Gap Year Programs in Bolivia

Bolivia is the perfect place for curious and daring budget adventurers. It is home to an array of diverse landscapes—you can explore mountains, grasslands, jungles and deserts, all in one country. A gap year in Bolivia is a culturally immersive experience; don’t plan on sipping drinks poolside at a resort here! Bolivia has the largest percentage of indigenous people in South America, and cultural displays are everywhere. A gap year in Bolivia means you will explore natural sites, watch exciting parades, and see cholitas walking down the street in their colourful, puffed skirts.

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4 Gap Year Programs in Bolivia

Where There Be Dragons

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South America Semester: Andes & Amazon (Gap Year)

The Central Andes is a region full of superlatives, existing at extremes. From sparkling glaciers to lush tropical forests, this Gap Year program takes you through a dizzying tapestry of landscapes and cultures, exploring the links between land and people, past and present. The ancient Land of the I

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Volunteer World

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Volunteer World: Best Volunteer Abroad Programs Worldwide

Looking to apply your talent and expertise to a good cause? Find a program that matches your interests and skills through Volunteer World! We are the largest volunteer abroad comparison platform around the globe, enabling you to seek and compare offers from major travel agencies as well as smaller g

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Love Volunteers

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Gap Year Adventures with Love Volunteers

Whether you want to support vulnerable communities in developing countries, help conserve the Great Barrier Reef in Australia, or protect animals in the Amazon, Love Volunteers has a program for you. With over 200 projects in 40 countries there's something for everyone! For over 7 years Love Volu

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A Guide to Gap Year in Bolivia

Popular Locations

Bolivia is relatively untouched by tourists, so you can find authentic experiences in pretty much any city. Many travelers do end up in La Paz at some point during their Bolivia gap years, and for good reason. It is one of the main hubs in Bolivia and has an intriguing blend of traditional indigenous life and more modern amenities. La Paz is considered the commercial and political capital, but the official capital of Bolivia is Sucre. Sucre is a must-visit for its charming atmosphere and beautiful architecture.

La Paz is a bustling city that is larger than life. Its beauty will take your breath away—literally. La Paz sits at over 3500m above sea level, so be prepared to experience some effects of high altitude. It is home to cosmopolitan comforts such as modern cafes, museums, bars and restaurants, juxtaposed with colorful traditional displays, such as La Paz’s Witches’ Market, where Aymara yatiri (community healers of the Aymara indigenous group) sell products used in cultural rituals. Don’t be surprised if you see a couple of dried llama fetuses for sale; they are said to bring good luck!

Sucre has been deemed a UNESCO heritage site because of its historically significant buildings. Sucre is often called Bolivia’s most beautiful city, and much of the city’s Spanish influenced architecture has been preserved. Sucre is much more mellow than La Paz, and is the perfect place to take a wander around and explore during gap year programs in Bolivia.

Latest Program Reviews

Amazing Gap Year Experience in South America!

April 20, 2026by: Alyson Woolley - United States

Program: South America Semester: Andes & Amazon (Gap Year)

Over 10 years ago I had the most incredible gap year experience in Bolivia and Peru with Where there be Dragons. The knowledge I gathered during that trip continues to inform my thinking and career path today. My time in Bolivia and Peru, learning about international development through the lens of host families, local NGOs, civil society organizations, and the Where there be Dragons staff themselves inspired me to pursue an undergraduate degree (and now graduate!) in international studies, Spanish, development, and policy. I have spent 10 years living, working, and studying in Washington DC and continue to reference this experience in job interviews and graduate program applications. Shockingly, all of this isn't even the best part of the experience. Instead, it's the relationships and friendships built that continue to last the test of time. In the past year I've seen three dragons friends around the US, and over the past ten years there's been countless reunions and catch ups. Would highly recommend this program to anyone looking for experiential learning opportunities that seamlessly blend intense outdoor exploration, independent study, and cultural immersion- as well as of course lifetime friendships.

Life changing experience

February 07, 2026by: Tiger Locheart - United States

Program: South America Semester: Andes & Amazon (Gap Year)

My time with where there be dragons completely changed my life. During the three months I spent traveling I learned more about the world and my place in it than I ever had in traditional schooling. I was faced with discomforts and challenges that most people never get the opportunity to face and grow from and it helped me become a better human. These programs are designed incredibly well, there is so much intentionality, time, energy and love put into creating a transformative experience for each student. I cannot recommend dragons more!