Santa Cruz

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Santa Cruz's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploration of Santa Cruz
morning
:

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.

afternoon
:

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.

evening
:

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.

day 2
Nature Day in Ambor National Park
morning
:

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.

afternoon
:

Continue your adventure with birdwatching and exploring the unique flora and fauna. Stop for a packed lunch amidst the breathtaking scenery.

evening
:

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.

day 3
Cultural Immersion and Shopping
morning
:

Visit the Museo de Historia Natural to learn about the region's history and rich culture. Follow this with a stroll through local artisan markets to see handmade crafts.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a nearby café, indulging in regional specialties. Spend the afternoon exploring the city's botanical garden to understand more about local plant life.

evening
:

Conclude the day by dining in a restaurant that offers a fusion of traditional and contemporary Bolivian cuisine. Enjoy a leisurely evening walk in the city center.

day 4
Scenic Views and Sunset
morning
:

Take a morning trip to the nearby Laikakota for panoramic views of Santa Cruz. Bring your camera to capture the stunning scenery as you hike up.

afternoon
:

After descending, enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by nature. Spend the afternoon visiting local bodegas to sample wines from the region.

evening
:

Find a nice spot to watch the sunset over the city. Dinner at a rooftop restaurant will provide magnificent views as you enjoy a meal filled with local flavors.

day 5
History and Heritage Sites
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the old cathedral and learn about its colonial history. Take some time to explore the surrounding areas for photographs.

afternoon
:

Visit the Casa de la Cultura to view local art and exhibitions. Enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant that focuses on traditional Bolivian dishes.

evening
:

Attending a cultural performance or folklore show in the evening will deepen your understanding of the local heritage. Cap off the night with some local desserts.

day 6
Wildlife Encounter
morning
:

Dedicate this morning to visiting the Parque Nacional Noel Kempff-Mercado, known for its wildlife. Take a guided tour to increase your chance of spotting indigenous species.

afternoon
:

Pack some snacks for a scenic lunch amidst nature in the park. Spend the afternoon exploring different trails and learning about conservation efforts.

evening
:

Return to Santa Cruz for a casual dinner at a restaurant specializing in local favorites. Share your wildlife stories and experiences over a relaxed meal.

day 7
Family Fun Day
morning
:

Start with a visit to the Santa Cruz Zoo which is family-friendly and educational. Spend quality time observing various animals and enjoying the petting area.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at the zoo's café, then head to a nearby amusement park for rides and family activities. Let the kids enjoy the fun while you relax.

evening
:

Finish the day with dinner at a family-style restaurant, offering a variety of options for everyone. Share your favorite moments from the day together.

day 8
Tasting Santa Cruz
morning
:

Join a local food tour to get a taste of traditional Bolivian breakfast options. Visit food markets and stalls that showcase the region's flavors.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a cooking class to learn how to create authentic Bolivian dishes from scratch. Lunch will be the fruits of your labor, so savor every bite.

evening
:

Explore a food festival, if available, to experience diverse culinary offerings from local chefs. Conclude the evening with dessert from a renowned local bakery.

day 9
Artistic Vibes
morning
:

Start your day at the Centro Cultural, where local art exhibits showcase vibrant Bolivian culture. Engage with artists if possible for a deeper understanding.

afternoon
:

Attend a workshop in the arts, such as pottery or painting. This hands-on experience will add a personal touch to your cultural exploration.

evening
:

Enjoy a relaxed dinner at a venue with artistic decor and ambiance. Spend your evening browsing through local art shops to find unique souvenirs.

day 10
Adventure Sports
morning
:

Kick off with an adrenaline boost by joining a mountain biking tour in the hills surrounding Santa Cruz. The early hours are great for cooler temperatures as you ride.

afternoon
:

Stop for lunch at a local eatery following your biking adventure, then consider a shorter hike or rock climbing session. Enjoy the thrill of outdoor activities.

evening
:

Rejuvenate with a delicious dinner reflecting on your day of adventure. Consider sharing tales of your day with fellow travelers at a local pub.

Discover Santa Cruz

Read more in our Santa Cruz 2024 Travel Guide.

Santa Cruz Travel Guide