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Communication

Communication

Bolivia

Mobile Services

Entel, Tigo, and Nuevatel Viva are major providers. Entel has better coverage in remote areas, but Salar signal is non-existent.

Access & Availability

  • SIM cards purchased at provider offices with passport.
  • Top-ups readily available at kiosks or via mobile apps.
  • No Wi-Fi at refugios or on the Salar.

Language Guidance

Spanish is the main language. English is limited in Uyuni. Learning basic Spanish phrases is recommended.

Translation Aids

Postal Services

Basic postal services are available in Uyuni.

Sending Mail

  • Sending international mail can be slow.
  • Consider sending postcards from a larger city.
  • Unreliability for timely international delivery exists.

Offline Planning

Mobile signal is very limited or non-existent on the Salar de Uyuni and throughout the Eduardo Avaroa Andean Fauna National Reserve.

Digital Disconnect

  • Expect to be offline for the duration of multi-day tours.
  • Plan to enjoy the digital detox experience.
  • Do not rely on Uyuni Wi-Fi for important work.

Spanish Phrases

Common Greetings

  • Hello: Hola (OH-lah)
  • Goodbye: Adiós (ah-dee-OHS)
  • Please: Por favor (por fah-VOR)
  • Thank you: Gracias (GRAH-see-ahs)

Useful Questions

  • Yes/No: Sí/No (see/noh)
  • Excuse me/Sorry: Disculpe (dis-KOOL-peh)
  • How much?: ¿Cuánto cuesta? (KWAHN-toh KWEHS-tah?)
  • Water: Agua (AH-gwah)

Be Prepared

Mobile signal is very limited or non-existent on the Salar de Uyuni and throughout the Eduardo Avaroa Andean Fauna National Reserve. Expect to be offline for multi-day tours.

Money & Banking

Information on currency, ATMs, and typical business hours.

Operating Schedules

Banks typically operate Mon-Fri, 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM. Shops usually follow a 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM - 7:00 PM schedule. Restaurants serve lunch from 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM and dinner from 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM.

ATMs and Cash

ATMs are available in Uyuni town, mainly near the main plaza. It is a good idea to withdraw cash in larger cities like La Paz before arriving in Uyuni.

ATM Reliability

ATMs in Uyuni can sometimes run out of cash or be unreliable, especially during peak tourist times or holidays. Plan accordingly.

Holiday Considerations

Bolivia observes numerous public holidays (national, regional, religious).

Holiday Impact

  • Services like banks and government offices may be closed or have reduced hours.
  • Transport schedules can be affected during holidays.
  • Check a Bolivian public holiday calendar before your trip.

Seasonal Closures

During the peak wet season (January-February), heavy rains can occasionally lead to temporary closures or route changes.

Weather Impacts

  • Severe rains can cause unsafe conditions.
  • Tour routes may change if conditions become unsafe.
  • Always confirm current conditions with your tour operator.

Airport Perks

Lounge Access

  • Consider a Priority Pass.
  • This allows independent airport lounge access.
  • Access applies to lounges worldwide.

Flight Compensation

  • If flights are delayed or cancelled, Compensair assists.
  • Service helps claims for compensation.
  • Includes denied boarding situations.

Airport Perks

Consider a Priority Pass for airport lounge access. If flights are delayed, Compensair assists with compensation claims.

Local Customs & Etiquette

Navigating local interactions and cultural norms.

Greeting Customs

A simple "Hola" or "Buenos días/tardes/noches" is appropriate.

Social Graces

  • Handshakes are common.
  • Light kiss on the cheek common for close friends/family.
  • Generally not for tourists with strangers.

Appropriate Attire

Generally casual and practical for tourism in Uyuni.

Dress Code

  • Modest dress is appreciated, especially in rural areas.
  • For the Salar, warmth and sun protection are priorities.
  • Comfortable clothing for active tours.

Photography Ethics

Respect requests not to be photographed. Be discreet and avoid being intrusive.

Permission & Privacy

  • Always ask permission before photographing people, especially children.
  • If you cannot ask, do not take the photo.
  • Do not photograph military or police personnel.

Dining & Tipping

Tipping is not widely expected but is appreciated for exceptional service on tours.

Practices

  • Dining habits are relaxed.
  • Tipping is not mandatory.
  • Service on tours receives tips.

Taboos & Sensitive Topics

Avoid Discussion Of

  • Avoid discussing politics or recent instability.
  • Sensitive issues like the historical relationship with Chile.
  • Bolivia is a relatively conservative country.

Gender & LGBTQ+ Information

  • Public displays of affection are generally uncommon.
  • LGBTQ+ travelers use discretion, especially in rural areas.
  • Major cities like La Paz are more tolerant.

Religious Site Etiquette

General Conduct

  • Not directly relevant to Salar tours.
  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites in Bolivia.
  • Remove hats upon entering.

Behavior

  • Maintain quiet and respectful demeanor.
  • Observe local customs and practices.
  • Consider local sensitivities.

Language Advice

Learn basic Spanish phrases. This significantly assists daily interactions and shows respect for local culture.

Accessibility Information

Important considerations for travelers with specific accessibility needs.

Infrastructure Limitations

Infrastructure for travelers with mobility challenges is extremely limited in Bolivia, including Uyuni.

Challenges

  • Sidewalks are often uneven or non-existent.
  • Ramps and elevators are rare.
  • Public transportation is not accessible.

Salar Tour Accessibility

Salar de Uyuni is a challenging destination for travelers with significant mobility needs.

Points to Note

  • The Salar itself is flat, but vehicle access challenging.
  • Basic refugios on multi-day tours are not wheelchair accessible.
  • Refugios have very basic, often shared, facilities.

Specific Needs

No specific services or infrastructure are widely available for visual or hearing impairments.

Assistance & Resources

  • Assistance depends on personal travel companions.
  • Specialized tour operators may offer support.
  • Research specialized tour operators for Bolivia accessibility.

Planning for Accessibility

For detailed and up-to-date information regarding accessibility.

Further Information

  • Consult travel forums focused on accessible travel for Bolivia.
  • Connecting with others who have visited.
  • Directly contact tour operators with specific questions.

Plan Ahead

Research specialized tour operators or travel forums focused on accessible travel for Bolivia. This helps gather detailed and up-to-date information.

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