Welcome to Bolivia!

Bolivia is one of the most distant countries in the western hemisphere. It is entirely land locked except for its accessibility to the Paraguay River which stretches into the distant Atlantic Ocean. Bolivia boasts of a diverse landscape, from the lofty peaks of the Cordillera Real around Sorata to the steamy rain forests of the Amazon and from the south eastern grasslands full of wildlife to the fantastic salt flats of Uyuni. Take a look at our interactive map of Bolivia to get to know the region, and also to locate some great Bolivia hotels and tourist attractions.

The Bolivian mountains present a spectacular beauty, their indigenous Indians are colourful and their ruins provoke thought. Bolivia is sometimes called the Tibet of the New World because like Tibet it has an ancient civilisation which has been kept alive. Important ruins of the Inca and Aymara civilisations still stand proud and their people, even today, follow the farming and ranching practices which their ancestors established centuries ago. It is said that even today, the Aymara guides can keep pace with a trotting horse for 100 kilometres. Many Bolivia tours will take you to explore the ancient ruins of the Inca and Aymara civilisations.

Most Bolivians are born to Roman Catholicism. But Roman Catholicism has adapted itself to include local customs, traditions and folklore. This vibrant mix of indigenous cultures, ancient civilisations and the beauty of colonial cities like Potosi and Sucre attract many tourists to Bolivia.

Though most tourists prefer to visit the more familiar and better equipped regions in the Altiplano, there is a lot of adventure in the southern lowlands and the regions of the tropical east. Exploration expeditions which are off the beaten path, adventure sports and a rich and colourful culture make Bolivia a popular destination. Take a look at our Bolivia Destination Guide to find our more about the great tourist attractions in Bolivia.

The Bolivian experience starts as tourists get off the plane at La Paz at an altitude of 13,000 feet and suddenly find it an effort to haul their bags about. Acclimatisation to the altitude takes a few days and travellers are advised not to undertake any strenuous activity till the process is complete. This is not too difficult as there is a lot that tourists can do in La Paz. Stroll down the colourful outdoor markets of La Paz where you can pick up anything from fruits and vegetables to musical instruments and antiques. Or spend a day at the Witches Market and pick up a charm or potion that is sure to bring you happiness and success.

As the acclimatisation takes place, tourists can undertake a day trip to the Tiahuanaco ruins which is one of the most significant archaeological discoveries of South America. The Tiahuanaco civilisation, which is believed to be one of the most advanced in the continent, dates back to 1600 BC. It is supposed to have disappeared suddenly without a trace leaving behind many questions and very few answers. Many of its secrets lay buried under the earth and much of the Tiahuanaco civilisation remains a mystery.

Another high point of Bolivia is Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world. Savour a lunch of fresh trout on the lake or charter a small boat and visit the Amayra Indians on the island of Suriki.

Tourists can also load up trucks and drive up the mountains of Cordillera Real. This is an ideal way to savour the rugged beauty of Bolivia and imbibe the local flavour of the little Bolivian towns along the way.

Bolivia is a unique country, where you can play on the highest golf course in the world, hurtle down a 5000 metre climb or ride a cycle down the most dangerous road in the world. All you need is a pair of high altitude goggles and the zest for life.

Millions of visitors from all over the world come to experience the beauty and diversity that Bolivia has to offer every year. With an ever expanding tourism industry there are many Bolivia hotels and Bolivia tours for visitors to choose from making it easy to explore this amazing destination.