UPSC Prelims 2003 Q39: Geography – World Political Geography & Borders
Which one of the following countries is land locked?
- (a) Bolivia
- (b) Peru
- (c) Suriname
- (d) Uruguay
Answer: (a) Bolivia
Explanation
Landlocked countries of South America
| Country | Landlocked? |
|---|---|
| Bolivia | Yes — landlocked since 1884 |
| Peru | No, Pacific coast |
| Suriname | No, Atlantic coast |
| Uruguay | No, Atlantic coast |
Bolivia is landlocked; Paraguay is the other landlocked country in South America, while Peru, Suriname and Uruguay all have sea coasts.
Answer: (a) Bolivia.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) CORRECT. Bolivia has no sea coast.
- (b) Incorrect. Peru has a Pacific coast.
- (c) Incorrect. Suriname has an Atlantic coast.
- (d) Incorrect. Uruguay has an Atlantic coast.
Key point
Landlocked in South America: Bolivia, Paraguay.
Remember
Bolivia and Paraguay are South America's landlocked countries.
Common mistakes
- Choosing Uruguay since it is small.
- Forgetting Bolivia lost its coast to Chile.
- Mixing Suriname with Guyana's coast.
Exam tip
Bolivia lost its Pacific coast to Chile in the War of the Pacific.
Sources
- Central Intelligence Agency — The World Factbook: Bolivia (Geography: coastline 0 km)
- Encyclopaedia Britannica — Bolivia