Security in Bolivia

This remains the main concern of all travelers passing through Latin America. Despite this, Bolivia is one of the safest countries on the continent.

Petty crime is on the rise, but it's more often a case of property theft than violent assault. In the countryside, you can rest easy. But it's in the cities that the problem arises: be on your guard in La Paz, Oruro, Cochabamba and Copacabana. Here are a few basic safety tips; if you stick to them, you won't have much to fear.  Avoid looking too much like a tourist. Leaving your huge digital camera dangling around your neck is eye-catching; with sunglasses, a branded backpack and a fanny pack around your waist, you're not going to go unnoticed. Never keep your wallet in your trouser pockets, let alone in one of the back pockets.

Never carry your passport, plane tickets, bank cards, etc. on your person. Never leave your belongings unattended. Beware of pickpocketing at stations, land terminals and microphones (buses). Thieves often don't act alone, and when one throws dirt, ketchup or the like at you to divert your attention, another takes advantage of this moment of distraction to pick your pocket.  In addition to the counterfeit bills mentioned above, there are a number of well-known scams to be aware of.

First, there's the fake policeman scam. Never hand over your papers to a policeman or a pseudo-police officer dressed in civilian clothes, without a good reason. They may only give them back to you for a bribe. And don't let them go through your belongings under the pretext of "national security". Another deception is the fake tourists who try to help you or offer you dubious services.  In short, in Bolivia as elsewhere, discretion, common sense and constant vigilance will be your best allies.