Global Builders – Bolivia

• 7:30 – Breakfast
• 8:00 – Depart for work-site
• 9:00 – Start building
• 12:30 – Lunch
• 1:30 – Continue building
• 6:30 – Dinner at a local restaurant
  
  Exact schedules can be discussed and set depending on the team’s preferences and length of stay.

We are building mostly new homes in the El Alto area. The homes are built with bricks and are typically around 750 square feet. Work typically involves helping the masons and carpenters. This work involves laying bricks, mixing/carrying cement and mortar, digging the foundation, and helping construct the roof. We provide necessary tools, but as with most build sites, it never hurts to bring a few small hand tools with you.

Most teams stay at the Hotel Sagarnaga in La Paz. Although a fairly simple hotel, the Sagarnaga offers all your standard amenities and includes breakfast and wifi. You’re located right in the middle of an excellent tourist area, with coffee shops, restaurants, souvenir vendors, and local performances an easy walk away.

A small bus or van will be rented to transport the group throughout each day. The time from the hotel to each work-site will vary depending on traffic, but on average is about 1 hour, so bring a book and some car games. Due to the busyness of the city, groups will need to leave early in the morning, around 7:00am, to beat the morning rush.

Bedding and towels are provided by the hotel, but we recommend you bring your own washcloth. We recommend coordinating with other team members to share things like sunscreen or bug spray. Luggage can often get delayed, so bring your luggage as a carry-on if possible. Sturdy work clothes, closed-toed shoes, and a hat for the sun are essential, since the high elevation increases the risk of sunburn. It’s often cold at these elevations, so long pants and a jacket are essential. A full packing list is provided in the country guidebook.

Bolivia is a country full of beauty and breath-taking views which means there are a lot of sightseeing opportunities. In La Paz, where groups will be staying, they have gondola’s that go high above the city offering incredible views. Lake Titicaca is also close by and is a must see destination. There are markets, shops, and restaurants around the hotel providing hours of shopping. We will work with you to set up cultural and sightseeing opportunities for you and your group.

Prices vary based on team size and trip duration, but a typical 1-week trip will cost roughly $1500 to $1800. That price covers lodging, local transportation including airport pick-up, three meals per day, bottled water, travel health insurance, and a contribution toward building materials.  Fees do not include airfare, visa fees, tips, or site-seeing (unless otherwise indicated). 

If looking to bring a group contact globalbuilders@fullercenter.org for more details or submit your trip proposal here. 

Are you unsure of how to prepare for such an experience or just looking for some tips on how to be better prepared? If so, we suggest you take a look at our Trip Preparation page where you will find a lot of helpful information and links – Preparing For Your Trip!