A land-locked country that straddles the Andes, Bolivia is known as the Tibet of the Americas. Bolivia may be one of the poorest countries in South America, but its cultural wealth, the Andean landscapes and the remnants of mysterious ancient civilizations make it a rich and exciting destination for those looking for more than postcards.

As the most elevated and isolated country in South America, Bolivia's nickname, "The Tibet of the Americas," seems the perfect moniker.

Major tourist attractions include La Paz, the highest capital city in the world, its colonial history and museums, "Witch Doctor's Market", and the nearby stunning Andean peaks; beautiful Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world which includes the cultural charms of Copacabana and Inca history on Isla del Sol, and then, there's tours of the Bolivain Amazon - the planet's greatest ecosystem.

Add a beautiful group of national parks, dozens of significant archaeological sites, and a wide variety of colorful native-population festivals and holidays.

In general terms the tropical eastern lowlands are warm (often hot), humid and rainy. The Andes are quite temperate in the lower foothills and sheltered valleys, but temperatures decrease by increased altitude, reaching Arctic-like levels in the higher elevations.

You can learn Spanish in Bolivia in the city of Sucre:

• Spanish Courses in Sucre

• EcuadorEcuador arguably has the most intensely varied landscape in South America. You get it all here: the collosal Andes, the Amazon, Pacific beaches, and of course the naturalist's paradise of the Galapagos Islands.
• BoliviaBolivia may be one of the poorest countries in South America, but its cultural wealth, the Andean landscapes and the remnants of mysterious ancient civilizations make it a rich and exciting destination for those looking for more than postcards.
• PeruThe landscape of Peru is as epic as its history. The shadows, canyons, and plateaus of the vertiginous Andes hide the remains of one of the world's most extraordinary empires - the Inca - while their eastern slopes are the cradle of the Amazon River itself.
• ChileIn Chile, nature runs the gamut of its most dramatic forms - enormous glaciers, craggy granite spires, and towering volcanic cones dominate the landscape. Torres del Paine National Park is widely held to be the finest park in the Americas.
• ArgentinaA country of wide-open pampas and ancient forests, Argentina is as wild as its capital city, Buenos Aires, is sophisticated.
• CubaCuba is a beautiful country, it also has a population that is very hospitable in spite of the economic difficulties in the last few years. It is a country of music, poetry, dancing, singing and chatting. People have time for each other and for their guests. Cuba is like going back in time to the 50´s: old cars, a relaxed atmosphere, no hurry.
• Costa RicaIn recent years, Costa Rica has nearly become synonymous with the term "ecotourism." Its pristine rainforests are painstakingly protected, and an ever-increasing tide of people comes to witness the astounding abundance of plant and animal species each year.
• Dominican Rep.The white sand beaches, impressive mountain ranges veined with spectacular rivers and waterfalls, and saltwater lakes teeming with exotic wildlife are just part of the Dominican Republic’s appeal. Whether you’re looking to party, relax or explore, the Dominican Republic has a lot to offer.
• GuatemalaA colorful and hospitable country. As the origin of the mysterious Mayas, the country offers some of the continent’s richest folklore. The cultural blend of Spanish and Indigenous people is still seen in daily life. Ancient rituals are intertwined with the modern. You will find an abundance of high quality, low-priced handicrafts.
• MexicoWith both the most populous city in the world, and some of the most beautiful beaches, Mexico is a lively destination. A variety of natural wonders from lush tropical rainforests to mountains and deserts make Mexico a gem for the adventurer, but its real treasure is in the spirit of its people.