Bolivia: Carnival celebrations in Oruro February 3-12

Event

Carnival celebrations in Oruro are set to take place this year from Saturday, February 3, through Monday, February 12. The government has predicted that more than 400,000 people will visit the city for the occasion. Due to the influx of tourists as well as the fact that crime rates tend to rise during the carnival period, increased security measures are to be anticipated. At least 3000 agents will be deployed in Oruro to maintain order. Smaller celebrations will be held in other Bolivian cities.

Increased congestion at travel hubs, increased demand for hotels (and higher prices), and increased car traffic (closed roads, influx of revelers) is to be anticipated, along with business, store, and government office closures.

Context

Carnival celebrations, held in Catholic cities and countries across the world, are often marked with parades, street parties, and colorful costumes. The festivities culminate ahead of Ash Wednesday, which marks the start of the solemn 40-day Lent period.

Advice

Those present in Bolivia, and particularly in Oruro, during the Carnival period are advised to exercise an increased level of vigilance regarding crime and to allow for additional time to reach their destinations.