Bolivia is a landlocked country in South America that has over the years struggled with economic instabilities and is just emerging as the next frontier of growth in South America.

The country's geography varies from lowlands to Amazon Basin to Andean climate. Being home to about 10 million people of different origins makes Bolivia one of the most culturally diverse countries in the world. Below are some things you may not know about the country.

1. Bolivia was once part of the large Inca Empire. Trust me; you will be impressed at how civilized the ancient Incas were if you visit the ancient sites.

2. In the 16th century, the Spanish conquistadors took control of the area formerly known as upper Peru. They would remain under Spanish rule until 1825 when the republic of Bolivia was formed after 16 years of war.

3. Lake Titicaca, shared between Bolivia and Peru, is the largest lake in South America.

4. In the Bolivian town of Oruro, a week long carnival called La Diablada (dance of the devil) is held. Two people wear costumes; one depicting the devil and the other St. Michael. They would then fight until the devil is defeated.

5. Oh...this is funny...assuming a slumping posture is considered rude in Bolivia.

6. Salar de Uyuni is the world's largest salt lake at 4633 square miles - a lot of salt indeed...

7. More than half of the Bolivians are native Amerindians, with the Quechua and Aymara constituting about 55% of the population.

8. If I were you, I would organize to visit Bolivia during the month of November when the gorgeous flocks of flamingoes come to breed on the flats at Salar de Uyuni.

9. Bolivia has two capitals - the only country in the world with two. It has the Sucre which is the constitutional capital and the La Paz, its administrative capital.

10. At 3,812m above sea level, Lake Titicaca on the Bolivia-Peru border is the highest commercially viable lake in the world.

Since 1982, Bolivia has enjoyed peaceful change over of government, making it one of the most peaceful countries in Latin America. If you are into exploration and adventure safaris, there is no better place than Bolivia.