The streets of La Paz lie eerily quiet as a state of emergency grips Bolivia, with protests and road blockades crippling major cities and disrupting vital supplies. The UK Foreign Office has updated its travel advice, warning against all but essential travel to several regions, including the normally bustling tourist hub of La Paz.
Clashes between security forces and government protestors have been reported in La Paz and surrounding areas, prompting the FCDO to advise against non-essential travel to the La Paz Department. This area includes the capital city and Lake Titicaca, a major draw for British tourists. Similar warnings are in place for the Chapare region of Cochabamba Department, which encompasses Villa Tunari and key highway routes 4 and 24.
The crisis has brought transportation networks to a grinding halt, with road blockades causing shortages of fuel, food, and other essential supplies across multiple departments, including La Paz, Cochabamba, Oruro, Potosí, and Chuquisaca. The FCDO warns that police or military intervention to clear the blockades could escalate into violence, advising British nationals to avoid large gatherings and protests, and not attempt to cross any roadblocks.
Under the state of emergency, Bolivian authorities have enhanced powers to detain individuals for up to eight hours without charge. Prohibitions on alcohol consumption and large gatherings in designated 'red zones' are also in effect. The FCDO stresses that the situation can deteriorate rapidly and without warning, advising travellers to be prepared to alter their plans at short notice and remain vigilant, monitoring local media and heeding advice from local authorities.
For those already in La Paz whose presence is not essential, the FCDO suggests considering departure if safe travel options are accessible. Specific road routes, including connections between La Paz and Copacabana (Lake Titicaca), Oruro, Cochabamba, and Potosí, are currently deemed unsafe for travel. Travellers should consult the Bolivian road authority for real-time updates on road statuses, although this information is only available within Bolivia. British nationals requiring urgent consular assistance can contact the FCDO directly.