Santa Cruz (city, Bolivia) Travel Guide

Explore the cultural and natural attractions of Santa Cruz (city), Bolivia with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best things to do, places to visit, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Santa Cruz (City), Bolivia

Santa Cruz is the largest city in Bolivia and the capital of the Santa Cruz department. Also known as Santa Cruz de la Sierra, this city is located in the eastern part of Bolivia and is known for its vibrant cultural scene, stunning natural attractions, and rich history.

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

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Santa Cruz is home to numerous museums and cultural sites that showcase the city’s history and cultural heritage. A few must-visit places include:

  • Historic Center of Santa Cruz: The city’s historic center is home to many stunning colonial buildings, including the Cathedral of Santa Cruz and the Municipal Palace. Take a stroll through the streets and admire the architecture that dates back to the 16th century.
  • Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology: This museum houses a vast collection of artifacts and exhibits related to the pre-Columbian cultures that once inhabited the region.
  • Noel Kempff Mercado Natural History Museum: Dedicated to the flora, fauna, and geology of Bolivia, this museum is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.

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

Santa Cruz has no shortage of natural attractions, from lush rainforests to towering mountains. A few must-visit places for outdoor adventures and scenic views include:

  • Amboro National Park: Covering over 1,800 square miles, Amboro National Park is home to numerous species of mammals, birds, and reptiles. Visitors can explore the park on foot or by bike.
  • Biocentro Guembe: This nature reserve is home to over 500 species of flora and fauna and features a butterfly sanctuary, a bird watching tower, and several hiking trails.
  • Cotoca: A quaint town located just outside of Santa Cruz, Cotoca is known for its picturesque scenery and peaceful atmosphere. Take a leisurely walk through the town’s streets and visit the beautiful Cotoca Church.

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

Santa Cruz is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with many hiking and biking trails to explore. Some popular routes include:

  • Yungas Road: Known as the “Death Road,” this treacherous mountain trail is not for the faint of heart. But for those who are up for the challenge, the stunning views and adrenaline rush are well worth it.
  • La Rinconada: Located in the foothills of the Andes, this trail is perfect for hikers of all skill levels. The route takes you through lush forests and past stunning waterfalls.
  • Coca Trail: This scenic bike trail takes you through the small town of Coca and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and countryside.

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

Santa Cruz offers many exciting activities and tours for visitors to enjoy. Some top things to do include:

  • Explore the Historic Center: Take a walking tour of the historic center of Santa Cruz and learn about the city’s rich history and culture.
  • Visit the Zoo: The Santa Cruz Zoo is home to over 500 animals from 100 different species and is a great place for families to spend a day.
  • Take a Food Tour: Sample the delicious street food and traditional dishes of Santa Cruz on a food tour.

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

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore the Historic Center
Day 2 Visit the Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology
Day 3 Hike in Amboro National Park
Day 4 Take a Food Tour
Day 5 Visit the Santa Cruz Zoo
Day 6 Explore Biocentro Guembe
Day 7 Relax in Cotoca

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

Must-Try Dishes

Santa Cruz is known for its flavorful cuisine, which combines indigenous ingredients with European and African influences. Some must-try dishes include:

  • Majadito: A traditional Bolivian dish made with rice, beef, and vegetables.
  • Locro: A warming soup made with potatoes, corn, and meat.
  • Salteñas: Similar to empanadas, salteñas are a savory pastry filled with meat, vegetables, and spices.

Local Beverages

Bolivia is known for its delicious and unique beverages, including:

  • Singani: A grape brandy produced only in Bolivia.
  • Api: A warm drink made from purple corn and spices, often served with pastries or bread.
  • Coca Tea: A herbal tea made from coca leaves that is believed to help with altitude sickness.

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

Santa Cruz offers accommodation options for all budgets and preferences. Some top places to stay include:

  • Marriott Santa Cruz de la Sierra Hotel: This luxurious hotel offers spacious rooms, a pool, and a fitness center.
  • Hostal Los Aventureros: A budget-friendly hostel located in the heart of Santa Cruz.
  • Hotel Senses: A boutique hotel with stylish decor and an on-site restaurant.

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

Santa Cruz offers some unique and beautiful souvenirs that make for great gifts or mementos of your trip. Some top things to buy include:

  • Textiles: Bolivia is known for its vibrant textiles, including hand-woven blankets and scarves.
  • Wooden Crafts: Santa Cruz is home to many skilled woodworkers who create beautiful hand-carved statues and figurines.
  • Jewelry: The markets of Santa Cruz offer many beautiful pieces of silver and gold jewelry adorned with semi-precious stones.

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

Bolivia is a country with a rich and diverse cultural heritage, and Santa Cruz is no exception. Visitors should be aware of the following customs and cultural practices:

  • Greeting: When meeting someone, it is customary to shake hands and exchange pleasantries.
  • Religion: The majority of Bolivians are Roman Catholic, and visitors should dress modestly when visiting churches or other religious sites.
  • Spanish Language: Spanish is the official language of Bolivia, although many indigenous languages are also spoken throughout the country.

Best Time to Visit Santa Cruz (City), Bolivia

The best time to visit Santa Cruz is between May and October when the weather is dry and sunny. Temperatures range between 70-85°F during the day, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and sightseeing. However, visitors should be prepared for cooler temperatures at night and in the early morning.

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

Do:

  • Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
  • Do carry small change for tipping or small purchases.
  • Do inquire about prices before making a purchase or ordering at a restaurant.

Don’t:

  • Don’t drink tap water, stick to bottled water instead.
  • Don’t leave valuables unattended.
  • Don’t walk alone at night in unfamiliar areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Santa Cruz (City), Bolivia

Santa Cruz is generally safe for tourists, but visitors should exercise caution when walking alone at night, especially in unfamiliar areas. Keep an eye on your belongings and avoid displaying expensive jewelry or electronics.

Health in Santa Cruz (City), Bolivia

Visitors to Santa Cruz should take precautions to protect their health, including:

  • Vaccinations: Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccinations, as well as any recommended vaccines for travel to Bolivia.
  • Mosquitoes: Santa Cruz is located in a tropical region, so visitors should take precautions to avoid mosquito bites and protect against diseases such as malaria and dengue fever.

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

Airports Near Santa Cruz (City), Bolivia

The Viru Viru International Airport is the primary airport serving Santa Cruz and is located approximately 10 miles from the city center. Visitors can take a taxi or shuttle from the airport to their accommodation in Santa Cruz.

Bus Stations Near Santa Cruz (City), Bolivia

Santa Cruz is well-connected to other parts of Bolivia by bus. The city has three main bus stations: Terminal Bimodal, Terminal de Buses de la Paz, and Terminal de Buses Cochabamba.

Other Options

Some people arriving in Santa Cruz may choose to travel by train or car. The city is served by the Ferroviaria Oriental and is connected to other cities by a network of well-maintained highways.

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

Taxis are the most common way to get around Santa Cruz. Visitors should make sure to negotiate the fare before getting in the taxi, and should opt for official taxis with a registered company logo.

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

Santa Cruz serves as a gateway to many popular destinations in Bolivia, including:

  • Samaipata: A small town located about 2 hours from Santa Cruz, Samaipata is famous for its archeological ruins and stunning natural landscape.
  • Sucre: Bolivia’s official capital, Sucre is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its colonial architecture and rich cultural heritage.
  • The Salt Flats of Uyuni: One of Bolivia’s most popular tourist attractions, the Salt Flats of Uyuni are a vast white desert that stretches for miles.

Conclusion

Santa Cruz is a dynamic and vibrant city that offers something for everyone. From stunning natural attractions to a rich cultural heritage, visitors are sure to fall in love with Santa Cruz and all it has to offer. Whether you’re here for adventure, history, or relaxation, there’s no shortage of amazing experiences to be had.

Main square and cathedral Main square and cathedral Ferrobus serving Santa Cruz - Puerto Quijarro Ferrobus serving Santa Cruz - Puerto Quijarro Streets in central Santa Cruz Streets in central Santa Cruz Piraí river (close to Cabañas) Piraí river (close to Cabañas) Yvaga Guazu park Yvaga Guazu park