Destination: Bolivia

Money & Costs

Overall, prices are slightly lower here than in neighboring countries. When converted to US dollars, prices for most goods and services are actually lower now than they were a decade ago. The biggest cost in any trip to Bolivia will be transport, both getting to the country and getting around, simply because the distances involved are great. While ultra-budget travelers can get by on less than US$15 a day, most people will spend between US$25 and US$50. Visitors who want to enjoy the best Bolivia has to offer can travel comfortably for US$150 a day. All prices in this book are quoted in US dollars (US$) unless otherwise noted.

If you encounter 'gringo pricing', a deliberate overcharging of foreigners, an approach somewhere between suspicion and acceptance is advised. Before hailing a taxi or setting off to buy something, ask locals for a ballpark idea of what you can expect to pay. To avoid unpleasant scenes, agree on food, accommodation and transport prices before the goods or services are consumed or rendered.

HOW MUCH?

Hotel double US$20
Dorm bed US$2-5
Set lunch US$1-2
Restaurant dinner US$5-10
Day's worth of coca leaves US$0.15
Liter of gasoline US$0.50
Liter of bottled water US$0.50
Liter of domestic beer US$1
Souvenir T-shirt US$4-5
Street snack (coffee & a saltenÞa) US$0.75