Bolivia Health and Safety

Fake police officers and bogus tourist officials are on the rise. Note: authentic police officers will always be uniformed. If confronted by an imposter, insist on going to the nearest police station on foot. If physically threatened, it is always best to hand over valuables immediately.

Fake taxi drivers are working in conjunction with gangs who steal from or - as has tragically been the case - assault or kidnap unsuspecting travelers. Take time to learn how to recognize licensed operators - do not get into unlicensed taxis. Always beware of hopping into shared cabs with strangers or of accepting a lift from a driver who approaches you.

Travelers should also be wary when choosing tour operators around Rurrenabaque as violence and drugging have been reported. Female tourists in particular should avoid going solo. Stick to reputable agencies and ask to see guides' autorización (permit).

The bogus tourist is another popular ruse: on engaging you in conversation in English, the 'tourist' is confronted by fake tourist police. The 'tourist' abides by an 'order' to show the tourist police his bag/papers/passport, and 'translates' for you to do the same. During the search, the cohorts strip you of your cash and/or belongings.

Psst my friend! Another popular scam involves someone spilling a substance on you or spitting a phlegm ball at you. While you or they are wiping it off, another lifts your wallet or slashes your pack; the perpetrator may be an 'innocent' granny or young girl. Similarly, don't bend over to pick up a valuable item which has been 'dropped'. You risk being accused of theft, or of being pickpocketed.

More annoying than dangerous, lustrabotes (shoeshine boys) hound everyone with footwear.

La Paz is a great city to explore on foot, but take local advice: camina lentito, come poquito...y duerme solito (walk slowly, eat only a little bit...and sleep on your lonesome) to avoid feeling the effects of soroche (altitude sickness).