Tips on Accommodations

Accommodations in Bolivia run the gamut in quality and expense. There are no world-renowned luxury hotels in Bolivia, but in both Santa Cruz and La Paz you will find some high-quality accommodations. Bolivia's specialty is historic hotels; in Sucre, you can stay in a 300-year-old mansion. Moderately priced hotels are usually spotless, with decent towels in the bathrooms. It's not uncommon to find hotels that only charge $5 a night -- just don't expect anything other than a bed.

Most hotels, except for the very best ones, don't have heat. Some hotels have a limited number of space heaters (estufas), but you must specifically request one. Otherwise, be sure to bring warm pajamas. Also note that most showers are heated by electric power. Room availability is rarely an issue in Bolivia, except in Sucre on August 6, when rooms fill for Bolivia's independence day celebrations. Hotel rooms fall under the price categories of Very Expensive, $185 and up; Expensive, $120 to $184; Moderate, $50 to $119; and Inexpensive, $49 and below.