Guide to Bolivia

Name: Republic of Bolivia

Nationality: Bolivian

Location: Central South America bordering Chile and Peru on the west, Brazil on the north and east, Argentina n the south

Population: 9.1 million (UN, 2005)

Capital: Sucre (official), La Paz (administrative)

Major Cities: Santa Cruz, La Paz, Cochabamba

Area: 1.1 million sq km (424,164 sq miles)

Major languages: Spanish, Quechua, Aymara, Guarani

Major religion: Christianity

Currency: 1 boliviano (BOB, B$)  = 100 centavos 
 
Internet domain: .bo

International dialling code: +591

Flying Time:
From London to La Paz 15 hours 50 minutes.
From London to Santa Cruz 15 hours 50 minutes.

Time Difference: GMT/UTC -4

Weights & Measures: Metric

Voltage: 110/220V 60Hz

Climate: Varies with altitude, humid and tropical to cold and semi arid.

Best time to go: Summer time is between November to April and this is the rainy season. Expect lots of mud, high humidity, insects and tropical downpours. It would be better to visit during the winter (May to October) as this offers dry, clear days. Peak time is between June and September when Bolivia's major fiesta season. Prices tend to be a more expensive at this time.

Visa/Entry Requirements: UK nationals do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days or less. A valid passport with at least six months left from the date of arrival in Bolivia is required. All visitors travelling in by air should be able to produce return air ticket or other proof of how they are planning to leave at the end of the stay. Long-stay travellers should report on arrival in Bolivia to the Department of Immigration office in La Paz at Avenida Camacho No. 1468 to obtain the necessary endorsement in their passport.

Health: Consult with a doctor as you will need vaccinations. You may need jabs for Yellow Fever, cholera, typhoid and medication for Malaria.

Notes:
The situation is Boliva is politically tense. For an update on the situation please visito the Foreign and Cpmmonwealth website.

More information: www.boliviaweb.com

20 March 2008