Bolivia is a landlocked country in the South American continent. Brazil borders the country in the north and east, Peru in the west, and Argentina, Chile, and Paraguay to the south. A third of Bolivia’s territory lies in the Andes mountains. The country also has varying temperatures from tropical to cold. Because of its geographical location, the country plays host to the most unique and beautiful flora and fauna of the world.
In fact, part of the Amazon forest touches Bolivia, which means you can visit the Amazon through the country. With that said, here are some more interesting facts about Bolivia you should know about:
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Bolivia Has the World’s Highest Forest
The world’s highest forest, the Sajama National Park, is located 3,900 meters above sea level. Sajama National Park is home to Sajama, a volcano which is also the country’s highest peak at 6542 meters. The forests of Sajama are protected because of the endemic life that thrives there.
One example of such endemic life is the Queñoa De Altura. These short, shrub-like trees are only found in the hillsides of Sajama and are well adapted to the harsh conditions of the place. You can check this out if you want to know more about Bolivia and other bolivia facts that you should know about.
Bolivia Has a Witch Market
If you’re into the occult, you’re in luck. La Paz or Nuestra Señora de La Paz is a city in Bolivia that has a thriving Witch market. When you arrive in the town, ask the locals for El Mercado de las Brujas or La Hechiceria. These are popular witch markets run by local “yatiri” or witch doctors.
Yatiri can easily be identified as they wear black hats and a unique coca pouch for storing charms and powders. You can find an assortment of items in the market, including love potions, medicinal herbs, dried frogs, and other talismans. The most wanted item in the market, however, isn’t for the faint of heart. Locals say that a lot of tourists love buying dried llama fetuses, which are believed to bring in luck when buried underneath a house.
Bolivia Has Over 30 Languages
Not only does the country have diverse ecosystems, but it has several languages as well. The most common language spoken in the country is Spanish, but other indigenous languages such as Quechua and Aymara are spoken.
Several people living in Santa Cruz, Bolivia, particularly the Mennonites, can also speak German. Portuguese is freely spoken near the borders of Brazil. Other spoken languages in the country include Guarani, Araona, Chácobo, Tapieté, and many different native languages.
Guinea Pigs Are Delicacies in Bolivia
You may consider them as pets, but in Bolivia, Guinea Pigs were domesticated to provide meat for its people. When in Bolivia, locals insist that you should try “Cuy” or Guinea Pig. Cuy meat is low in fat and high in protein. Curious adventurers say that the meat surprisingly tastes like rabbit or chicken. Most of the time, people eat cuy deep-fried, broiled, or roasted.
The First Man and Woman Were Created in Isla del Sol
Although Bolivia is a landlocked country, you can still enjoy the shores of Isla del Sol. Isla del Sol is a sacred Inca island near Copacabana. In Inca mythology, Isla del Sol is where the sun god, Viracocha, created the first man and woman.
The island has no cars, which means it’s perfect for walking on foot. The small island is also an ideal place for a getaway because of its beautiful snow-covered mountains and lush forests. To the north of the island, lies the Chincana Ruins. The ruins give off an interesting, mystical vibe for those who want to know more about Incan lore.
Takeaway
One of the best places to visit in the South American continent is Bolivia. Even though the country is bordered by big countries such as Brazil and Argentina, you can still enjoy the shores of Copacabana. From there, you can take the boat to visit Isla del Sol. You won’t run out of things to do when you’re in the country. No visit to Bolivia is also complete if you don’t try out cuy and purchase something from the El Mercado de las Brujas.
