Over the last two months, more than 60 people have died in deadly bus accidents in Bolivia. This has prompted a warning from the UK government for any travellers heading to the South American country.
Bolivia has been celebrating one of Latin America’s biggest festivals this month, Oruro Carnival, drawing in countless tourists and holidaymakers. On Saturday, a bus heading for the festival collided with a second bus, leaving at least 37 people dead, according to the BBC.
In light of this and other recent deadly crashes in Bolivia since the start of the year, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office has shared new guidance around how to get safer public transport if you’re visiting the winter sun destination. The new travel alert warns: “Accidents involving public transport, especially long-distance buses, have affected British people.
“Bus drivers drive for longer than would be permitted under European laws. Many taxis and most bus companies do not meet European standards and rarely have seatbelts. Safety standards for bus transportation around Bolivia vary greatly between providers.”
The guidance urges travellers to keep these facts in mind when booking their transport. It suggested using companies that specifically cater for tourists. It highlighted that these may be “more expensive” but also “tend to have better safety standards, including seatbelts and better trained drivers”.
Finally, the update cautioned holidaymakers: “You should research the type of bus you will be taking carefully before travelling.” Other current FCDO guidance warns British tourists “against all but essential travel to parts of Bolivia”.
A seasonal warning is also in place for those planning to avoid buses and drive themselves around the Latin American country. March marks the end of Bolivia’s rainy season, meaning there is still a risk of landslides and blocked roads.
There are also currently petrol and diesel shortages across the country. This can cause long queues at service stations when deliveries are expected or disruption to public transport in certain areas.
Bolivia is a popular destination among adventure travellers and nature lovers. The country offers a diverse range of landscapes from rainforests to salt flats and bustling cities as well as hiking experiences into the iconic Andes mountain range.