Travel Vaccines and Advice for Bolivia
Bolivia is a beautiful, geographically diverse country. With regions of the Andes as well as the basin of the Amazon, it is the ultimate destination for a taste of what South America has to offer.
There are a variety of one-of-a-kind places in Bolivia. If you want to a taste of the rich geographical scenery, check out the Amboro and Carrasco National Parks.
For a journey to the wild side, visit the Madidi National Park, known for being one of the most extensive biodiversity reserves on the planet.
If you are more interested in history, consider visiting Tiwanaku, a UNESCO World Heritage site, home of the ancient ruins of the pre-Columbian Tiwanaku culture.
No matter what your ideal travel activities are, you are bound to find something interesting to see and enjoyable to do in Bolivia.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Bolivia?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Bolivia
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Bolivia?
What Is the Climate Like in Bolivia?
How Safe Is Bolivia?
See Beautiful Sucre
What Should I Take to Bolivia?
Canadian Embassy in Bolivia
Do I Need Vaccines for Bolivia?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Bolivia. The PHAC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Bolivia: typhoid, hepatitis A, polio, yellow fever, rabies, hepatitis B, influenza, pneumonia, meningitis, chickenpox, shingles, Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) and measles, mumps and rubella (MMR).
See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunizations:
- Typhoid –
Food & Water –
Shot lasts 2 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator. - Hepatitis A –
Food & Water –
Recommended for most travellers. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travellers to any destination. - Yellow Fever –
Mosquito –
Required if arriving from a country with yellow fever. Recommended for all travellers over 9 months travelling east of the Andes at altitudes under 2,300 metres. - Rabies –
Saliva of Infected Animals –
High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travellers and those who may come in contact with animals. - Hepatitis B –
Blood & Body Fluids –
Recommended for travellers to most regions. - Influenza –
Airborne –
Vaccine components change annually. - COVID-19 –
Airborne –
Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. - Pneumonia –
Airborne –
Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. - Meningitis –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. - Chickenpox –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. - Shingles –
Direct Contact –
Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended. - TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) –
Wounds & Airborne –
Only one adult booster of pertussis required. - Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) –
Various Vectors –
Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended.
See the table below for more information:
Recommended Travel Vaccinations for Bolivia |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Typhoid | Food & Water | Shot lasts 2 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator. |
| Hepatitis A | Food & Water | Recommended for most travellers. |
| Polio | Food & Water | Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travellers to any destination. |
| Yellow Fever | Mosquito | Required if arriving from a country with yellow fever. Recommended for all travellers over 9 months travelling east of the Andes at altitudes under 2,300 metres. |
| Rabies | Saliva of Infected Animals | High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travellers and those who may come in contact with animals. |
| Hepatitis B | Blood & Body Fluids | Recommended for travellers to most regions. |
Routine Vaccinations for Bolivia |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Influenza | Airborne | Vaccine components change annually. |
| COVID-19 | Airborne | Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. |
| Pneumonia | Airborne | Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. |
| Meningitis | Direct Contact & Airborne | Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. |
| Chickenpox | Direct Contact & Airborne | Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. |
| Shingles | Direct Contact | Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. |
| TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) | Wounds & Airborne | Only one adult booster of pertussis required. |
| Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) | Various Vectors | Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended. |
Specific Vaccine Information
- Typhoid – Typhoid is a potentially serious bacterial infection caused by Salmonella Typhi. It spreads through contaminated food and water. To prevent it, practice good hygiene and consider vaccination when travelling to high-risk areas.
- Hepatitis A – Contagious hepatitis A, caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV), spreads through contaminated food, water, or close contact. Prevention involves vaccination and practicing good hygiene, particularly when travelling to high-risk areas.
- Yellow Fever – Yellow fever, transmitted through mosquito bites, can lead to serious illness. Prevention is key. The yellow fever vaccine is a must for travellers visiting at-risk regions. The vaccine provides lifetime protection.
- Rabies – Rabies, a deadly viral infection, spreads through the saliva of infected animals via bites or scratches. Timely vaccination is crucial to prevent the disease in humans. Pre-exposure vaccination is recommended for high-risk individuals, while post-exposure prophylaxis is essential after potential exposure.
- Hepatitis B – The hepatitis B virus causes liver infection, spreading through contact with infected bodily fluids. Prevention measures include safe practices and, notably, hepatitis B vaccination. This vaccine effectively triggers the immune system to produce antibodies, offering reliable, long-term protection against the virus.
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella are highly infectious diseases, emphasizing the importance of vaccination. The MMR vaccine, given in two doses, is the key to personal and public health safety. It strengthens immunity, minimizing the risk of infection, and is a critical component in halting the spread of these contagious viruses.
Yellow Fever in Bolivia
Yellow fever is primarily found east of the Andes in Bolivia. Regions over 2,200 metres do not have the virus. All travellers over 9 months should be vaccinated if travelling to the eastern regions.
Malaria in Bolivia
Malaria is widespread in Bolivia in regions below 760 metres elevation. Antimalarials are recommended for all travellers to the country. Atovaquone, doxycycline, mefloquine and tafenoquine are often given to travellers to Bolivia. Malaria parasite are resistant to chloroquine in the region. Be sure to consult with a travel health specialist on which antimalarials are best for your itinerary and health situation.
Bolivia requires proof of yellow fever vaccination if arriving from a country with the virus. The vaccine is recommended for travel to Beni, Pando, Santa Cruz, Cochabamba, La Paz and Tarija departments. It is not recommended for regions under 2,300 meters in elevation.
Travellers should practice enhanced precautions to avoid contracting the Zika virus. Local mosquitoes can spread the virus, creating more risk for travellers. The virus can cause birth defects. Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant should avoid travelling to Bolivia or take extra precautions.
To prevent mosquito bites, travellers should wear long-sleeved shirts and pants (preferably permethrin-treated), and stay in buildings with window screens.
To find out more about these vaccines, see our vaccinations page. Ready to travel safely? Book your appointment either call or start booking online now.
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Bolivia
Prevent Bug Bites in Bolivia
Bug bite prevention strategies involve wearing appropriate clothing and utilizing EPA-approved repellents such as DEET or picaridin, as suggested by the PHAC. Stay cautious during peak bug activity periods, clean the affected area, refrain from scratching, and consider over-the-counter remedies while promptly consulting a healthcare professional for severe reactions.
Food and Water Safety in Bolivia
Abroad, make wise food choices by familiarizing yourself with local cuisine and favoring established restaurants. Frequent hand-washing is crucial, and it’s advisable to steer clear of street food, opting for thoroughly cooked options. A travellers’ diarrhea kit is recommended for travel to all regions throughout the world.
Altitude Sickness in Bolivia
Avoid altitude sickness by gradually ascending to high elevations, allowing your body to acclimatize. Stay hydrated, avoid alcohol and caffeine, and consider medication like acetazolamide. If symptoms such as headaches or dizziness occur, descend promptly to lower altitudes and seek medical assistance if necessary.
Infections To Be Aware of in Bolivia
- Chagas disease (American Trypanosomiasis) – Chagas disease, also known as American Trypanosomiasis, is a tropical parasitic infection transmitted by kissing bugs. Preventing Chagas disease involves using repellents and avoiding contacting with the insects.
- Dengue – According to the PHAC, dengue fever, caused by a virus from mosquito bites, manifests through fever, headaches, and severe muscle pain. Preventative measures include using insect repellent and wearing protective clothing. While no specific treatment exists, early medical intervention can mitigate severe complications.
- Leishmaniasis – Leishmaniasis is transmitted by sand flies’ bites. To prevent its spread, individuals should use insect repellents, wear long-sleeved clothing and limit outdoor activities during sand fly activity periods. Eliminating breeding sites and early diagnosis are crucial for effective prevention.
- Zika – Zika, transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, can lead to birth defects during pregnancy. Prevention includes mosquito bite avoidance, safe sex, and travel precautions.
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Bolivia?
Canadian Citizens with a valid passport may enter Bolivia without a visa for tourism purposes not exceeding 30 days. All nationals entering for business purposes will require a visa to do so.
Bolivia Entry Requirements |
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| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Bolivia? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | ||
| Business Visa | |
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| Vaccinations | |
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Sources: Embassy of Bolivia and Canadian Travel and Tourism
For minors travelling alone or with a parent who has Bolivian citizenship, you will need to have authorization from a non-travelling parent (or parents) to return to Canada.
Visit the Canadian Travel and Tourism website for more information on entry and exit requirements.
What Is the Climate Like in Bolivia?
Bolivia’s climate differs from region to region. The three main climates are:
- Llanos (lowlands) – These areas include Santa Cruz, Cobija, Rurrenabaque, and Trinidad. In these regions, the weather can be expected to be an average of 30 and very rainy. The best time to visit this area is from May to September when the temperature is cooler and less rainy.
- Altiplano (highlands) – These areas include Lake Titicaca, Oruro, La Paz, Sucre, Cochabamba and Uyuni. The weather is dry and sunny in the highlands, with temperatures between 15 and 25C.
- Yungus valley (Amazonian lowlands) – These areas include Chulumani, Sorata, and Coroico. The weather is warm and humid, but cool, refreshing breezes keep temperatures tolerable.
How Safe Is Bolivia?
Travellers visiting Bolivia should take precautions to ensure their safety.
When in crowded areas, like markets and tourist sites, keep an eye on your belongings, so they don’t get stolen. It’s also important to be cautious when using public transportation, as pickpocketing and theft can occur. Avoid unlicensed taxis and use a reputable taxi service if possible.
Political demonstrations can also be dangerous, so it’s best to stay away from them.
Altitude sickness is a risk in Bolivia, especially since the country has high altitude. Before travelling, speak to your doctor about any precautions or medications you should take to prevent altitude sickness. It’s also important to be careful with food and water to avoid getting sick. Don’t drink tap water or use ice cubes, and be careful with raw fruits and vegetables.
Knowing some basic Spanish can also be helpful to communicate with locals.
Keep a low profile, dress modestly, and avoid drawing attention to yourself as a tourist. By following these tips, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to Bolivia.
See Beautiful Sucre
Avoid mosquitoes and other bugs
Insect-borne disease are a
threat throughout the world.
Keep the bugs away with
Passport Health’s repellent options!
Sucre is a city in Bolivia known for its beautiful old buildings and interesting culture. Many tourists visit Sucre to see the old buildings and learn about the city’s history.
There are also many museums and cultural attractions to visit in Sucre that showcase Bolivia’s art and culture. Visitors can try the local food like chicha, a fermented corn drink, and salteñas, a type of baked empanada.
If you’re visiting Sucre, there are several nearby attractions to check out too, like the Tarabuco Sunday market, the dinosaur footprints at Cal Orcko, and the Maragua Crater. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or want to experience something new, Sucre is a great place to visit.
What Should I Take to Bolivia?
Here are some essential items to consider for your trip to Bolivia:
- Spanish-English Dictionary – The majority of Bolivians will not know English. Having some sort of translation available will help make travelling easier.
- Layers of Clothing – Bolivia’s weather conditions vary from region to region. It is important to pack layers of clothes to prepare for any sort of conditions that you may encounter.
- Water Filtration – Safe drinking water can be hard to find in some parts of Bolivia. Having a water filter or filtration tablets can make brushing your teeth or everyday drinking easier.
- Medication – Purchasing prescription medication can be difficult in Bolivia. Make sure you bring all necessary medications with you. Altitude sickness medication is recommended for those going to the Altiplano.
Canadian Embassy in Bolivia
If you find yourself in need of help while travelling in Bolivia, there is a Canadian Embassy in La Paz.
Canadian Embassy La Paz
2678, Calle Victor Sanjinez,
Edificio Barcelona, 2nd Floor, Plaza España (Sopocachi),
La Paz, Bolivia
Tel.: 591 (2) 241-5141
If you have any further questions about health and safety precautions when travelling to Bolivia, schedule a visit with a Passport Health medicine clinic today by calling or book online now.
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for Bolivia
“The staff were extremely courteous and friendly to assist me in understanding all of the safety and health requirements for a trip to Bolivia. This was not just about the shots, but ensuring I fully understand and was prepared for my trip. Truly appreciated the personal touch. Shows you care.”
“Very comfortable experience, the nurse was very knowledgeable and explained everything about Bolivia thoroughly. I feel more confident travelling after using this service.”
“The staff was very knowledgeable and provided lots of useful information on Bolivia.”
“My experience was virtually flawless. The nurse was knowledgeable about Bolivia and friendly. She made me feel welcomed and confident about the decisions I was making for my vaccines. She provided me with ample information, was thorough with the paperwork, and went above and beyond to meet my needs. I will definitely be going back in the future and will be recommending this place to friends and family.”
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