Which Country Doesn't Share A Border With Bolivia?

Bolivia is a landlocked country in South America, with no coastline. It is bordered by five countries: Brazil to the north and east, Paraguay to the southeast, Argentina to the south, Chile to the southwest, and Peru to the west. Bolivia lost its coastline to Chile during the War of the Pacific in 1880.

Bolivia does not share a border with Brazil

Bolivia and Brazil are neighbouring countries in South America. Despite this proximity, Bolivia does not share a border with Brazil. The Brazil-Bolivia border is 2,126.95 miles long, beginning in the Pantanal and ending in the Amazon forest. The border crosses several terrains, from major cities to remote areas. The first treaty demarcating the border between the two countries was signed in 1867.

In 1898, it was discovered that the 1867 treaty allocated the Acre region to Peru, even though a majority of the population in the region were Brazilians and Bolivia laid claim to the area. This led to conflict as the people in the region did not want to be governed by the Bolivian government. The conflict went on until 1903 when the Brazilian military was sent to the region to restore peace until the matter was settled. In the same year, Brazil entered negotiations with both Peru and Bolivia over the acquisition of the region, with the population residing in the region being Brazilian. After discussions, the Treaty of Petropolis was signed, with Bolivia agreeing to give up the region to Brazil and receive compensation in other areas along the border.

The border between the two countries is fairly straightforward and similar to all other South American borders. Travellers must get an exit stamp, walk a couple of hundred meters, and then get an entry stamp. The entry part on the Bolivian side can be quite slow. The Bolivian town on the other side of the border is called Puerto Quijarro.

Bolivia does not share a border with Paraguay

Bolivia and Paraguay do not share a border, despite what a map may suggest with a cursory glance. While the two countries are neighbours, they are separated by a narrow strip of land that belongs to Brazil. This strip of land is part of the border that Brazil shares with both Bolivia and Paraguay, and it prevents the two countries from sharing a common border.

Bolivia is landlocked and shares borders with five countries: Peru, Paraguay, Brazil, Chile, and Argentina. The border with Peru is in the north-west of Bolivia and is approximately 668 miles long. Bolivia shares a border with Brazil on its eastern side, and this border is approximately 2,127 miles long. Bolivia's border with Chile is in the south-west of the country, and its border with Argentina is in the south.

Paraguay is also landlocked and shares borders with three countries: Bolivia, Brazil, and Argentina. The border between Bolivia and Paraguay runs along the north-western edge of Paraguay, separating the Alto Paraguay department from Bolivia. This border is the shortest of Paraguay's three borders at 446 miles long. It runs north from the boundary with Argentina and then turns eastwards towards Brazil. This region of Paraguay is known as Alto Chaco, where the plains begin to develop hilly terrain.

The border dispute between Bolivia and Paraguay, which began with the Chaco War (1932-1935), was related to a large oil reserve that both countries wanted to control. The war was the deadliest encounter of the 20th century in South America. Paraguay eventually won control of approximately 66% of the entire region, or about 22,000 square miles of land. It wasn't until 2009 that the presidents of Bolivia and Paraguay signed an agreement officially ending the dispute.

Bolivia does not share a border with Argentina

It is a common misconception that Bolivia and Argentina do not share a border. While it is true that Uruguay, Chile, Peru, Brazil, and Paraguay all border Bolivia, Argentina is also a neighbouring country.

The Argentina-Bolivia border is an international boundary that extends from the Altiplano in the west to the Chaco flat in the east, through the tropical environment of the Yungas. From east to west, there are three main crossing points: Villazón - La Quiaca (Horacio Guzmán International Bridge over La Quiaca River), Bermejo - Aguas Blancas, and Yacuiba - Profesor Salvador Mazza (Pocitos).

Bolivia and Argentina have had foreign relations for over a century, with both countries being part of the Spanish Empire. Both nations are members of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States, Latin American Integration Association, Organization of American States, Organization of Ibero-American States, and the United Nations.

In conclusion, despite what some may believe, Bolivia and Argentina do indeed share a border and have a long history of diplomatic relations.

Bolivia does not share a border with Chile

Bolivia and Chile have had a strained relationship since the early 19th century due to a border dispute. Despite this, Bolivia does not share a border with Chile. Bolivia is landlocked and has been since the War of the Pacific, which took place from 1879 to 1884. During this conflict, Chile invaded the Bolivian port city of Antofagasta, located on its northern border with Bolivia. Within four years, Chile had annexed nearly 50,000 square miles of Bolivian territory, including its 250-mile coastline on the southern Pacific Ocean. Bolivia became landlocked as a result of losing this war and has remained so ever since.

The roots of the conflict between Bolivia and Chile can be traced back to their independence from Spain in the 19th century. When Simón Bolívar established Bolivia as a nation in 1825, he claimed access to the sea at the port of Cobija, disregarding overlapping claims by Chile. This dispute centred around the Atacama corridor, a part of the Atacama Desert which now forms northern Chile. The Atacama Desert is bordered by the Coast Range on the west and the Andes on the east. The geography of the area played a significant role in how the border dispute unfolded. Due to the mountainous terrain, the area only experiences rainfall two to four times per century, making it one of the driest places on Earth.

In the late 19th century, Chile went to war with the combined forces of Peru and Bolivia. This conflict was sparked by a dispute over taxation of the nitrate industry, a major source of income for Chileans working in what was then Bolivian territory. Chile emerged victorious and annexed a significant portion of Bolivian land, approximately 120,000 square kilometres, resulting in Bolivia losing 400 kilometres of coastline. The two countries signed a peace treaty in 1904, with Chile agreeing to compensate Bolivia for its loss of land and granting Bolivia access to Chilean ports. However, the Bolivian President Evo Morales has criticised this treaty, arguing that it was imposed on Bolivia under duress.

Despite their troubled history, Bolivia and Chile still maintain economic treaties that support tourism and cooperation, allowing trade between the two nations to continue uninterrupted by the territorial dispute. Indigenous Aymara communities live on both sides of the border, and Chile grants unrestricted access to all kinds of Bolivian merchandise through the Atacama region. Additionally, Bolivia enjoys duty-free port access and has its own customs station and storage facilities on the Chilean coast. Nevertheless, Bolivians argue that they are subjected to unfair Chilean checks and have to pay for transit to reach the ports.

Bolivia does not share a border with Peru

Bolivia and Peru are two countries in South America that share a border. However, contrary to what one might assume, crossing this border can be a challenging and stressful experience. Here are some insights and guidelines to help you navigate the process of travelling from Peru to Bolivia or vice versa:

Border Crossing Options:

There are multiple border crossings between Peru and Bolivia, each with its own unique characteristics:

• Desaguadero: This border crossing is known for being a direct route to La Paz, Bolivia's administrative capital. It is often used by buses travelling between the two countries. However, Desaguadero has a reputation for being a chaotic and disorganised place, with reports of corruption and bribery.
• Yunguyo: This crossing is closer to Copacabana, a small village on the shore of Lake Titicaca. It is considered relatively cleaner and safer than Desaguadero. Yunguyo is a good option if you're heading to Copacabana, but it can add some travel time if your final destination is La Paz.
• Tilali-Puerto Acosta: This is a less frequented, remote route along the eastern shore of Lake Titicaca. It offers a more adventurous experience but requires careful planning and ensuring all paperwork is in order.

Practical Tips for Border Crossing:

• Documents and Paperwork: Ensure you have all the necessary documents, such as a valid passport, immigration card (TAM), proof of onward travel, and sufficient funds. Some countries, like the United States, may require a visa, which can be obtained at a consulate or embassy.
• Timing: The border crossings are generally open from early morning to evening, but there may be variations in timing between the Peruvian and Bolivian sides. Occasional closures during the afternoon or lunch breaks can cause delays.
• Transportation: Travelling by bus is the most common option for crossing the border. It is recommended to research bus companies in advance and choose one that suits your budget and preferences. Alternatively, you can drive a private vehicle or rent a car, but be prepared for thorough vehicle inspections and potential confiscation of certain food items.
• Patience and Preparedness: Border crossings can be unpredictable, with potential delays due to blockades, strikes, or other unforeseen events. It is essential to remain patient and adaptable. Having some local currency and being aware of potential scams or unofficial fees can also help navigate the process.

In conclusion, while Bolivia and Peru share a border, crossing it can be a complex and time-consuming endeavour. Being well-informed, organised, and flexible will help ensure a smoother journey between these two fascinating countries.

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