Bolivia
Most citizens of the European Union, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and many South American countries can enter Bolivia without a visa. This applies for tourist stays up to 90 days. Citizens of the United States need a visa for Bolivia. One obtains this visa in advance from a Bolivian embassy or consulate in the US. Alternatively, you might get it on arrival at major ports of entry including La Paz El Alto International Airport, Uyuni airport, and the Desaguadero border crossing. Applying in advance is wise to avoid potential delays or issues at the border.
For visa-exempt nationalities, gather: Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned departure from Bolivia, proof of onward travel, and evidence of sufficient funds. For US citizens applying for a visa on arrival (requirements can change): Passport valid for at least 6 months, two recent 4x4 cm (1.6x1.6 inch) color photographs with a white background, completely filled visa application form, booking confirmations for hotels or a letter of invitation from a host, bank statements or credit card statements showing sufficient funds, and a round-trip flight itinerary. A Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate is mandatory if you arrive from an endemic country or region.
The tourist visa fee for US citizens is $160 USD (as of early 2024). This payment is possible in US dollars (ensure bills are clean and crisp) or by credit card at major airports. Exact change in cash is useful. Immigration procedures at Uyuni's small airport or bus/train stations are usually quick for visa-exempt travelers. For those needing a visa on arrival, the process can take longer. Patience helps.
For the Eduardo Avaroa Andean Fauna National Reserve, most multi-day Salar de Uyuni tours include entry. An entrance fee applies to foreign tourists, typically 150 BOB (Bolivian Bolivianos). You pay this fee in cash at the reserve entrance. Most tour prices do not include this fee, so travelers pay separately.
$160 USD (approx. 1100 BOB)
Cash (clean, crisp USD bills) or credit card at major airports.
Carry exact change in cash to avoid issues.
Eduardo Avaroa Andean Fauna National Reserve
150 BOB (Bolivian Bolivianos)
Payable in cash at the reserve entrance. Usually not included in tour price.
EU, AUS, NZ, CAN, many S. American countries
Up to 90 days for tourism.
Yellow Fever Certificate may still apply based on origin/transit country.
Some nationalities, especially from Asia and Africa, need a visa in advance. Consult the Bolivian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website or your local Bolivian embassy/consulate for precise requirements. This step is critical for a smooth entry.
Travelers over 1 year of age arriving from or transiting through countries with yellow fever transmission risk need this certificate. It is also a suggestion for visitors to endemic areas within Bolivia, like the Amazon basin and certain lowland regions. Direct travel to the high-altitude Salar de Uyuni area does not strictly need it unless you have transited through or come from a high-risk country. Always check the latest requirements from the CDC or WHO before your trip.
Two recent 4x4 cm color photos (white background).
Hotel booking confirmations or invitation letter.
Bank statements or credit card statements.
Round-trip flight itinerary or onward ticket.
Bolivia is a relatively affordable travel destination, but specific costs for the Salar tour vary based on your travel style.
The official currency of Bolivia is the Bolivian Boliviano (BOB). As of early 2024, approximately 1 USD equals 6.9 BOB. Exchange rates do fluctuate. US dollars find wide acceptance for exchange in major cities like La Paz. Exchange houses (casas de cambio) often offer better rates than banks. ATMs are available in Uyuni town, but withdrawing cash in larger cities like La Paz or Santa Cruz is useful. Uyuni ATMs sometimes run out of cash or charge higher fees. Credit cards are generally not accepted for tour payments or in smaller establishments in Uyuni. Bring sufficient cash (BOB and some USD) for your tour, reserve fees, and any incidental purchases.
Tipping is not generally expected or common in Bolivia for everyday services. For tour guides and drivers on a multi-day Salar de Uyuni tour, a tip for excellent service is appreciated. A reasonable tip for a driver or guide for a 3-day tour might be 50-100 BOB ($7-$14 USD) per person, if the service was exceptional and safe. Travelers usually pool this amount among the group. In restaurants, rounding up the bill or leaving a small amount for good service is common, but not expected.
These are estimates and vary by season, negotiation, and operator.
The high altitude and remote nature of the region call for specific precautions. Be informed about common concerns and how to mitigate them.
Salar de Uyuni sits at approximately 3,656 meters (11,995 feet) above sea level. Multi-day tours often reach altitudes over 4,900 meters (16,000 feet). Symptoms include headache, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, and shortness of breath. More severe symptoms include vomiting, severe headache, confusion, and fluid in the lungs or brain. These require immediate medical attention.
Consider medication: Consult your doctor about prophylactic medication like Acetazolamide (Diamox). You can also bring over-the-counter remedies like Sorojchi Pills, available locally in Bolivia. Coca leaves or coca candy are helpful; many find chewing them or drinking coca tea useful for mild symptoms.
The sun's UV radiation is intense due to the high altitude. The air also has extreme dryness. Protection is important.
Use High-SPF sunscreen (30+), Wide-brimmed hat, and UV-protection sunglasses.
Drink plenty of water throughout the day to avoid dehydration.
Contaminated food or water poses a risk. Careful choices are important for your digestive well-being.
Drink only Bottled or purified water. Avoid tap water and ice.
Avoid uncooked fruits/vegetables washed in tap water. Eat at reputable places.
Uyuni has basic hospital services, but facilities have limitations. Remote areas have extremely limited medical care.
For serious issues, evacuation to La Paz, Santa Cruz, or a neighboring country may be needed.
Emergency services number is 911, though reliability varies.
| Category | Consideration | Recommended |
|---|---|---|
| Medical Coverage | Emergency treatment, hospitalization, evacuation (useful for altitude-related issues). | World Nomads, SafetyWing, Insubuy |
| Trip Protection | Trip interruption or cancellation (e.g., tour cancellation, severe weather). | Check policy for high-altitude activities. |
| Baggage & Personal Items | Lost or stolen luggage and personal belongings. | Ensure coverage for valuables. |
