Surprisingly forgotten by most travellers planning a visit to South America, it is for this reason that Bolivia offers a unique and more authentic travel experience than many of the more popular destinations visited in South America. It is known as the “Tibet of South America” due to its dizzying elevation and isolation amongst the rugged terrain in which it is situated. This orientation however provides the country with a landscape and scenery of remarkable beauty.
Over 50% of its population claim pure indigenous blood which makes it the most indigenous country in South America. As a result, a more genuine pre-colonial South American experience can be had, something that is rare on a continent with such strong European influence.
Fascinating Lake Titicaca is one of the world’s highest lakes, picturesquely reflecting the snow-tipped Andean peaks in its azure waters and is said to be a remnant of an ancient inland sea. Covering an area of over 8,500 square kilometres, it straddles the border between Peru and Bolivia. The lake and its many islands are a highlight for all who visit it. Copacabana is small town worthy of a visit and located on the southern shore of Lake Titicaca, known for its memorable views and cathedral.
This is the idyllic spot to use as a base to explore the rarely explored Inca ruins dotted around the area, while you can return to the town to relax and watch the sun set over the lake in the evening. Take a boat out to explore the Isla Del Sol (Island of the Sun), the creation site of the Inca and birthplace of the sun in Incan mythology; where around 800 families continue to live in a traditional way, similar to the original inhabitants that first set foot on the island 4,000 years ago.
The salt flats of Uyuni, the largest salt flats in the world, are another marvel that Bolivia has to offer. The nearby city of Uyuni, which is a central train junction of the country and reachable from most significant places in Bolivia, offers many tours to the flats. Bring your camera to capture the incredible scenery that is affected by the changing light of the day. Be sure not to forget the spectacular coloured lakes that take their appearance due to the unique composition of the earth in the region.
