Bolivia

Bolivia lies in the heart of South America and is a country of contrasts. From the snow-capped peaks of the Andes to the vast plateaus and tropical rainforests of the Amazon, the country boasts an impressive variety of landscapes. La Paz, one of the country’s most vibrant cities, boasts colourful markets, colonial buildings and a state-of-the-art cable car system. The famous salt flats of Salar de Uyuni are also a must-see – a natural wonder and one of the highlights of any trip.

The weather in Bolivia varies greatly depending on the region. The Altiplano is often cool and dry, while the Amazon basin has a humid tropical climate. The most pleasant time to travel is between May and October, when rainfall is less frequent and conditions are ideal for tours and sightseeing.

Major credit cards are widely accepted in Bolivia, particularly in larger hotels, restaurants and shops. The official currency is the boliviano (BOB). As this has a relatively low value compared to other currencies, US dollars are also readily accepted in the country, particularly for larger purchases or in tourist establishments. For smaller purchases and markets, however, it is advisable to have sufficient boliviano cash. Cash machines are easy to find in cities, so obtaining cash is usually straightforward.