Information Sheet Last Updated: June 2004
Safety
Since 2001, civil disturbance in Bolivia has involved strikes and demonstrations in major cities, especially in Cochabamba. Many roadblocks throughout the country are a frequent occurrence. The best advice is to try to be loose with your travel plans and this will save you some headaches if land transportation is not running for a period of time. Also, if land transportation is not running, try to make the most of the attractions where you are currently staying.
If you are robbed, the procedure is to report it to the Departamento de Criminalística, or the office for stolen property in the town where the theft took place. Purchase official paper from the police for them to write the report, then with patience, and politeness, you may get a report costing between US$1.25 and US$5.25.
In the coca-growing territory around Villa Tunari, the police advise to stay on the main road. Violence between the cocaleros and the military has increased. Foreigners are not usually targeted; however, those from countries identified with anti-coca policies (e.g. the United States) should use caution.
B e ware of the common trick of spraying mustard, ketchup, or something else on your shirt then getting a “friend” to clean the mustard as well as your wallet off of you. If you are sprayed, keep on walking and ignore strangers remarks like “what’s on your shirt” or “have you seen the dirt on your shoe?” Do not bend over to pick up money or other items in the street. These are all ploys to distract you and make you and easy target.
Take local advice about being out at night. Daytime is not always safer than nighttime. If you are walking after dark in a dangerous part of a big city, walk in the road, not on the pavement.
Be wary of the plainclothes policeman and insist on seeing identification and going to the police station by main roads before you show any of your personal items. Never take them directly back to your temporary place of residence. Be even more suspicious if he asks for confirmation of his status from a pedestrian walking by.
If you are the victim of a sexual assault, you should see a doctor (you home doctor if you wish) as soon as possible. You will need tests to determine whether you have contracted any sexually transmitted diseases. You should also contact your embassy where consular staff are willing the help in the case of assault.