Things To Do
in Santa Cruz de la Sierra
Santa Cruz de la Sierra sits in Bolivia's eastern lowlands and serves as a booming crossroads of commerce, culture, and lush tropical scenery. The city blends modern high-rise life with traditional ranching heritage, leafy plazas, and a vibrant street-food scene. Its tropical savanna climate keeps it warm most of the year, with a pronounced rainy season that greenifies the region.
A gateway for exploring eastern Bolivia, it offers easy access to parks like Amboró and a growing mix of colonial and contemporary attractions.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your journey at Plaza 24 de Septiembre, the heart of Santa Cruz, where you can admire the beautiful colonial architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Visit the stunning Cathedral Metropolitana, a great example of neoclassical architecture, and soak in its historical significance. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, sampling traditional Bolivian treats like salteñas or api.
In the afternoon, stroll through the bustling streets of the historic center, taking in the local shops and artisans selling handmade crafts. Visit the Museo Nacional de Arte to appreciate the diverse collection of Bolivian art and history. Stop for lunch at a nearby restaurant to try some regional dishes like pique a lo macho or locro.
As the sun sets, head to the vibrant street markets that come alive in the evening, where you can find street food delicacies and local crafts. Enjoy a traditional Bolivian dinner at a local restaurant, experiencing the warmth of the local hospitality. End the night with a walk along the plaza, enjoying the lively atmosphere and perhaps catching some live music.
Set out early for a day trip to the Limoncito Biosphere Reserve, just outside the city. On arrival, take a guided nature walk through lush landscapes, where you can observe diverse flora and fauna unique to the region. Keep your camera ready as you may encounter exotic birds and playful monkeys among the trees.
After a morning of exploration, enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by nature, taking in the serene sounds of the reserve. Continue your trek through the biosphere, visiting hidden waterfalls and learning about the ecosystem from your knowledgeable guide. Take time to relax by the water, and perhaps enjoy a refreshing swim in one of the natural pools.
Return to Santa Cruz in the evening, reflecting on the beauty of the Bolivian nature you experienced. Treat yourself to dinner at a local picantería, where you can savor traditional dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. Relax at your accommodation or head out for a nightcap at a nearby bar.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| ☕Coffee or pastry | $2-4 |
| 🚌Public transit ticket | $0.5-1 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $40-90 |
| 🥗Lunch for two (mid-range restaurant) | $15-30 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant, welcoming culture and friendly locals
- Access to diverse natural areas and parks nearby
- Strong food scene with traditional Bolivian flavors
- Hot, humid climate with a pronounced rainy season
- Traffic congestion in peak hours and some busy districts
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Recomiéndeme un buen restaurante" - Recommend me a good restaurant
- "Necesito un taxi" - I need a taxi
Places to Visit in Santa Cruz de la Sierra
Visit one of these nice places.
The city’s central square framed by the cathedral and bustling activity, ideal for daytime street photography and people-watching.
An iconic architectural landmark; capture its façade from the plaza and interior details during daylight.
Riverside promenade with sunset tones, boats on the water, and skyline views across the river.
A green, leafy riverside park with pathways and trellised walkways—good for nature shots and candid portraits.
Vibrant market scenes with colorful produce, textiles, and street-food vendors—great for documentary-style photography.
Food in Santa Cruz de la Sierra
Santa Cruz de la Sierra Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty dish of shredded beef or pork with rice, plantains, and eggs; a staple in eastern Bolivia.
Must-Try!
Peanut soup rich with vegetables and sometimes beef; a comforting Bolivian classic.
A mixed plate with beef, potatoes, onions, and sometimes eggs or fried cheese; widely available in local eateries.
Grilled steak served with yuca and chimichurri or salsa criolla; popular in urban steakhouses.
River fish prepared fresh with lime, onions, and peppers; common near markets and seaside-like riverfronts.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market district offering fresh produce, meats, snacks, and ready-to-eat street foods; great for tasting local flavors on the go.
Central market hubs where locals shop daily and street vendors serve quick bites, fruits, and hot dishes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A warm, friendly greeting is common; a handshake or light kiss on the cheek may occur among friends. Address people formally with 'Señor/Señora' until invited to use first names.
Safety
Tipping in Santa Cruz de la Sierra
Ensure a smooth experience
Service is sometimes included in larger restaurants; if not, a tip of 10% to 15% is appreciated. Round up taxi fares and leave small tips for hotel staff if service is helpful.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon showers; stay hydrated, wear light clothing, and seek shade. Green landscapes are at their most lush, and outdoor events are common.
Milder days with lingering humidity; rainfall begins to decline and city parks look particularly vibrant. Great for city walks and outdoor photography.
Dry season with comfortable temperatures during the day and cooler evenings; ideal for exploring the city without heavy rain; evenings can be chilly.
Warming temperatures and increasing humidity; occasional showers; blossoms and fresh greenery provide scenic backdrops for photography.
Santa Cruz de la Sierra at Night
Hiking in Santa Cruz de la Sierra
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
UNESCO-listed archaeological site about 110 km from Santa Cruz with rock carvings and surrounding trails offering panoramic views.
Dune area near the city ideal for easy hikes and sunset photography in a unique desert-like setting.
Airports
How to reach Santa Cruz de la Sierra by plane.
Main international gateway serving Santa Cruz; located about 13-18 km from the city center with taxis and airport shuttles available.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Largest demographic group; diverse communities with mixed ancestry and vibrant urban culture.
Chiquitano and Guarani heritage present in the broader region; influences appear in markets, cuisine, and crafts.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local leagues and street games are common, with fans and clubs evident throughout the city.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Santa Cruz de la Sierra.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
You can find meat-free dishes in most places; ask for 'sin carne' or 'vegetariano' options. Many restaurants offer salads, grains, and bean-based plates; for stricter diets, request dishes without meat broth or lard and consider vegetarian-friendly spots in larger neighborhoods.