5 facts
Explore the majestic Andes, Earth's longest continental mountain range! Discover its diverse ecosystems, ancient cultures, and breathtaking peaks.
Unlike cocaine, which is processed from the coca plant, chewing raw coca leaves is a mild stimulant and a deeply ingrained cultural practice. It's used to alleviate altitude sickness, reduce hunger, and for medicinal purposes.
With a wingspan of up to 3.3 meters (10 feet 10 inches), it is one of the world's largest flying birds and holds significant cultural importance in Andean folklore. These scavengers play a vital role in their ecosystem.
Shared with Peru, this vast freshwater lake sits at an elevation of 3,812 meters (12,507 feet) above sea level. It is also the largest lake in South America by volume and a sacred site for the Inca people.
While Sucre is the constitutional capital, La Paz, situated at an average elevation of 3,650 meters (11,975 feet) above sea level, serves as the seat of government and financial center. Its unique geography is carved into a canyon.
Reaching an impressive 6,961 meters (22,838 feet) above sea level, this majestic mountain is part of the Andes range. It is also the highest peak in both the Southern and Western Hemispheres, attracting climbers from around the globe.
