Bolivia is home to some highly impressive archaeological sites as well as some stunning natural ones. Many tourist attractions are centred on the country’s diverse landscape as well as its rich heritage. La Paz, the capital city is full of fascinating museums and buildings which go some way to documenting the country’s past. A trip to Copacabana should not be missed

Cochabamba
Cochabamba is located in central Bolivia in a valley which bears the same name. It is the capital of the Cochabamba Department and is the third largest city in Bolivia. Cochabamba is known throughout South America as the ‘City of Eternal Spring’ and the ‘Garden City’ because of its year-round warm temperatures and high number of well-kept parks. The city boasts a long tradition of culture and folklore, and there are some fascinating stories surrounding many of the city’s sights.

Copacabana
This small lakeside is home to the Virgen of Copacabana and is located on the shores of Titikaka Lake. For most of the year, it is a very quiet town with hard working locals, but once a year in February, the town comes alive with colour and music for the annual festivities in honour of the Virgin. Hundreds of pilgrims make their way to the town to pay homage to the statue and pray for good luck. 

La Paz
This is the highest capital city in the world, situated 3,632 metres above sea level. The city is overshadowed by Mount Illimani and plays host to a number of impressive sights. The Presidential Palace can be found in the city, which is also known as the ‘Burnt Palace’ because of a repeat number of fires the building has endured in the past. La Paz Cathedral can be found in Plaza Murillo, next to the Presidential Palace, and was built in 1835 with an intricate and impressive design. If you are interested in religious symbolism and imagery, there are a number of churches located across the city boasting paintings, relics and statues from important religious dates.

Casa de Pedro Domingo Murillo was once the house of Pedro Domingo Murillo, the martyr of the independence movement in 1809. His house displays a collection of furniture, textiles and art from colonial times. If this house gives you a taste for history, visit one of the city’s many museums where you can learn about the country’s volatile past and the indigenous people as well as prehistoric times in Bolivia. If this is not enough for you, La Paz is also home to an abundance of art galleries and the famous Witches’ Market.

Lake Titicaca
This lake is the highest traversable lake in the world. Located in the Andes, the enormous freshwater lake is a truly stunning sight, boasting nine islands and a whole host of flora and fauna to view.

Moon Valley
You will find exceptional rock formations in the eroded hillsides of Moon Valley. The top of these hills offer stunning views across the countryside as well as a perfect place to sit back and enjoy a picnic.

Potosi
This city was once the most important city in the whole of South America. It is known as the ‘Imperial City’ and is situated at the foot of the imposing Rich Mountain (Cerro Rico). Potosi is famed for its wealth of minerals and mines, and is where all of Spain’s silver once came from. A tour around these mines is highly recommended as is a stay in the centre of the city itself.

Salt Lakes
The stunning yet somewhat eerie terrain of the Salt Lakes is impressive, with the lakes covering an enormous 18,000 square kilometres. Hundreds of cracks in the plains below the lakes look like shimmering crystals and are a unique and beautiful sight which should not be missed.

Tiahuanaco
This town can be found in the midst of the Bolivian Andes and is full of impressive stone markers and grand temples. It is believed to be the ancient capital of the pre-Inca civilisation and is therefore a very important archaeological site.

Climb the Cordillera Real
This mountain range boasts several peaks that are above 5,000 metres high. Climbing excursions can be booked in the town of Sorata, which is worth a visit as it is set in a stunning valley that is abundant with trees and flowers.

Enjoy a Trek
Bolivia boasts a diverse range of terrain and climates, with many nature trails available for keen walkers. There are ancient Inca routes to follow as well as some harder hikes through thick jungle, with sights including native wildlife and ancient relics and flora which date back hundreds of years.

Get On Your Bike
Bolivia is home to the one of the world’s most dangerous roads, which is surprisingly popular with cyclists. The road begins in the Bolivian Andes, outside of La Paz, and descends rapidly down twisting turns all the way into the Yungas jungle. Various companies hire professional bicycles and equipment for those brave enough to take on the road.

Go Skiing
Bolivia is home to what is believed to be the world’s highest ski resort, Mount Chacaltaya. This mountain has an altitude of 5,486 metres and offers a variety of slopes for all ages and levels of experience.

Join a Jungle Tour
Venture into the Amazon jungle and enjoy a unique tour which includes a ride in a motorised canoe, a walk through the rainforest and camping in the heart of the Amazon. Tours are led by local guides who have extensive knowledge of the jungle and its inhabitants.

Let Your Hair Down at Carnival
Bolivia’s famous carnival is one of the most attended and the most enthusiastic expressions of folklore in South America. The famous Carnival, held every February, is often viewed as one of the world's last authentic cultural celebrations and sees an abundance of street processions, traditional music, dancing and food. If you are in the country in February, prepare yourself for this party of the year.