Famous Landmarks In Bolivia: A Traveler's Guide

Bolivia is a country of incredible biodiversity, from sprawling deserts to dense Amazonian rainforest, all overlooked by the towering Andes. Beyond its natural attractions, Bolivia is also home to a wealth of historical landmarks, from pre-Columbian archaeological sites to colonial-era architecture. Here is an introduction to some of Bolivia's most famous landmarks.

The Salt Flats

The Salar de Uyuni, or "Salar de Tunupa", is the world's largest salt flat, spanning an area of 10,582 square kilometres (4,086 sq mi) in the Daniel Campos Province in Potosí in southwest Bolivia. It is located near the crest of the Andes at an elevation of 3,656 m (11,995 ft) above sea level.

The Salar was formed as a result of transformations between several prehistoric lakes, including Lake Minchin, that existed around forty thousand years ago but eventually evaporated. Today, it is covered by a few meters of salt crust, which has an extraordinarily flat surface with average elevation variations of within one meter over the entire area. This crust serves as a source of salt and covers a pool of brine rich in lithium. The large area, clear skies, and exceptional flatness of the surface make the Salar ideal for calibrating the altimeters of Earth observation satellites. During the rainy season, a thin layer of water transforms the flat into a giant mirror, reflecting the sky.

The Salar is a major transport route across the Bolivian Altiplano and a breeding ground for several flamingo species. It is also a popular tourist destination, with hotels built from salt blocks cut from the Salar itself. The unique landscape has served as a filming location for movies such as *Star Wars: The Last Jedi* and *The Fall*.

Aymara legend tells that the mountains Tunupa, Kusku, and Kusina, which surround the Salar, were once giant people. In the legend, Tunupa married Kusku, but he left her for Kusina. Tunupa's tears, mixed with her breast milk, formed the Salar. Many locals consider Tunupa an important deity and believe the place should be called Salar de Tunupa.

Isla del Sol

History and Culture

Communities and People

The island is home to approximately 800 indigenous families who live in small villages dispersed across the island. There are three main communities: Yumani in the south, Cha'llapampa in the north, and Cha'lla on the central eastern coast. In recent years, there have been disputes between these communities over tourism, which has led to the north side being temporarily closed to tourists.

Transportation and Travel Tips

The only way to reach Isla del Sol is by boat from the lakeside town of Copacabana. The boat ride takes around one and a half hours to reach Yumani on the south side and an additional half hour to get to Cha'llapampa on the north side. There are several tour companies offering daily boat services, usually departing around 8:30 am or 1:30 pm. It is recommended to verify the schedule and ticket details before purchasing.

Attractions and Activities

• Ruins and Archaeological Sites: There are over 80 ruins on the island, dating primarily to the Inca period of the 15th century AD. These include Titikala, a sacred rock believed to be the dwelling place of the sun; Chincana, a labyrinth-like complex with the Palacio del Inco; Pillkukayna, a well-preserved two-story temple; and the Inca Steps, leading to a sacred fountain believed to be a fountain of youth.
• Hiking: There are hiking trails connecting the north and south sides of the island, offering magnificent views of Lake Titicaca and the surrounding landscape. The hike takes approximately three hours and passes through agricultural terraces, beaches, tiny settlements, and giant eucalyptus trees.
• Museums: Cha'llapampa, on the northern side, houses a small museum displaying artefacts recovered from the island and Lake Titicaca, including pottery, stone boxes, and gold and silver figurines.
• Local Experiences: Visitors can learn ancient weaving techniques from local women, purchase hand-woven hats, sweaters, gloves, and jewellery, and enjoy freshly caught trout prepared in various traditional dishes.

Accommodation and Facilities

Accommodation on Isla del Sol is basic and lacks modern comforts such as strong Wi-Fi, heating, and abundant hot water. However, it offers a unique opportunity to disconnect from the outside world and experience island life as it was hundreds of years ago. Most accommodation options are located in the south side community of Yumani.

In conclusion, Isla del Sol is a must-visit destination for those interested in exploring Inca history, enjoying natural beauty, and immersing themselves in local culture. With its rich cultural significance, archaeological sites, and stunning scenery, Isla del Sol embodies the peace and serenity of Bolivia.

Tiwanaku

The site appears to have collapsed around 1000 AD, though the reasons for this are still debated. Recent studies suggest that a drought in the region may have played a role, as local agricultural systems would have been affected.

The structures that have been excavated at Tiwanaku include the terraced platform mound Akapana, Akapana East, and Pumapunku stepped platforms, the Kalasasaya, the Kantatallita, the Kheri Kala, and Putuni enclosures, and the Semi-Subterranean Temple.

La Paz

Plaza Murillo

Plaza Murillo is one of the main squares of La Paz and is home to several important government buildings, including the Presidential Palace and the legislative building. The legislative building features a unique clock, known as the "Clock of the South," which ticks backward to represent the nation's indigenous roots. The plaza is also filled with pigeons and is a popular meeting point for locals and tourists alike.

San Francisco Basilica

The San Francisco Basilica is a stunning church that dates back to the colonial era. It showcases a blend of European and indigenous architectural styles, with a façade combining Catholic elements and indigenous symbols. The basilica is located on Plaza San Francisco, the tourist heart of La Paz, and offers panoramic views of the city from its rooftop.

Calle Sagarnaga

Calle Sagarnaga is the main tourist hub of La Paz, brimming with shops, restaurants, hostels, and tour agencies. It is the perfect place to find souvenirs, including warm alpaca sweaters and colourful aguayo fabric. Calle Sagarnaga is also known for its vibrant atmosphere, with colourful buildings, museums, and cafés lining the street.

Mi Teleferico

Mercado de las Brujas

Mercado de las Brujas, or the Witches' Market, is one of the most unusual markets in La Paz. Here, you'll find colourful products, dried llama fetuses, elixirs, and various voodoo items. It's a fascinating glimpse into the local culture and a great place to find unique souvenirs.

Estadio Hernando Siles

For sports enthusiasts, a visit to Estadio Hernando Siles is a must. This stadium is the headquarters of the Bolivian national football team and has hosted several international matches. The atmosphere during games is electric, with loud cheers and passionate fans. It's a great place to catch a football match and experience the local passion for the sport.

Madidi National Park

The park is accessible from the town of Rurrenabaque, which can be reached by a 40-minute flight or a lengthy bus ride from La Paz. Once in Rurrenabaque, visitors can book tours that depart into the heart of Madidi National Park, offering a fully immersive jungle experience. It is not recommended to venture into the park without a guide. Reputable tour companies such as Bala Tours, Madidi Travel, and Mashaquipe Ecotours offer short and long tours, as well as overnight stays at ecolodges within the park. These tours typically operate during the dry season, from April to October, when wildlife is more active and visible near the river.

The park faces threats from proposed development projects, such as the Bala Dam Project and the Apolo-Ixiamas road construction, which could have catastrophic ecological consequences. Despite these challenges, Madidi National Park remains a breathtaking destination, offering visitors the opportunity to explore pristine rainforests, discover unique wildlife, and immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of Bolivia's indigenous communities.

Frequently asked questions