Santa Cruz de la Sierra - Discovering Bolivia

Travelling to Santa Cruz de la Sierra

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Santa Cruz de la Sierra, a pretty good destination in Bolivia (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Santa Cruz de la Sierra and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Santa Cruz de la Sierra, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Bolivia, here's everything to know about Santa Cruz de la Sierra for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Santa Cruz de la Sierra

Santa Cruz de la Sierra is the largest city in Bolivia and is located in the eastern part of the country. It is known for its warm climate, vibrant culture, and close proximity to natural attractions such as Amboró National Park and Samaipata. The city offers a mix of modern and traditional architecture, with a bustling market scene and a variety of restaurants serving local and international cuisine. It is also a hub for business and commerce, with many international companies having offices in the city.

What to visit in Santa Cruz de la Sierra

Sure, here are some popular tourist attractions in Santa Cruz de la Sierra, Bolivia: 1. Plaza 24 de Septiembre: This is the main square in Santa Cruz de la Sierra, surrounded by historic buildings such as the Santa Cruz Cathedral, the City Hall, and the Museum of Art. It's a popular spot for locals and tourists to relax, people-watch, and enjoy street food.
2. Biocentro Guembe: This is a nature reserve and eco-park located just outside of Santa Cruz de la Sierra. It has over 60 hectares of forest and includes a butterfly house, a bird aviary, zip-lines, and swimming pools.
3. Noel Kempff Mercado National Park: This national park is located about 600 km north of Santa Cruz, but it's worth the trip. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its vast landscapes, diverse wildlife, and the stunning Grand Canyon of Santa Elena.
4. Santa Cruz Zoo: Located just outside the city center, this zoo has a wide selection of animals, including exotic species from all over the world such as African lions, Bengal tigers, and Vietnamese pot-bellied pigs.
5. La Recoba: This is a traditional shopping district in Santa Cruz known for its handmade crafts, clothing, and souvenirs. It's a great place to experience the local culture and shop for unique gifts.
6. Samaipata: This historic town is located about two hours from Santa Cruz in the foothills of the Andes. It's known for its pre-Incan ruins, including the El Fuerte archaeological site, which features a massive rock formation carved with intricate geometric designs.
7. Las Chiquitanias: This is a region located east of Santa Cruz that includes several small towns and Jesuit churches dating from the 17th and 18th centuries. The churches are decorated with beautiful frescoes and are now UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Each of these attractions has its own unique features and experiences, and there's something for every type of traveler.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Bolivia, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Santa Cruz de la Sierra.

When to go on holiday to Santa Cruz de la Sierra

The best time to go on holiday to Santa Cruz de la Sierra is from May to September during the dry season. During this time, temperatures are comfortable and rainfall is minimal, making it a great time for outdoor activities such as hiking, sightseeing, or visiting local parks. However, keep in mind that it is also peak tourist season, so accommodation and flights may be more expensive during this time. Overall, it's a good idea to plan your trip well in advance to get the best deals on travel and accommodation.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Santa Cruz de la Sierra

There are several ways to get to Santa Cruz de la Sierra (Bolivia). Here are some options: 1. By air: The easiest way to get to Santa Cruz de la Sierra is by air. The Viru Viru International Airport is the main airport serving the city and offers connections to major cities in South America, as well as some destinations in North America and Europe.
2. By bus: Santa Cruz de la Sierra is well-connected by bus to other major cities in Bolivia and neighboring countries. Some popular bus companies include Trans Copacabana and Todo Turismo.
3. By car: You can also drive to Santa Cruz de la Sierra from other cities in Bolivia or neighboring countries, although it is important to be aware of the road conditions and safety risks.
Overall, the most efficient and comfortable way to get to Santa Cruz de la Sierra is by air.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Santa Cruz de la Sierra, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Santa Cruz de la Sierra

Sure, here are some typical foods of Santa Cruz de la Sierra, Bolivia, along with a brief description for each: 1. Majao: A rice dish cooked with beef, pork, or chicken and flavored with onions, garlic, and spices like cumin and paprika.
2. Silpancho: A flattened and breaded beef cutlet typically topped with a layer of cooked potatoes, onions, and peppers and served with rice, salad, and fried eggs.
3. Picante de Pollo: A spicy chicken stew made with potatoes, chuño (dried Andean potatoes), and aji (a type of chili pepper).
4. Sopa de Maní: A creamy peanut soup made with beef or chicken, vegetables, and spices like cumin and oregano.
5. Chicharrón: Deep-fried pork belly or pork rinds served with boiled yuca (cassava) and aji.
6. Api con Pasteles: A sweet, thick corn drink made with cinnamon, cloves, and sugar and served with fried dough balls.
7. Empanadas: Half-moon shaped pastries stuffed with meat, cheese, vegetables, or sweet fillings like dulce de leche.
8. Pacumutu: A fruit salad made with tropical fruits like mango, pineapple, passion fruit, and condensed milk.
I hope this helps with your trip planning!
You can find general info about typical foods in Bolivia here.

Is Santa Cruz de la Sierra an expensive destination for tourists?

Santa Cruz de la Sierra is generally considered to be one of the more expensive destinations in Bolivia, especially when compared to other cities in the country such as La Paz, Cochabamba or Sucre. However, it is still relatively affordable compared to other popular tourist destinations around the world.
The cost of travel and accommodation will depend on individual preferences and budgets, but on average you can expect to pay higher prices for things like upscale hotels, fine dining, and certain tours and activities. However, there are also plenty of more budget-friendly options available.
It's worth noting that prices may also vary depending on the season and demand. It's always a good idea to research and compare prices before booking your trip to Santa Cruz de la Sierra.

Where to find accomodation in Santa Cruz de la Sierra

In Santa Cruz de la Sierra, some of the best areas to find accommodations for tourists include the city center, Equipetrol, and Urbari. The city center offers easy access to many of the city's historic landmarks and cultural attractions, as well as a variety of shops and dining options. Equipetrol is a newer, more upscale district with modern hotels, restaurants, and bars. Urbari is a quieter, more residential area with a mix of budget-friendly and mid-range accommodations, as well as some green spaces and parks.
You can check hotel prices at Santa Cruz de la Sierra here:
Booking.com

Is Santa Cruz de la Sierra a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Santa Cruz de la Sierra is generally a safe place for tourists. As with any destination, it is always advisable to take basic safety precautions such as being aware of your surroundings, not carrying large amounts of cash or valuable items, and avoiding unlit or isolated areas at night. It is also recommended to use official taxis instead of unlicensed ones. However, overall, Santa Cruz de la Sierra is considered a safe tourist destination with a low rate of violent crime.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Bolivia here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Santa Cruz de la Sierra.

What type of travelers will enjoy Santa Cruz de la Sierra the most?

Santa Cruz de la Sierra can be enjoyed by different types of travelers, as it offers a variety of activities and attractions suitable for different interests.
Couples can enjoy the city's romantic spots, such as its picturesque plazas and parks, its scenic river walk, and its quiet cafes.
Young people looking for fun can enjoy Santa Cruz's lively nightlife scene, with a variety of bars and nightclubs to choose from.
Families can enjoy the city's cultural attractions, such as its museums and art galleries, as well as its family-friendly parks and outdoor activities.
Overall, Santa Cruz is a great destination for anyone looking to experience Bolivian culture, taste delicious food, and explore the city's unique architecture and history.

How to get around Santa Cruz de la Sierra

In Santa Cruz de la Sierra (Bolivia), you can use a variety of transportation options to move around, including taxis, buses, micros, and mototaxis. Taxis are widely available, and they are a safe and convenient way to travel around the city. Buses and micros are the cheapest form of transportation, and they run along many routes throughout the city. Mototaxis, which are a type of motorbike taxi, are also available, but they are not as safe or regulated as other transportation options.

What to see around Santa Cruz de la Sierra

Here are some nice places you can visit on a day trip from Santa Cruz de la Sierra (Bolivia): 1. Amboro National Park: This park is located just 3 hours away from Santa Cruz de la Sierra and it's perfect for nature lovers. You can find a wide range of flora and fauna, including howler monkeys, jaguars, and pumas.
2. Samaipata: This charming town is located 2.5 hours away from Santa Cruz de la Sierra and it's known for its pre-Columbian ruins. You can visit the Fort of Samaipata, which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
3. Vallegrande: This town is located 3 hours away from Santa Cruz de la Sierra and it's known for its colonial architecture and beautiful landscapes. You can visit the Che Guevara Museum, which is dedicated to the revolutionary's life.
4. Laguna Volcanes: This is a beautiful lagoon located 2 hours away from Santa Cruz de la Sierra. You can enjoy the breathtaking views of the mountains and the wildlife, which includes flamingos, vicuñas, and guanacos.
5. Cotoca: This town is just 20 minutes away from Santa Cruz de la Sierra and it's known for its religious traditions. You can visit the Sanctuary of the Virgin of Cotoca and witness some of the local rituals.
For every travel information about Bolivia you can click here.

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