Hundreds of tourists, including 11 Americans, were held at a rural roadblock for five days by peasants protesting a government plan to export natural gas to the U.S. They were all freed Sept. 21 when soldiers and police clashed with the protesters. At least four people were killed and more than 20 were wounded. The incident occurred near Warisata, a village about 45 miles from La Paz. Such blockades are a common means of protest and can happen at any time, on any road. Incidents have become more frequent around La Paz, the Altiplano and the Yungas. On Sept. 22 the main roads between La Paz, Lake Titicaca and the Peruvian border crossings at Copacabana and Desaguadero were blocked. Often there are no alternatives routes if you get stranded at a blockade. Follow local press reports for current updates before traveling overland.
