Bolivia sightseeing. Travel guide - attractions, sights, nature and touristic places

During its centuries old history, Bolivia has become home to many places of interest and historic landmarks that are known far beyond the borders of the country. The peak of the San Pedro Mountain is one of most popular landmarks that attract both locals and tourists because the largest crucifixion in the world is installed there. The height of the statue of Christ is 33 metres. The statue was installed not long ago, before that the statue of Christ on the Mount Corcovado in Rio de Janeiro was considered the highest one. That statue is 27 metres tall.

Colorful markets have become a true landmark of Bolivia. The most famous market is called Mercado de Hechicería that can be literally translated as “Witchcraft market”. This huge market is located in the capital of the country, the city of La Paz. The market got such a name for a reason – the majority of items for sale are various witchcraft artefacts, herbs and talismans. It is possible to buy potions and amulets to cure every kind of disease in Mercado de Hechicería. A statue of an old Indian god is the most popular souvenir that tourists enjoy buying. It is believed that the statue protects its owner from bad luck.

The most famous nature sight of Bolivia is, probably, Lake Titicaca that is also the "highest navigable lake" in the world. It addition to magnificent nature and beautiful skyline, the lake has one more secret. In 2000, during one of numerous exploration campaigns, an ancient Indian temple was found on the bottom of the lake. The temple was built approximately 1500 years ago. Therefore, a sight of international level is buried deep under waters of Lake Titicaca. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Fans of active rest and sports activities have always been in love with the Ands. Eastern slopes of the mountains are perfect for alpine climbing. There are also several national parks in the piedmont region – Isiboro Secure, Pilon Lajas and Huanchaca. The city of Oruro is a popular tourist spot. The city is famous for its colourful festivals and carnivals. During the festival season, the population of Oruro is several times more than usual. Naturally, that happens because of thousands of tourists who come to see the show. Pagador is a place that will please fans of architectural landmarks. There are many old buildings in the town, the most famous ones are Mint House and Cathedral built in the 16th century. The biggest museum in the country (the National Museum) is located in the capital and exhibits a large collection of artefacts.

History and Entertainment

Until the 14th century, the territory of the present country had been populated by the Aymara and Kichwa tribes that consequently fell before the Incas. In 1532, these lands were visited by Spanish conquistadors. Then, the period of the active colonization began. Already in the first years of the colonial expansion, several million Indians died. In 1542, the ancient country was officially recognized as a Spanish colony and called Upper Peru.

In 1776, the country of Rio de la Plata was formed and Upper Peru was a part of it. At that time, the country saw the active struggle for independence that consequently produced positive results. In 1825, Upper Peru was recognized as an independent country. In the same year, it was renamed as Bolivia after Simon Bolivar.

The meaningful event happened in the 19th century was a war with Chili. In 1903, as a result of the military conflict, the part of the Bolivian territory came to Brazil. In the middle of the 20th century, the country saw several military coups that caused the change of power. Only the 80s of the last century were a long-awaited period of the social and political stability.

Present Bolivia has a lot of unique features that make the country so popular with tourists. It has been officially recognized as a multinational country in the southern hemisphere. Today, people in Bolivia speak 37 official languages. Obviously, such ethnic diversity has an impact on cultural traditions of the country. During the year, a lot of interesting festivals and holidays are celebrated here. The natives also pay a special attention to craft and artistic traditions.

Bolivia is one of the most high-mountain countries in the world. You can take a trip to many mountain areas. Some hiking routes are suitable for almost all travelers but some of them will be interesting only to climbers. One of the main national symbols of Bolivia is lamas. Their breeding has been one of the major activities of the natives for several hundred years. It is not surprising that in many gift shops tourists can buy inexpensive clothes of natural wool and yarn. Experienced tourists usually buy woolen clothes in the high-mountain districts.