For those looking for a South American adventure away from the crowds along Rio’s beaches or the much-visited Inca ruins at Machu Picchu, Bolivia offers a wealth of natural and cultural attractions. A trip around Bolivia offers the chance to see some of the world’s most remarkable scenery, in a country where you’ll quite likely have many of the major sights to yourself. Here are just a few of the major highlights:
1. La Paz – at almost 12,000 feet above sea level La Paz is the world’s highest capital city. You will probably arrive here and it’s a good place to take it easy and acclimatise to the altitude. Take in the colonial buildings of the city (many in various stages of dilapidation) and the impressive museums along Jaen Street.
2. Salar de Uyuni – the world’s largest salt flats make for a unique experience. Though wildlife is almost entirely absent, you can find innumerable colonies of pink flamingoes who come here in November to breed. The other-worldly landscapes make for some memorable photographs, with all sense of space and perspective lost amid the endless flat plains.
3. Red and Green Lagoons – as part of your visit to Uyuni you’ll get the chance to see two strikingly different natural pools. Their contrasting colors are evidence of the volcanic nature of the surrounding landscape.
4. Madidi National Park – if you’re looking for diversity Madidi offers it in spades. What other national park can boast both mountain glaciers and tropical rainforest? Madidi is part of the wider Manu Biosphere that stretches across the Peruvian border. Stay in the Chalalan Jungle Lodge, where money raised from your stay goes to the local Quechua community. Tourism revenues have already financed a health clinic here.
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