The Bolivian government will implement restrictions across the country on Sunday, August 17, 2025, in connection with national elections. These measures will affect all residents and visitors, including U.S. citizens.
According to information from the U.S. Embassy in La Paz, the restrictions include a ban on the sale or consumption of alcoholic beverages from Friday, August 15 until noon on Monday, August 18. Unauthorized vehicle circulation is prohibited on election day. In La Paz, Teleferico cable car service will not operate during the day of voting. Public gatherings are also not allowed.
Domestic flights within Bolivia will be suspended on election day; however, international flights are expected to continue as usual. The embassy advises U.S. citizens arriving in Bolivia that day to check with airlines or airports regarding available ground transportation options.
The U.S. Embassy is recommending that its personnel avoid both work-related and personal travel within Bolivia during the week following the election.
U.S. citizens are encouraged to register in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive updates and information shared by the embassy with Americans living or traveling in Bolivia via https://bo.usembassy.gov/. The embassy further advises individuals to avoid areas where demonstrations or roadblocks may occur and to exercise caution near large gatherings.
Residents should ensure they have sufficient supplies of food, water, and fuel for several weeks or more. The Bolivian civil aviation authority website can provide updated information about authorized ground transportation for international arrivals and departures on election day.
Additional recommendations include monitoring local media for updates, obeying all local restrictions related to election day activities, and having evacuation plans that do not depend on assistance from the U.S. Government.
For assistance, U.S. citizens can contact the U.S. Embassy in La Paz at +(591) (2) 216-8000 or after hours at +(591) (2) 216-8500; email ConsularLaPazACS@state.gov; or visit https://bo.usembassy.gov/. Further information is available through State Department – Consular Affairs at 888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444.
"Register in STEP and encourage others to do the same to receive information that the U.S. Embassy in La Paz is sharing with the U.S. citizen community in Bolivia."
"Avoid any areas of demonstrations and roadblocks."
"Exercise caution in the vicinity of large gatherings or demonstrations."
"Ensure an adequate supply of food, water, and fuel for several weeks or more."
"Review the Bolivian civil aviation authority website for authorized ground transportation options for international arrivals and departures on election day."
"Monitor local media for updates."
"Obey Bolivian election day restrictions."
"Have evacuation plans that do not rely on U.S. Government assistance."