Travel Guide to Santa Cruz de la Sierra, Bolivia
ABOUT ME
Hey there! I'm Esteban, a Bolivian guy who is starting traveling to realize my dream to know amazing places and cultures..
My wife Dani and I are usually in our home Bolivia, but our journeys take us to destinations all over the world.
Please tag along!
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General Information
Santa Cruz de la Sierra is Bolivia’s largest and most economically significant city. Known for its warm climate, vibrant nightlife, and diverse tourist attractions, this city is an ideal destination for travelers.
How to Get There
By Plane: Viru Viru International Airport is the main airport, welcoming both domestic and international flights.
By Bus: There are bus services from various Bolivian cities and neighboring countries.
By Car: You can drive to Santa Cruz via well-connected highways from different parts of the country.
Best Time to Visit
Dry Season: From May to October is the best time to visit due to the drier, less rainy weather.
Carnival: If you love festivities, Santa Cruz Carnival in February is a vibrant and colorful experience.
Accommodation
Luxury Hotels: Los Tajibos Hotel, Camino Real Hotel.
Boutique Hotels: Senses Boutique Hotel, Cosmopolitano Hotel.
Hostels and Inns: Jodanga Backpackers Hostel, Nomad Hostel.
Getting Around the City
Taxis: Abundant and relatively affordable.
Micros: Local buses covering most city routes.
Car Rentals: Several rental companies are available at the airport and around the city.
Activities and Attractions
Natural Attractions
Botanical Garden: A beautiful green space for walking and enjoying nature.
Amboró National Park: Ideal for ecotourism and bird watching.
Biocentro Güembé: An ecological complex with a butterfly sanctuary, aviary, and natural pools.
Culture and History
History Museum of the Gabriel René Moreno Autonomous University: Exhibits on local history and culture.
Metropolitan Cathedral: A beautiful colonial building on 24th of September Plaza.
Contemporary Art Museum: Displays modern and contemporary art from local and international artists.
Shopping and Markets
Los Pozos Market: A popular market with a variety of local products.
Ventura Mall: A modern shopping center with international and local stores.
Artecampo: A handicraft center where you can buy handmade products by local artisans.
Gastronomy
Traditional Restaurants: Try local dishes like locro, majadito, and sonso at places like Casa del Camba and La Casa del Cambódromo.
International Cuisine: Restaurants with international cuisine such as Jardín de Asia and El Aljibe.
Food Markets: Visit Mercado Nuevo for an authentic culinary experience.
Nightlife
Live Music and Dance Venues: Places like Goss and Luna Roja are great for live music and dancing.
Bars and Pubs: Options like Irish Pub and The Dubliner offer a relaxed atmosphere for enjoying a drink.
Nightclubs: Bailanta, El Bunker, and Pure Club are popular for partying.
Useful Tips
Safety: Santa Cruz is generally safe, but like any big city, be mindful of your belongings and avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas.
Money: The local currency is the Boliviano, but US dollars are widely accepted. There are numerous ATMs and currency exchange offices.
Language: Spanish is the main language, but in tourist areas, some people speak English.
Day Trips
Samaipata: A small town about two hours from Santa Cruz, known for its pre-Inca ruins and relaxed atmosphere.
Cotoca: Known for its church and ceramics market.
Festivities and Special Events
Santa Cruz Carnival: Celebrated in February, it's one of the biggest and most colorful carnivals in Bolivia.
Santa Cruz International Fair (Expocruz): In September, one of the most important trade fairs in the region.
Health and Precautions
Vaccinations: The yellow fever vaccine is recommended.
Water: Avoid drinking tap water; opt for bottled water instead.
I hope this guide helps you plan your trip to Santa Cruz de la Sierra. Enjoy your visit!
Hotels in Santa Cruz
