FAQs

Question

Do I need a visa to enter Bolivia? Tell me about all things Visa!

Answer

The process to get a Visa for Bolivia can be done upon arrival. The Visa obtained will be valid for 10 years*. Getting a Visa is part of the normal travel process in terms of entering Bolivia. You will get your Visa when you land in Santa Cruz, right before you get your in-transit bags. Please make sure you have the following: 1. Completed SIGEMIG** registration (you will need to have your booked stay/hotel & flights to fill this out. Registration link here: (http://sistemas.migracion.gob.bo/sigemig/#/seguridad/login). Watch this video below for a step by step walk through: (https://share.vidyard.com/watch/57KnBLVrNj672jbiARHqWX?) 2. Passport validity of at least six months (as of entry date into the country) 3. Exact US$160 in CASH (crisp with no tears) 4. Confirmation of hotel stay (printed) 5. Confirmation of (airplane) tickets showing exit dates from Bolivia (printed) 6. COVID vaccination card 7. Yellow Fever Vaccination (proof ~ most of the times they don't ask for it, but better to be safe than sorry!) *Tourists can stay UP TO 30 days at a time, and NO MORE than 90 days in a calendar year. If you'd like to stay longer than 30 days, you will need to get a "stay extension."

Question

What should I expect and prepare for the first leg of the trip (Miami to Santa Cruz, Bolivia)?

Answer

Boliviana de Aviación (BOA) counters in the Miami International Airport (MIA) can be easily located by entering through DOOR 16 on Terminal F. The counters open at 7:15pm, but you will probably see people already lining up to check-in. This is completely normal and patience will be the name of the game here. BOA Baggage policy: - 2 Checked Bags per person (up to 50lbs each) - Carry-on (weighing no more than 10kg ~ sometimes they check this) - Personal Item (i.e. backpack with your computer) Would recommend you lock your bags for extra safety! After you check-in, we’d recommend having food before going through security because once you’re inside, there are very few food options and things to do. There’s a MargaritaVille not too far from the Check-In counter, and their "Loaded Nachos" always hit the right spot. Other food places around: Dunking Donuts, Chili’s, and Burger King. On the flight, you will probably get a small sandwich, chips, and beverage of choice (all included). Security for the BOA gate is not as busy as other gates. Once you go through, you’ll have to walk a bit to get to the gate. Boarding should start around 10pm. BOA tends to crank up their air conditioning during the flight. Please be prepared and make sure you bring a sweater or jacket. Blankets are sometimes given. There will be no TV screens on the airplane, so bring your headphones and favorite book! Pro tip: Faby does not get on the flight without an eye mask ;)

Question

Do I need to have Bolivianos (the Bolivian currency) before entering the country?

Answer

No, credit cards are widely accepted, although we recommend that you have cards outside of American Express, as many places don't accept AMEX. In terms of getting local currency, it is cheaper to exchange your dollars once inside the country. There is a currency exchange near Hotel Cochabamba, called AMANDA. Ask the receptionist at the front desk of the hotel, for the exact location.

Question

Do I need to get any other shots before I travel to Bolivia?

Answer

Please make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before any trip. Some of these vaccines include: COVID Yellow Fever Chickenpox (Varicella) Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis Flu (influenza) Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR) Polio Shingles

Question

Do I need to rent a car during my time in Bolivia?

Answer

All transportation during the wedding weekend will be taken care of. There is not need to rent a car.

Question

What will the weather be like?

Answer

During the days, the weather is usually nice and sunny, but during the nights it does get chilly and windy. Make sure you travel with warm clothing.

Question

Should I be worried about altitude sickness?

Answer

Personally (Matt speaking), I have never had any problems and frankly had never thought about it. That being said, if you have any concerns, don't hesitate to travel with altitude sickness pills. Don't worry about bringing a bunch, as you can also purchase medicine in Bolivia specifically designed for foreigners.