Colombia travel advice

This advice has been reviewed and reissued with amendments to the Summary, Natural Disasters section (eruption of Galeras Volcano) and Passports section. The overall level of the advice has not changed.

Travel Summary

• We advise against all but essential travel to all rural areas bordering Panama, Venezuela and Ecuador, to the towns of Buenaventura and San José del Guaviare and the areas surrounding them; and to the Parque Nacional Natural de La Macarena in the department of Meta.
  
  
• We advise against all but essential travel in areas of intensive coca cultivation (see the Crime section of this Travel Advice), including the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta.
  
  
• Though the overall security situation in Colombia has improved considerably in recent years, the threat of terrorism is still high in many parts of the country. A bomb attack in Bogotá in January 2009 killed two people and injured at least twenty others. Attacks can be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers, and in the vicinity of government buildings and military establishments. See the Terrorism/Security section of this Travel Advice.
  
  
• In January 2010 the Galeras Volcano in Nariño Department erupted. See the Natural Disasters (Volcanoes ) section of this Travel Advice.
  
  
• In many areas of Colombia, the security situation can change very quickly. In general, the more remote the area, the greater the potential threat to your safety. See the Terrorism/Security and Crime sections of this Travel Advice.
  
  
• Kidnapping remains a serious problem and Colombia continues to have a high rate of kidnapping for ransom. By following this advice the chances of your being kidnapped will be much lower.
  
  
• In 2007, 886 people were killed or injured in Colombia by landmines, more than in any other country in the world. When travelling in rural areas you should always follow local warnings about the presence of landmines.
  
  
• Around 18,000 visits are made by British passport holders to Colombia every year (Source: Colombian State Security Department - DAS). Most visits are trouble-free. 11 British nationals required consular assistance in Colombia in the period 01 April 2008 – 31 March 2009 for the following types of incident; deaths (1 case); hospitalisations (7 cases). During this period assistance was also requested with regard to lost or stolen passports (56 cases). Bogotá and Cartagena are increasingly popular tourist destinations. The main type of incident for which British nationals required consular assistance in Colombia in 2007 was the theft of personal belongings, including passports. Street crime is a particular problem in major cities. You should avoid unnecessary travel to deprived areas of all Colombian cities.
  
  
• We recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. You should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for all the activities you want to undertake. See the General (Insurance) section of this Travel Advice and our Travel Insurance page.
  
  
• You should be aware that the British Embassy in Bogota no longer issues full validity passports. All applications must now be submitted to the British Consulate in Washington. More information can be found at http://ukinusa.fco.gov.uk on how to apply.
  

Safety and security

Terrorism/Security

Though the security situation in Colombia has improved considerably in recent years, the threat of terrorism is still high in many parts of the country. In Bogotá, where the threat has decreased in recent years, indiscriminate attacks do still occur. A bomb attack on a video-rental store in the north of Bogotá on 27 January 2009, killed two people and injured at least twenty others. You should be vigilant, particularly when visiting or staying in public places used by expatriates and foreign travellers, and in the vicinity of government buildings and military establishments. For more details see our Terrorism Abroad page.

We advise against all but essential travel to rural areas bordering Panama, Venezuela and Ecuador; the towns of Buenaventura and San José del Guaviare and the areas surrounding them; and to the Parque Nacional Natural de La Macarena in the department of Meta. These areas are particularly dangerous due to the significant presence of illegal armed groups and high levels of coca cultivation.

There are a number of illegal armed groups operating throughout Colombia. Because they are mobile there are many parts of the country where it is not possible to determine in advance whether they will be unsafe at a particular time. In general, the more remote the area, the greater the threat to your safety. If it is essential that you travel to areas that are remote or reported to be dangerous, you are advised to seek professional security advice and make arrangements for your security throughout your visit. You should seek up-to-date advice from the local authorities before each stage of your journey. The Parque Nacional Tayrona is a popular tourist destination for Colombians and foreigners alike. You are advised only to visit beach areas and resorts you are reliably advised are safe and not to venture inland as illegal armed groups are active and drugs are grown and processed in the area.

The Pacific coast of Chocó is a popular eco-tourist destination, particularly for whale-watching. However, much of Chocó is remote and unsafe. On the coast, the town of Bahia Solano is considered less dangerous. If you intend to travel to this town, we recommend that you do so only by air and that you do not venture inland or along the coast out of town. Illegal armed groups and drugs traffickers are active in the area. Six tourists were kidnapped from Nuqui in January 2008, by the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC).

Although the terrorist threat in most urban centres is now relatively low, the threat is still real. For example, in August 2008 a large car bomb exploded in central Cali killing four people and destroying much of the Palacio de Justicia. On 1 February 2009, a bomb attack against a police station in central Cali left two dead.

In addition to the FARC, the ELN (National Liberation Army) is a major illegal armed group active in many parts of Colombia. A large number of armed criminal groups, many of them involved in the illegal drugs trade, have formed following the demobilisation of the United Self-Defence Forces of Colombia (AUC). These include the ‘Aguilas Negras’ (Black Eagles).

Crime

Drugs, organised crime and terrorism are inextricably linked in Colombia. Control of the drugs trade is a major driver of much of the armed conflict. We advise against all but essential travel in areas of large-scale coca cultivation. In its June 2009 survey on coca cultivation in Colombia , the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime reported an 18% decline in the amount of coca cultivation in the country but identified areas of Colombia with potentially high levels of coca as including the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, areas of north-eastern Magdalena, south-western La Guajira, southern Cordoba, southern Bolívar, northern Antioquia, southern Meta, northern and central Guaviare, central Aranca, central Vichada, western Cauca, eastern and western Nariño, and western and northern Putumayo (see map on p.9 of the UNODC report.) There is a high risk to your personal safety in any area where coca, marijuana or opium poppies are intensively cultivated and a particularly high risk in the vicinity of cocaine processing labs.

Criminal violence is a serious problem in Colombia. Both Colombia’s illegal armed groups, and other criminal groups, are heavily involved in the drugs trade and in other serious crime including kidnapping (for ransom and for political purposes), money laundering and the running of extortion and prostitution rackets.

Kidnapping remains a serious problem. Whilst levels of kidnappings have fallen off dramatically since peaking in 2000, Colombia continues to have a high rate of kidnapping for ransom. 687 kidnappings were recorded in 2006 and 521 in 2007 (Source: Fundación País Libre). Most foreign nationals are potential targets for kidnapping, including backpackers and those working for foreign organisations. There remains a significant risk of attack or kidnap in many more difficult parts of the country. In April 2008 a British national was kidnapped near Cali. He was held for almost one week before being rescued by the security forces. You should be aware that the long-standing policy of the British Government is not to make substantive concessions to hostage takers. The British Government considers that paying ransoms and releasing prisoners increases the risk of further hostage taking.

We currently advise against all but essential travel to the port of Buenaventura in the department of Valle de Cauca. Illegal armed groups and criminal gangs are very active in this notoriously violent Pacific coastal city.

We advise against all but essential travel to the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, including the ‘Lost City’. Armed groups are still active in this area, there is extensive cultivation of illegal drugs and the risk of kidnap remains high. While tour organisers may assure you that the area is safe, we do not believe it to be so. The Parque Nacional Tayrona is a popular tourist destination for Colombians and foreigners alike. You are advised only to visit beach areas and resorts you are reliably advised are safe and not to venture inland as illegal armed groups are active and drugs are grown and processed in the area.

If you plan to visit the archaeological park at San Agustín in the department of Huila we advise you to enter and leave on the main road through Neiva and not by other routes.

There has been a marked increase in criminal activity in urban areas, including Bogotá. Common crimes such as mugging and pick pocketing are often accompanied by violence. Foreign visitors present a tempting target to thieves, pickpockets and drug traffickers. When walking in urban areas, you should avoid any unnecessary display of wealth. You should only use pre-booked taxis, where possible. You should be wary of unsolicited approaches from strangers. There have been several cases of assailants using drugs to subdue their intended victims. Drugs can be administered through food, drinks, needles, cigarettes, aerosols, powder, and have even been impregnated in ‘flyers’ handed out at traffic lights. These drugs can take effect extremely quickly, allowing an assailant to rob the victim and escape before the attack can be reported. It can take several days for the drug to wear off and the victim to recover. These attacks frequently occur on public transport. You should never accept offers of food, drink or cigarettes from strangers – no matter how friendly or well dressed a person appears.

There have been reports, including in Bogotá, of bogus policemen approaching foreigners to ‘check’ documents or foreign currency.

You should avoid unnecessary visits to deprived areas of all Colombian cities. In Bogotá, you should be vigilant in areas to the south of Candelaria and to the west of the airport road as these parts of the city are particularly dangerous. Homicide rates in the city of Cali are especially high. You should be cautious on city streets, especially after dark. You should avoid, where possible, hailing taxis on the street but instead should book them through hotels or by phoning a reputable taxi company. You should be particularly vigilant when taking money out of cash dispensers.

For more general information see our Victims of Crime Abroad page.

Political Situation

Colombia Country Profile

Colombia has a long, though not uninterrupted, democratic history. The country has suffered from internal armed conflict for over forty years, and, although the security situation has improved considerably over the past few years, it continues to face many problems.

Local Travel

The security situation throughout Colombia is constantly changing. You could also be at serious risk in parts of the country not included in the list provided in the summary of this Travel Advice. You should review your security arrangements.

Colombia is affected by land mines and unexploded ordnance. Mined areas are frequently unmarked. You should be aware of potential dangers when visiting remote locations or venturing off the main roads.

In much of rural Colombia the effective authority of the Colombian State is limited. The British Embassy’s ability to assist British nationals in trouble in these areas will often be similarly limited.

When travelling in Colombia's major cities, your greatest threat will be from common criminals. You should take sensible precautions to avoid unnecessary risk. As well as Bogotá, important business centres include Medellín, Cali, Barranquilla, Bucaramanga and Cartagena. Cartagena is a popular tourist destination and venue for major conferences.

Road Travel

To drive in Colombia, you will need to have a valid UK or other recognised driving licence and car insurance is compulsory. Road surfaces, including in large cities, are variable. Driving standards are low and traffic accidents are common. You should avoid driving at night.

The risk of violence and kidnapping is higher in some rural areas, as is the threat of being caught in roadblocks set up by illegal armed groups. Main arterial roads are generally safe to travel on during daylight hours. Preferably you should avoid all travel at night. We recommend against hitchhiking in Colombia.

While we advise against travel to the rural areas of some departments through which the Pan-American Highway passes, the Highway itself is generally well guarded and considered to be reasonably safe. For more general information see our Driving Abroad page.

Rail Travel

There is no significant rail transport system in Colombia.

Entering and Leaving Colombia

Most visitors enter or leave Colombia by air. The national carrier, Avianca, and other national airlines (the main ones are Satena and AeroRepublica) generally have good safety records. Air travel is a key mode of transport in the country, not least because of the risks involved in travel overland.

If entering or leaving Colombia by land from or to Venezuela, we advise you to cross at Cucuta, and not at Arauja, or via Riohacha. If entering or leaving from or to Ecuador we advise you only to take the Pan-American Highway, and not to stop en route between the border and Pasto. Some visitors arrive by sea through Caribbean ports. We advise against trying to cross between Panama and Colombia by land.

If crossing into Colombia from either Ecuador or Venezuela, you are advised to ensure that you have your passport stamped by the immigration authorities on arrival in the country. Failure to do so may result in a fine. If the immigration office on the border is closed, you should seek assistance at the next nearest office of the Departamento Administrativo de Seguridad.

Airport tax for international departures for visitors who stay in Colombia for less than two months is US$30. For stays in excess of two months the tax is US$51. However, the charge depends on the type of visa with which you are issued. The Colombian Embassy in London (tel. 020 7 637 9893, e-mail info@colombianconsulate.co.uk) can advise further.

Local laws and customs

You should avoid all dealings with illegal drugs. Colombian drug trafficking detection methods are sophisticated and anyone attempting to traffick drugs should expect to be arrested. You should pack all your luggage yourself, and not carry items for other people. Conviction leads to severe penalties. In recent months four British nationals have been arrested for trying to smuggle cocaine out of the country.

Homosexuality is legal but not widely socially accepted, especially in rural areas.

Photography of military or strategic sites is not permitted.

It is a serious criminal offence to have sex with under age minors in Colombia and can result in long prison sentences.

For more general advice for different types of travellers see our Your Trip page.

Entry requirements

Visas

British nationals may enter Colombia for up to 60 days as a visitor without a visa, however there is no unconditional right to do so. The decision on whether to permit entry and length of stay rests with the Immigration Officer on arrival.

You may be able to extend your stay up to a maximum of a further 120 days on application and payment of a fee at the immigration office of the Department of Administration and Security once in Colombia. As a visitor, you cannot remain in Colombia for more than 180 days in any twelve-month period. You should not outstay your visa.

Before any travel to Colombia, particularly for purposes other than tourism, you should contact the Colombian Embassy in London (see contact details above).

Passport validity

You should have a valid return ticket with you and your passport should have at least six months’ validity.

You should note that the British Embassy in Bogota no longer issues full passports. All applications must be sent to the British Consulate in Washington. More information can be found at http://ukinusa.fco.gov.uk/en/passports/ on how to apply. In addition you can contact the Care Line Services (the UK Passport Helpline Service) on +44 208 082 4721, between 8.30am and 8.30pm EST, Monday to Friday

Yellow Fever vaccination certificate

Airport authorities have informed us that Yellow Fever vaccination certificates are only needed if you are planning to visit jungle areas of Colombia.

If you intend to travel on to neighbouring countries in Latin America from Colombia, you may not be allowed to do so without production of a Yellow Fever Certificate. You should confirm with the authorities of your next destination whether they require a certificate following your visit to Colombia. Since November 2008, it has been a requirement for all travellers from Colombia to Ecuador to be in possession of a valid Yellow Fever certificate.

Customs regulations on departure

Individuals leaving Colombia are only entitled to carry up to US$10,000 in cash. Anything in excess of this may be confiscated. In May 2006 a British national carrying US$14,000 had $4,000 confiscated by the authorities at the airport, despite his argument that the money belonged to both himself and his wife, who was travelling with him.

Travelling with children

Children under the age of 18 years who have resident status in Colombia and who are travelling on a British passport require written permission whenever they leave the country without both parents. The non-accompanying parent(s) must write a letter giving permission for the child to leave Colombia. The letter must be authenticated by a notary or by a Colombian Consulate. The letter must mention the proposed destination, the purpose of the trip, the date of departure and the return date. More information about Colombian emigration requirements can be obtained from the Departamento Administrativo de Seguridad (DAS) or by contacting the Colombian Consulate-General in London (info@colombianconsulate.co.uk).

Health

Private medical facilities in Colombia are generally of good quality, but may be expensive. Medical facilities in many areas of rural Colombia are limited. Most medicines are generally available, but can be costly.

Yellow Fever, Malaria and Dengue Fever are common to Colombia.

Yellow Fever affects the Magdalena, Cesar, La Guajira, Atlantico, Santander, Norte de Santander and Amazona areas. There is a high incidence of malaria in lowland tropical areas, particularly in Chocó and north western Antioquia.

Dengue Fever is common to Latin America and the Caribbean and can occur throughout the year. In 2007 there was a marked increase in the number of reported cases of Dengue Fever across the region. In Colombia it is more common on the north Caribbean coast, particularly in Chocó, Antioquia, Córdoba, Sucre, Bolivar and Atlantico departments.

In the 2008 Report on the Global AIDS Epidemic the UNAIDS/WHO Working Group estimated that around 160,000 adults aged 15 or over in Colombia were living with HIV; the prevalence rate was estimated at around 0.6% of the adult population. This compares to the prevalence rate in adults in the UK of around 0.2%. You should exercise normal precautions to avoid exposure to HIV/AIDS. For more general information on how to do this see our HIV and AIDS page.

You should seek medical advice before travelling to Colombia and ensure that all appropriate vaccinations are up-to-date. For further information on vaccination requirements, health outbreaks and general disease protection and prevention you should visit the websites of the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) and NHS Scotland’s Fit for Travel or call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47.

For more general health information see our Travel Health and Swine Flu pages.

Natural disasters

Earthquakes

Earthquakes occur regularly in Colombia. In the event of an earthquake you should monitor local media reports and follow the advice of the authorities.

Rainy season

There is a risk of floods and landslides after heavy rains throughout the Colombian Andes. You should seek local advice before travelling on mountain roads after heavy rain.

Volcanoes

On 2 January 2010 the Galeras Volcano in Nariño Department erupted. We strongly recommend against all travel to the department of Narino, and the city of Pasto and La Florida. If, against our advice, you are in the vicinity of the volcano, you should pay careful attention to all warnings issued and follow the advice of the local authorities.

In December 2009 the alert level for the Galeras Volcano in Nariño Department was raised to level 2 (eruption probable in days or weeks). We strongly recommend against all travel to the department of Narino, and the city of Pasto and La Florida. If, against our advice, you are in the vicinity of the volcano, you should pay careful attention to all warnings issued and follow the advice of the local authorities.

Since November 2008, Cerro Machin in Tolima Department (approx 17km west of Ibague) has been showing signs of increased instability resulting in the evacuation of residents in the immediate vicinity. The alert level has been set at Level 3. Travellers to the area should pay careful attention to all warnings issued and follow the advice of the local authorities.

The Nevado del Huila volcano in the Parque de los Nevados (on the Huila/Cauca/Tolima boundary) erupted in November 2008, causing a mudslide. Since the eruption, Colombia's Institute of Seismology has reduced the state of alert to Level 3 ( changes in volcanic activity). Several hundred people living in the immediate area were evacuated, and there were reports of a number of deaths and injuries. Despite the reduced alert level, we advise that all travel in the vicinity of the volcano should be avoided at the present time. You should pay careful attention to all warnings issued and follow the advice of the local authorities.

General

Insurance

We recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. You should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for all the activities you want to undertake. For more general information see our Travel Insurance page.

If things do go wrong when you are overseas then see our When Things Go Wrong page.

Registering with the British Embassy

Register with our LOCATE service to tell us when and where you are travelling abroad or where you live abroad so our consular and crisis staff can provide better assistance to you in an emergency.

More information about registering with LOCATE can be found here.

Identification

You should carry a photocopy of the data page and Colombian visa from your passport at all times, plus copies of other important documents. These should be kept separately from the originals, and copies left with friends or relatives in the UK. You should enter your next of kin details in the back of your passport.

Money

You should ensure you bring enough money with you or have access to enough money in your bank account to cover the costs of your visit. US dollars and Euros are widely exchangeable. Should you run out of money you can have money wired to you by a relation or friend through Western Union.

You should use credit and debit cards with caution and are advised to keep receipts. When using an ATM, try to do so during business hours at a location inside a bank, supermarket or large commercial building. You should be particularly vigilant before and after using an ATM on the street – robberies are common, especially at night.

British Honorary Consulates

There are British Honorary Consulates in Cali, Cartagena and Medellín, which can provide consular assistance. Contact details can be found on the Embassy website.

Chile travel advice

This advice has been reviewed and reissued with amendments to the Summary (Presidential elections on 17 January). The overall level of the advice has not changed.

Travel Summary

• Chileans will vote on Sunday 17 January 2010 in Presidential elections. See the Political section of this Travel Advice.
  
  
• There is an underlying threat from international terrorism. Attacks, although unlikely, could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.
  
  
• Llaima volcano located south of Santiago and the Chaiten volcano in southern Chile both erupted in 2009. Some areas surrounding the volcanoes have been evacuated.. If you are in these areas you should follow media reports and the advice of the local authorities. Please see the Natural Disasters section for more details.
  
  
• Minefields are located in regions XV Arica – Parinacota (formerly part of Region I), I Tarapaca, II Antofagasta in the north and XII Magallanes y Antartica in the south (please see map at www.escolares.net). We recommend checking with the local authorities before travelling to the border areas of the regions.
  
  
• Around 65,000 British tourists visit Chile every year (source: SERNATUR - Chilean National Tourist Authority). Most visits are trouble-free. 16 British nationals required consular assistance in Chile in the period 01 April 2008 – 31 March 2009 for the following types of incident: deaths (2 cases); hospitalisations (5 cases); and arrests, for a variety of offences (3 cases). During this period assistance was also requested with regard to lost or stolen passports (74 cases). Pickpocketing, other thefts and muggings are also common and are on the increase. See the Crime section of this Travel Advice.
  
  
• We recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. See the General (Insurance) section of this advice and Travel Insurance.

Safety and security

Terrorism

There is an underlying threat from international terrorism. Attacks, although unlikely, could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.

There are occasional acts of low-level domestic terrorism by left wing groups. On 15 July 2007, a bomb exploded outside the British Embassy causing some structural damage but no casualties. There is no evidence of an ongoing threat to British nationals but travellers are advised to remain vigilant.

For more general information see Terrorism Abroad.

Crime

Pickpocketing, other thefts and muggings are common throughout Chile and have been increasing since 2007, particularly around well-known tourist sites, bus stations and areas of Santiago frequented by foreigners such as Las Condes, Vitacura and Providencia. You should pay particular attention to your belongings in popular foreign cafes, restaurants and internet cafes where there has been an increase in bag theft.

You should not leave luggage unattended, and should be particularly attentive at bus terminals, restaurants and whilst travelling through the Lake District (Pucon, Villarrica) as there has been a rise in theft in these areas. You are advised not to put any valuables in the storage compartments of buses and coaches - keep them with you at all times.

There have also been reports of muggings, sometimes by armed groups, in popular walking or scenic areas such as Cerro San Cristobal, Cerro Santa Lucia and Cerro Manquehue. You are therefore advised to take great care with your belongings, keep in groups and not walk alone late at night. When travelling by taxi you are advised to book in advance rather than hailing from the street, especially late at night. There have been increased reports of people being given ‘spiked’ drinks in nightclubs and bars, particularly in the Suecia and Bellavista areas of Santiago. These can have the effect of causing short-term amnesia, leaving the victim open to theft or worse.

You are advised to leave your passport, tourist card (given upon entry into Chile), most bank cards and larger amounts of money in a safe place and to carry a photocopy of the details page of your passport with you at all times.

For more general information see Victims of Crime Abroad.

Political Situation

Chileans will vote on Sunday 17 January 2010 in Presidential elections. Many shops, including supermarkets, are likely to be shut on Sunday morning and alcohol cannot be sold in public places from Saturday night until the voting stations close late Sunday afternoon. On Sunday night, when the result will be announced, large crowds of people are likely to gather in public squares in and around Santiago centre. These gatherings will probably be good-natured, but tourists might wish to avoid the area during this time and they should be extra vigilant about their possessions and be on the lookout for pickpockets and petty criminals.

Chile Country Profile

Demonstrations

Nationwide protests often take place on 11 September (anniversary of the military coup) and 1 May (Workers’ Day). They frequently become violent. The largest protests usually take place in central Santiago. Demonstrations have in the past resulted in destruction to property and arrests. Police can use tear gas and water cannons against protesters. You should avoid political protests, particularly on these dates.

Other public demonstrations, often led by students or indigenous rights defenders, can occur sporadically around Chile.

Local Travel

Chile has a small but significant landmine problem. Landmine accidents mainly affect livestock and small numbers of local people crossing the borders at unauthorised crossing points. Minefields are located primarily in border areas adjacent to Peru and Bolivia in the extreme north of Chile, Regions XV, I and II, and Argentina in the south in Region XII. Although most minefields are clearly marked, some signs and fences have been subjected to the effects of weather or vandalism and may be hard to recognise, particularly in the north of the country. Minefields are, in some cases, laid right up to the edge of highways. You should also be aware that there are mined areas in six government-protected wilderness areas in Regions XV, I, II in the north and XII in the south. You are advised to check with local authorities before travelling to these areas, stick to clearly marked roads and observe all warning signs.

The main road between Chile (Arica region) and Bolivia is currently being blockaded by protesters at Tambo Quemado in Bolivia. If you intend to travel from Chile into Bolivia on this route you should check the Bolivian Government’s website (in Spanish), which gives up-to-date information on road blockades, and make amendments to your journey if necessary.

If you wish to go exploring or mountaineering, we recommend that you notify the local authorities of your intended expedition before you set off. For further information on mountaineering you should contact the Federación de Andinismo de Chile, at Almirante Simpson 77, Santiago, Chile, Tel: (56 2) 2220888. For any other type of exploring, we advise that you contact the Chilean Embassy in London, to see if any permits are required. There are good rescue facilities in Chile. You may be charged for the service provided.

Road Travel

To drive in Chile, you will require a valid international driving licence or new European format driving licence (with a photograph).

Car hire is possible throughout Chile and the most well known firms are represented. You are advised to take out adequate insurance including for windscreen damage, which can be expensive.

Main roads in Chile are paved. However, you may wish to consider a four-wheel drive vehicle for driving in the countryside. Chile contains a complete range of driving conditions, from snow and ice to hot sandy deserts. Road tolls are increasingly common.

For more general information see Driving Abroad.

Local laws and customs

The consumption and possession of drugs is illegal.

Homosexuality is legal in Chile. It is increasingly widely accepted socially, although much of Chilean society is conservative.

For more general information for different types of travellers see our Your trip page.

Entry requirements

Visas

If you are a British passport holder visiting Chile for less than 90 days, you do not require a visa. If you wish to stay longer, you should consult the nearest Chilean Embassy. On arrival in Chile the Immigration Authorities will issue you with a “Tarjerta de Turismo – Tourist Card”, an A5 sized white form. You need to retain this document and present it to Immigration on leaving the country.

Once in Chile, if you decide to stay for 90 days or more, you should approach the Chilean Immigration Department located in Agustinas 1235, Santiago. Tel: 56 2 550 2400.

Travelling with children

Single parents or other adults travelling alone with children should be aware that Chile requires notarised documentary evidence of parental or judicial authority to enable a child to leave Chile either alone, accompanied by one parent or accompanied by a third party. For further information on exactly what will be required at immigration please contact the Chilean Embassy in London.

Health

There are good health facilities in Santiago and the major cities, but private clinics and hospitals are expensive. Air pollution in Santiago during winter (June-September) is a major problem. You may therefore suffer from eye irritation and respiratory problems.

There are sporadic cases of cholera outside Santiago and typhoid and Hepatitis B are fairly common, especially during the warm season, which lasts from December to March in central Chile. Cholera and Typhoid are food and water borne diseases.

Dengue fever is common to Latin America and the Caribbean and can occur throughout the year. In 2007 there was a marked increase in the number of reported cases of dengue across the region. In Chile the only area reported to be affected is Easter Island (Isla de Pascua). No fatalities have been reported.

In the 2008 Report on the Global AIDS Epidemic the UNAIDS/WHO Working Group estimated that around 31,000 adults aged 15 or over in Chile were living with HIV; the prevalence rate was estimated at around 0.3% of the adult population. This compares to the prevalence rate in adults in the UK of around 0.2%. You should exercise normal precautions to avoid exposure to HIV/AIDS. For more general information on how to do this see HIV and AIDS.

You should seek medical advice before travelling to Chile and ensure that all appropriate vaccinations are up-to-date. For further information on vaccination requirements, health outbreaks and general disease protection and prevention you should visit the websites of the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) and NHS Scotland’s Fit for Travel or call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47.

For more general health information see Travel Health and for food and drink hygiene see Eat and Drink Safely.

Natural disasters

Volcanoes

On 19 February 2009 Volcano Chaiten in southern Chile erupted, following earlier eruptions in May 2008. 150 local residents from the town of Chaiten, 10km south of the volcano, have been evacuated. Further eruptions cannot be ruled out and the Chilean authorities are on full alert in the area, ready to respond to any further developments.

On 3 April 2009, the Llaima volcanoes in the Conguillo National Park erupted. The area surrounding the volcano has been evacuated and a Red Alert is in place for the towns of La Selva, Bellavista, Las Mercedes, El Danubio, Colonia Caupolican, Los Lleuques, Bajo Ileuque and Captren. A Yellow Alert has been issued for the surrounding areas of Cunco, Melipeuco and Lonquima.

Earthquakes

Chile is in a high-risk zone for earthquakes. On 14 November 2007, an earthquake measuring 7.8 on the Richter scale occurred in northern Chile.

A powerful 7.9 magnitude earthquake struck northern Chile on 14 June 2005, causing 11 deaths and cuts in power and communication for several days. Before then, the last major earthquake in Santiago was in March 1985.

A serious earthquake is always a possibility; however, building regulations require new structures to take account of seismic risks. Safety measures are widely known and put into practice by national organisations and local authorities. You are advised to monitor the local press for government warnings and updates. Please refer to the Chilean National Emergency Office (ONEMI) website (in Spanish) for further information.

General

Insurance

We recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. You should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for all the activities you want to undertake. For more general information see Travel Insurance.

If things do go wrong when you are overseas then this is How We Can Help.

Registering with the British Embassy

Register with our LOCATE service to tell us when and where you are travelling abroad or where you live abroad so our consular and crisis staff can provide better assistance to you in an emergency. More information about registering with LOCATE can be found here.

Money

ATMs are widely available. Be aware that your debit or credit card company is likely to charge you for using an ATM overseas.

Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard and, to a lesser extent, American Express) are accepted in most large shops and hotels. Dollar travellers’ cheques are more widely accepted than travellers’ cheques in other currencies. It is possible to transfer money from the UK to Chile through Western Union.

Contact Details

If you are a British national visiting Chile for more than a brief period, you are advised to register on arrival at British Embassy in Santiago, Chile.

British Antarctic Territory travel advice

This advice has been reviewed and reissued with an amendment to the Summary (removal of Swine Flu paragraph). The overall level of the advice has not changed.

Travel Summary

• The British Antarctic Territory is a British Overseas Territory. There is no formal British diplomatic or consular representation in the British Antarctic Territory and it is administered from London. See the Contact Details section of this advice for more details.
  
  
• You may require a permit issued by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office if you are organising a trip to Antarctica, including the British Antarctic Territory. You are also encouraged to travel with a company affiliated to the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO). See gidance for visitors to Antarctica for more details.
  
  
• The British Antarctic Territory is inaccessible during the winter (March-October) and during the rest of the year there will be times when, because of the prevailing weather conditions landings may be difficult. See the Local Travel section of this advice for more details.
  
  
• There is a low threat from terrorism. But you should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks which could be in public areas, including those frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.
  
  
• We strongly recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. You should check any exclusions and that your policy covers you for all the activities you want to undertake. See the General (Insurance) section of this advice and Travel Insurance for more details.

Safety and security

Terrorism

The threat from terrorism is low. But you should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks which could be against civilian targets, including places frequented by foreigners. For more general information see terrorism abroad.

Crime

There is no history of crime within the Territory. The Territory has no indigenous population and the only residents are personnel who work at the few scientific research stations in the Territory.

For more general information see victims of crime abroad.

Political situation

British Antarctic Territory Country Profile

Local travel

There are no air links to the Territory and there are no road links within the Territory. Access to Antarctica is by sea only.

In winter (March-October) the Territory is inaccessible. And during the Austral summer (November-February) there will be times when, because of the prevailing westerly winds and lack of sheltered anchorage, landings may be difficult.

Local laws and customs

The British Antarctic Territory is a British Overseas Territory. The Territory has a comprehensive set of its own laws and is administered by a Commissioner, based in London. (See contact details below).

For more general information for different types of travellers see your trip.

Entry requirements

Before travelling to the British Antarctic Territory, and the wider continent of Antarctica, you will need a valid permit which your tour organiser may obtain from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office in London.

For further information on permits, please see: guidance for visitors to Antarctica.

Health

There are no medical or search and rescue facilities within the Territory. You should be aware of the harsh climatic conditions in Antarctica.

You should exercise normal precautions to avoid exposure to HIV/AIDS. For more general information on how to do this see HIV and AIDS.

You should seek medical advice before travelling to British Antarctic Territory and ensure that all appropriate vaccinations are up-to-date. For further information on vaccination requirements, health outbreaks and general disease protection and prevention you should visit the websites of the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) and NHS Scotland’s Fit for Travel or call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47.

For more general health information see travel health and Swine Flu.

General

Insurance

We strongly recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. You should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for all the activities you want to undertake. For more general information see Travel Insurance.

If things do go wrong when you are overseas then this is how we can help.

Registration

Register with our LOCATE service to tell us when and where you are travelling abroad or where you live abroad so our consular and crisis staff can provide better assistance to you in an emergency.

Contact details

Government of the British Antarctic Territory
Polar Regions Unit
Overseas Territory Department
Foreign & Commonwealth Office
London
SW1A 2AH.

Tel: 020 7008 1921

Fax: 020 7008 2086

Office Hours (GMT): Mon-Fri: 0900-1300 and 1400-1700.

International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO) - http://www.iaato.org/

Brazil travel advice

This advice has been reviewed and reissued with an amendment to the Summary and Natural Disasters section (severe weather in the state of Rio de Janeiro). The overall level of the advice has not changed.

Travel Summary

• Severe weather has affected the state of Rio de Janeiro, in particular the Ilha Grande and Angra dos Reis areas. There have been a number of casualties. You should monitor local media reports for updates on the situation.
  
  
• Levels of crime and violence are high, particularly in major cities. You should be particularly vigilant before and during the festive and Carnival periods, as there is often a seasonal upsurge in robberies around this time. Remain alert and aware of local conditions at all times. See the Crime section of this advice for more details.
  
  
• Around 181,000 British nationals visited Brazil in 2008 (source: Brazilian Ministry of Tourism). Most visits are trouble-free. 77 British nationals required consular assistance in Brazil in the period 01 April 2008 – 31 March 2009, the most serious incidents being: deaths (12 cases); hospitalisations (20 cases); and arrests, for a variety of offences (22 cases). During this period assistance was also requested with regard to lost or stolen passports (59 cases).
  
  
• There is an underlying threat from international terrorism. Attacks, although unlikely, could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.
  

• Drug trafficking is widespread in Brazil, and incurs severe penalties.
  

• We recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. You should check any exclusions and that your policy covers you for all the activities you want to undertake. See the General (Insurance) section of this advice and Travel Insurance for more details.
  

Safety and security

Terrorism

There is an underlying threat from international terrorism. Attacks, although unlikely, could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers. For more general information see our Terrorism Abroad page.

Crime

Levels of violence and crime are high. Shanty-towns (“favelas”) exist in all major Brazilian cities; they are characterised by poverty and extremely high levels of violent crime. Do not venture into a favela even with well-organised tours, as favelas can be unpredictably dangerous areas. Outbreaks of violence, particularly aimed at police and officials, can occur at anytime and may be widespread and unpredictable. Public transport is likely to be disrupted during periods of unrest. You should remain alert and aware of local conditions at all times.

You should be particularly vigilant before and during the festive and Carnival periods, as there is often a seasonal upsurge in robberies around this time. Violence and crime can occur anywhere and often involve firearms or other weapons. You should be extra vigilant, particularly in major cities. You are advised to dress down, avoid wearing jewellery and expensive watches, and only carry small sums of money. Conceal mobile phones and cameras. You should be ready to hand over your valuables if threatened; do not attempt to resist attackers as they will often use their weapons, particularly if under the influence of drugs. Safeguard valuables at all times, including your passport.

The crime rate in Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro, is higher than in many other regions, partly because the district attracts lots of tourists and hosts large events. You should see the Crime section of this advice for more details about crime and violence.

Thefts from cars are common, and cases of car jacking occur, sometimes with the occupants being taken and forced to withdraw money from their accounts at cash machines. When in a car you should keep the doors locked and the windows closed, and take particular care at traffic lights. In three or more lanes of traffic, consider using the middle lane(s), where safety may be higher.

Avoid venturing out after dark in quiet streets except under reliable local advice. The threat of personal attack is lower outside the cities. However, incidents can occur anywhere, even in holiday destinations that appear relatively secure.

The incident of rape and other sexual offences is statistically low, but there have been reports of attacks against both men and women, and some have involved 'date rape' drugs - you should purchase your own drinks and keep them within sight at all times to avoid them being drugged. For more information see the rape and sexual assault abroad.

Credit card fraud is common. Try to keep sight if your card at all times. Additionally, with the possibility of theft, consider keeping a spare credit card for emergencies in your hotel safe, if there is one, in a sealed envelope (for extra security- to indicate fraudulent access to the safe).

Mobile phone cloning occurs. Take care of your handset.

For more general information see victims of crime abroad.

Political Situation

Brazil Country Profile

Local travel

Public transport

Some forms of public transport (e.g. buses, the metro, and trams), can be unsafe, particularly in major cities. There have been instances where gangs have set buses alight leaving passengers inside after robbing them. There are also frequent bus crashes (see the “Road Travel” section of this advice), with buses very often not responding to traffic lights or “Stop” signs. The risk is lower in São Paulo, but the bus and metro system is complicated. Bus travel between and in major cities is relatively safe, although there have been incidents of hijacking and robbery of tour buses in recent years.

On arrival in Brazil, ensure that you use licenced (rather than unlicenced) airport taxis. You can pick up licensed taxis from the many recognised taxi ranks around Brazilian cities - a driver’s photographic licence on display is a good indication that a taxi is registered.

Road travel

Drive cautiously in Brazil. The style of driving and standards are very different from the UK. Brazil has a high road accident rate. In many rural areas the quality of roads away from the main highways, and the poor standard of driving especially of trucks and buses, requires particular vigilance from drivers more used to British standards of driving.

Brazil has a zero tolerance policy on drink driving. Even a small alcoholic drink will put you over the legal driving limit. If you are caught driving whilst under the influence of alcohol, it is likely that you will be prosecuted. The penalties range from being fined and also suspended from driving for 12 months, to imprisonment for up to three years.

For more general information see driving abroad.

Air travel

For more general information see airline security.

Rail travel

The rail and metro infrastructure is limited in Brazil. In the past there have been some safety and security incidents on these public transport systems.

Sea Travel

You should be vigilant of safety procedures on board vessels if travelling on a river or the sea. In the past there have been cases of both armed and unarmed attacks on merchant vessels, including British flag vessels off the Brazilian coast and in some Brazilian ports. In particular, boat accidents on the Amazon river are not uncommon.

For more general information see river and sea safety.

Swimming

Strong currents and sharks can be a problem off some beaches. You should take local advice before swimming.

Local laws and customs

Drugs

Drug trafficking is widespread in Brazil. If you are caught trafficking the penalties are severe. The penalties for possession of drugs for personal use range from educational classes to community service.

Paedophilia and child prostitution

The sexual abuse of children is a serious crime and widespread in Brazil. The UK and Brazilian authorities are committed to combating travelling child sex offenders and the Brazilian Government continues to crack down on those who commit such offences. Those arrested and convicted can expect to receive long prison sentences. Legislation in the UK, the Sex Offenders Act 1997, can be used to prosecute in the UK those who commit sex offences against children abroad, and has already been used successfully in cases of British nationals who have committed such offences elsewhere in the world.

Gap Year Travellers

Please read: GOGAPYEAR.COM

Homosexuality

There is no legislation against homosexuality in Brazil. The country has a tradition of tolerance towards homosexuality, and Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo are regarded as destinations for gay travellers. However, gay travellers should be generally aware of local sensitivities.

For more general information for different types of travellers see your trip.

Entry requirements

Visas

British nationals can normally enter Brazil without a visa as tourists for an initial maximum stay of 90 days. However, it is important that you comply with Brazilian immigration laws on arrival in country and satisfy the Federal Police (the Brazilian immigration authority) of your intended purpose of visit. It is particularly important to be able to demonstrate that you have sufficient money to fund the duration of your stay, and that you also have details of your accommodation and a return airline ticket or evidence that you are going to leave the country by other means of transport. If you do not, then you risk being denied entry into the country.

If you wish to extend your stay you should apply to the Federal Police for an extension in advance of your 90-day period. If you overstay the validity of your visa, you are likely to be given notice to leave the country at your own expense and risk fines and/or deportation.

It is important that you retain your immigration landing card (green) that is required to leave the country – if you lose it you could be subject to a R$165 fine payable in cash only. It is also important that you have enough cash to pay the airport tax (R$115 payable in cash only) if this has not been paid with your airline ticket, which is a requirement to leave the country.

The Brazilian Immigration Authorities are vigilant to foreigners claiming to be visitors when in fact their intention is to work in Brazil (e.g. by undertaking training and equipment maintenance).

For further information about entry requirements for Brazil, you should contact your nearest Brazilian Embassy or Consulate. The full contact details of the Brazilian Embassy in London.

Passport validity

Your passport should be valid for at least ninety days to comply with Brazilian immigration rules. However, there are occasions when immigration authorities in some Brazilian states will require passports to have up to six months validity; you are recommended to check with your nearest Brazilian Embassy / Consulate, travel agency or airline in advance of your departure date.

Often the Brazilian Immigration Authorities will require dual British/Brazilian nationals visiting Brazil to travel on Brazilian (rather than British) passports.

Yellow Fever Certificate

If you have recently visited a country, which is known to suffer from outbreaks of Yellow Fever, you will need to show that you have been vaccinated against the disease. Please see the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) and NHS Scotland's Fit For Travel.

Travelling with children

There are additional requirements for all children under 18 entering and/or transiting Brazil without their parents or legal guardian (including on school trips), or if travelling with one parent only. You should contact your nearest Brazilian Embassy or Consulate for up-to-date advice on requirements, or visit the website of the Brazilian Embassy in the UK.

Health

There is a dedicated swine flu page on the FCO website. Guidance on Pandemic Flu can be obtained on the UK Department of Health website.

Foreign nationals are entitled to unforeseen emergency medical treatment in Brazilian public hospitals. However, you are not obliged to offer treatment for existing illnesses or care after you have been stabilised. Public hospitals in Brazil, especially in major cities, tend to be crowded. Private hospitals will not accept you unless you can present evidence of sufficient funds or insurance.

Dengue Fever is common to Latin America and the Caribbean and can occur throughout the year. From January to July 2009, the number of Dengue Fever cases reported across several states of Brazil was down 46% compared to the same period in 2008 (approximately 70% of Dengue cases are usually reported between January to May each year). Whilst the authorities seem to have limited the spread of the disease, the following states have registered an increased number of cases: Acre, Amapa, Bahia, Espirito Santo, Mato Grosso, and Mato Grosso do Sul- source: Brazilian Ministry of Health. There is no vaccine to protect against Dengue Fever, and you should therefore use mosquito repellent regularly and cover up with suitable clothing to avoid being bitten. Symptoms of Dengue Fever usually begin 7 to 10 days after being bitten and include high fever with aching joints and bones and a headache. If you develop these symptoms, you should consult a doctor.

A number of Yellow Fever cases have been reported. The affected states are Sao Paulo (25 confirmed cases including nine deaths between February and April 2009) and Rio Grande do Sul (18 confirmed cases including 7 deaths between November 2008 and May 2009) - source: Brazilian Health Ministry. Yellow Fever vaccination is recommended at least 10 days prior to visiting some parts of Brazil, including the states affected by this outbreak. In the 2008 Report on the Global AIDS Epidemic the UNAIDS/WHO Working Group estimated that around 710,000 adults aged 15 or over in Brazil were living with HIV; the prevalence rate was estimated at around 0.6% of the adult population. This compares to the prevalence rate in adults in the UK of around 0.2%.
You should exercise normal precautions to avoid exposure to HIV/AIDS. For more general information on how to do this see HIV and AIDS.

You should seek medical advice before travelling to Brazil and ensure that all appropriate vaccinations are up-to-date. For further information on vaccination requirements, health outbreaks and general disease protection and prevention you should visit the websites of the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) and NHS Scotland’s Fit for Travel or call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47.

For more general health information see travel health.

Natural disasters

Severe weather has affected the state of Rio de Janeiro, in particular the Ilha Grande and Angra dos Reis areas. There have been a number of casualties. You should monitor local media reports for updates on the situation.

Flash floods and landslides, especially in poorer urban areas, occur regularly.

General

We advise you to check the integrity and safety standards of any adventure travel tour you may use, before embarking on the journey.

Insurance

We recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. You should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for all the activities you want to undertake. For more general information see travel insurance.

If things do go wrong when you are overseas then this is how we can help.

Registration

Register with our LOCATE service to tell us when and where you are travelling abroad or where you live abroad so our consular and crisis staff can provide better assistance to you in an emergency.

Contact details

The British Consulate in Rio de Janeiro provides assistance to British nationals in the following states: Rio de Janeiro, Espirito Santo, Bahia, Sergipe, Alagoas, Pernambuco, Paraiba, Rio Grande do Norte, Ceara, Piaui, Maranhao.

British Consulate-General

Praia do Flamengo, 284/2

22210-030

Rio de Janeiro RJ

Tel: (55) (21) 2555 9600

Website: www.ukinbrazil.fco.gov.uk
E-mail: brazil.consular@fco.gov.uk
Fax: (55) (21) 2555 9670

Office Hours (local time):

Mon-Thurs: 0830-1230 and 1330-1645

Fri: 0830-1230 and 1330-1630

Please note that the Consular section is open to the public from 0830-1230, Mon-Fri.

The British Consulate in Sao Paulo provides assistance to British nationals in the following states: Sao Paulo, Mato Grosso do Sul, Minas Gerais, Parana, Santa Catarina, Rio Grande do Sul.

British Consulate-General

Rua Ferreira de Araujo, 741 – 2 andar

Pinheiros

05428-002

Sao Paulo – SP

Tel: (55) (11) 3094 2700
Website: www.ukinbrazil.fco.gov.uk

E-mail: brazil.consular@fco.gov.uk

Fax: (55) (11) 3094 2717

Office hours (local time):
Mon-Thurs: 0830-1230 and 1330-1645
Fri: 0830-1230 and 1330-1630
Please note that the Consular section is open to the public from 0830-1230, Mon-Fr

The British Embassy in Brazil provides assistance to British nationals in the following states: Goias, Mato Grosso, Rondonia, Acre, Amazonas, Roraima, Para, Amapa, Tocantins.

British Embassy
Setor de Embaixadas Sul
Quadra 801, Conjunto K
CEP 70200-010

Brasilia – DF

Tel: (55) (61) 3329 2300

Website: www.ukinbrazil.fco.gov.uk
E-mail: brazil.consular@fco.gov.uk

Fax: (55) (61) 3329 2369

Office hours: (local time)
Mon – Thurs 08:30-1230 and 1330-1730
Fri: 0830-1230 and 1330-1630

Please note that the Consular section is open to the public from 0830-1230 Mon-Fri

Bolivia travel advice

This advice has been reviewed and reissued with amendments to the Summary and Local Travel section (removal of reference to elections on 6 December). The overall level of the advice has not changed.

Travel Summary

• The political situation in Bolivia is tense and there is the risk that demonstrations and confrontations might break out at short notice. You should exercise caution and avoid large crowds. See the Local Travel section of this Travel Advice.
  
  
• There is continual risk of public protests and strikes throughout Bolivia. Major roads can be blocked and public transport disrupted at very short notice. You should take care to avoid all public demonstrations which have the potential to turn violent.
  
  
• Road travel can be dangerous as a result of poor road conditions, local driving techniques and the condition of vehicles on the road. Heavy rains have meant that some roads have been washed away. See the Local and Road Travel sections of this Travel Advice for more details.
  
  
• There is a risk of 'express kidnappings'. You should exercise caution when arriving in, and travelling around, Bolivia and be aware of the general risks of crime for visitors. See the Crime section of this Travel Advice for more details.
  
  
• Travellers should take precautions to prevent against mosquito bites because of the risk of Dengue Fever in Eastern departments. The Bolivian Government are now asking that foreigners travelling to areas away from the altiplano should have valid Yellow Fever certificates. See the Health section of this Travel Advice for more details.
  
  
• There is a low threat from terrorism. But you should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks which could be in public areas, including those frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.
  
  
• 24 British nationals required consular assistance in Bolivia in the period 01 April 2008 – 31 March 2009 for the following types of incident: deaths (5 cases); hospitalisations (5 cases). During this period assistance was also requested with regard to lost or stolen passports (92 cases). You should note that the British Embassy in La Paz does not issue full replacement passports. Please also note that, currently, the British Embassy in La Paz is not able to issue Temporary Passports to facilitate onward travel in an emergency. We recommend that tourists visiting Bolivia and residents should register with the British Embassy using LOCATE. See the General section of this Travel Advice for more details.
  
  
• We recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. You should check any exclusions and that your policy covers you for all the activities you want to undertake. See the General (Insurance) section of this Travel Advice and our Travel Insurance page for more details.
  

Safety and security

Terrorism

There is a low threat from terrorism. But you should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks which could be in public areas, including those frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.

For more general information see our terrorism abroad page.

Crime

You should be vigilant and cautious about your surroundings on arrival and while travelling in Bolivia because of the number of violent crimes against foreign nationals, including British visitors. You should exercise caution when choosing which type of transport to travel in. Look out for established transport companies and ask widely for guidance - you should avoid people offering cheaper transport, particularly, but not exclusively, at the popular overland Copacabana crossing point from Peru. This has been a regular starting point of violent, and sometimes life-threatening, attacks and abductions.

Beware of individuals offering help at taxi points at bus terminals where many thieves work in teams throughout the day and night to distract their victims. They are quick and effective once they have a target in view. If you do use a taxi look out for a 'radio taxi' (identifiable by the telephone number prominently displayed on the vehicle's roof), and make a note of the taxi's registration number and telephone number before starting your journey. Such taxis should carry no other passengers.

Some criminals pose as police officers and act in collusion with bogus taxi drivers to target foreigners on arrival. Their tactics have included using bogus police stations to fool victims. If you suspect that impostors are targeting you, please note that you cannot be searched without a written order from a state prosecutor.

You should also be aware of the risk of so called ‘express kidnappings’ - short-term, opportunistic abductions, aimed at extracting cash from the victim - that are occurring in Bolivia. Victims are normally selected at random and held while criminals empty their bank accounts with stolen cash cards, or use their credit cards. Once the criminals have managed to obtain money from the ATM for two or three days, the victim is usually quickly released. Foreign visitors are particularly vulnerable when entering Bolivia on overland border points with Peru and Chile, such as Desaguadero and Copacabana, and in transit to La Paz. Visitors travelling from Copacabana to La Paz should try to use direct buses. All travellers should exercise caution on arrival, especially in the Cementerio General area in La Paz where a number of incidents have been reported. There have also been incidents in the Sopocachi area of La Paz, and cases of tourists being choked unconscious and robbed.

Petty criminals are common in central La Paz and other destinations popular with tourists, e.g. Sagarnaga. They are a common danger, especially on buses and in crowded areas and we have received numerous reports of bags being stolen.

You should always keep your passport, air ticket and other valuable items, especially bankcards, in a safe location. You should also keep a copy of your passport, in case you lose the original, to facilitate a more rapid replacement. Please note you are required to carry some form of identification at all times. See Identification section for further details.

For more general information see our victims of crime abroad page.

Adventure Tourism

Bolivia offers a number of adventure activities, including mountain biking, salt flat tours and jungle expeditions. There are no government-implemented minimum standards for tour operators, so tourists should take care in choosing their operator, and check with recommendations from guide books and other travellers’ experiences. For mountain biking on the so-called 'Road of Death', travellers should ensure that the bicycles are in good condition, and that the guides are fully equipped with safety equipment and first-aid kits. You should also check any exclusions to your travel insurance policy, to ensure that your policy covers you for all the activities you want to undertake. When booking trips through tour operators, you are advised to use reputable companies.

Prison Tours

The Embassy is aware that prison tours, particularly in San Pedro prison in La Paz, are widely advertised. These tours are against the prison rules. Visitors should note that Bolivian prisons are guarded on the outside only - there are no police officers on guard within the prison walls, so if something should happen within the prison, the authorities could not guarantee your safety. As such, we advise against going on such tours due to the inherent danger present whilst within the prison. Bolivian authorities are aware that such tours exist and are making efforts to stop them.

Political situation

Bolivia Country Profile

Local travel

The political situation in Bolivia means that there is a risk of public disturbances. Demonstrations, which could turn violent, can break out at short notice. You should therefore take care to avoid all demonstrations.

Social protest is the traditional way of gaining government attention to address local, regional and national issues of concern. You should avoid all protests. Although most are peaceful, some can turn to violence. Strikes and demonstrations, of which there is a constant risk in Bolivia, can affect local travel including the interdepartmental bus routes. You should exercise caution and avoid protests wherever possible. Travel is likely to be disrupted.

Groups often use road blockades as a form of protest, and such blockades can arise with no warning. You are advised not to attempt to cross these blockades. There is a web-site (www.abc.gov.bo/vialidad) which gives up-to-date information on which roads are blocked.

Road travel

Hire cars are available, but you will need an international driving licence.

During the rainy season (which runs from November to March) there is risk of roads being washed away or flooded. Travellers should check with the Bolivian road authority website (above) on the state of the roads.

Traffic is usually light, both on the main highways and unpaved roads. However there is little control of vehicle road-worthiness and serious accidents do occur on the main tourist routes. Many drivers do not have licences and commercial operators drive for well over the time permitted in comparison with European laws. There are also no controls over drink driving. Some of Bolivia’s principal roads are paved, but of variable quality. Most roads are unpaved rough tracks, which are graded from time to time. 4-wheel drive vehicles are often the best means of transport, especially during the rainy season, which can make roads completely impassable for days. Broken-down vehicles with no warning lights are a frequent hazard on roads at night.

In the main cities, taxis are plentiful and cheap (but see Crime section of this advice, relating to bogus taxi drivers). However many taxis do not meet European standards and rarely have seat belts. There have been a number of recent accidents involving public transport, especially long distance buses.

For more general information see our driving abroad page.

River travel

You can take boat trips on Lake Titicaca but you should be aware that the craft are often very basic.

For more general information see our River and Sea Safety page.

Local laws and customs

You should be aware that illegal bars exist in Bolivia. You may be detained for questioning if caught at a clandestine establishment, particularly if drugs are found at its location.

Bolivia is the world’s third largest producer of cocaine. In their efforts to control the production, the government have harsh penalties for those caught trafficking or in possession. The minimum sentence is eight years. You should therefore be very careful with your luggage and belongings and avoid any contact with prohibited drugs.

You should also be careful especially when carrying cameras or binoculars when travelling off the beaten track, particularly in coca-growing areas such as the Chapare and the Yungas.

You should also check before taking photographs of the local population.

Homosexuality is not illegal, but is frowned upon by the majority of Bolivians, more so in the Altiplano than in Santa Cruz, where attitudes tend to be more liberal.

For more general information for different types of travellers see our Travel Advice Relevant to You page.

Entry requirements

Visas

As a British visitor to Bolivia, you do not need a visa. The length of stay permitted on entering Bolivia is 30 days. This can be extended for a further 60 days, at no extra charge, provided you apply before the end of the 30 day period at the Department of Immigration offices throughout the country. If you want to stay longer you should seek advice from the Bolivian Consulate. Long-stay travellers should report on arrival in Bolivia to the Department of Immigration office in La Paz at Avenida Camacho No. 1468 to obtain the necessary endorsement in their passport. Regulations require that all visitors arriving by air should be able to produce a return air ticket or other proof of how they are planning to leave the country at the end of their stay.

Passport validity

Passports should have a validity of at least six months from the date of arrival in Bolivia.

Travelling with children

Single parents or other adults travelling alone with children should be aware that Bolivian authorities require documentary evidence of parental responsibility before allowing lone parents to enter the country or, in some cases, before permitting the children to leave the country. For further information on exactly what will be required at immigration please contact the Bolivian Embassy in London.

Health

Medical facilities in the largest cities are good and they are acceptable in the main tourist areas. Outside those areas facilities may not be to the standards expected.

A (H1N1) - Swine Flu

There is a dedicated swine flu page on the FCO website. Guidance on Pandemic Flu can be obtained on the UK Department of Health website.

Dengue Fever

Dengue Fever is common to Latin America and the Caribbean and can occur throughout the year. There were serious outbreaks in Bolivia in 2009. The worst of the epidemic has passed, but there are still cases, and travellers should take extra precautions against being bitten by mosquitoes.

Yellow Fever

The Bolivian Government announced on 24 June 2009 that foreigners entering areas which had been designated 'high risk' for Yellow Fever would need a valid Yellow Fever certificate. These areas include all of the regions of Santa Cruz, Pando and Beni, and much of Cochabamba, Tarija and northern La Paz departments. The highland region of the country, including the cities of La Paz, Potosi and Oruro, Lake Titicaca and the Salar de Uyuni, is not affected. When outbreaks occur, the government sets up vaccination points at police checkpoints. At each of these, you may be vaccinated if you do not hold a valid Yellow Fever vaccination certificate.

The Bolivian authorities are requesting that all travellers who arrive from Brazil or Paraguay should show valid Yellow Fever vaccination certificates

There is a high incidence of malaria in lowland tropical areas (Beni and Pando) and the area known as Chaco in the south (Yacuiba, Paracari). There have also been outbreaks of leptospirosis in rural areas of Chuquisaca.

In the 2008 Report on the Global AIDS Epidemic the UNAIDS/WHO Working Group estimated that around 7,900 adults aged 15 or over in Bolivia were living with HIV; the prevalence rate was estimated at around 0.2% of the adult population. This compares to the prevalence rate in adults in the UK of around 0.2%. You should exercise normal precautions to avoid exposure to HIV/AIDS. For more general information on how to do this see our HIV and AIDS page.

You should seek medical advice before travelling to Bolivia and ensure that all appropriate vaccinations are up-to-date. For further information on vaccination requirements, health outbreaks and general disease protection and prevention you should visit the websites of the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) and NHS Scotland’s Fit for Travel or call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47.

For more general health information see our travel health page.

Natural disasters

Floods and landslides, especially in mountainous areas, are a regular feature of the Bolivian rainy season, which runs from November to March. Roads are frequently impassable for days at a time. (See Local Travel section for the latest situation).

General

Insurance

We recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. You should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for all the activities you want to undertake. For more general information see travel insurance. Some activities, such as mountain biking, are classified as hazardous and may be excluded in personal insurance policies.

If things do go wrong when you are overseas then this is how we can help.

Registration

Register with our LOCATE service to tell us when and where you are travelling abroad or where you live abroad so our consular and crisis staff can provide better assistance to you in an emergency.

Identification

You are required to carry some form of identification at all times, in case it is requested by the police. You can carry photocopies of the relevant pages from your passport, ensuring that you keep the original in a safe place. Should you lose your passport or other documents, the Consular Section of the British Embassy will do their best to help you with replacements. For this reason, you are advised to keep separately a photocopy of your passport and also register with the British Embassy on arrival.

Passports

The British Embassy in Bolivia does not have the facility to issue full passports. You are advised to check the validity of your passport and, if necessary, to renew it before travelling. You should ensure that you enter next of kin details in the back page of your passport. The Embassy currently accepts applications for new passports, which are forwarded to the British Consulate General in Rio de Janeiro for processing. Since 28 September 2009, applicants need to submit their applications direct to the UK Passport Service for the Americas and Caribbean at the British Embassy in Washington. You should allow 4 to 6 weeks for receipt of the new passport. If you lose a passport while in Bolivia, you must report this immediately to the police and obtain a police report. Currently, the British Embassy in La Paz is not able to issue Temporary Passports to facilitate onward travel in an emergency. We anticipate this situation being resolved shortly, but please note that during this period the Embassy will have limited ability to issue passports in an emergency. The travel advice will be updated again once we are able to do so. You should also be aware that Temporary Passports will be replaced by Emergency Travel Documents in the near future.

Money

Banking facilities are good in all of the main Bolivian cities. You can access your money via ATMs, which cater for Visa, Cirrus, and Mastercard.

Ascension Island (British Overseas Territory) travel advice

This advice has been reviewed and reissued with amendments to the Summary (Swine Flu) and the Health section. The overall level of the advice has not changed.

Travel Summary

• Ascension Island is a United Kingdom Overseas Territory. There is no formal British diplomatic or consular representation in Ascension Island and the local authorities deal with all requests for consular assistance. (See the General section of this advice for more details.)
  
  
• The only means of air transport to Ascension Island from the UK is with the RAF flying out of RAF Brize Norton, Oxfordshire. Sea travel to Ascension from the UK can be arranged on the twice-yearly sailing of the RMS St Helena or from Cape Town via St Helena. Visitors must be in possession of a valid Entry Permit before travelling to Ascension. These can be obtained from the Ascension Island Government, see the Entry Requirements (Visas) section of this advice.
  
  
• Most visits to Ascension Island are trouble-free.
  
  
• There is a low threat from terrorism. But you should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks which could be in public areas, including those frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.
  
  
• A good standard of medical care is available on Ascension Island but it is not free to visitors. Costs can be high and you should ensure that your insurance, which is mandatory for all visitors covers treatment costs, as well as medical evacuation if this becomes necessary. See the Health and General (Insurance) sections of this advice.
  
  
• We strongly recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. You should check any exclusions and that your policy covers you for all the activities you want to undertake. See the General (Insurance) section of this advice and Travel Insurance for more details.
  
  

Safety and security

Terrorism

There is a low threat from terrorism. But you should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks which could be in public areas, including those frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers. For more general information see terrorism abroad.

Crime

The level of crime on Ascension Island is very low. Crimes or violence against residents or visitors are virtually unknown.

For more general information see victims of crime abroad.

Political situation

Ascension Island Country Profile

Local travel

There is no public transport on the Island, but bus tours with a driver can be arranged. A small number of hire cars are available and the local hotel is usually able to offer transport to and from the airfield on flight days for a reasonable fee. There is a limited taxi service but this has to be pre-booked. The speed limit 20 mph in Georgetown and Two Boats Village, 30 mph when passing the US Base and 40 mph elsewhere. There is only one petrol/diesel station on the island, beside “One Boat” settlement. You should also be aware that wild sheep and donkeys can congregate on the roads, especially during wet weather.

Local laws and customs

You should be aware that drink/drive laws are strictly enforced. There is a £100 fine for dropping litter.

For more general information for different types of travellers see your trip.

Entry requirements

Visas

Permission to visit Ascension Island must be obtained at least 28 days in advance from the Administrator, except in real cases of urgency. Entry Permit Applications can be downloaded from the Ascension Island Government website or requested by e-mail to: enquiries@ascension.gov.ac. Completed forms should be returned either by e-mail or by fax to +247 6152

There is an entry permit fee of £11.00 per person (free for children under 12 years). You must have comprehensive travel and medical insurance to cover the cost of any treatment and medical evacuation should it be necessary. You must also be able to produce on request evidence of a return air ticket (or other evidence of pre-paid onward travel), pre-booked accommodation and sufficient funds to cover your stay on the island.

Visitors are prohibited from taking employment, paid or unpaid, without first obtaining permission to do so from the Administrator.

Passport validity

On arrival in Ascension Island you must have a passport valid for a minimum of six months.

Health

There is a small hospital in Ascension that is available to deal with day-to-day complaints but sophisticated treatment is not available on the Island. The hospital charges visitors for both outpatient and in-patient treatment. If you need regular supplies of prescription drugs, you should ensure that you bring adequate supplies with you. A UK-qualified dentist is available on the island though as with medical treatment charges are levied.

Mosquitoes do not carry malaria but can nevertheless be a nuisance.

If you intend to participate in diving sports, please note that there is no decompression facility on Ascension, nor are there qualified rescue divers. Visiting divers are strongly recommended to dive with an experienced diver; there is a small diving club on island.

You should exercise normal precautions to avoid exposure to HIV/AIDS. For more general information on how to do this see HIV and AIDS.

You should seek medical advice before travelling to Ascension and ensure that all appropriate vaccinations are up-to-date. For further information on vaccination requirements, health outbreaks and general disease protection and prevention you should visit the websites of the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) and NHS Scotland’s Fit for Travel or call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47.

For more general health information see travel health.

RAF Brize Norton - Testing for Swine Flu

In order to protect MOD operational capability, it has become mandatory for all passengers arriving at RAF Brize Norton Passenger Terminal for check-in to automatically have their temperature tested as a preventative measure for Swine flu, this includes all civilian passengers travelling southbound to Ascension Island and the Falkland Islands. Although this testing is quick and easy, please be aware that it will inevitably cause a slight disruption and delay to the check-in process. If your temperature is found to be of a high enough degree to cause concern you will be given 30 minutes 'cool-down' to allow for re-testing and temperature verification. This could cause some passengers to miss their flight check-in if they arrive too close to the 'Latest Arrival Time' to allow for the completion of this procedure. Therefore, it is recommended that all passengers programme extra time into their travel plans to allow for any possible false negative tests and cool down period.

If any passenger fails the second temperature test after 30 minutes, they will be refused boarding and unable to travel again for a further seven days. Consequently, it is suggested that all passengers keep their transport available until after the testing is completed and civilian passengers are advised to ensure they take out adequate travel insurance to cover such an eventuality.

MOD has advised that they will keep the screening programme under constant review by balancing medical and operational advice accordingly. Anyone who is due to depart from RAF Brize Norton should direct any questions to the Passenger Flight Information Line on 01993 896050.

General

Insurance

We strongly recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling and is a requirement for the granting of an Entry Permit. You should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for all the activities you want to undertake. For more general information see Travel Insurance.

If things do go wrong when you are overseas then this is how we can help.

Registration

Register with our LOCATE service to tell us when and where you are travelling abroad or where you live abroad so our consular and crisis staff can provide better assistance to you in an emergency.

Consular assistance

Ascension Island is a United Kingdom Overseas Territory and is part of a legal entity with the islands of St Helena and Tristan da Cunha. The Governor of the island groups resides at Jamestown on St Helena. The Ascension Island Police Force handles all consular protection services. There is no facility for the issuing of replacement UK passports, or UK entry visas, on Ascension Island.

Getting to Ascension Island

Travel to Ascension Island is via RAF Brize Norton in Oxfordshire, United Kingdom. The RAF operates a limited fare paying service twice weekly from RAF Brize Norton to Ascension Island, returning northbound at similar intervals. This service can be subject to delays due to hazardous weather conditions, especially during the Southern Hemisphere winter. The flight times to Ascension from the UK is about nine hours. Information on the availability of tickets can be found on the Ascension Island Flights website.

The RMS St Helena operates a twice yearly passenger service from the UK to Ascension and a regular service from St Helena. Information on sailings can be found on the RMS St Helena website: www.rms-st-helena.com

Money

Credit cards are accepted at the local hotel by Cable & Wireless and the NAAFI shop on Travellers Hill, but otherwise are not in general use. There is one bank - the Bank of St Helena - but no cash machines (ATMs). Travellers' cheques are accepted. While the official currency is the St Helena pound, sterling bank notes are accepted in all shops and bars (but not always UK coins) and the US base will accept US Dollars, Sterling or St Helena currency. The St Helena pound is fixed at a rate of one pound Sterling. Foreign currency (including Euros) can be exchanged at the Government Cash Office (not open at weekends) and the same office will cash UK cheques with proof of identity and a cheque guarantee card. There is a charge of 1.5% for cashing cheques.