Most Bolivians travel by bus, as these go pretty much everywhere and are extremely good value. The much-reduced train network covers a small fraction of the country, but offers a generally more comfortable service. In parts of the Amazon lowlands river boats are still the main means of getting around. Bolivia has many unpaved roads that result in some bumpy journeys. Rainy season can also cause poor road conditions and delays
By bus, the most common form of transportation in Bolivia for both travellers and locals are by bus. There are local buses called Micros and Trufis, and then there are long distance options like public buses and Bolivia Hop. Micros buses, run all over the city and come at a very cheap price. They have a set route through the city and pick-up/drop-off people all along this route. Many are very ornately decorated and an attraction in themselves. Just wave one down, hop-on and tell them when you want to get off. Clearly you will need to know where their route goes, this is where you will need to ask locals or the reception at your accommodation. Pay attention on where you are going and who is around you. Pickpockets love micros. Trufis, have a set route and go from one destination to another, normally from the city to smaller surrounding towns. They do not have a schedule; they just wait until the bus is full and then they leave. Thufis are very useful when going on day trips to nearby attractions outside of the city.
Buses long distances, the most popular companies are: El Dorado, Trans Empreador, and El Bolivar. There are many other bus companies that travel throughout Bolivia so you will have many options to choose from.
Strikes, Protests, Marches and Blockades are common modes that Bolivian communities use to express their discontent with the local authorities or government. These blockades can occur without significant notice and can last typically anything from 12 hours to 72 hours. There is usually nothing that can be done but sit and wait. In most cases you can purchase your ticket right at the bus terminal. There are a select number of companies that will allow you to book your ticket a day or two in advance, but in general it is not necessary. The closer to the departure time you purchase your ticket the cheaper it is going to be. Prices will increase during the holidays. If you check a bag on an overnight bus, be sure to keep your valuables (cameras, passports, cash, etc.) on you, not under the bus, or in the shelf over the seats in the bus as theft is an issue on Bolivia buses. In more rural areas, trucks, lorries, and other large vehicles often transform into the public bus for the residents of remote villages.
By train, there are a few opportunities to take the train in Bolivia. Although the options are limited you can buy tickets in La Paz, Oruro, Uyuni, Atocha, Tupiza, Villazón, and Cochabamba. For the most up-to-date information visit this website.
By car, renting a car is an option, but it is not the most common or easy way to travel. It is typically for people who want to go to remote destinations unreachable by other means. Outside towns, most roads are unpaved and in very poor condition, so four-wheel drive (4WD) is essential. In order to rent a car, you need to be at least 25 years old and have your driver’s license (it is even better if you have your international driver’s license). When renting a car, make sure you know what will happen in case you run into trouble a breakdown, accident, etc.
