivia’s various shared transport services like colectivos. These shared vehicles are often faster than buses and not much more expensive. Just be prepared for some cramped conditions.
Cheap or Free Activities in Bolivia
Bolivia has many natural and cultural attractions that won’t require a big budget. Many of these are free or have minimal entrance fees.
Walking Tours
In cities like La Paz and Sucre, you can join free walking tours (although tips are expected). These tours are a great way to learn about the history and culture from a local guide. They are usually 2-3 hours long and can be a fun way to meet other travelers.
Hiking
Bolivia offers countless hiking opportunities in its stunning landscapes. For example, you can hike around Lake Titicaca or explore the countryside around Cochabamba for free. If you want to venture into the more remote areas, like the Yungas or the Andes, you may want to join a guided hike (which generally costs around $30-50 USD for a day trip).
Visit Museums and Historical Sites
Bolivia is rich in history, and visiting some of its museums is incredibly budget-friendly. Most museums charge a small entrance fee of $1-3 USD. For example, you can visit La Paz’s Ethnography and Folklore Museum for less than $2 USD.
Markets
Bolivian markets are a great way to get immersed in local culture. Markets like El Alto (La Paz) or La Cancha (Cochabamba) are chaotic but a fun experience. You don’t need to buy anything to enjoy wandering through these bustling places and seeing what’s on offer.
Valle de la Luna (Moon Valley)
If you’re in or near La Paz, don’t miss Valle de la Luna. This unique geological formation is outside the city and makes for an easy day trip. Entrance is around $3 USD, and the hike will take you through jagged, moon-like terrain.
Budget-Friendly Destinations in Bolivia
La Paz
La Paz is unlike any other city you’ll visit. While there are many things to do, it’s surprisingly cheap. Visit the Witches’ Market, take a cable car ride for spectacular views of the city, or hike up some nearby mountains. The city itself is an experience and doesn’t cost much to explore.
Sucre
Sucre is Bolivia’s white-washed colonial city. Known for its historical charm, it is also cheaper than La Paz. Spend your days here walking around the main plaza, browsing markets, or hiking up to La Recoleta for a beautiful city view, all of which are free activities.
Lake Titicaca
Lake Titicaca is one of the most famous sites in Bolivia. The lakeside town of Copacabana is laid-back, perfect for unwinding on a budget. You can take a short boat ride to Isla del Sol for just a few dollars. Once there, spend your time hiking across the island, which will only cost a small entrance fee.
Uyuni (Salar De Uyuni)
The Salar de Uyuni, or salt flats, are awe-inspiring. While tours here are more expensive (around $90-120 USD for a three-day tour), they are still relatively cheap considering what you get: meals, transportation, and accommodations. If this is out of your budget, you can still visit the area for a day trip (expect to pay around $20-30 USD).
Saving Money on Tours
Bolivia offers many unique attractions, but many require guided tours. Prices can vary from company to company, so take the time to shop around. Hostels often have connections with affordable tour operators and may offer discounts for guests. Also, don’t hesitate to ask for discounts, especially if you’re booking multiple tours.
Group Tours
Joining a group instead of opting for a private tour will drop the cost significantly. For instance, group mountain biking tours on the Death Road offer competitive prices. These include equipment and guides and start around $60-70 USD for a full day.
Final Tips for Budget Travel in Bolivia
Bargaining
Don’t be afraid to haggle, especially at markets or when booking tours. Most vendors expect it, and you can save a couple of dollars just by negotiating. Remember to do so respectfully.
Avoid Organized Tours When Possible
While some places require a tour (like Salar de Uyuni), there are others you can do on your own. With a bit of research, you can save by skipping the middleman. For example, you can visit some nearby ruins or national parks using public transport instead of booking a package.
Bring a Water Bottle
Water is not safe to drink from the tap in Bolivia, but instead of buying bottled water repeatedly, bring a refillable bottle with a filter. You’ll save money and reduce plastic waste.
Use ATMs Sparingly
ATM fees can add up fast in Bolivia. When withdrawing money, take out larger amounts to minimize fees. Some banks are cheaper than others, so ask around to find out which ones travelers recommend.
With careful planning and the right tips, you can enjoy the beauty of Bolivia without spending too much. This is a country where you can have incredible adventures and cultural experiences while keeping your travel budget intact.
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