Bolivia Power Plugs, Wall Sockets & Electrical Outlets
In Bolivia, power plugs and sockets (electrical outlets) of Type A (NEMA 1-15, two flat parallel pins, ungrounded) and Type C (CEE 7/16 (Europlug), two round pins, ungrounded) are used. Wall sockets run at 230V and 50Hz. Check if you need a travel adapter, electrical adapter or voltage converter before travelling to Bolivia.
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Do you need an adapter for your trip?
Bolivia uses:
What Plug Type Does Bolivia Use?
A Bolivia power plug typically comes in one of two forms: Type A or Type C. Type A is the flat two-pin plug familiar to travelers from North America, while Type C, also known as the Europlug, features two round pins and is common throughout Europe and South America. Bolivia's electrical system runs on 230V at 50Hz, so even though Type A sockets are present, the voltage supplied is higher than the 100-127V that Type A plugs and appliances are typically designed for elsewhere, so travelers should always check their device ratings before plugging in.
Where to Buy a Travel Adapter for Bolivia
Travel adapters suited for Bolivia's Type A and Type C plug configurations can be found at airport electronics kiosks, luggage and travel stores, and major online retailers before departure. It's generally more convenient and often cheaper to purchase a universal adapter at home rather than searching for one after arrival, since availability in smaller Bolivian towns can be limited. Look for adapters explicitly labeled for South American or Bolivian travel to ensure a proper fit with the local plug top styles.
Do All Sockets in Bolivia Look the Same?
Not every wall socket in Bolivia looks identical, since both Type A and Type C outlets are in use depending on the building's age and location. Some electrical outlet fittings are designed to accept both plug types, while others may only accommodate one, so it's worth carrying an adapter that covers both possibilities. Newer hotels and urban buildings are more likely to have updated sockets, while older or rural properties may still use one style exclusively.
Electrical Standards in Bolivia: Voltage, Frequency & Plug Type
Bolivia operates on a 230V electrical system at a frequency of 50Hz, which is standard across much of South America, Europe, and Asia. Visitors from countries using 100-127V systems, such as the United States or Canada, will need both a plug top adapter and, in many cases, a voltage converter for devices that are not dual-voltage rated. Modern electronics like laptops, phone chargers, and camera batteries are frequently built to handle a wide voltage range, but it is always worth checking the label on the device or its charger before use.
- Voltage: 230V
- Frequency: 50Hz
- Plug Type A: two flat parallel pins, ungrounded, 15A, originally rated for 100-127V
- Plug Type C (Europlug): two round pins, ungrounded, rated up to 2.5A, designed for 220-240V systems
- Neither plug type includes a grounding pin, so both are intended for double-insulated, Class II appliances
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, if your home country uses a different plug shape than Type A or Type C, you'll need a travel adapter to fit Bolivian wall sockets. Even travelers from countries that use one of these plug types may still need an adapter if their local socket design differs slightly. It's best to bring a universal adapter that covers both Type A and Type C configurations.
Most modern phone chargers are dual-voltage and can handle Bolivia's 230V, 50Hz supply without needing a converter. You'll still need a plug adapter to physically fit the Type A or Type C outlet, but the charger itself should manage the voltage conversion automatically. Always check the fine print on your charger to confirm it supports 220-240V input before plugging in.
Bolivia uses both Type A and Type C plugs, so a Bolivia power plug you encounter could be either the flat two-pin style or the round two-pin Europlug style. Type A features two flat parallel pins, while Type C has two round 4mm pins; neither type includes a ground pin. Which one you'll find depends on the building and its wiring, so it helps to carry an adapter compatible with both.
No, the Type A and Type C plugs used in Bolivia are both ungrounded designs, meaning they lack a third grounding pin. They are intended for double-insulated Class II appliances that don't require a ground connection, such as chargers, lamps, and small electronics. Devices that specifically require grounding may need an alternative solution or additional adapter.
