Bolivia
Isolated. Soaring. Impervious. The Tibet of the Americas.
The Western Hemisphere’s highest, most rugged country. Bolivia’s landscape ranges from Amazonian to Andean, from dense drizzling jungles and shimmering salt flats to frozen jagged peaks. Its many-layered and captivating culture includes some 36 indigenous groups, unchanged in their dress and traditions for centuries, which adds colour to the already saturated landscapes.
Experiences
Explore the world’s driest desert with your camera to hand; visit active geysers at mineral coloured lakes; enjoy dinner at sunset, prepared for you by one of Bolivia’s premier chefs, with a private show of local dance and music as the stars begin their magic show; walk with an acclaimed astrologist to a lofty view point to understand the ancient cosmic vision and philosophy of the Andean people; strain to see the horizon on the Salar de Uyuni salt flats, camping on the edge; take a private photo lesson, or have your family photographs captured as the sun sets; enjoy a private show of fireworks reflected in the salt flats; explore the country’s southwest, Wild West at its best, with great horseback rides, hikes and 4WD trips; visit Rurrenabaque in the Amazon and head deep into the rainforest; soak up the local traditions at markets in the eastern lowlands.
Where to Stay
A hotel built with blocks of salt with endless horizons; a traditional ranch in the middle of the desert; palatial villa hotels and private homes in the foothills.
When to Go
Winter runs from May to October and is dry. In the highlands June and July are cold at night, but ideal for trekking.