Throughout the country’s colonial history, Bolivia was known as 'Upper Peru', until after Simon Bolivar led the country to independence in 1825, when it was named in his honor. Therefore, the country's name instigates great national pride, which has unfortunately been marred by years of turmoil and tyranny under the lead of caudillos (military dictators).

Liberation retains a dual meaning in Bolivia; a country of great expanse, extensive lakes and salt plains induce an elated sense of freedom for any traveller. But there is little of such freedom for Bolivians, many of whom count for some of the poorest people in Latin America. Although Bolivia has entered an unprecedented era of political stability, it follows a record of 192 coups in the 156 years from independence to 1981.

The fight to keep their land mirrors the Bolivians' fight to preserve their traditions, such as the Pachamama ('Mother Earth'); shrines to her are found everywhere.

'Mother Earth' is kind in return: Bolivia is beautiful and striking; there are currently 10 national parks and eight protected areas. Although Bolivia is landlocked, it never feels claustrophobic – blessed with breathtaking lakes and lofty mountains. It is difficult to know what is more breathtaking: the Bolivian's gentle struggle to survive amidst a legacy of poverty and unrest, or the Altiplano ascending ever higher. Standing as tall as the mountains, the Bolivians’ pride for their homeland is always evident – and always justified.

Geography
Bolivia is a landlocked country bordered by Peru to the northwest, Brazil to the north and east, Paraguay to the southeast, Argentina to the south and Chile to the west. There are three main areas: the first is a high plateau known as the ‘Altiplano’, a largely barren region lying approximately 4,000m (13,000ft) above sea level. It comprises 10% of the country’s area and contains 70% of the population, nearly one-third of whom are urban dwellers. The second area is a fertile valley situated 1,800m (5,900ft) to 2,700m (8,850ft) above sea level. The third area comprises the lowland tropics which stretch down to the frontiers with Brazil, Argentina and Paraguay, taking up some 70% of the land area. Rainfall in this region is high, and the climate is hot.