Things To Do
in Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz, Bolivia, is the largest city in Bolivia and serves as the economic and financial hub of the country, known for its youthful energy, dynamic growth, and significant contribution to Bolivian GDP. It combines modern development with rich cultural traditions, hosting a variety of landmarks, including the iconic 24 de Septiembre central plaza surrounded by colonial architecture, and the biocentric zoo.
The region's tropical savanna climate fosters diverse ecosystems, making it a gateway to exploring the Amazon Basin, with its diverse wildlife and national parks.
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Hasta luego" - See you later
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.30 - $0.70
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the vibrant Plaza 24 de Septiembre, the main square in Santa Cruz. Enjoy breakfast at a local café while taking in the beautiful architecture around you.
Head to the nearby Arenal Park for a walk among lush greenery and to relax by the lake. Consider a leisurely lunch at a restaurant near the park to recharge.
As the sun sets, explore the lively nightlife by heading to a popular bar or live music venue. Savor traditional Bolivian cuisine for dinner at a local eatery.
Take an early trip to Amboró National Park, renowned for its biodiversity and stunning landscapes. Start with a guided hike to appreciate its natural wonders.
Continue your adventure with birdwatching and exploring the unique flora and fauna. Stop for a packed lunch amidst the breathtaking scenery.
Return to Santa Cruz and treat yourself to a relaxing dinner at one of the city's fine dining establishments. Reflect on your day’s experiences over a delicious meal.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant culture and rich history, with a mix of indigenous and Spanish influences.
- Growing economy and business opportunities, particularly in agriculture and trade.
- Beautiful natural surroundings, including nearby parks and mountains for outdoor activities.
- Diverse culinary scene with a variety of local and international cuisine.
- Warm climate, making it a pleasant place to live year-round.
- Higher levels of crime in certain areas, which can be a concern for residents and visitors.
- Urban congestion and traffic issues as the city continues to expand.
- Limited public transportation options compared to larger cities.
- Occasional water shortages and issues with infrastructure in some neighborhoods.
- Economic disparities and social inequalities visible in various areas of the city.
Best Activities in Santa Cruz
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the diverse wildlife and ecosystems of Amboro National Park through hiking, bird-watching, and camping.
Visit the quaint town of Cotoca known for its picturesque church and vibrant market, offering a glimpse of local culture and traditions.
Challenge your balance and coordination by trying slacklining at Arenal Park, a popular outdoor recreational spot in Santa Cruz.
Tours
Uncover the best of Santa Cruz with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Santa Cruz
Visit one of these nice places.
Offering panoramic views of the city and the mountains from its rooftop
Iconic square featuring historic architecture and a picturesque setting for photos
The towering statue providing stunning views of the city and surrounding landscapes
Food in Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A beloved Bolivian dish featuring breaded and fried beef cutlets served over rice and topped with fried eggs, sliced potatoes, and salsa.
Must-Try!
A hearty peanut soup often made with beef, chicken, or vegetables, reflecting the fusion of native and Spanish culinary traditions.
A flavorful stew of pork or chicken, potatoes, and hominy, simmered in a savory sauce infused with regional spices.
A satisfying dish comprising roasted meat, plantains, rice, and yuca, typically seasoned with local herbs and spices.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Santa Cruz better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore this bustling market to sample a variety of classic street foods, including salteñas (savory pastries filled with meat, potatoes, and spices), anticuchos (grilled skewered meats), and freshly pressed sugarcane juice.
Take a culinary adventure through this market to discover stalls offering traditional foods like saice (a spiced meat and potato stew), mondongo (tripe soup), and a plethora of empanadas filled with savory ingredients such as cheese, chicken, or beef.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Santa Cruz, it is common to greet people with a kiss on the cheek, even if you are meeting them for the first time. This is a sign of respect and friendliness.
It is important to be mindful of personal space and not stand too close to others. Maintaining an appropriate distance is considered respectful in social interactions.
In many homes and some public places, it is customary to remove your shoes before entering. This shows respect for the cleanliness of the space and the custom of the household.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Santa Cruz with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Santa Cruz
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Santa Cruz, Bolivia. However, in some upscale restaurants and hotels, a service charge may be included in the bill.
Cash is widely used in Santa Cruz, Bolivia, especially for smaller transactions. Credit cards are accepted in larger establishments, but it's advisable to carry cash for smaller vendors and local markets.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Santa Cruz.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Ideal time to visit with clear skies and sunny weather. Good for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Expect heavy rainfall and high humidity. May experience occasional flooding. Still possible to visit but be prepared for wet conditions.
Santa Cruz at Night
Hiking in Santa Cruz
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A national park known for its biodiversity, featuring trails that take you through lush forests and stunning landscapes.
A mountain range offering various hiking trails with panoramic views, ideal for both casual walkers and seasoned hikers.
An archaeological site and natural park with hiking opportunities that combine nature and history.
A scenic mountain hike that provides beautiful vistas of the surrounding valleys and wildlife.
A tranquil valley offering several hiking paths through diverse flora and fauna, perfect for nature enthusiasts.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Santa Cruz through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Santa Cruz by plane.
The main international airport serving Santa Cruz, Bolivia, located approximately 18 km north of the city center.
Located in Cochabamba, approximately 130 km from Santa Cruz, this airport serves as a major hub for domestic and international flights.
Located in La Paz, around 550 km from Santa Cruz, it is one of the highest international airports in the world.
Located in Antofagasta, Chile, approximately 700 km from Santa Cruz, it serves international flights and has connections to Bolivia.
Located in Asunción, Paraguay, about 750 km from Santa Cruz, it is the main international airport for Paraguay.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group, primarily of mixed Indigenous and European descent.
Includes various groups such as the Guarani, Chiquitano, and others, contributing to the cultural diversity of the region.
Comprises individuals of European ancestry, particularly Spanish and other European immigrants.
A smaller demographic group with African heritage, primarily located in the Yungas region, but also present in urban areas like Santa Cruz.
Includes various smaller communities such as Asian descendants and immigrants from other Latin American countries.
The Soul of Santa Cruz
Discover the essence of Santa Cruz through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Santa Cruz, with a passionate following and numerous local clubs participating in national leagues.
Basketball has gained significant popularity in Santa Cruz, with many youth programs and local tournaments.
Volleyball is widely played, particularly among women, and is a popular sport in schools and recreational leagues.
Futsal is a variant of football that is played on a smaller field, and it enjoys popularity for indoor competitions.
Athletic sports, including running and field events, are promoted by schools and local organizations in Santa Cruz.
Motorsports, particularly rally racing, have a dedicated following in Santa Cruz, with various events and competitions held throughout the year.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Santa Cruz.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Bolivian cuisine largely revolves around meat, vegetarian options like vegetable salteñas, quinoa-based dishes, and freshly prepared salads are available at many restaurants.
Though options may be limited, some restaurants in Santa Cruz offer vegan variations of traditional dishes, and there are establishments specializing in plant-based cuisine.
Celiac-friendly alternatives, such as maize-based snacks, rice-based dishes, and yuca-based items, can be found at accommodating eateries throughout the city.