Things To Do
in Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz de la Sierra is Bolivia's largest city and a dynamic hub of commerce, culture, and cuisine. Set in the tropical lowlands, it enjoys a warm, humid climate and lush green surroundings. Its skyline blends modern high-rises with colonial churches, lively markets, and tree-lined avenues.
The surrounding Amazonian valleys and nearby parks offer easy day trips for nature lovers and a rich mix of Creole and Indigenous influences in food and music.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at Café La Baguette, enjoying fresh pastries and local coffee. Afterward, stroll through the Plaza 24 de Septiembre, the city's main square, where you can admire the beautiful colonial architecture. Don’t miss visiting the Cathedral Metropolitana, a stunning example of Spanish colonial style.
In the afternoon, head over to the Museo de Historia Natural to learn about Bolivia's diverse ecosystems and wildlife. Enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant, trying local dishes like pique a lo macho or salteñas. After your meal, visit the Ethnographic Museum to gain insights into Bolivia's rich cultural heritage.
As evening falls, find a spot at one of the outdoor cafes lining the plaza to people-watch and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. Consider dining at a traditional Bolivian restaurant, sampling dishes like sajta de pollo. After dinner, take a leisurely walk through the illuminated streets, soaking in the lively ambiance.
Wake up early and enjoy breakfast at your accommodation before setting off to Lomas de Arena, a stunning natural reserve just outside the city. The morning light is perfect for capturing photos of the towering sand dunes and lush vegetation. Spend some time walking and exploring the scenic trails that wind through this unique landscape.
After a morning of exploration, enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the dunes, surrounded by nature. In the early afternoon, try sandboarding or simply relax and soak up the sun. As the heat begins to subside, take a guided tour to learn more about the flora and fauna native to this area.
Return to Santa Cruz in the evening and unwind at a local bar, trying some Bolivian craft beers. For dinner, opt for a restaurant that offers a fusion of traditional and modern Bolivian cuisine. Let the day wind down with a stroll through the local artisan markets, where you can find unique handmade crafts.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee in a café | $1-3 |
| 🚖Taxi (1 km) | $0.8-1.8 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (1 night) | $40-70 |
| 🛒Milk (1 liter) | $0.80-1.20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm, welcoming people and a lively market culture
- Year-round warmth and easy access to nature and day trips
- Traffic can be congested during peak hours
- Humidity and heat can be intense for some visitors
- "Hola, ¿cómo estás?" - Hello, how are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The check, please
- "¿Puede recomendarme un buen restaurante?" - Can you recommend a good restaurant?
Places to Visit in Santa Cruz
Visit one of these nice places.
A historic central square framed by the cathedral and colonial-era buildings, ideal for sunrise photography and people-watching.
Impressive neoclassical cathedral with striking exterior and colorful interiors worth capturing in different light.
Vibrant market scenes, colorful stalls, and candid moments perfect for street photography.
Riverside park offering strollable paths and sunset silhouettes against the water.
Forest reserves and butterfly houses provide lush tropical backdrops and wildlife photo opportunities.
Food in Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty Bolivian dish of sliced beef, peppers, onions, potatoes, and spices, typically served with fried eggs on top.
Must-Try!
Santa Cruz–style grilled meats with flavorful sides such as yucca or plantains and chimichurri-inspired sauces.
A nutty peanut soup common in Bolivian cuisine, often enriched with vegetables and sometimes chicken.
A traditional plantain or cassava mash dish that appears in some local variations, frequently served with cheese or eggs.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market offering fresh produce, regional snacks, crafts, and a lively, photogenic atmosphere.
Salteñas, anticuchos, and fresh fruit smoothies are common around plazas and market areas; great for quick meals and local flavor.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common; close friends may kiss on the cheek. Use polite salutations and address strangers with 'usted' in formal settings.
Be patient in queues and respectful in public spaces; avoid loud conversations in religious or sacred venues.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in markets or homes.
Safety
Tipping in Santa Cruz
Ensure a smooth experience
Around 5-10% at restaurants if service is not included; small tips for taxi drivers and tour guides are appreciated.
Cash is widely accepted; many places take cards in hotels and larger restaurants. Carry some Bolivian bolivianos for markets and small vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon showers. Pack light clothing, use sun protection, and stay hydrated. Mosquito repellent is advised for outdoor time.
Warm with high humidity and occasional rain. Pleasant for outdoor exploring, but keep a light rain jacket handy.
Warm daytime temperatures with cooler nights. Generally dry; evenings can be chilly—bring a light jacket.
Warm and increasingly dry; ideal for outdoor activities, markets, and riverside strolls.
Santa Cruz at Night
Hiking in Santa Cruz
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Diverse forests, canyons, and abundant wildlife with multiple trails for different levels.
Ancient fortress site with surrounding trails and scenic viewpoints.
Desert-like dunes near Santa Cruz offering easy hikes and sunset panoramas.
Airports
How to reach Santa Cruz by plane.
The main international gateway to Santa Cruz, located about 13-15 km from the city center; easy taxi or shuttle connections to town.
A smaller domestic airport serving short-haul flights within Bolivia; closer to the city but limited international service.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant regional culture with a warm, outgoing social style.
A diverse presence contributing unique traditions, crafts, and music.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local clubs and matches draw large crowds.
Common recreational sport with parks and courts around the city.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Santa Cruz.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for fresh fruits, vegetables, grains, and cheese-based dishes; many places offer veggie options, and staff are often happy to customize plates.