Bolivia Emergency Numbers (2026)
Country Code: +591 · Currency: BOB
Verified emergency numbers for Bolivia: Unified 911, Police 110, Ambulance 118, Fire 119. Sourced from Bolivian National Police and Ministry of Health.
📞 Emergency Phone Numbers in Bolivia (Police, Ambulance, Fire)
911 is being implemented as the unified emergency number in major cities. Traditional short codes (110, 118, 119) remain active and may be more reliable in rural areas.
National police emergency number. Handles criminal emergencies and public safety. Also reachable via 911 in major cities.
Ambulance and emergency medical services via 118. Response concentrated in La Paz, Santa Cruz, and Cochabamba. Also reachable via 911 in major cities.
🔢 Police, Ambulance, and Fire Numbers in Bolivia
View dedicated guide, instructions, and alternate numbers for specific emergency services in Bolivia.
📍 Find Nearest Emergency Services
Use GPS to locate the nearest hospital, police station, or fire station near your current location.
🗣️ Emergency Phrases in Bolivia
Use these phrases to communicate in an emergency when language is a barrier. Tap the speaker to play pronunciation.
⚠️ When NOT to Call Emergency Services
- • Do not call 110 for non-urgent police matters - visit the local police station
- • Do not call 118 for minor illnesses - visit a local health center
- • Do not make false emergency calls - punishable under Bolivian law
- • Do not call emergency numbers for altitude sickness unless severe symptoms present
- • Do not use emergency lines for road blockade information
✈️ Travel Notes — Bolivia
Emergency response is most reliable in La Paz, Santa Cruz, and Cochabamba. Response in rural areas and the Altiplano may be significantly delayed. Altitude sickness is a serious risk in La Paz (3,640m). Private clinics in major cities offer better emergency care than public facilities. Medical evacuation may be necessary for serious conditions.
🛡️ Traveling to Bolivia? Protect Yourself
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Emergency Services in Bolivia — Essential Traveler Guide
If you are planning a trip to Bolivia or reside there, understanding the local emergency service system is critical for your safety. The international calling code for calling Bolivia is +591. Emergency operators are available 24/7, but translation capabilities may vary, so keeping local phrases handy is advised.
Police, Ambulance, and Fire Brigade Numbers in Bolivia
Bolivia provides multiple standard emergency service channels, which are free to call from any phone. To call the universal emergency in Bolivia, dial <strong>911</strong>. To call the police in Bolivia, dial <strong>110</strong>. To call the ambulance in Bolivia, dial <strong>118</strong>. To call the fire brigade in Bolivia, dial <strong>119</strong>.
How to call emergency services in Bolivia
Emergency lines can be dialled from standard landlines, payphones, and mobile networks. In most cases, these emergency calls can be completed even if your mobile device does not have a SIM card installed or if you do not have a positive credit balance. If you need to make a call, remember to stay calm, clearly explain the issue, and provide the exact location to the operator.
Frequently Asked Questions — Bolivia
Does 911 work everywhere in Bolivia? ▼
911 is operational in major cities but may not be available in all rural areas. The traditional numbers (110, 118, 119) remain active and may be more reliable outside major urban centers.
Can I call emergency numbers from a mobile without credit in Bolivia? ▼
Yes. Emergency calls to 110, 118, 119, and 911 are free and can be made without airtime credit.
What should I do for altitude sickness in Bolivia? ▼
For mild symptoms, rest and hydrate. For severe symptoms (confusion, severe breathlessness), call 118 for emergency medical assistance. La Paz is at 3,640m; acclimatize gradually.
Are emergency services available in rural Bolivia? ▼
Emergency services in rural areas are limited. Response times may be hours or services may not be available. Road blockades can further delay emergency response.
What number do I call for a traffic accident on Bolivian highways? ▼
Call 110 for police. If there are injuries, also request ambulance via 118. The Transit Police handles highway accidents.