Learn About the Countries: Bolivia
Bolivia is a very diverse country - climate and topography vary from the tropical lowlands of the east to the dry mountainous regions in the west. The cities of Oruro and LaPaz lie at altitudes above 12,000 feet! Culture is also diverse. Aymaran and Quechua languages are still spoken by Indians that make up a significant percentage of the Bolivian population - though Spanish is the official language. The mid and upper class are primarily of European descent - often Spanish or German - or a mix of European and Indian descent. Fabric, crafts, and native musical instruments are great finds throughout the country. Cultural sites at Samipata near Santa Cruz and Tiahuanaco, LaPaz as well as Lake Titicaca and 10 National Parks and Reserves make Bolivia a great adventure. Music is an integral part of the So. American culture - bring your dancing shoes! Carnival celebrations in Bolivia are second only to Brazil and the festival with its unique costumes and dances are unequaled in the city of Oruro. The school year goes from February through October so you will arrive at the start of second semester, graduate - then attend the first semester...by then you will have mastered your Spanish and excel in school. In the meantime, summer vacation will allow time to pursue special interests - language, sports, etc. and time to tour with family, friends, and Rotarians.
Country Officers
Steve and Ruby Lee
steveandrubylee@hotmail.com
Places of Interest in Bolivia
- Lake Titicaca (near LaPaz) add Copacabana and Isla del Sol if time permits
- Samipata (near Santa Cruz) - pre-Incan ceremonial site
- Tihaunaco (near LaPaz) - Indian Ruins from 500-900 AD
- Las Yungas (near LaPaz) - great hiking
- Carnival - Oruro has the best and most traditional celebration - just be sure to participate wherever you are!
Interesting Facts about Bolivia
- Open markets for the best shopping - barginning for the best prices is an art!
- Salteñas - the typical Bolivian snack
- Great fresh fruit and vegetables -and about 100 different types and ways to cook potatoes!
- Attend a Peña - a performance of traditional Andean music. Instruments include: Churango, Zampoñas, and a variety of flutes and percussion.
- Opportunities to see vicuña, alpaca, and llamas of the Andean highlands
Bolivia Links of Interest
Other Bolivia Information
Temporary Visas can be obtained through consulate representative in Minnesota. There is a Bolivian - American group in the Twin Cities (contact consulate representative for more information. Students most often are sent to the following cities in Bolivia: Santa Cruz, LaPaz, Oruro, Cochabamba
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