Bolivia is a landlocked country, rich in ancient culture, a fascinating history and huge awe inspiring landscapes in its highlands, valleys and rain forests. You won’t find luxury hotels and first-class restaurants here but you will find a welcoming and friendly indigenous population who continue to follow their traditional way of life.
A common entry point into the country is via Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world, framed by snow-capped Andean peaks. Crossing over from Peru, you can visit the various islands, inca sites and Aymara villages along the lakeshore.
La Paz, at an altitude of nearly 12,000ft above sea level, is home to
wonderful bustling markets and interesting museums mixed in with ramshackle homes. For the adventurer, La Paz makes a good base for those wanting to climb the towering mountains and peaks surrounding the city.
The main highlight is the unique landscape of the Uyuni salt flats – 12,000 square kilometres of salt lake can be explored in a 4WD, resting your head at night in the Salt Hotel or an Airstream Camper van.
For a touch of culture, the beautiful city of Sucre is bursting with centuries old architecture and museums filled with colonial artwork. UNESCO declared it “The Historical and Cultural Legacy of Mankind”.
Travel Info
WHEN TO GO: The best time to go is in the winter months between April and October when it is dry and crisp. The summer months between November and March can be very wet.
WHO FOR: This is a great destination for those looking for an off-the-beaten track outdoor adventure. Big mountains attract keen trekkers and unique salt lakes and multi-coloured lagoons are a photographers dream. The country is very poor and the accommodation is simple – it’s all about what you can see and do and not where you sleep.
TYPE OF HOLIDAY: Cultural and Adventure.
Need to Know
CURRENCY: Boliviano
LANGUAGE: Spanish
CAPITAL: La Paz
FLIGHT TIME: 20 hrs (in-direct from UK)
VISA: Not needed for UK passport holders
TIME DIFFERENCE: GMT – 4 hours
COMBINES WELL WITH: Peru