Road conditions in Bolivia are extremely hazardous. Although the major population centers of La Paz, Santa Cruz, and Cochabamba are connected by improved highways, less than five percent of all roads are paved. For trips outside the major cities, especially in mountainous areas, a four-wheel drive vehicle is highly recommended. Added dangers are the lack of formal training for most drivers, lack of lights on speeding vehicles at night, and drunk drivers including commercial bus drivers. Penalties in Bolivia for possession, use and trafficking in illegal drugs are strict, and convicted offenders receive lengthy prison sentences and fines.
Incarcerated persons can expect to wait longer than two years before being sentenced.
Prison conditions are very primitive and prisoners are expected to pay for their own room and board. While consultations to correct the deficiencies are ongoing, Bolivia's air carriers are permitted to conduct limited operations to the U.S. subject to heightened FAA surveillance. Americans are encouraged to register with and obtain updated security information from the Consular Section of the American Embassy, located at 2780 Avenida Arce in La Paz. There are also U.S. Consular Agencies in Santa Cruz and Cochabamba, which are open mornings only.