Bolivia: The Blockades Are Lifting in La Paz -- Don't Unpack the Road-Trip Yet

La Paz is gradually returning to normal as Bolivia lifts blockades, but the overall crisis remains deep and widespread. The La Paz regional government announced that 12 of the department’s provinces have decided to lift blockades, reducing conflict points, with fuel beginning to flow again and the Río Abajo route reopening to restore farm produce supplies. Nationally, around 101 blockade points persist across six departments, with Cochabamba the most affected and La Paz following. The crisis, ongoing for more than six weeks, has spurred a 90-day humanitarian and health state of emergency in La Paz since June 2, with clashes reported as authorities attempted to clear routes.

Given the disrupted network, travelers are advised to fly between major cities rather than drive, and to verify airline status ahead of trips to La Paz, Santa Cruz, Cochabamba, Sucre, and Uyuni. Foreign governments warn that overland routes to La Paz and key destinations are highly disrupted, and recommend avoiding roadblocks altogether. Practical guidance emphasizes flexible bookings and carrying extra fuel, water, food, cash, and medications, while avoiding protests and roadblocks.