Bolivia Travel Guide

Traveler warning: Roadblocks in Potosi have many tourist stranded

2010-08-10T15:07:00.000-04:00

This warning is for people traveling to Bolivia in general and to Potosi city, Uyuni Salt flats and Potosi Department in particular. Roadblocks in Potosi Department have many tourist stranded. 40 french nationals and as many as 20 other European tourist are abandoned in that area for as many as 15 days with no end in sight, therefore traveling to this area is not recommended at the moment. Travelers are reminded that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational between the promoters of this act and security forces, demonstrators, and bystanders, and escalate into violence. Travelers are urged to avoid the areas of demonstrations and to exercise caution if within the vicinity of any protests. If you find yourself in the vicinity of a large gathering, it is recommended you leave the area immediately for your own safety. Travelers should stay current with media coverage of local events.In addition to civil unrest in cities, it is not uncommon for roads between cities to be blocked by protesters or marchers. Please note that the police have limited capabilities outside major cities and communication is poor.The police will be on alert for potential civil unrest. Because the police will be involved in addressing potential civil unrest, there will be minimal police patrols. As a result, you can expect criminals to take advantage of large crowds and use ruse or diversionary tactics to prey on potential street victims. Pick-pocketing, purse snatching, and theft are the most common street crimes during such periods. Everyone is advised to limit their cash on hand, unnecessary credit cards, jewelry, and other portable valuables.

Easter in Bolivia (Semana Santa en Bolivia)

2010-03-16T14:42:00.000-04:00

Being

Bolivia

a deeply catholic country, Easter (Semana Sanata) is a major event across the nation, and it's consider high season for hotels and hostels around the country. Since most city dwellers use this opportunity to relax in small towns and touristy hot spots like Coroico and Copacabana near La Paz, Samaipata and the Missions near Santa Cruz or Uyuni Salt Flats in Potosi.

Easter starts on Wednesday (31st) in many cities and small towns with people visiting at least 7 churches on a small and very family oriented pilgrimage. Normally most people will take half day of on Thursday to start the long weekend, so most cities start to get deserted and there's little activity during the next days, only processions and other liturgics acts will disturb the peace and tranquility of those days.

Friday is a holiday, so all banks and official buildings will be closed that day, so it would be a good idea to have some cash on hand just in case. Selling alcohol and gambling are not allowed during Good Friday and most clubs will be closed during that day. Even though, this rule is not always followed.

Easter ends with Easter Sunday mass and large processions, and on Monday all goes back to normal.

We hope this information helps you plan your activities during those days and we wish you a great time while visiting

Bolivia

Carnaval in Bolivia

2010-02-08T15:10:00.003-05:00

Carnaval, Carnival or Mardi Grass in Bolivia is about to begin, as in most of the Catholic Countries around the world, the celebration of the days before lent will start on Friday, and they will last until Ash Wednesday, with parties and celebrations through out the country. Many are the adjectives for the Carnival in

Bolivia

. Grand, majestic, magnificent, wonderful are some of the words with which this event is described. It combines the ancient customs of each region, department, city and rural community in the country, with European traditions brought over the colony.

Oruro Carnaval (Carnaval de Oruro)

Declared by UNESCO as an Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity, the lavish "Carnaval de Oruro" features a vast wealth Cultural Heritage, which combines dance and music with the devotion to Our Lady of Socavón.

This expression represents the greatest folkloric shows in Bolivia, with dances such as the Devils, Moreno, Caporales, Tinkus, Llamerada, Sicuris, Incas, Antawaras, Tobas, Wacas Waca, Kullawadas, Pujllay and others, whose members, besides orureños, come from all regions of the country, as well as from abroad, to express through dance, their faith and devotion.

The “Entrada de Carnaval” (Carnaval Parade) takes place on Saturday, it’s the highlight of the Oruro Carnaval, when dancers wearing luxurious costumes will parade a long the city and spectacle of more than 50 fraternity with more than 500 participants each accompanied by large musical bands. The fiesta runs until the early hours of Sunday. “El Alba” (The Dawn) will take place during the first hours of Sunday, during Sunrise dancer and musical bands at the Socavón will salute the Virgin Mary of el Socavón, showing the skill and Bolivian musical richness all accompanied by the applauses and cheers from the attending public.

At these dates Oruro receives over 500,000 tourists, between local and foreign visitors. This event generates around $ 8 million dollars in business, for the four days of Carnaval. The Carnival of Oruro is a magnificent demonstration of pagan costumes and religious devotion. It is an amazing demonstration of folk culture, involving young and old people; without distinction of social classes or race.

Santa Cruz Carnaval

It reflects the joyous spirit of the Santa Cruz habitants. It begins one month before the Carnaval with the "pre-carnavaleras" in which all the Carnaval Groups (Comparsas) elect their Queen. A week before the carnival takes place in “mini-corso”, with the proclamation of the Carnaval Queen; witch is selected among the Comparsas Queens.

On Carnaval Saturday, from evening until dawn of Sunday of the carnival takes place in the spectacular “Corso” (Carnival Parade) with the Comparsas dancing in the streets about 300 of them. They dance through the city streets to the beat of drum bands. During the parade, public enjoy the luxury and colorful of the Comparsas costumes, impressive floats carrying the Comparsa queens.

The show reaches its pinnacle when the Carnaval Queen enters the main stage. The party continues on Sunday, Monday and Tuesday, days in which people dance and play in downtown streets; playing with water, foam and paint.

The diversity of options varies according to geography and cultures of each region. No matter where you are during the Carnaval you will have a great time for sure. The Carnaval in

Bolivia

is a synonym for good times and party, all mixed with music and tradition.

Carnaval Dates

Se next the Carnaval dates for this year and the following:

•2011 - Carnaval date - March 4-8

•2012 - Carnaval date - February 17-21

•2013 - Carnaval date - February 8-12

•2014 - Carnaval date - March 1-4

•2015 - Carnaval date - February 13-17

•2016 - Carnaval date - February 5-9

•2017 - Carnaval date - February 24-28

•2018 - Carnaval date - February 9-13

•2019 - Carnaval date - March 1-5

•2020 - Carnaval date - February 21-25

Enjoy Alasitas fair in La Paz, Bolivia

2010-01-25T08:33:00.004-05:00

Alasitas is Bolivia's festival of small wishes; this fair is a mix of Catholicism and Andean tradition celebrated annually on January 24 and it last for two weeks. In the Aymara language, Alasitas means "buy from me" and in pre-colonial times Alasitas was celebrated in September, Bolivian springtime, to ensure a good crop.

The largest fairs is held yearly in the capital of La Paz, Bolivians and tourist alike, buy miniatures representing the material goods they aspire to own (like a new house, car, plasma TV, a bachelor degree or even marriage certificate) and then offer them to the Ekeko, the God of Abundance, in addition a Catholic priests give their blessing to the newly acquired miniature goods as well.

Alasitas is a festival for everybody and celebrated by Bolivians from all levels of society. It is celebrated by the inhabitants of villages, cities and countryside, by the highlanders and the lowlanders, by all Bolivians. If you are in La Paz during this time don’t miss an opportunity to be part of this tradition.

Date: January 24th (the fair last for two weeks)
Name: Alasitas
Location: La Paz, Bolivia
Type: Religious/ethnic

Be part of Bolivian history this January

2010-01-15T15:35:00.006-05:00

If you are in La Paz, Bolivia on the 21 and 22 of January you could be part of Bolivian history. Tourist and people from around the world are arriving to Bolivia for the installation of the second term of President Evo Morales, to be undertaken on Tihuanaku (21) and La Paz (22). The demand for rooms and travel packages has increased dramatically according to the Deputy Minister of Tourism, Ivan Cahuaya; he reported on Friday that a survey by his office to various travel agencies found the increase of tourists to Tihuanaku and La Paz where 21 and 22 January will undertake the installation of the second term of President Evo Morales.

Cahuaya said for that reason, the flow of tourists in January has increase significantly and is something extraordinary, considering that January is traditionally considered as a low season.

"The visitor will come to Bolivia not only makes its way down to a single site, but has a program that allows you to visit other tourist sites, then what do we do anticipate that in January we will have a significant flow of foreign visitors and nationals in the department of La Paz "he said.

Now you know, so don’t miss out this opportunity and be part of a historic moment in the history of this beautiful country.

Weather for you’re vacation in Bolivia

2010-01-11T14:28:00.002-05:00

Weather for you’re vacation in Bolivia

Nothing ruins a vacation faster than poor weather. If you're like many people, you probably find one of the hardest parts of planning a trip is discovering what kind of weather you are likely to run into in Bolivia. But it’s not as hard as you might think. By the time you've finished reading this post and checking out some of the links from it, you should have no problem with the weather aspect of trip planning to Bolivia.

Prior to you Trip

You can start your weather planning by going to our site or for more in depth information we recommend you to use the Weather in Bolivia site; at both sites you will find complete descriptions of the weather you will find at the place or places you're planning to visit in Bolivia.

Once you’ve clicked the links we provided you above look out for the name of the city or cities you’re planning to visit, once there read the weather descriptions, check current weather, forecasts, average temperatures, satellite views, the best time to visit each city, etc.

We recommend you as well, to read our Traveler Tips page; it’s full of recommendations and ideas on what to take with you on you’re trip to Bolivia. It’s recommended to take the time to research your destinations and their weather patterns at all times throughout the year. Knowing this means more time for fun and enjoyment on you’re vacation.

Once you get there

Once you get to the city or cities you’re visiting check constantly for updates or alerts on the weather forecast so you get more time to prepare for any type of weather you might run in to. And at last the most important tip of all, have fun.

Come to Santa Cruz and visit "La feria"

2009-09-17T11:22:00.008-04:00

On Friday 18^Th, Feria Internacional de Santa Cruz (Expocruz) opens it doors to visitors, this annual Trade Fair is accompanied by shows and artist presentations, it also coincides with Santa Cruz Department anniversary, being a local Holiday the 21st. During the day the fair is all about business, but at night it becomes an endless party.

Expocruz is the largest trade fair in Bolivia and one of the largest in South America. This event qualified as one of the most important economic events in the country, expects to generate million dollars in business transactions, commercial agreements and other activities such as tourism, entertainment, services, direct sales, among others.

It’s also a great tourist and cultural attraction with thousands of people coming from around the world to visit Santa Cruz, during the week that the fair last (18 to the 27Th), is very hard to find available airplane tickets or vacant rooms, so make plans well in advance. Santa Cruz is a nice city to visit and enjoy, so don't miss the opportunity to become part of the celebration.

Name: Feria Internacional de Santa Cruz (Santa Cruz International Fair)

Where: Santa Cruz de la Sierra, Bolivia

Duration: September 18 through the 27Th

Quillacollo invites you to la Fiesta de la Virgen de Urkupiña 2009

2009-08-12T11:43:00.003-04:00

Quillacollo invites you to la Fiesta de la Virgen de Urkupiña (celebration of Virgin Mary of Urkupinha's day), it is one of the most important religious celebrations in Bolivia. The event includes a procession and bolivian dances, like Diablada, Caporales, Morenada, Tinku, etc. performed by devotes of the image of Virgin Mary of Urkupiña through the streets of Quillacollo.

The event takes place in Quillacollo, 14 km. from Cochabamba around San Ildefonso Chapel; it is a spectacle of color, costumes, dance and faith. More than 15,000 dancers, 6,000 musicians and about 400,000 spectators enjoy every year the splendid entrada (parade) folklorica de Urkupiña.

During the parade (about 12 hours) the fraternities perform dances like: Caporales, tobas, Morenos, Diablos, Tinkus, saya, pujllay, moseñadas, tarquedas and vallunadas. People come from around the world, just to be part of this event known for its international reputation.

So don’t waste more time and join us in the party.

Read more about Cochabamba
Read More about Bolivia

Come and Visit the Wine Route in Tarija, Bolivia

2009-08-04T14:29:00.003-04:00

We suggest you the perfect getaway and it’s a lot closer than you think. As well as discovering some of the most scenic places in Tarija; we invite you to immerse yourself in the "total experience" of the Bolivian Andalusia by traveling the Wine Route, in the Santa Ana and Concepcion valleys.

Tour the vineyards and sample award-winning wines. Treat your palate to gourmet fare inspired by farm-fresh ingredients. We promise you, this will be an experience that will have you coming back for more.

Plan your wine country adventure today. Start by visiting Bolivian Wines web site and their guide to Wineries of Tarija its’ your complete source for everything Tarija's Wine Route has to offer, and more. The interactive Wine Route Map will help you to effortlessly navigate Bolivia’s Wine Country.

Traditional tourism in Bolivia has included archeological and cultural sites; more recently eco tourism became the latest addition to Bolivia’s tourist list of options. Wine tourism in Bolivia, is a new offer to its visitors and an experience well worth trying.

2009-07-10T16:50:00.004-04:00

Everyone is invited to the celebrations of 200 years of the proclamation of the first independent government in Latin America held in La Paz, Bolivia on July 16, 1809.

The bicentennial celebrations will last the entire month of July and officially began the first of July, with the flag hoisted in La Paz and the lighting the torch located at the Plaza Murillo, representing the fire of freedom that never goes out, near the monument to Pedro Domingo Murillo, a leader of the Junta Tuitiva, the first independent government in Latin America that was under the Spanish rule.

As part of the celebrations, commemorative coins have been minted. Also the mayor of La Paz has planned the execution of an endless array of activities throughout the month. But the high point of the celebrations will take the 15 and 16 with parades and music festivals throughout the Department of La Paz with the participation of all citizens of the city, including the national government and guests from around the world. The festival will be extended naturally to other cities in the La Paz Department, El Alto, Copacabana, Coroico, Tiwanaku, and so on. An excellent opportunity for those who are in the city of La Paz on these dates to be part of the party, and share the patriotic fervor of the party.

Eight presidents and heads of state are on the list of special guests from the municipality of La Paz that will arrive for the central events of the Bicentennial celebration of the Revolution of July 16, 1809. Among them are Fernando Lugo of Paraguay, Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner of Argentina, Hugo Chávez Frías of Venezuela, Luis Inacio Lula Da Silva of Brazil, Rafael Correa of Ecuador, Álvaro Uribe of Colombia, Michelle Bachelet of Chile and Manuel Zelaya of Honduras.

The Mayors of 20 cities from around the world will also join the celebration from cities like Madrid, Quito, Santiago,

Mexico

City, Montevideo, Santo Domingo, Bogotá, Lima, among others.

2009 Coroico Folk Festival (Festival Internacional de Coroico 2009)

2009-07-01T16:24:00.002-04:00

Coroico is a small town with a resort-like feel, 3 hour bus ride from La Paz, it has mild weather year round. Coroico is known among tourist for been a tourist hot spot in South America due to is amazing landscape and nature. The Coroico Festival was created in 2,007 to promote Coroico and its tourist attractions. The Coroico Folk Festival promises to surpass the success of the previous version. The event expects to host close to 10,000 visitors.

The festival showcases Andean and Latin-American music; in which some of the top artists from Bolivia perform, they will be joined by international artist. This is a great opportunity to visit Coroico and the Bolivian Amazon, most tourist use Coroico as the gate to it, on they’re way to the Madidi natural reserve. The Festival: Start Time: starts on Friday, July 3, 2009 and ends Sunday, July 5, 2009.

The Unidad de Transito (Bolivian road authority) reported that the road should be in optimal conditions.

Practical recommendations: • In the winter season (June-August): bring warm clothing. Although Coroico enjoys a template climate normally it feels cold early in the morning. • If you're decide to camp don’t forget to take with you: first aid kit, pocket knife, flashlight, batteries, bug repellent, medication (if you’re taking any), antihistaminic and whatever you feel necessary for your comfort and safety.

If you want to know more about Coroico click here

Celebrate the "Coldest night of the year" in Bolivia

2009-06-23T16:54:00.003-04:00

The Coldest night of the year will be celebrated on June, 23rd and the fist hours of the 24^Th. That night entire Bolivia celebrates the Noche de San Juan (St. John’s night) it’s a very ancient tradition which is celebrated in many parts of Europe and Latin America, and is an established event in Bolivia, this is a tradition brought to the country by the Spanish colonist; in the northern hemisphere Noche de San Juan celebrated the shortest night of the year and the arrival of summer; while here in Bolivia it was adapted to celebrate the coldest night of the year and the arrival of winter. The traditional way to celebrate this event consisted in bonfires where fire wood was burned, families and friends gathered together around the bonfires to celebrate the coldest night of the year. The bonfires were accompanied by heartily food, “ponche” (milk based alcoholic beverage, served hot), music, dance and a lot of fireworks. In modern times and due to ecological concerns authorities have banned bonfires, but the party and the family reunion continues to live on. In small towns and remotte areas of the country bonfires are still lit on San Juan Night.

In the modern version of Noche de San Juan, the party has also met the modern life, been carried out in clubs, bars and discotheques as well. It’s a well publicized event around Bolivia, just ask you’re hotel concierge or taxi driver for a good San Juan Night party and they will give you good tips on how to get to one. Music, dance, hot dogs and ponche are a big part of the party and off course fireworks.

Aymara New Year 5517 at Tiwanaku

2009-06-16T09:25:00.003-04:00

Bolivian Government agencies launched on Monday 15^th the official program for the Aymara New Year 5517 in the ruins of a pre-Columbian city of Tiwanaku, 72 kilometers from the seat of government, the next 20 to June 21.

The official launch was held in the Plaza Murillo in La Paz, with the participation of Bolivia's Chancellor David Choquehuanca, the Minister of Culture Pablo Groux, the prefect of La Paz, Pablo Ramos and the Mayor of Tiwanaku, Eulogia Quispe, who invited national and international people to be part of the ancient rite of "Willkakuti 2009" (return of the sun) will start the new year aymara 5517.

“According to shamans, Tiwanaku is part of network of energy centers around the world. Every year we prepare to receive the energy of the new sun. We invite all to come to Tiwanaku and celebrate with us on June 21," said Chancellor Choquehuanca.

Tiwanaku has been the center of spiritual and political life of the Tiwanaku culture. After the extinction of this culture, Andean people had gathered here to celebrate the Willkakuti, for many centuries. The celebration of the New Year or Willkakuti coincides with winter solstice in the southern hemisphere, when the sun is farthest from the planet. This natural phenomenon marks the beginning of a new planting season.

According to the official program, the June 20 will start on the town’s main square of Tiwanaku, with a pilgrimage to Quimsa Chata, where there will be an offering to mother earth.

Later at 5 p.m. on the main square of the town there will be a Cultural Festival for all visitors, this will last trough the night and it will be accompanied of native music and. The next day all will be ready for the Ritual Ceremony of the Great Willkakuti at the temple of Kalasasaya. The sun will rise around 07:25 a.m. when all locals and visitors will receive the Cosmic Energy of the first rays of the sun on a New Year. This will be done by raising the hands to the rays of the new sun as tradition calls.

Tours for this celebration are easy to find around Sagarnaga Street in La Paz. It’s advised to bring warm clothes, gloves and something warm to drink, due to the frigid conditions of the Andes during the night.

We wish you all a Happy New Year 5517.

Fiesta de Jesús del Gran Poder 2009

2009-06-03T16:17:00.001-04:00

Fiesta de Jesús del Gran Poder 2009

If you're in La Paz on June 6th this is an event you can miss. The Fiesta de Jesús del Gran Poder (Jesus Almighty) is one of the larges celebrations in Bolivia outside the Carnaval. The religious celebration include a dancers parade a across the city of La Paz, the dances are performed by devotes of the image of Jesus of el Gran Poder, one of the most revered and venerated images in Bolivia.

The dancers parade starts around 10:00 a.m. and lasts the entire day, it starts at Cementerio near the Jesus of Grand Poder Chruch and finishes at Park Roosevelt near the Hernando Siles Stadium, crossing the entire downtown area, you'll need to get a sit early in the morning, the area near Plaza San Francisco is considered to be one of the best places to be watch this magnificent traditional dances display.

June 6th (Movable according with the Catholic Calendar)
Fiesta de Jesús del Gran Poder
La Paz-La Paz
Religious/ethnic

Golf Vacation in Bolivia

2009-05-08T17:06:00.002-04:00

So you decided to move on and enjoy Bolivia and its beautiful landscapes and lush nature. We know you already planned a visit to the majestic Andes, as well as a visit to the sacred lake of the Incas, Lake Titicaca; and of course you could not complete your visit without a visit to the Salar de Uyuni. So far so good, but you're not reading this article to know what you already knew, that is why we offer something different now, why not a round of golf on one of the great golf courses in Bolivia. Yes what about teeing off at 3.700 meters above sea level (about 12,000 feet). Sure you have not heard before this proposal, maybe is because most tourists visit Bolivia does the traditional and now we want to open your eyes to other sports and activities that will make your visit even better. Yes Bolivia has golf courses and they’re in excellent condition for the game. Golf in Bolivia is not as popular as football (or soccer for Americans), but there are many golf enthusiasts who practice it regularly. There are courses like the one in Mallasilla on the outskirts of La Paz, is the highest golf course in the world, recently recommended by Golf Diggest as one of the best golf courses outside the U.S., many players say that thanks to altitude of La Paz the ball can travel more easily and more upright than in any other field in the world. You can also play in any of the fields located in Cochabamba and Santa Cruz surrounded by the beautiful Amazon jungle. For more information about golf courses in Bolivia and its characteristics, we suggest you to visit the Bolivia Golf. It’s full of relevant information for golfing enthusiasts, course details, maps, weather, etc.

Feria International de Cochabamba 2009

2009-04-23T12:29:00.003-04:00

The Feria International de Cochabamba is one of the largest trade fairs in Bolivia this Fair is accompanied by shows, great food and artist presentations. The Fair includes companies from around the world, showcasing their products, going from the food industry to technology and machinery. This event qualified as one of the most important economic events in the country, expects to generate more than 150 million dollars in business transactions, commercial agreements and other activities such as tourism, entertainment, services, direct sales, among others.

Date of the event: Starts on April 23th (normally goes for two weeks)
Recurrence: las week of April (Movable Event Organizer defines de date)
Location: Feria International de Cochabamba, Cochabamba
Type: Trade Fair

Read more about to Cochabamba
Find Hotels in Cochabamba

Semana Santa en Bolivia (Easter in Bolivia)

2009-04-07T14:39:00.003-04:00

This is one of the most important celebrations in Bolivia. The celebration is deep into the catholic roots of the country includes processions and parades on every city and town. The long Holiday (starts on Thursday and ends on Sunday), it's used for many Bolivians as a chance for a short vacation; therefore most hotels are completely booked during this days. The peoples favorites are: Coroico in La Paz, Uyuni Salt flats in Potosi, the Las Misiones or Samaipata in Santa Cruz, etc.

Recurrence: April or May (Movable according with the Roman Catholic Calendar)

Where: Bolivia

Type: Religious

Bolivian Police captured band that Kidnapped foreign tourists

2009-04-02T11:27:00.000-04:00

La Paz, 1 April - The Bolivian Police on Wednesday captured three criminals which claimed $ 29,000 for the rescue of two Swiss tourists and that would be part of a larger criminal organization of Ramiro Milán Fernández, a.k.a. as "El Choco", imprisoned in La Paz accused of murdering two Austrian tourists.

The caught criminals, who kidnapped tourists In La Paz in the area of the Cemetery, are Hugo Omar Puita Ampuero, Giovani Guido Zalles Laura and Barba Katia Jimena Arriaga.

The Interior Minister Alfredo Rada, congratulated the Police for the results being achieved in the fight against crime.

The second secretary of the Swiss Embassy in Bolivia, Eros Robbiani, thanked the Government and the Police for the arrest of the kidnappers.

The Commander of the Bolivian police, Gen. Víctor Hugo Escobar explained that the March 21 Special Force to Fight Crime (FELCC) received a complaint about the kidnapping of the two Swiss citizens.

According to the director of national FELCC Humberto Echale, the two Swiss tourists were first contacted in Copacabana in March 19 by the kidnappers; once they have gained the tourist confidence the band proceeded with the kidnapping near the Municipal Cemetery. Then the kidnappers contacted their families in Switzerland, demanding a ransom of $ 30,000 US dollars.

Once the ransom was paid, the tourists were released under threat of death, but raised in the complaint that initiated FELCC research to find the criminals.

Carnaval in Bolivia 2009

2009-02-17T13:20:00.004-05:00

The larges party in the country by far. The country becomes a party zone, especially in Oruro, Tarija, La Paz and Santa Cruz, with parades and street parties. Parades include local dances and costumes.

Many are the adjectives for the Carnival in Bolivia. Grand, majestic, magnificent, wonderful, etc. those are some of the adjectives with which this event is described. It combines the ancient customs of each region, department, city and rural community in the country, with Catholic traditions brought over the colony.

The diversity of options varies according to geography and cultures of each region. No matter where you are during the Carnaval you will have a blast for sure. The Carnaval in Bolivia is a synonym for good times and party, all mixed with music and tradition.

Oruro Carnaval

Declared by UNESCO as an Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity, "the lavish Carnaval in Oruro" features a vast wealth Cultural Heritage, which combines dance and music with the devotion to Our Lady of Socavón.

This expression represents the greatest folkloric shows in Bolivia, with dances such as the Devils, Moreno, Caporales, Tinkus, Llamerada, Sicuris, Incas, Antawaras, Tobas, Wacas Waca, Kullawadas, Pujllay and others, whose members, besides orureños, come from all regions of the country, as well as from abroad, to express through dance, their faith and devotion.

The first trial or "Convite", known as "The Promise" to the Virgin begins in early November and serves to open the carnival and make a commitment to dance three years consecutively. This pledge is endorsed on the last "Convite", which takes place a week before Carnival Sunday.

The “Entrada de Carnaval” (Carnival Parade) takes place on Saturday 21st, it’s the highlight of the Oruro Carnaval, when dancers wearing luxurious costumes will parade a long the city and spectacle of more than 50 fraternity with more than 500 participants each accompanied by large musical bands. The fiesta runs until the early hours of Sunday. That day is "The Dawn" or greeting to the Virgin by the dancers who, enlivened by bands and fraternities gathered at the Socavón, showing the skill and Bolivian musical richness.

At these dates Oruro receives over 500,000 tourists, between local and foreign. This event generates around $ 8 million dollars in business, for the four days of Carnaval. The Carnival of Oruro is a magnificent demonstration of pagan costumes and religious devotion. It is an amazing demonstration of folk culture, involving young and old people; without distinction of social classes or race.

Santa Cruz Carnaval

It reflects the joyous spirit of the Santa Cruz habitants. It Begins one month before the Carnaval with the "pre-carnavaleras" in which all the groups (Comparsas) elect their Queen. A week before the carnival takes place in “mini-corso”, with the proclamation of the Carnaval Queen; witch is selected among the Comparsas Queens.

On Carnaval Saturday, from evening until dawn of Sunday of the carnival takes place in the spectacular “Corso” (Carnival Parade) with the Comparsas dancing in the streets about 300 of them. They dance through the city streets to the beat of drum bands. During the parade, expectators enjoy the luxury and colorful of the Comparsas costumes, impressive floats carrying the Comparsa queens.

The show reaches its pinnacle when the Carnaval Queen enters the main stage. The party continues on Sunday, Monday and Tuesday, days in which people dance and play in downtown streets; playing with water, foam and paint.

When? This year it starts on Friday February 20 and last till March 1st. This event normally takes place during February or March (It's a Movable celebration conciding with the beggining of Lent on the Catholic Calendar)

Constitutional Referedum

2009-01-21T13:50:00.003-05:00

On January 25, a Constitutional Referendum will take place in Bolivia, for the first time in the history of the country the citizens will be asked, if they approve or reject a new Constitution. (So far, Bolivia has had 16 previous Constitutions).

The National Electoral College orders that, 48 hours before the event a "dry Law" is set in place so no alcohol will sold during the days prior to the Referendum.

In the day of the Referendum, airports, ports, road and streets will be closed to traffic. Once the electoral event has concluded activities will go back to normal. Police, the Army, Local and National Authorities oversee the event and prevent any burst of violence or public disorder. If you are in the country or planning to arrive during this days you should plan accordingly.

All Saints Day in Bolivia

2008-11-03T16:21:00.004-05:00

It is religious holyday celebrated across the country, commemorates the memory of those who passed away. The tradition also known as “Dia de los Muertos” (Day of the dead) is a mix of catholic and popular tradition, in which family and friends remember those who passed away. On this day the tradition says, that the souls of the deceased visit the living, and to welcome them families prepare their departed favorite meals and other treats also they tidy up the graves of their relatives ahead of All Saints Day accross the country.

Family and friends get together to remember and cherish the memory of those who left; during the celebration prayers are said for the souls of the departed and to ask god for their peaceful rest.

Modern life has changed this tradition a little bit and some people take advantage of the spring weather and the holyday to do some tourism; touristic sites like Coroico or Uyuni are normally at full capacity on this dates.

Peace and tranquility are returning to Bolivia

2008-10-07T11:24:00.003-04:00

Tensions and violence have been set aside, normal life has returned to Bolivia and negotiations between the opposing sides have at least for know stopped the violence. American Airlines and other international carriers are flying again regularly and airports are working with normality.

Still, the current situation of normality can change rapidly; points of possible violence are located on the eastern side of the country, mainly around Santa Cruz and Beni. Travelers should be aware of this and stay current with media coverage of local events.

Traveler Warning: Violence in Santa Cruz, Tarija & Sucre

2008-09-10T12:26:00.004-04:00

Authorities of Santa Cruz, Beni, Pando, Tarija and Sucre are promoters of the violence, the opposition to the democratic government of Evo Morales have decided today, to increase the violence on the above mentioned departments indefinitely. Police recommends travelers to avoid, if possible, going through these regions, due to the violence and radicalism of the enforcers of the measure. More updates soon.

Travelers are reminded that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational between the promoters of this acts, security forces, demonstrators and bystanders, and escalate into violence. Travelers are urged to avoid the areas of demonstrations and to exercise caution if within the vicinity of any protests. If you find yourself in the vicinity of a large gathering, it is recommended you leave the area immediately for your own safety. Travelers should stay current with media coverage of local events.In addition to civil unrest in cities, it is not uncommon for roads between cities to be blocked by protesters or marchers. Please note that the police have limited capabilities outside major cities and communication is poor.The police will be on alert for potential civil unrest. Because the police will be involved in addressing potential civil unrest, there will be minimal police patrols. As a result, you can expect criminals to take advantage of large crowds and use ruse or diversionary tactics to prey on potential street victims. Pick-pocketing, purse snatching, and theft are the most common street crimes during such periods. Everyone is advised to limit their cash on hand, unnecessary credit cards, jewelry, and other portable valuables.

Road Blocks

2008-08-25T12:17:00.004-04:00

Due to political reasons, roads are expected to be blocked indefinitely, starting on August 25th, around the Santa Cruz, Chuquisaca and Tarija departments. It includes the Yacuiba international border crossing. More updates soon. Date: 8/25/08

Update: Promoters of the blockades in the opposition to the democratic government of Evo Morales have decided today, to increase the blockades indefinitely to all roads on the above mentioned departments. Police recommends travelers to avoid, if possible, going through these regions, due to the violence and radicalism of the enforcers of the measure. More updates soon. Date: 9/3/08

Fiesta de la Virgen de Urkupiña

2008-08-12T15:34:00.002-04:00

The Fiesta de la Virgen de Urkupiña, it is one of the most important religious celebrations in Bolivia. The religious celebration includes procession and dances performed by devotes of the image of Virgin Mary of Urkupiña.

The event takes place in Quillacollo, 14 km. from Cochabamba around San Ildefonso Chapel; it is a spectacle of color, costumes, dance and faith. More than 15,000 dancers, 6,000 musicians and about 400,000 spectators enjoy every year the splendid entrada (parade) folklorica de Urkupiña.

During the parade (about 12 hours) the fraternities perform dances like: Caporales, tobas, Morenos, Diablos, Tinkus, saya, pujllay, moseñadas, tarquedas and vallunadas. People come from around the world, just to be part of this event known for its reputation.

So don’t waste more time and join us in the party.

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