Bolivia Facts

by countryaah · Published June 3, 2019 · Updated December 12, 2024

Bolivia, state of South America, between the South tropic and 10 ° south latitude; 1.1 million km², 11.4 million residents (2019). The country has been named after Simón Bolívar.

Country facts

Estado Plurinacional de Bolivia / Multinational State of Bolivia
Country abbreviation: BO
Area: 1.1 million km²
Population (2019): 11.4 million residents
Capital: Sucre (formal), La Paz (real)
Main languages: Spanish, Aymara, Quechua
State: Republic
Head of State and Head of Government: Jeanine Añez (Interim President)
Per capita GDP (2018): US $ 3,549
GNI per capita (2018): US $ 3,370
Currency unit: 1 boliviano = 100 centavos
Currency code: PDO
Country number (telephony): 591
Internet domain name: stay
Time difference compared to Sweden: −5
National Day: August 6 (Independence Day, 1825)

Nature

Land use: forest (53%), agricultural land (2%), other (45%)
Highest mountain: Sajama (6 542 m above sea level)
Largest lake: Lake Titicaca (8 100 km² )

Population

Population density (2019): 10 residents per km²
Natural population growth (2019): 1.6%; birthrate 22 ‰, deathrate 6 ‰
Age structure (2019): 0-14 years (32%), 15-64 (61%), 65- (7%)
Life expectancy (2019): men 69 years, women 76 years
Infant mortality (2019): 30 per 1,000 live births
Population Forecast 2050 ; 16 million residents
HDI (2017): 0.603 (place 118 of 189)
Urbanization rate (2019): 69%
Most populous cities (2013): Santa Cruz (1.4 million residents), La Paz (757,200), Cochabamba (632,000)

Business

Industry’s contribution to GDP (2017): agriculture (14%), industry (38%), service (48%)
exports (2017): US $ 7,746 million
Main export products: natural gas, soybeans, oil
Main exporting countries: USA, Brazil, Argentina
Imports (2017): US $ 8,601 million
Main import products: oil products, plastic products, paper, transport equipment
Main importing countries: Chile, Brazil, Argentina
Railway network (2019): 3 960 km

Geography

Location and Borders

Bolivia is a landlocked country located in the heart of South America. It is bordered by five nations: Brazil to the north and east, Argentina to the south, Chile to the southwest, and Peru to the west. With a total area of 1.1 million square kilometers, Bolivia is the 28th largest country in the world and the second-largest in South America, after Brazil.

The country’s geography is diverse, with its landscape ranging from the Andes Mountains in the west to the lowland plains of the Amazon basin in the east. This diversity is reflected in its climate and ecosystems, which vary greatly depending on the elevation and region.

Major Landforms

Bolivia is characterized by a variety of landforms, each contributing to its unique geographic identity. In the west, the Andes Mountains dominate, with towering peaks and high-altitude plains known as the Altiplano. The Altiplano is home to Bolivia’s capital, La Paz, and the country’s largest salt flat, Salar de Uyuni. These salt flats are one of the world’s most famous natural landmarks.

The eastern portion of the country is composed of lowland plains, including the Amazon Basin. This area is rich in tropical forests, rivers, and wildlife, providing a stark contrast to the arid conditions found in other regions.

Bolivia’s location within the Andes also means that it has a varied topography, with a mix of rugged mountain ranges, valleys, and high plateaus. Its highest peak, Nevado Sajama, rises to 6,542 meters above sea level, making it the highest point in the country.

Rivers and Lakes

Bolivia is also home to numerous rivers and lakes. The most significant river system is the Amazon, which flows from the east into Brazil. In the west, the country is part of the Río de la Plata basin, with its major rivers, including the Desaguadero and the Pilcomayo, flowing into the Paraná River.

One of Bolivia’s most important natural bodies of water is Lake Titicaca, located on the border with Peru. It is the largest lake in South America by volume of water and one of the highest navigable lakes in the world, sitting at an altitude of 3,812 meters. The lake is not only a major geographical feature but also holds deep cultural and historical significance.

Climate

Varied Climate Zones

Bolivia’s climate varies greatly depending on the region and altitude. In the highland areas, the climate is primarily cold, with temperatures often dipping below freezing, especially at night. The high-altitude regions experience an Andean climate, with dry, cool winters and wet summers.

In contrast, the lowlands of Bolivia, particularly those in the Amazon Basin, have a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. These areas also experience significant rainfall, making them highly fertile and home to rich biodiversity.

The eastern part of the country, which lies within the Amazonian region, experiences a humid subtropical climate. It is characterized by rainy seasons from December to March and relatively dry conditions for the rest of the year. Meanwhile, the central and southern highlands, including areas such as Sucre and Potosí, experience milder climates, with moderate rainfall and cooler temperatures.

The Altiplano region, including the city of La Paz, is subject to extreme temperature fluctuations, with hot days and cold nights. Rainfall is minimal in these regions, contributing to the desert-like conditions in parts of Bolivia.

Extreme Altitudes

One of Bolivia’s most unique climatic features is the extreme difference in temperatures due to the country’s varying altitudes. For example, La Paz, the seat of government, sits at over 3,650 meters above sea level, making it the highest capital city in the world. The surrounding areas experience temperatures below freezing during the winter, while summer temperatures can rise to over 20°C.

People

Demographics

Bolivia has a population of approximately 13 million people, making it one of the less populous countries in South America. The population is a blend of indigenous peoples, mestizos (people of mixed European and Indigenous ancestry), and smaller communities of Afro-Bolivians and European descendants. Bolivia’s demographic composition is deeply influenced by its indigenous heritage, with over 40% of the population identifying as Indigenous.

The largest indigenous groups are the Quechua and Aymara, both of which have a significant presence in the highland regions. Additionally, the country is home to many other indigenous groups such as the Guaraní, Moxeños, and Tsimané, each contributing to Bolivia’s rich cultural fabric.

Bolivia has a relatively young population, with a median age of around 27 years. The majority of the population lives in urban areas, with La Paz, Santa Cruz, and Cochabamba being the most populous cities. Rural areas, however, remain home to a significant portion of the indigenous population, particularly in the highlands and the Amazonian lowlands.

Language and Religion

Spanish is the official language of Bolivia, but the country recognizes 36 indigenous languages, including Quechua, Aymara, and Guaraní, which are spoken by large segments of the population. The constitution of Bolivia grants equal status to these indigenous languages, which is a reflection of the country’s commitment to preserving its cultural diversity.

The predominant religion in Bolivia is Roman Catholicism, with the majority of Bolivians identifying as Catholic. However, a significant portion of the population practices indigenous spirituality or a mixture of Catholicism and traditional beliefs. Protestantism has also seen growth in recent years, particularly in the eastern parts of the country.

Economy

Economic Overview

Bolivia’s economy is diverse, with a mix of industries such as agriculture, mining, manufacturing, and services. Despite being one of the poorest countries in South America, Bolivia has experienced economic growth in recent years, particularly in sectors like natural gas, lithium, and agriculture. However, Bolivia remains heavily dependent on exports of natural resources.

One of Bolivia’s most important natural resources is natural gas, which is the country’s largest export. The country also has significant reserves of oil, and it exports these resources to neighboring countries and international markets. Bolivia’s lithium deposits are among the largest in the world, and the country is positioning itself to play a key role in the global electric vehicle industry.

Agriculture is also a major contributor to Bolivia’s economy, with crops such as soybeans, quinoa, and coca leaf being important exports. The country is the world’s leading producer of quinoa, a nutritious grain that has gained international popularity in recent years. The coca leaf, while controversial due to its use in producing cocaine, is a key cultural and economic product, especially in the highland regions.

Bolivia’s manufacturing sector includes food processing, textiles, and construction materials, though it is less developed compared to other South American countries. Tourism also plays an important role in the economy, as the country’s natural landscapes and historical sites attract visitors from around the world.

Challenges and Growth

While Bolivia has made strides in economic development, it continues to face several challenges, including poverty, income inequality, and underdeveloped infrastructure. Rural areas, in particular, suffer from a lack of access to basic services, and the country’s educational and healthcare systems face significant challenges.

However, Bolivia’s government has implemented policies aimed at reducing poverty and promoting economic growth. Efforts to nationalize key industries, such as natural gas and mining, have provided the government with more control over resources, and there have been investments in infrastructure projects to improve transportation and energy access in remote regions.

Government

Political Structure

Bolivia is a democratic republic with a multi-party political system. The country’s government is divided into three branches: the executive, legislative, and judicial branches. The president serves as both the head of state and the head of government. The president is elected for a five-year term and can serve a maximum of two terms.

The legislative branch is bicameral, consisting of the Senate and the Chamber of Deputies. The Senate has 36 members, while the Chamber of Deputies has 130 members. Members of both chambers are elected through a system of proportional representation.

The judiciary is independent, and the country’s highest court is the Constitutional Court, which is responsible for interpreting the constitution and protecting human rights. Bolivia’s judicial system faces challenges related to corruption and inefficiency, but reforms have been implemented to address these issues.

Political History

Bolivia’s political history has been marked by periods of instability, with frequent changes in government, military coups, and social unrest. The country has experienced a number of political transitions, with major shifts in leadership following revolutions and protests. A key event in Bolivia’s modern political history was the election of Evo Morales in 2005, who became the country’s first indigenous president. Morales’s presidency was marked by efforts to reduce poverty, nationalize natural resources, and expand social programs, though his time in office was also marked by controversy over issues such as term limits and relations with foreign governments.

Culture

Art and Music

Bolivian culture is deeply rooted in its indigenous heritage, with vibrant traditions in art, music, and dance. Traditional Andean music is characterized by instruments such as the charango (a small string instrument), the quena (a flute), and the panpipes. Folk dances, such as the morenada and caporales, are performed during major festivals and celebrations, such as Carnival and the Fiesta de la Virgen de Urkupiña.

Bolivian art includes both indigenous and colonial influences, with colorful textiles, pottery, and crafts being produced throughout the country. The city of La Paz, in particular, is known for its vibrant arts scene, with galleries and museums showcasing traditional and contemporary Bolivian art.

Festivals

Bolivia is home to numerous festivals throughout the year, many of which have indigenous and religious roots. The Carnival of Oruro, a UNESCO-listed event, is one of the largest and most famous festivals in the country. It combines elements of indigenous spirituality, Catholicism, and Andean traditions, featuring parades, music, and elaborate costumes.

Other significant festivals include the Fiesta de la Virgen de Copacabana, which celebrates the patron saint of Bolivia, and the Tinku festival, which marks an ancient indigenous ritual of ritual combat and celebration.

Cuisine

Bolivian cuisine is varied and influenced by the country’s geography and indigenous cultures. Common ingredients include potatoes, corn, quinoa, and various meats such as llama, beef, and chicken. A typical Bolivian dish is salteña, a savory pastry filled with meat, vegetables, and spices, often served as a snack or breakfast.

Other popular dishes include mondongo (a pork stew), anticuchos (grilled skewers of beef heart), and llajwa (a spicy sauce made from tomatoes and peppers). The country also produces a variety of traditional beverages, such as chicha, a fermented corn drink, and api, a sweet, hot drink made from corn.

History

Pre-Columbian Era

Before Spanish colonization, Bolivia was home to a number of advanced indigenous civilizations, including the Tiwanaku and Inca Empires. The Tiwanaku culture, centered around Lake Titicaca, is famous for its sophisticated architecture and agricultural techniques, while the Incas incorporated Bolivia into their vast empire, with the region becoming a vital part of Inca society.

Spanish Colonization

In the 16th century, Bolivia was colonized by the Spanish, who established the Viceroyalty of Peru. The Spanish exploitation of the country’s mineral resources, particularly silver from the mines of Potosí, contributed to the wealth of the Spanish Empire. Bolivia’s indigenous populations suffered from forced labor, disease, and social repression during the colonial period.

Independence and Modern History

Bolivia gained independence from Spain in 1825, following a prolonged struggle led by revolutionary figures such as Simón Bolívar. The country was named in honor of Bolívar, who had played a key role in the liberation of several South American nations.

Bolivia’s post-independence history was marked by political instability, with frequent changes in leadership, military coups, and territorial losses. The War of the Pacific (1879-1884) resulted in Bolivia losing its access to the Pacific Ocean to Chile, a loss that still affects the country’s foreign policy today. Bolivia has faced challenges in developing stable democratic institutions and addressing social inequalities, but in recent decades, the country has made progress in terms of economic growth and political stability, with a focus on redistributing wealth and empowering indigenous communities.