Foreign Office issues Bolivia travel ban
The Foreign and Commonwealth Office is advising against all but essential travel to Bolivia due to the ‘very uncertain’ political and security situation across the country following the resignation of the President and senior public officials yesterday.
It said there is ongoing civil unrest throughout Bolivia, including wide-scale political demonstrations, which started after the disputed election in October.
"Many demonstrations have resulted in violence, including in La Paz city centre and other major towns and cities," said the FCO, adding that further protests were likely and might turn violent without warning.
"You should continue to avoid large crowds and public demonstrations, don’t attempt to cross blockades, and pay close attention to developments via local media and this travel advice," it added.
British citizens in Bolivia are advised to consider their departure options. If they need urgent consular assistance, they should contact the British Embassy La Paz on (591 2) 2433424.
However, the FCO said the British Embassy’s ability to travel to deliver consular services is ‘very limited’ at this time.
There has been disruption to flights and access to airports in recent weeks, particularly at El Alto airport in La Paz, and increased levels of disruption are possible.
"If you’re planning to travel to or from El Alto airport, contact your airline or travel company for the latest information before you leave for the airport and check with the authorities on arrival that ground transport is functioning normally before leaving the terminal," added the FCO.
Visitors are also advised to avoid travelling between cities by road following several attacks on inter-city buses. Emergency services have limited capacity to respond in these areas.
"If you decide to travel within Bolivia, you should plan your travel carefully, regularly check the viability of your plans and be prepared to change them at short notice. Transport options are extremely limited, road journeys and land border crossings may take a lot longer than planned, and there may be disruption to supply of goods in parts of the country. Land borders are subject to closure at short notice," added the FCO.
Linsey McNeill
Editor Linsey McNeill has been writing about travel for more than three decades. Bylines include The Times, Telegraph, Observer, Guardian and Which? plus the South China Morning Post. She also shares insider tips on thetraveljournalist.co.uk
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