Bolivian woman: Typical Characteristics




Bolivia has two main groups of people. During the pre-Columbian period, the country was populated by Incas descendants. When Spaniards arrived, they began mixing with the indigenous people who lived on the territory of current Bolivia. It is difficult to describe a typical Bolivian woman now because they have a mixed population, more European in appearance with some Inca influences and more indigenous population.

Although that opinion is very subjective, indigenous Bolivian women typically do not attract foreigners as much as their counterparts with mixed genomes where Spanish influence is predominant.

A typical Boliviana or Indigenous woman wears a pollera skirt, a bowler hat popular in Europe in the 19th century, and a silk shawl called a manta. These dresses are rarely seen on the new generation of Bolivians. The majority of Bolivians wear the same clothing as Europeans and the differences are barely noticeable. Bolivians do not wear shorts – in their opinion it is disrespectful. Women wear dresses, skirts and blouses.

IWhen you ask a Bolivian woman to take you out, she will be late since it is normal to be 15-30 minutes late in Bolivia. What is even more strange is that if you arrive on time, you will offend the person you are meeting with.

Women in Bolivia like small gifts, such as flowers (except yellow and purple), chocolate or wine. Gifts you give with all your heart will be greatly appreciated, even if they don’t cost much.

The Bolivian women make excellent eye contact. When you speak to a woman in Bolivia, look into her eyes, otherwise she may consider you untrustworthy. Another thing: Bolivian women stand very close when discussing. Do not avoid it and don’t take it as a hint, it’s just how Bolivians speak. Whenever a woman talks to you as a friend, she may hug you and touch your cheeks before she leaves.

Nice young Bolivian woman - typical view

This is a highly patriarchal society in Bolivia. Women do not have the same rights as men due to the reasons listed above. For Westerners seeking a girlfriend or wife, this information may be useful.

Typical Bolivian woman speaks Spanish so you better speak Spanish as well if you want to win her attention. Bolivian women are proud of their country and of their origin.

Bolivian women are generally kind, gentle, and family-oriented. Traditions are respected in every family, so they are important to every Bolivian mother. Families founded on traditional religious values are the foundation of Bolivian society.

Bolivian women are very caring and are worried about welfare of their friends, family, neighbors. In Bolivia, friendship is very important and even sacred to the average Bolivian. Bolivian women respect their dignity and adhere to their own moral principles.

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