Pre-Trip Checklist: Isla Del Sol

Essential Preparations

Planning Timeline

Follow this guide to ensure comprehensive preparation for your trip.

+ Months Before

Passport & Visa

Passport valid 6+ months beyond departure; research & apply for Bolivia visa. Entry requires this validity period.

Flights & Health

Book international flights to LPB; consult doctor for vaccinations/altitude medication.

Insurance

Purchase comprehensive travel insurance covering medical, evacuation, trip issues.

Month Before

Accommodation & Itinerary

Book main accommodation in Copacabana/Isla del Sol; refine island itinerary.

Physical Prep

Begin exercise routine for high-altitude hiking.

Language

Start learning basic Spanish phrases.

Week Before

Confirmations

Reconfirm all flights, buses, boats, accommodations.

Cash & Health

Withdraw Bolivian Bolivianos in La Paz/Copacabana; pack meds & first-aid.

Digital & Bank

Download offline apps; notify bank of travel plans; make document copies.

Advance Bookings

Secure bookings to avoid availability issues, especially during peak travel times.

Essential Reservations

International flights to Bolivia.
Long-distance bus tickets (e.g., La Paz-Copacabana).
Accommodation on Isla del Sol, notably if specific preferences apply.
For packing and travel gear, visit Eagle Creek.

Pre-Trip Research

Inform yourself about the destination before you leave for a smoother journey.

Research Areas

Check current political stability and any travel advisories issued by your government.
Verify the latest public boat schedules from Copacabana to Isla del Sol.
Read up on Bolivian culture, customs, and current events.
Understand seasonal hints for your visit.

Home Preparation

These steps ensure peace of mind regarding your home while you are away.

Inform Contacts

Share your itinerary with trusted family or friends.
Share emergency contact information.
Leave a contact number for emergencies.
Confirm your return date.

Arrange Care

Arrange for mail collection.
Arrange for pet care if needed.
Arrange for plant watering if applicable.
Leave a spare with a trusted person.

Secure Home

Confirm home security.
Lock all windows and doors.
Unplug unnecessary electronics.
Use timers for lights to deter intruders.

Important Precaution

Consult a travel health clinic or your doctor. Discuss required (Yellow Fever) and recommended vaccinations (Hepatitis A/B, Typhoid, etc.). Inquire about altitude sickness medication.

Arrival Checklist

These steps contribute to a smooth entry into Bolivia and your journey to Isla del Sol.

Arrival at LPB

Clear Immigration
Confirm a clear entry stamp with the correct permitted stay duration.
Collect Luggage
Retrieve your checked baggage from the carousel.
Currency & SIM
Exchange currency or withdraw Bolivian Bolivianos from an ATM; purchase a local SIM card.

Orientation & Acclimatization

Acclimatize in La Paz
Spend at least a full day (preferably two) in La Paz to adjust to the high altitude before heading to the even higher Isla del Sol. Take it easy.
Utilize Maps
Orient yourself using your physical maps and offline digital maps for navigation.
Locate Services
Find important services like ATMs, the bus terminal, and local markets in La Paz and Copacabana.

Arrival Logistics

Currency & Purchases

Exchange money at official `casas de cambio` for favorable rates.

Immediately purchase bottled water for hydration upon arrival.

Transfers in La Paz

Use the Teleférico or licensed radio taxis from El Alto airport to your accommodation in La Paz.

In Copacabana, guesthouses are likely within walking distance of the bus terminal and boat docks.

Getting to the Island

Opt for public buses for travel to Copacabana for better value.

Choose public boats to Isla del Sol instead of more costly private charters.

Travel Tip: Insurance

Select coverage for emergency medical treatment, emergency medical evacuation (especially for high-altitude, remote areas), trip cancellation/interruption, and lost luggage. Consider World Nomads for comprehensive options.

Departure Preparation

Plan for a relaxed departure from Isla del Sol and Bolivia, minimizing stress.

Souvenirs & Shipping

Purchase souvenirs directly from local artisans on Isla del Sol or in Copacabana.
For larger items needing shipping, arrange this from La Paz.
Shipping services are not available on the island or in Copacabana.
Bolivia does not have a formal VAT refund system for tourists.

Pre-Departure Timing

For international flights from LPB, allow ample time (at least 2-3 hours).
Traffic in La Paz can be unpredictable, and the airport's high altitude influences timing.
Arrive at the bus terminal at least 30 minutes before your scheduled bus departure from Copacabana.
Confirm exact boat departure times from Isla del Sol back to Copacabana the day before.

Final Departure Checks

Ensure all details are covered for a smooth exit from Bolivia.

Document & Luggage Review

Confirm all travel documents (passport, boarding passes) are in order.
Reconfirm your flight or bus times.
Pack any last-minute items.
Do a final sweep of your guesthouse room.

Pre-Departure Mindset

Anticipate a smooth journey ahead.
Prepare for the transition back to home.
Pack consciously and efficiently.
Reflect on the memories created on Isla del Sol.

Final Reminder

Do a final sweep of your guesthouse room on Isla del Sol to ensure you have not left any belongings behind.

Limited infrastructure means forgotten items are rarely recovered.

Pre-Trip Checklist