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Bolivia

BEST TIME TO TRAVEL • CLIMATE • DRESS

Bolivia can be visited year-round. The Andes region is at its most beautiful in the dry season, from May until October, in the South American winter months. You can expect plenty of sunshine and dry air with daytime temperatures ranging from 68-77 °F. Night time temperatures can be below 30 °F. The best approach is to dress in layers so you can adjust according to the temperatures. In the Amazon lowland the climate is tropical and humid year-round with regular rain fall. The rugged coastal region of Peru boasts a dry and sunny climate with temperatures around 77°F. Lake Titicaca has its own peculiar oasis climate.

TRAVEL DOCUMENTS • VACCINATIONS • HEALTH ISSUES

Each traveler is personally responsible for his/her travel documents (passport, visa) and health precautions (such as vaccinations). For more information you can check with the local consulate, a travel clinic or your family doctor. You can also check online for information at http://www.cdc.gov/travel/index.htm, www.who.org or http://www.state.gov/travelandbusiness/
Adequate sunscreen is a must in the Andes as the sun in combination with the thin air can be very strong. Almost nobody is immune to altitude sickness (known locally as Soroche). Sipping some Coca tea is a proven local remedy that will alleviate the symptoms.

MONEY • ADDITIONAL COSTS • TIPS

Currency: Bolivianos. US$1= 8 Bolivianos. Exchange rate: October 2006.
We recommend taking some US dollars in cash as well as a bank card with the Maestro logo. Credit cards are only accepted in the larger cities. Prices in Peru are a bit lower than in the United States. Prices in Bolivia are significantly lower than in the United States. Tips are appreciated. A tour guide may be tipped US$2-3- per day.

FOOD AND DRINK

The cuisine is as colorful as the population and blends of Indian, European and Chinese influences. Make sure you try the Ceviche (marinated, spicy fish or seafood), Cuy (guinea pig) or the hearty Sopa Criolla soup. Local beer from the Andes breweries tastes quite good and don’t miss the very popular aperitif Pisco Sour (a grape-lemon liquor). Be careful with the food prepared by local Indian women on the streets, especially if you have a sensitive stomach.