Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
to disembark, move toward the front and tell the driver or assistant where you want them
to stop.
Minibuses and
trufis
(cars, vans or minibuses), also known as
colectivos
, are prevalent
in larger towns and cities, and follow set routes that are numbered and described on plac-
ards. They are always cheaper than taxis and nearly as convenient. As with
micros
, board
or alight anywhere along their route.
Taxis
In cities and towns, taxis are relatively cheap. Few are equipped with meters, but in most
places there are standard per-person fares for short hauls. In some places, taxis are collect-
ive and more like
trufis,
charging a set rate per person. However, if three or four people
are all headed for the same place, you may be able to negotiate a reduced rate for the en-
tire group.
Radio taxis always charge a set rate for up to four people; if you squeeze in five people,
the fare increases by a small margin.
When using taxis, try to have enough change to cover the fare, as drivers often like to
plead a lack of change in the hope that you'll give them the benefit of the difference. As a
general rule, taxi drivers aren't tipped, but if one goes beyond the call of duty, a tip of a
couple of bolivianos wouldn't be inappropriate.
In larger cities, especially if traveling alone at night, it's advisable to opt for a radio
taxi, which is booked by phone, instead of hailing one in the street; ask your hotel or res-
taurant to call one for you.
Tours
Many organized tours run out of La Paz or towns closest to the attractions you're likely to
wish to visit. Tours are a convenient way to visit a site when you are short of time or mo-
tivation, and are frequently the easiest way to visit remote areas. They can also be relat-
ively cheap, depending on the number of people in your group and the mode of transport-
ation.
Scores of companies offer trekking, mountain-climbing and rainforest-adventure pack-
ages around Bolivia. For climbing in the Cordilleras, operators offer customized expedi-
tions and can arrange anything from guide and transportation right up to equipment, port-
ers and even a cook. Some also rent trekking equipment.
It's best to check an agency's website before making contact and bookings.
