Bolivia is a beautiful South American nation. It is the one place where history, culture, natural beauty, political struggle, and local hospitality come together.
Bolivia isn't one of the world's more famous tourist destinations. But if you just have a little patience, you can have a trip that would give you memories worth a lifetime. Before you leave, remember to purchase travel insurance or travel medical insurance to protect yourself against any unexpected accidents, illnesses, or injuries.
Bolivia Travel Medical Insurance for International Travelers - FAQs
International travel medical insurance is a safety net for travelers in the unfortunate event of a medical emergency. When you cross national frontiers, you are outside the purview of your domestic insurance plan. Travel medical insurance offers financial support in case of medical mishaps.
Do I need travel medical insurance for Bolivia?
Yes. Bolivia requires all visitors to have travel insurance that specifically covers medical emergencies, as well as related coverage for COVID-19 treatment.
Why buy travel medical insurance for Bolivia?
The medical facilities in Bolivia are not what most international travelers are used to. And the risk of infectious diseases is high. Especially outside the cities, it can become tough to find the right medical help at the right time. You should buy Bolivia travel medical insurance so that you are covered for all medical expenses.
Bolivia Trip Cancellation Insurance for International Travelers - FAQs
Demonstrations, strikes, and protests are common occurrences in Bolivia. They often result in temporary roadblocks and delays, and they could also cause unexpected flight cancellations and border closures in extreme situations. You might have to cancel your trip due to personal reasons. In such situations, Bolivia trip cancellation insurance coverage will come in handy.
Why buy trip cancellation insurance for Bolivia?
The political situation in Bolivia can be classified as volatile. This heightens the risk of having to cancel, postpone, or cut short your trip. It is advised that you buy Bolivia travel insurance, as it can help you stay protected against the financial burden of trip cancellations if you cancel for a reason covered in the policy.
What all is covered under trip cancellation insurance for Bolivia?
International travel often involves putting down prepaid, non-refundable deposits for services like airfare, lodging, rental cars, tours, and so on. If you do have to cancel your trip, trip cancellation insurance can reimburse you for these fees if you cancel for a reason explicitly listed in the policy's certificate wording. Most standard travel insurance plans include the most common reasons for cancellation, including illness, flight cancellations, or work-related emergencies. Be sure to read the fine print of your policy before you purchase to get a better understanding of what circumstances are (and aren't) covered.
Things to Do for Travelers in Bolivia
It can get really confusing to finalize your travel itinerary in Bolivia. Why? There is literally so much to do and see that the choices can be baffling.
To make it one notch easier for you, here are the top things to do in Bolivia:
Visit the Uyuni Salt Flats
Stretching out endlessly, the Uyuni Salt Flats make for a picturesque experience. The place has low light pollution, and you can expect to see the Milky Way while stargazing at night.
Bike down the "Death Road"
If you want to experience the ultimate thrill, you should bike down North Yungas Road, known colloquially as "Death Road". Make sure you take all safety precautions, though. And once you are done with the ride, you will be rewarded with a savior's T-shirt, too.
See the Pink River Dolphins
Selva Boliviana, a part of the Amazon basin, can be explored with guided expeditions. Other than the rare pink river dolphins, you can also spot crocodiles, monkeys, and leopards, if you are particularly lucky.
Have a surreal experience at Badlands of Tupiza
In the southern Badlands of Tupiza, the landscape will make you feel like you are on another planet. You have to see it to believe it.
Go moon walking outside La Paz
The Valley of the Moon, just 10 kilometers (about 6 miles) outside La Paz, is a maze of canyons and giant spires of clay and sandstone. And you don't even need a guide to experience the feeling of walking on the moon in this valley.
Travel Risks for International Travelers in Bolivia
Bolivia isn't the safest of destinations. Should that stop you from exploring the many tourist-worthy experiences that it offers?
Not at all. You just need to be aware of the risks and practice common sense and caution.
Here are the common risks that you should know of:
- Bolivia has a high risk of several diseases, including rabies, Chagas, and malaria. Food-borne diseases are also probable. Another important issue that concerns many travelers is altitude sickness. Most parts of Bolivia, including the capital, are at higher altitudes. Fainting, dizziness, and difficulty in breathing can occur. The medical facilities aren't always available at hand or on par with global standards. Emergency medical evacuation remains the best option.
- Not only can tours be risky in Bolivia, but travel scams are also common. Do proper research before finalizing a reliable, reputable tour operator. Also, prison tours are a major red flag.
- Petty crime, thievery, and mugging targeted towards tourists are common. Be aware of fake police asking you for documents and fake tourists trying to help you. Make sure you don't wander around in the dark or alone. Keep your valuables safe and close. Avoid flashing things of value when out in public.
- Bolivia faces frequent political unrest, and supposedly peaceful protests can soon turn violent. Don't involve yourself in any kind of protest, and try to steer clear of the affected areas.
- The road transport system in Bolivia is not the best. The roads are risky, and traffic accidents happen. Also, fake taxis are a major issue. Make sure you only get into licensed vehicles with postings or markings on the windows or windshields.
Before You Travel to Bolivia…
Before you set out for your Bolivian vacation, here are the three things that you must do:
- Get all your paperwork in place. From passports to visas, and their photocopies, make sure to have everything together.
- Understand all the safety measures that you should be following. Bookmark official government advisory websites, and adhere to government-issued guidelines for a safe journey.
- Analyze the risks that you are most likely to be exposed to. Explore the options for Bolivia travel insurance and compare them. Then, pick the option with the most appropriate coverage. Make your Bolivian holiday hassle-free with an insurance plan that can offer complete peace of mind.