A country rich in tradition and breathtaking scenery, Bolivia offers travellers a fascinating array of cultural sites and natural wonders. This landlocked nation’s diverse landscapes range from dense jungles to sparkling salt flats, while animals such as the lama, alpaca, guanaco and several varieties of guinea pig can be found on the semi-arid Altiplano (Spanish for ‘high plain’). Named in honour of the liberator Simon Bolivar, Bolivia is home to more than 30 Andean ethnic groups, making it is a bastion of cultural diversity in the heart of South America. Key Highlights
Lake Titicaca is one of Bolivia’s most fascinating tourist attractions. Standing at 3800 m above sea level, this seemingly bottomless freshwater lake is 230 km long and almost 100 km wide in parts. The lake’s location and environmental importance means it has remained a major site of human settlement since prehistoric times. Don’t miss out on a visit to the traditional Aymarán villages along the shore or the remarkable floating islands of the Uros people. La Paz has been Bolivia’s administrative capital since 1898. Located at 3660 m, it is the world’s highest capital city and one of South America’s most spectacular. Surrounded by towering snow-capped mountains, La Paz is spread across the walls and floor of a magnificent canyon. Visitors to this unique metropolis will be amazed by the region’s rich culture and intriguing natural sights. In Depth
Salar de Uyuni is the world’s largest salt flat, covering an area of more than 12,000 km2. Once part of an immense prehistoric lake, this shimmering mass of saline crystals is 10 metres deep in places and is a truly awe-inspiring sight. The largest city in Bolivia, Santa Cruz has much to offer, with grand colonial buildings, superb restaurants and a diverse mix of cultures. Visitors to the Santa Cruz region can drive through the lush green foothills of the Andes to explore the ancient Inca ruins at Samaipata, or travel further afield to experience the fascinating wildlife of Noel Kempff Mercado National Park in the Amazon.