Bolivia

Nestled in Bolivia's far southwestern region, the Eduardo Avaroa Andean Fauna National Reserve stands as a breathtaking testament to the country's natural wonders. This vast protected area is a realm of contrasts and extremes, where volcanic mountain peaks, simmering hot springs, and kaleidoscopic lakes coexist with windswept deserts and fragile ecosystems. As Bolivia's most visited protected area, the Eduardo Avaroa Reserve offers a captivating journey through the heart of the Andes.

Amboró National Park, situated in the western part of Bolivia's Santa Cruz Department, is a natural treasure trove of biodiversity and ecological significance. Located at the "Elbow of the Andes," this park is a crucial preservation site for many unique species and habitats. Recognized for its ecological richness and scenic beauty, Amboró National Park serves as a vital sanctuary for flora and fauna and a focal point for scientific research and conservation efforts.

The Beni Biosphere Reserve is located in the Department of Beni in northeastern Bolivia. It is a unique area that combines three distinct biogeographical zones: the Amazon, the Chaco, and the Cerrado. The reserve comprises a savanna and rainforest and is one of Bolivia's oldest and most important protected areas. It is a haven for a wide variety of plant and animal species and a place with a rich cultural heritage.

The Cordillera Occidental, or Western Cordillera, of Bolivia is a mountain range in extreme western Bolivia, forming a natural border with Chile. The range is part of the Andes Mountains system, which, in turn, is part of the American Cordillera.

The Cordillera Oriental of Bolivia is part of the Andes Mountains system. It is the easternmost of Bolivia's two main ranges and separates the lowlands of the Amazon River basin to the east from the Altiplano to the west. The northern section of the range is known as the Cordillera Real.

El Fuerte de Samaipata, located in the Bolivian Province of Florida in the Department of Santa Cruz, is a remarkable pre-Columbian archaeological and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Nestled in the eastern foothills of the Bolivian Andes, this site uniquely encapsulates the cultural imprints of the Chanè, Inca, and Spanish civilizations. Its historical significance and architectural marvels make it a fascinating destination for archaeologists, historians, and tourists.

The Jesuit Missions of the Chiquitos are located in the Santa Cruz Department in eastern Bolivia. Distinguished by a unique fusion of European and Amerindian cultural influences, the Jesuits founded the missions to convert local Chiquitano tribes to Christianity.

Lake Poopó was the second largest lake in Bolivia and, along with Lake Uru Uru, received most of its water from the Desaguadero River, which flows from Lake Titicaca. By 2016, the lakes had lost nearly all their water due to glacial melt and water diversion for mining and agriculture.

Lake Titicaca is one of the highest navigable lakes in the world. It is situated at the northern end of the Altiplano basin, on the border of Peru and Bolivia in the Andes Mountains. With a history dating back millions of years, Lake Titicaca is the largest lake in South America by volume and holds great cultural and ecological significance. The lake has always been an integral part of indigenous cultures and provides a habitat for a wide range of biodiversity, including over 530 aquatic species.

Towering above the arid landscapes of the Atacama Desert, where the borders of Bolivia and Chile converge, stands the majestic Licancabur Volcano. This imposing stratovolcano, with its symmetric cone, is a testament to the geological forces shaping the Andean landscape. Licancabur is a captivating natural wonder and a sacred site revered by the Atacameño people, who have long held it in high esteem. Beyond its cultural significance, this volcanic behemoth offers a unique glimpse into the region's geological history.