Budget-friendly Bolivia: experience world-class attractions for less

Bolivia consistently ranks as one of the best value destinations in the Americas. With its remarkably diverse landscapes, you can venture into the Amazon rainforests, explore ancient Tiwanaku ruins, and climb some of the highest peaks on a modest budget.

Due to its lower living costs compared to Argentina, Brazil, and Chile, international visitors can generally stay longer, enjoy more meals, and find accommodations for less than in most of Bolivia's neighboring South American countries.

Street food is remarkably affordable, and hostels and guesthouses are among the cheapest on the continent. Additionally, by primarily using buses for travel, you can cover extensive distances without significantly impacting your budget.

While international flights to Bolivia can be pricey and tour costs along with entry fees can accumulate, it's essential to arrive with the appropriate gear for hikes and national park excursions to avoid needing to rent or purchase equipment locally. Here are our best tips for maximizing your budget during your Bolivia trip, along with recommendations on when and where to indulge.

Daily Expenses in Bolivia

• Hostel dormitory bed: B$65 (US$9.50)

• Standard room for two: B$140 (US$20.40)

• Self-catering apartment (including Airbnb): B$160 (US$23.30)

• Local bus fare: B$3 (US$0.45)

• Bus fare from Santa Cruz to La Paz: B$110 (US$16)

• Coffee: B$16 (US$2.30)

• Sandwich: B$8 (US$1.15)

• Mid-range dinner for two: B$130 (US$19)

1. Arrive in Santa Cruz rather than La Paz

With its stunning landscapes, vibrant colonial architecture, and strong Indigenous heritage, La Paz enchants travelers much more than the modern and sometimes overwhelming city of Santa Cruz.

However, affordable flights to La Paz are scarce, largely due to the limited number of airlines that service the city's high-altitude El Alto International Airport.

As Bolivia's primary business hub, Santa Cruz handles most international arrivals, leading to lower prices and more straightforward travel routes.

Beginning your Bolivian journey in Santa Cruz not only saves you money but also starts you at a lower altitude, giving you a chance to acclimatize before heading to La Paz and the altiplano (highlands).

2. If you're planning to backpack through multiple countries, consider starting elsewhere

Generally, international flights to Bolivia aren't cheap due to limited competition on these routes. Few airlines from outside South America serve this destination, often requiring a connection through a neighboring country.

Instead, kick off your backpacking adventure in Argentina, Chile, or Peru, and travel overland into Bolivia to save on your international flight. Additionally, Bolivia is known for being more difficult to navigate compared to its neighbors, so many travelers prefer to acclimate first before embarking on a pan-American journey.

3. Opt for a local inn rather than popular hostels

If you're traveling as a couple or with a group, sharing a private room in a local residencial, alojamiento, or posada can often be cheaper and more comfortable than paying for several dorm beds at a hostel.

These modest hotels are prevalent, but the quality of room rates, cleanliness, and comfort can vary greatly, so it's wise to do some research and check out a few rooms before making a decision.

Rooms in these accommodations are typically quite simple, often featuring shared bathrooms, but you won’t have to spend the night listening to a snoring neighbor—unless that neighbor is your travel companion!

Keep in mind that places labeled as 'motels' in Bolivia aren't budget hotels; they are usually rented by the hour for couples.

4. Try local fast food to save bolivianos

Enjoying local fast food is a fantastic way to experience Bolivia's diverse culinary culture while also saving money.

Salteñas—similar to yellow-orange empanadas (stuffed pastries)—are among the most popular snacks; they usually contain beef, pork, or chicken, along with olives, raisins, and potatoes, and are sold at very low prices.

Choripán (sausage sandwiches) and tamales (corn dough wrapped in corn husk, often filled with beef jerky) are also popular options, typically costing under B$7 each.

In Bolivia's lowlands, don’t miss out on local delicacies like cuñapes (cheese and yucca balls) or sonso de yuca (grilled mashed yucca with cheese), both available at wallet-friendly prices.

5. Opt for larger meals during lunchtime

While it's tempting to enjoy a lavish dinner after a day of exploring, one of the best ways to enjoy a high-quality meal at a reasonable price in Bolivia is by booking a lunch reservation instead.

In La Paz, you can discover amazing set lunch options at renowned restaurants like Gustu, Ali Pacha, and Popular Cocina Boliviana.

Lunch holds significant importance for Bolivians, so you’ll find affordable set lunches at eateries throughout the country. These meals, called almuerzo, usually come with a starter, main dish, dessert, and sometimes a drink, starting at just B$15.

6. Opt for a water filter instead of buying bottled water

Although tap water is treated with chlorine in some of Bolivia's larger cities, it’s generally not regarded as safe for drinking, and purchasing bottled water at B$7 each can quickly add up—affecting both your budget and the environment.

We suggest using a purifying water bottle from brands like Grayl, LifeStraw, or Astrea to minimize waste and save on expenses.

7. Master some essential Spanish phrases to secure better deals

To genuinely cut costs in your daily dealings in Bolivia, learning a bit of Spanish is essential.

Non-Spanish speakers often face inflated prices, so familiarizing yourself with basic phrases like cuánto cuesta (how much) and hay algo más barato (is there anything cheaper) can aid in negotiating better rates and help avoid being overcharged.

The Dinogo Planet Spanish Phrasebook & Dictionary is a useful companion for your backpack; perfect for brushing up during long bus journeys!

8. Opt for overnight buses to save money

A classic backpacker tip is to travel at night, which can be a smart way to economize in Bolivia.

You can choose cama (reclining seats) or semi-cama (partially reclining seats) on flotas (long-distance buses) to eliminate the expense of a night’s accommodation. Plus, reclining seats make it easier to catch some sleep during long trips, which typically take longer than scheduled.

Traveling to La Paz can be quite restless – the twisting roads and significant altitude shifts often lead to an uncomfortable journey.

9. Pack wisely to avoid purchasing missing essentials

Quality outdoor equipment isn't inexpensive in Bolivia, but it's essential for traveling outside the major cities, so make sure to bring your own from home.

Although Bolivia is located in a tropical region, many travelers mistakenly think the weather will be warm; this is far from true at higher elevations.

While it may be humid in the Amazon Basin, it can snow in La Paz. Make sure to bring a winter jacket, warm and wind-resistant layers, and dependable trekking and camping gear (if your itinerary includes it) to avoid paying inflated prices for gear upon arrival.

10. Travel by cargo ships through the Amazon Basin

While it's less common than it used to be, you can still catch a ride on a cargo ship navigating the Amazon Basin – it's an incredibly affordable, albeit somewhat uncomfortable, and unforgettable experience.

These vessels are not geared towards tourists, and information about departures is seldom made available. To secure a spot, inquire around in Trinidad, close to the Mamoré and Ibare rivers, and see if any boats are accepting passengers.

Alternatively, you can embark on a budget-friendly multi-day boat or rafting journey through Parque Nacional Madidi from Guanay to Rurrenabaque, where you can stay at some fantastic community-managed jungle camps.

Travel agencies in La Paz, like the reputable Deep Rainforest, can help coordinate all the necessary arrangements.

11. Reach a 6,000m summit without breaking the bank

Bolivia is an adventurer's paradise, offering numerous opportunities for mountain biking, trekking, and white-water rafting at reasonable prices.

Notably, the country is famous for its mountaineering, featuring several peaks exceeding 6,000m (almost 20,000ft) in the Cordillera Real range, easily accessible from La Paz, including the 6,088m (19,974ft) Huayna Potosí.

Best of all, climbing these majestic peaks is more affordable than many renowned mountaineering destinations.

Of course, mountaineering comes with its hazards, so it's essential to choose a reliable agency registered with the Asociación de Guías de Montaña y Trekking de Bolivia (AGMTB) and inspect the gear before setting out.

Mountain guides are quite reasonably priced, and the agencies they represent will supply everything necessary – from food to equipment, cooks, mules, and porters – for B$415 to B$550 (USD$60 to $80) per day.

Just ensure you are properly acclimatized beforehand to avoid canceling your climb due to altitude sickness.

12. Work or volunteer to prolong your visit

For those looking to prolong their stay in Bolivia, there are affordable options to extend your visit through volunteering or working in the country.

Many travelers secure paid positions at hostels, tour agencies, or bars, with teaching English being the most prevalent job. Qualified educators can earn around B$3450 (USD$500) per month for a full-time role.

If you're interested in volunteer roles, make sure to research the organization beforehand. Most operate on a pay-to-volunteer basis, costing between B$1380 (USD$200) and B$6905 (USD$1,000) monthly, depending on the placement. Many volunteer programs are located in the central city of Cochabamba.