Travel guide Bolivia

In the south of Peru, the Cordillera divides in two to give birth to the Royal Cordillera and the Western Cordillera. Between these two cordilleras emerges an immense space, at more than 3 600 m of altitude, the Altiplano, geological mystery populated with legends. Land of the Aymaras and Quechuas, the Altiplano is the true heart of Bolivia..

You may not be aware that almost two-thirds of Bolivia is in the Amazon. Madidi National Park boasts the world's richest ecosystem, while the Pampas del Yacuma offer a unique opportunity for wildlife observation: freshwater dolphins, crocodiles, rheas, anacondas, monkeys, turtles, multicolored birds...

Affectionate colloquial term designating a small chola, a woman from the Aymara population who retains the traditional dress features: the bowler hat (el bombín), long braids and a prominent dress with three ruffles (la pollera), often embellished with colorful jewelry. The cholitas are mostly found in the Altiplano.

From time immemorial, miners and peasants of the Altiplano have taken advantage of the anaesthetic and nutritive properties of the coca leaf, in order to be able to support their work, the harshness of the climate and the altitude. Important element of the traditional Andean cults, it helps, by chewing it or drinking it in infusion, to acclimatize to the altitude.

Everyone knows the tune of the famous Andean song by Simon and Garfunkel, El condor pasa! It is not uncommon to see the largest bird in the world (up to 4 m wingspan) when walking through the Andes or along a canyon. An incredible experience and possible in many places in the country.

This civilization considered Lake Titicaca and the Isle of the Sun to be their homeland in their mythology. The influence of the Inca Empire on the country's culture is significant, and if the country doesn't offer as many archaeological ruins as Peru, it is at least a match for the Andean ambience and boasts some absolutely grandiose landscapes.

Symbol of the Andes, it is the only domestic animal that can live in the high altitudes of the Altiplano. Prized for their fur and meat, they are still used today to transport goods. There are four species of camelids: the llama, the guanaco, the alpaca, and the vicuña, the only one to live in the wild.

Real heart of the social life of the country, the Bolivian markets compete of colors, animation, originality and beauty. It is above all a place of meeting and exchange. You can find them in each township, each with its own specificities. Most markets have a comedor where you can enjoy local specialties at low prices.

Along with Paraguay, Bolivia is the only Latin American country without access to the sea. Yet Bolivia had one until it lost a four-year war with Chile in 1883. In 2018, the International Court of Justice ruled that Chile does not have to negotiate with its neighbor for access to the Pacific Ocean.

Since the 2009 constitution, ratified by popular referendum, Bolivia has become "El Estado Plurinacional de Bolivia". Spanish (castellano) and 37 other indigenous languages are now official languages. These 37 languages represent as many indigenous peoples, who have seats in the Plurinational Legislative Assembly.

This delicious turnover, an empanada originating from Salta in Argentina, gave its name to the break that the country allows itself between 10 am and noon. Baked in the oven, it is filled with meat (chicken, beef), potatoes, eggs, and various vegetables, all topped with a spicy sauce more or less spicy. You will find them all over the country.

Acute mountain sickness, or altitude sickness, is called Sorojche here. The usual symptoms are headache, lack of appetite and fatigue. In general, these effects fade quickly as long as you keep calm and make a reasonable effort. Do not hesitate to hydrate yourself with coca tea(mate de coca).