What are the best Travel Insurances for Bolivia in 2025?
- The best travel insurance plans for Bolivia
- Is it currently safe to travel to</b> Bolivia?
- Is travel insurance required by law to enter Bolivia?
- Why take out travel insurance for Bolivia?
- What should travel insurance for Bolivia cover?
- The cost of travel insurance for Bolivia
- How to pay less for your travel insurance to Bolivia
- Using your current insurance in Bolivia
- FAQ
Travel insurance for Bolivia: key takeaways
1. Definition: Travel insurance for Bolivia covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and lost luggage during your trip.
2. Key protection: Insurance is not mandatory for US citizens, but is highly recommended for medical and evacuation needs.
3. Healthcare cost: Quality private healthcare is costly; a hospital night can exceed $300 for foreign visitors.
4. Price: A one-week travel insurance plan for Bolivia typically costs between $30 and $60 for US travelers.
5. Good to know: Ensure your policy includes high-altitude trekking and medical evacuation, as emergency services are limited.
Why trust HelloSafe?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travelers every month. After analyzing 41 travel insurance policies available in the United States, our experts share here everything you need to know to choose the best travel insurance for Bolivia.
The best travel insurance plans for Bolivia
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement limit | Our view |
|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | $1.1M | Our first choice for worry-free travel to Bolivia. - high limit suits medical evacuation needs - covers altitude sickness - clear emergency support |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | $1.1M | A solid policy for both city and remote travel. - 24/7 medical hotline - cancellation cover - no deductible on claims |
| Tourist Card | $550k | Suitable for travelers on vacation in Bolivia. - core medical protection - reasonable evacuation cover - fair price point |
| Travel Pass Monde | $770k | Well-balanced for those seeking solid global care. - repatriation included - hospital expenses covered - broad regional scope |
| Globe Partner | $330k | Trusted for international stays and essential needs. - medical care abroad - repatriation covered - civil liability included |
| Globe Traveller | $550k | Good value for short or lower-risk trips. - efficient claims - emergency health coverage - capped at a moderate limit |
- high limit suits medical evacuation needs
- covers altitude sickness
- clear emergency support
- 24/7 medical hotline
- cancellation cover
- no deductible on claims
- core medical protection
- reasonable evacuation cover
- fair price point
- repatriation included
- hospital expenses covered
- broad regional scope
- medical care abroad
- repatriation covered
- civil liability included
- efficient claims
- emergency health coverage
- capped at a moderate limit
Is it currently safe to travel to Bolivia?
As of June 2025, the US Department of State advises travelers to Bolivia to exercise increased caution, mainly due to ongoing civil unrest and the risk of local protests or roadblocks. Travel is not officially discouraged for the entire country, but some regions present higher risks, especially for those unfamiliar with the context.
Here are their four main recommendations.
- Security risks: Demonstrations and strikes are frequent in cities like La Paz and Cochabamba, often resulting in road closures or violent clashes. The Chapare region should be avoided due to organized crime and law enforcement operations.
- Health risks: Yellow Fever vaccination is mandatory, and diseases such as malaria, dengue, and Zika are present, especially in lowland and rural areas. Medical facilities outside city centers are basic, and medical evacuation may be necessary.
- Legal constraints: A tourist visa is required for US citizens, issued on arrival for $160. Proof of onward travel, accommodation, and web-based registration are mandatory at entry points.
- Environmental factors: High altitude in cities like La Paz poses a risk of altitude sickness, particularly for travelers with pre-existing health conditions.
Although not required, travel insurance is strongly recommended by the US Department of State, particularly to cover medical expenses and emergency repatriation, which can be extremely costly in Bolivia.
Is travel insurance required by law to enter Bolivia?
No, travel insurance is not legally mandatory for US citizens to enter Bolivia.
It is still strongly recommended by the US Department of State because of the risk of illness, accidents, and the limited quality of local hospitals. Medical evacuation can be expensive, and unforeseen events such as strikes or political unrest may disrupt travel and increase costs.
According to our data, 80% of travelers purchase travel insurance before going to Bolivia. This high rate reflects concerns about health risks and the cost of emergency care in the country.
Why take out travel insurance for Bolivia?
It is an essential financial and medical protection for anyone going to Bolivia.
In Bolivia, public hospitals like Hospital de Clínicas in La Paz can be overcrowded, under-resourced, and lacking in advanced technology. Foreigners often turn to private clinics such as Clínica Alemana in Santa Cruz, where costs can quickly add up, especially for emergency care or specialist treatments.
Travel insurance covers medical fees, hospitalization, medication, ambulance transport, and emergency repatriation to the US in case of a serious incident.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs in Bolivia.
| Example of medical treatment | Cost at Clínica Alemana | Covered by travel insurance |
|---|---|---|
| I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection | 4,600 BOB (about $670) | up to 100% depending on the policy |
| I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental) | 3,800 BOB (about $550) | up to 100% depending on the policy |
| I need to be repatriated | 95,000 BOB (about $13,800) | up to 100% depending on the policy |
| I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery) | 22,000 BOB (about $3,200) | up to 100% depending on the policy |
These prices are given as an indication and may vary depending on the facilities and regions.
It is therefore essential to take out appropriate travel insurance to avoid unexpected and potentially high expenses.
What should travel insurance for Bolivia cover?
| Main coverages | Explanations and recommendations |
|---|---|
| 🏥 Medical expenses | Covers doctor visits, hospital stays, and treatments for illness or accident while in Bolivia. Recommended minimum: $100,000 |
| 🚑 Medical evacuation & repatriation | Pays for emergency transport or return to the US if local care is insufficient. Recommended minimum: $150,000 |
| ✈️ Trip cancellation/interruption | Reimburses non-refundable costs if your trip is canceled or cut short due to covered reasons (illness, unrest, etc.). Recommended minimum: $5,000 |
| 💼 Baggage loss & theft | Covers lost, stolen, or damaged luggage and personal effects. Recommended minimum: $1,500 |
| 💉 Emergency dental | Payment for urgent dental care due to accident or severe pain. Recommended minimum: $500 |
| 🦟 Personal liability | Covers costs if you accidentally injure someone or damage property. Recommended minimum: $50,000 |
| 🏔️ Search & rescue | Covers expenses if you require mountain or jungle rescue during an activity or trekking. Recommended minimum: $10,000 |
| 📞 24/7 assistance hotline | Access to a multilingual support line for emergencies, advice, and coordination. Included in most comprehensive plans. |
Recommended minimum: $100,000
Recommended minimum: $150,000
Recommended minimum: $5,000
Recommended minimum: $1,500
Recommended minimum: $500
Recommended minimum: $50,000
Recommended minimum: $10,000
Included in most comprehensive plans.
Travel insurance from local providers or included with bank cards often features limited coverage, low reimbursement limits, and many exclusions. It is safer to choose a trusted insurer with full protection. Compare the best options on HelloSafe and subscribe online for instant certification.
The cost of travel insurance for Bolivia
| Trip duration | Traveler’s age | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 1 week | 25 years old | $24 |
| 2 weeks | 45 years old | $39 |
| 1 month | 35 years old | $65 |
| 1 month | 70 years old | $162 |
These prices are indicative and may vary depending on the coverage chosen and the specifics of each insurer.
Good to know
The price of your travel insurance for Bolivia is shaped by several key factors: your age, the length of your trip, your destination, the coverage amount, and any optional add-ons like cancellation protection. Considering these elements is vital to select a policy that provides adequate protection for your specific travel plans in Bolivia.
💡 It is always recommended to compare multiple offers to find the best value-for-money plan for you. You can use HelloSafe.
👉 Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compareHow to pay less for your travel insurance to Bolivia
Here are some suggestions to optimize the cost of your travel insurance to Bolivia while keeping good coverage:
| Criteria | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| ✈️ Destination risk level | Bolivia has moderate civil unrest and high altitude, making adequate health and emergency coverage essential. | Choose only the essential coverage for medical care and evacuation relevant to Bolivia's main risks. |
| 👤 Traveller’s age | Age can strongly impact premiums, especially for those over 60, but Heymondo does not increase its prices for people over 62. | Compare insurers for all ages and consider those like Heymondo if you are over 62 to avoid age surcharges. |
| ⏰ Trip duration | Coverage duration affects cost, and many stays in Bolivia are under a month. | Opt for plans matching your actual stay and avoid unnecessary long-term policies if your trip is short. |
| 👥 Number of travelers | Insurers may offer group discounts, which is useful if traveling as a family or with friends. | Seek group or family plans to access a reduced overall rate per person for shared itineraries. |
| 💵 Level of coverage | Higher limits mean higher costs, but for Bolivia, mid-range coverage can often suffice, especially for medical care. | Adjust the coverage limit to match real medical costs in Bolivia, but do not go too low on medical expense. |
| 🧳 Optional add-ons | Some options, like extreme sports, are only relevant if you plan such activities. | Exclude unnecessary options such as baggage or sports if you do not need them for your trip to Bolivia. |
| 🔄 Deductibles | Higher deductibles lower the premium, but make sure you can afford it if you need to claim. | Increase your deductible thoughtfully to reduce the premium, but keep it within a comfortable range. |
Using your current insurance in Bolivia
It is completely legitimate to wonder whether your existing coverage—such as credit card insurance or public or private health insurance—could protect you during a trip to Bolivia. Unfortunately, this coverage is often limited or insufficient, especially overseas where healthcare costs and services differ. Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of Insurance | Valid in Bolivia? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Health Insurance (Medicare, Medicaid) | No, never | No coverage for overseas medical care, hospitalization, or repatriation. | Travel insurance covers up to $500,000+ for medical care and evacuation. |
| Private Health Insurance (Blue Cross, UnitedHealthcare, Aetna) | Yes, partly | Some emergency care abroad, often with limits under $20,000. Rarely covers evacuation or upfront hospital payment abroad. | Travel insurance provides direct payment, up to $100,000+, and repatriation. |
| Classic Credit Card (Chase Freedom, Citi Double Cash, Discover) | Yes, partly | Emergency medical, usually under $5,000–$10,000. No baggage loss or trip cancellation. | Travel insurance covers $100,000+ for care, plus baggage and cancellation. |
| Premium Credit Card (Chase Sapphire Reserve, Amex Platinum, Capital One Venture X) | Yes, partly | Medical up to $50,000–$100,000. Limited trip delay, some evacuation, and basic baggage coverage. | Travel insurance increases limits to $250,000+, including evacuation, baggage, and all cancellations. |
Example
While trekking near La Paz, John suffered severe altitude sickness, requiring a $25,000 medical evacuation. His premium Chase Sapphire card only covered $10,000 of the transport, and his US health insurance plan denied the foreign claim entirely. John was left with a shocking $15,000 bill for this high-altitude emergency.
Expert advice
Always check your existing insurance for its terms, exclusions, and limits. Critical situations, like trip interruption for a relative's illness, may not be covered. Read the fine print carefully to avoid surprises abroad. In all cases, it is safer and more reassuring to buy dedicated travel insurance tailored to your trip.
FAQ
Do I need a visa to travel to Bolivia?
Yes, U.S. citizens need a visa to enter Bolivia for tourism. The visa costs $160 and can be obtained upon arrival at airports and land borders or in advance from a Bolivian consulate. You will also need a passport valid for at least six months, proof of yellow fever vaccination, proof of return travel, and accommodations.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Bolivia?
To purchase travel insurance for Bolivia, start by comparing offers using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool. Review the cover and exclusions relevant to Bolivia, including high-altitude illness, political unrest, and emergency evacuation. Purchase the policy online, and you will receive your insurance certificate by email to present if needed.
Are there any health risks I should be aware of when traveling to Bolivia?
Bolivia has risks such as yellow fever, malaria, dengue, and Zika virus. Travelers should have a yellow fever vaccination and consider coverage for emergency evacuation, as medical care outside major cities can be limited. Altitude sickness is also a concern, especially in La Paz or other highland regions.
What should my travel insurance include for Bolivia?
Your policy should cover emergency medical expenses, hospitalization, evacuation, and repatriation, ideally with a minimum limit of $100,000. Insurance for activities such as hiking at high altitude and coverage for loss of belongings or interruptions due to strikes is also important for Bolivia.
Will my travel insurance cover activities like trekking or tours in Bolivia?
Many policies offer optional coverage for adventure activities, but you must verify that trekking or high-altitude excursions are specifically included. If you plan to hike in the Andes or participate in adventure sports, confirm coverage limits and exclusions with your provider before purchasing.
Do I need a visa to travel to Bolivia?
Yes, U.S. citizens need a visa to enter Bolivia for tourism. The visa costs $160 and can be obtained upon arrival at airports and land borders or in advance from a Bolivian consulate. You will also need a passport valid for at least six months, proof of yellow fever vaccination, proof of return travel, and accommodations.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Bolivia?
To purchase travel insurance for Bolivia, start by comparing offers using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool. Review the cover and exclusions relevant to Bolivia, including high-altitude illness, political unrest, and emergency evacuation. Purchase the policy online, and you will receive your insurance certificate by email to present if needed.
Are there any health risks I should be aware of when traveling to Bolivia?
Bolivia has risks such as yellow fever, malaria, dengue, and Zika virus. Travelers should have a yellow fever vaccination and consider coverage for emergency evacuation, as medical care outside major cities can be limited. Altitude sickness is also a concern, especially in La Paz or other highland regions.
What should my travel insurance include for Bolivia?
Your policy should cover emergency medical expenses, hospitalization, evacuation, and repatriation, ideally with a minimum limit of $100,000. Insurance for activities such as hiking at high altitude and coverage for loss of belongings or interruptions due to strikes is also important for Bolivia.
Will my travel insurance cover activities like trekking or tours in Bolivia?
Many policies offer optional coverage for adventure activities, but you must verify that trekking or high-altitude excursions are specifically included. If you plan to hike in the Andes or participate in adventure sports, confirm coverage limits and exclusions with your provider before purchasing.
