Peru/Lake Titicaca/Bolivia
 

We are planning a tour of Ecuador and Peru. In Peru we will visit Lake Titicaca. I know it is possible to visit Copabana and the Island of the Sun in Bolivia as a day trip from Puno. What border formalities are there between Peru and Bolivia at the border crossing between Puno and Copabana. We have been advised that we may need a yellow fever vacination. Is this striclty enforced? If we do not have proof of a yellow fever vacination are we made to take the vacination at the border? We will be travelling with a tour group for the day trip. Finally, is Copabana and the Island of Sun worth seeing?

Thanks.

Has the tour operator advised you of any advance visa requirements for U.S. citizens? That's usually the case to the tune of $113. To me, that amount would be worth it for a full-fledged trip to Bolivia, but not for just a day trip.

Border formalities between Peru and Bolivia are just that -- formalities. Despite the presence of a sign over the desk at the Bolivian immigration desk saying that all services are free, the Bolivian guy still tried to charge me a "fee." I pointed at the sign and he stamped my passport.

Copa and Isla del Sol would be one very long day trip from Puno. I would advise you to stay in Copa (very cheaply) if possible, and enjoy the town and hiking. I found it worth 2-3 days.

Also, note the above poster. Bolivia now requires a reciprocity visa for US citizens, and it's quite expensive. It's a new requirement, and probably worth it for anything more than a day trip. I'm not sure what the requirement is for Canadian or other citizens.

Yellow fever has a 50% mortality rate. Are you willing to take that risk? I can't say this loud enough, but GET THE SHOT!!

I don't know if you're American or not, but the Bolivian government has stated on their web page that in the interest of "reciprocity" they will now require visas of US citizens. In other words, they are getting even with us for our strict requirements. I respect their right to make whatever rules they deem necessary, but I think they are shooting themselves in the foot as this new requirement will put off many Americans from making a short visit to Bolivia as part of a Peru trip. That's why I nixed a 2-day add-on in La Paz.

Here's a web page with more info. I think you will see it's not only a big expense but a hassle as well. If you are not American you may disregard all of my advice, except the part about getting a yellow fever shot.

http://www.bolivia-usa.org/

Yellow fever is not endemic to the Lake Titicaca or Altiplano areas. You should be fine.

For proof, see the CDC website:

http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel/yellowBoo...llowFever.aspx