Andes

The Inca citadel was built in the mid-1400s. It was brought to worldwide attention in 1911 by the explorer Hiram Bingham.

Farmers near Lake Titicaca began cultivating potatoes around 8,000 years ago. The region still grows thousands of native varieties in many colors and shapes.

On the Chile–Argentina border, Ojos del Salado rises to roughly 6,893 meters, making it the tallest active volcano on Earth.

The Qhapaq Ñan linked the empire's mountains, deserts and coasts. It was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014.

Running about 7,000 kilometers down South America's western edge, the Andes cross seven countries: Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Chile and Argentina.

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.