Santa Cruz (department, Bolivia) Travel Guide

Explore the best of Santa Cruz (department, Bolivia) with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover natural attractions, cultural landmarks, and must-try local dishes.


Introduction to Santa Cruz (Department, Bolivia)

Located in the lowlands of eastern Bolivia, Santa Cruz Department boasts a unique blend of natural beauty, fascinating history, and diverse culture that make it a top destination for both adventure seekers and history buffs. Its capital city, also named Santa Cruz, is Bolivia’s largest city and a major economic center. With a year-round tropical climate and a welcoming atmosphere, Santa Cruz (department, Bolivia) is an ideal spot for a memorable vacation.

List of Places to Visit in Santa Cruz (Department, Bolivia)

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Santa Cruz (department, Bolivia) is home to a variety of cultural landmarks and historical sites that offer invaluable insight into the area’s rich heritage. Here are some must-visit places:

  • Santa Cruz Cathedral: Built in the 18th century, this impressive cathedral showcases stunning colonial architecture and houses a collection of religious art and artifacts.
  • Archaeological Museum: Located in the small town of Samaipata, this museum displays a fascinating collection of pre-Columbian artifacts and archeological finds.
  • Noel Kempff Mercado National Park: UNESCO World Heritage Site that contains an array of wildlife and spectacular waterfalls.
  • Santa Cruz History Museum: Offers a deeper understanding of the city’s history. You’ll want to spend a significant amount of time here.

Natural Attractions of Santa Cruz (Department, Bolivia): Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Santa Cruz (department, Bolivia) features an abundance of natural beauty that will appeal to anyone who loves the great outdoors. Here are some highlights:

  • Amboro National Park: This park covers over 400,000 acres of lush forests, rivers, waterfalls, and hiking trails. It’s a great place to spot wildlife, including monkeys, parrots, and jaguars.
  • Samaipata: This town is known for its stunning mountain vistas, rock formations, and lush forests.
  • Parque El Arenal: This park is a great spot for hiking, picnics and swimming.
  • Pantanal: With its wetlands and diverse flora and fauna, Pantanal showcases the natural beauty for which Santa Cruz is famous.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Santa Cruz (Department, Bolivia)

Santa Cruz is a haven for nature enthusiasts, and there are numerous hiking and biking trails that showcase the region’s natural beauty. Here are some top routes:

  • The Choro Trail: This 3-day trek is a must-do for avid hikers and covers a distance of 52km. You’ll climb through forests, cross rivers, and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountain ranges.
  • Samaipata Trek: This trek is an excellent way for nature lovers to explore the landscape’s diversity. It usually takes two to three days to complete, and it is ideal for families with children and those who are not used to high-altitude hiking.

Best Things to Do in Santa Cruz (Department, Bolivia): Activities and Tours

Aside from hiking and exploring natural attractions, Santa Cruz (department, Bolivia) has an array of activities that cater to different interests. Here are some top picks:

  • Food Tour: Dive into the food scene and try local cuisine that will make your taste buds dance.
  • Play Gold: With three courses in Santa Cruz, golfers have an array of options to choose from.
  • Shopping: Visit the local markets filled with locally made crafts, textiles, and jewelry.

Week-Long Itinerary for Santa Cruz (Department, Bolivia)

Here’s a week-long itinerary you can follow to ensure you hit the highlights of Santa Cruz (department, Bolivia):

  • Day 1: Visit Santa Cruz Cathedral, the Automobile Museum, and the city’s center.
  • Day 2: Explore the ruins of Fortín Colorado and Cavernas del Urubó in an expedition tour.
  • Day 3: Take a day trip to Samaipata and visit its museums and historical sites.
  • Day 4: Spend the day hiking or mountain biking in Amboro National Park.
  • Day 5: Visit Fontera Brewery and take a guided tour. Stop at the Butterfly Park and Pircas Negras for more sightseeing.
  • Day 6: Explore Noel Kempff Mercado National Park.
  • Day 7: Relax and soak up the sun at Parque El Arenal.

Food and Drink Scene of Santa Cruz (Department, Bolivia)

Santa Cruz (department, Bolivia) has a vibrant food and drink scene that offers visitors tantalizing local flavors. Here are some must-try dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Picante de lengua: A spicy and flavorful dish that uses beef tongue as the main ingredient.
  • Silpancho: A traditional Bolivian dish comprising rice, meat, potatoes, and veggies.
  • Locro: A hearty stew made with corn, potatoes, and meat or cheese.

Local Beverages

  • Singani: A spirit made from the Muscatel grape and popular in Bolivia.
  • Chicha: Traditional Andean corn beer worth trying for its origin from ancient times.

Where to Stay in Santa Cruz (Department, Bolivia): Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Santa Cruz (department, Bolivia) has numerous accommodation options to suit different budgets and needs. Here are some recommendations:

  • Radisson Hotel Santa Cruz: A luxury hotel boasting excellent service, spacious rooms, and modern amenities.
  • Hostel Sol y Luna: A budget-friendly hostel with clean facilities and a central location.
  • La Siesta Hotel: A charming guesthouse with lush gardens and a dining area.

What to Buy in Santa Cruz (Department, Bolivia): Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some souvenirs and local products to bring back from Santa Cruz (department, Bolivia):

  • Textiles: You’ll find Bolivian textiles showcasing unique patterns and colors in local markets.
  • Coffee: Santa Cruz (department, Bolivia) produces some of the best coffee in South America, thanks to its fertile soil.
  • Ceramics: Local potters create beautiful ceramic pieces with intricate designs.

Local Culture and Customs of Santa Cruz (Department, Bolivia)

With an indigenous population and a rich cultural heritage, Santa Cruz (department, Bolivia) has a distinctive social climate worth exploring:

  • Religion: The dominant religion is Roman Catholicism, which heavily influences the people’s customs and traditions.
  • Festivals: Each year, Santa Cruz has countless festivals that showcase the region’s vibrant culture, such as the Festival of Our Lady of Guadeloupe.
  • Language: While Spanish is the official language, many of the indigenous communities speak their languages and dialects.

Best Time to Visit Santa Cruz (Department, Bolivia)

Santa Cruz (department, Bolivia) boasts a year-round tropical climate, but the best time to visit is between May and October, which is the driest season and better for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Santa Cruz (Department, Bolivia)

Here are some suggestions for Dos and Don’ts while visiting Santa Cruz (department, Bolivia):

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Try the local cuisine and learn about Bolivian cuisine history.
  • Stay hydrated as Santa Cruz’s temperature can change rapidly

Don’t:

  • Engage in illegal activities.
  • Wear flashy jewelry or clothes. This can make you a target for thieves or unwanted attention.
  • Tread on religious or cultural symbols and beliefs.

Safety and Health

Safety in Santa Cruz (Department, Bolivia)

In general, Santa Cruz (department, Bolivia) is a safe place for tourists. Petty theft and scams are common all over South America, so review the tips online to avoid criminals.

Health in Santa Cruz (Department, Bolivia)

Make sure you are up-to-date on your vaccinations before traveling to Santa Cruz, as Bolivia has outbreaks of rabies and yellow fever. There are also water-borne illnesses.

Getting to Santa Cruz (Department, Bolivia): Transportation Options and Logistics

You can arrive in Santa Cruz (department, Bolivia) via air or land, with several domestic and international transportation options. Here are some details:

Airports Near Santa Cruz (Department, Bolivia)

  • Viru Viru International Airport: Serves domestic and international flights.
  • El Trompillo Airport: Serves domestic flights.

Bus Stations Near Santa Cruz (Department, Bolivia)

  • Bimodal Terminal: A bus terminal that serves different parts of the country.

How to Get Around in Santa Cruz (Department, Bolivia)

To get around Santa Cruz (department, Bolivia), you can use taxis, buses, or rental cars. Taxis are often the most convenient option within the city, while buses connect cities and towns.

Where to Go Next from Santa Cruz (Department, Bolivia): Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Santa Cruz (department, Bolivia) has several other destinations worth exploring. Here are some top picks:

  • La Paz: Bolivia’s capital city, which offers a high-altitude approach to adventure and history.
  • Sucre: Bolivia’s constitutional capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its rich colonial history.
  • Uyuni Salt Flats: Other-worldly salt flats that form one of Bolivia’s most iconic landscapes.

Conclusion

Santa Cruz (department, Bolivia) is a dynamic and exciting destination that offers something for every traveler, from world-class museums and natural wonders full of beauty and abundance to unparalleled cultural institutions and delectable cuisine. By following the suggested itinerary and taking advantage of recommended activities, you can make the most of your trip to this fascinating Bolivian region.



    Puerto Quijarro
    Puerto Suárez
    Samaipata
    Santa Cruz (city, Bolivia)
    Santiago de Chiquitos