Bolivia

Most of what people think they know about Bolivia is wrong. For example, it’s not that small—about twice the size of France. La Paz is not the capital, it’s Sucre. It’s an urban myth that La Paz is so high it doesn’t have a fire department because fires won’t burn at that altitude. And it’s not true that if you ironed out the country, it would be bigger than Brazil. Argentina, maybe, but not Brazil. Bolivia is, however, quite possibly the most politically unstable nation anywhere, with more than 175 revolutions since independence way back in 1820, or about one a year.

Why go to Bolivia? Because it’s about the most exotic non-European country in South America. The Lonely Planet calls this beautiful country the "Tibet of the Americas" and with reason. Landlocked since the War of the Pacific, Bolivia is a traveler’s paradise, with mountains and volcanoes, colorful dressed Indians, steamy jungle, the Altiplano, the salt flats and lakes of Uyuni, a witch’s market in La Paz, the famous mining city of Potosi, the fabled ruins of Tiawanaku, the wonders of Lake Titica, and more.

Although we don't have a clubhouse in Bolivia, Bolivia is a popular destination of SAE members. There is a wealth of information to be had at the other SAE clubhouses, and you can also email our Bolivia rep for more information at bolivia@saexplorers.org