Bolivia is landlocked between Brazil, Peru, Argentina and Chile and is quintessentially South American in so many ways, full of authentic Andean communities and indigenous culture. Bolivia is home to the world’s largest salt flat, Uyuni, which is also a fantastic place to explore the Tunupa volcano, see fascinating rock formations, canyons, giant cacti, flocks of flamingos or to go for a swim in the salt lakes, multi-coloured lagoons, thermal springs and more.
Outside of these world-renowned salt flats, you’ll find high-altitude Andean towns and cities, such as La Paz and Potosí, with their witchcraft markets, adobe-built houses and Cholita wrestling shows, surrounded by picturesque snow-capped peaks. Bolivia also has its fair share of ancient archaeological sites as well as low-lying warmer towns with Spanish colonial architecture and history, such as Sucre and Santa Cruz, just outside the beautiful Amboro National Park. Many people forget that Bolivia is also home to the Amazon rainforest – the least visited section of all of the countries into which it expands, making it an excellent spot for exploring further off the beaten track and seeing wildlife in its most pristine and untouched state. Lastly, boasting the highest navigable lake in the world (also bordering Peru), Lake Titicaca is a mesmerising place to visit, with its mystical legends and indigenous beliefs ingrained in the local culture.
Bolivia is an excellent option for those looking to really get under the skin of South America and visit somewhere extraordinary, diverse and truly authentic. Easily visited as a solo-country trip, or excellently combined with Peru or northern Argentina, you won’t be disappointed by beautiful Bolivia.