Santa Cruz de la Sierra, often just called Santa Cruz, is the biggest city in Bolivia. I spent a few weeks there and let me tell you, there are lots of fun things to do in Santa Cruz Bolivia. It’s not all perfect, but it’s definitely worth checking out.
In this guide, I’m going to tell you all about the cool activities in Santa Cruz Bolivia that I tried, the best places to visit in Santa Cruz Bolivia, and some tips to make your trip easier. Trust me, you’ll find something you’ll enjoy.
Where is Santa Cruz Bolivia and How to Get There
So where exactly is Santa Cruz? This travel destination is in eastern Bolivia, in an area called the lowlands. Unlike La Paz or Sucre, which are way up in the mountains, Santa Cruz is only about 416 meters (that’s 1,365 feet) above sea level. This means it’s way warmer than other parts of Bolivia, which can be nice if you’re tired of freezing in the mountains!
Flying to Santa Cruz
Getting to Santa Cruz isn’t too hard. The main airport is called Viru Viru International Airport, and it’s about 17 kilometers (10.5 miles) north of the city center.
If you’re already in Bolivia, you can fly here from other big cities like La Paz or Cochabamba. These flights usually take about an hour and cost around 365 BOB (that’s about 53 USD).
But here’s a tip: if you’re coming from La Paz, try to get a seat on the right side of the plane. The views of the snow-capped mountains as you fly out of La Paz are incredible!
As you get closer to Santa Cruz, you’ll see the landscape change from mountains to flat, green jungle. It’s pretty cool to see.
Taking a Bus to Santa Cruz
If you prefer traveling by land or want to save some money, you can take a bus to Santa Cruz from other Bolivian cities. But let me warn you, Bolivia is a big country, so these trips can be long and sometimes uncomfortable. Here’s a quick comparison of bus routes to Santa Cruz:
| From | Travel Time | Approximate Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| La Paz | 15-18 hours | 130-180 BOB (19-26 USD) | Overnight trip, bring warm clothes |
| Cochabamba | 10-12 hours | 100-140 BOB (14-20 USD) | Scenic route through mountains |
| Sucre | 12-14 hours | 120-160 BOB (17-23 USD) | Can be bumpy, bring motion sickness pills |
| Uyuni | 20-24 hours | 180-220 BOB (26-32 USD) | Long trip, consider breaking it up |
I took the bus from Sucre once, and while it was an adventure, I was pretty tired by the end. The roads can be bumpy and winding, so if you’re not used to long bus rides, flying might be a better choice. But if you’re on a tight budget or want to see more of the country, the bus can be a good option.
Getting from the Airport to the City
Once you arrive at Viru Viru Airport, you have a few options to get to the city center:
- Taxi: This is the most convenient option. The ride usually takes about 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic, and costs around 70-100 BOB (10-15 USD). Look for official taxis with a meter.
- Uber: The ride-sharing app works in Santa Cruz and can be a bit cheaper than regular taxis. I found it easy to use and the drivers were friendly.
- Airport shuttle: There’s a cheaper shuttle bus that goes from the airport to the city center, costing about 30 BOB (4.50 USD). It’s slower but good if you’re traveling on a tight budget.
When I arrived, I took a taxi because I was tired and just wanted to get to my hotel. The driver was chatty and gave me some tips about the city, which was a nice welcome to Santa Cruz.
Best Time to Visit Santa Cruz Bolivia for Good Weather
Santa Cruz has a tropical climate, which means it’s warm most of the year. But there are definitely better times to visit if you want to avoid rain and extreme heat. I’ve been to Santa Cruz in different seasons, and trust me, the weather can really affect your trip.
Here’s a quick breakdown of what you can expect weather-wise throughout the year:
| Month | Avg. Temp | Rainfall | Tourist Season | What to Expect |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan-Feb | 27°C / 81°F | High | Low | Rainy season. It can rain a lot, sometimes causing floods. Not the best time for outdoor activities. |
| Mar-Apr | 26°C / 79°F | Moderate | Low | Rain starts to ease up. Good time if you want to avoid crowds. |
| May-Jun | 23°C / 73°F | Low | Moderate | Pleasant weather. Great for outdoor activities. |
| Jul-Aug | 22°C / 72°F | Very Low | High | Driest months. Popular with tourists. Can be crowded and prices might be higher. |
| Sep-Oct | 26°C / 79°F | Low | Moderate | Weather warms up, but still dry. Good balance of nice weather and fewer crowds. |
| Nov-Dec | 27°C / 81°F | Moderate | Moderate | Rain starts to increase. Holiday season can be busy. |
The best time to visit Santa Cruz is usually from May to October. During these months, the weather is drier and a bit cooler, making it more comfortable for walking around and doing outdoor activities. I especially love May and June because the weather is nice but there aren’t as many tourists.
July and August are the peak tourist months, so prices might be higher and places more crowded. But if you don’t mind that, it’s still a great time to visit. The weather is perfect for exploring the city and taking day trips to places like Amboro National Park.
If you don’t mind some rain and want to avoid the busiest times, March to April or September to October can be good choices. The weather is still nice, and you might find better deals on hotels and flights. Plus, the rain usually comes in short bursts, so it doesn’t ruin your whole day.
I once visited in February, right in the middle of the rainy season. While it was still fun, the humidity was pretty intense, and some of the outdoor activities I wanted to do were canceled because of heavy rain. So if you’re planning lots of nature trips, I’d avoid the rainy season if possible.
Remember, even in the dry season, it can still rain sometimes. And in the wet season (November to February), it doesn’t rain all day every day.
So, no matter when you visit, it’s a good idea to bring a light rain jacket or umbrella, just in case. Also, don’t forget your sunscreen – the sun can be really strong in Santa Cruz, even on cloudy days!
Fun Activities and Tourist Spots in Santa Cruz Bolivia
Alright, now let’s get into the good stuff – all the things to do in Santa Cruz Bolivia you should try on your vacation! This city has a mix of everything: city life, nature, history, and culture. I’ll tell you about some of the best places to visit in Santa Cruz Bolivia that I enjoyed during my stay.
1. Explore the Santa Cruz City Center and Main Square
The heart of Santa Cruz Bolivia is definitely the main square, called Plaza 24 de Septiembre. It’s named after the date of Santa Cruz’s independence uprising, which is pretty cool. This square is always buzzing with activity, and it’s a great place to start your Santa Cruz sightseeing.
Walk Around Plaza 24 de Septiembre
The Plaza 24 de Septiembre is like the living room of Santa Cruz. You’ll see all sorts of people here: families with kids chasing pigeons, old guys playing chess, couples on dates, and tourists like us trying to figure out where to go next. There are usually street vendors selling snacks and drinks, which is handy if you get hungry or thirsty.
One of the things I loved about the plaza was the trees. They’re huge and provide lots of shade, which is so nice on a hot day. There are also some interesting statues and monuments around the square that tell you a bit about the history of Santa Cruz.
Visit the Santa Cruz Cathedral
Right on the plaza, you’ll find the Cathedral of Santa Cruz, also called the Cathedral Basilica of St. Lawrence. It’s this big, white building that you can’t miss. The outside is pretty impressive, but make sure you go inside too. It’s free to enter, and the interior is really beautiful, with high ceilings and some nice artwork.
Here’s a tip: for just 3 BOB (that’s less than 50 cents USD), you can climb up to the bell tower. It’s a bit of a squeeze up a narrow spiral staircase, but the view from the top is totally worth it. You can see the whole plaza and a good chunk of the city. Just be careful if you’re afraid of heights – the protective barriers up there are a bit on the low side!
See Art at Manzana Uno Espacio de Arte
Just a short walk from the plaza, there’s this cool art gallery called Manzana Uno Espacio de Arte. It’s in this old colonial building that’s been turned into a cultural center. The best part? It’s free to enter!
They usually have exhibitions by local artists, which is a great way to see some Bolivian art. When I was there, they had this really interesting exhibition about the history of Santa Cruz told through paintings.
2. Discover Nature and Wildlife Near Santa Cruz
Now, you might be thinking, “Wait, I thought Santa Cruz was a big city?” And you’re right, it is. But one of the coolest things about Santa Cruz Bolivia is how close it is to some amazing nature spots. If you’re looking for tourist activities in Santa Cruz Bolivia that get you out of the city, these are some great options.
Explore Santa Cruz Botanical Garden
One of my favorite places to visit in Santa Cruz Bolivia was the Botanical Garden. It’s about 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) from the city center, but it feels like a whole different world. This place is huge – 186 hectares (that’s 460 acres) of protected forest right on the edge of the city.
Here’s what you can expect at the Botanical Garden:
| Trails | Several walking paths through different types of forests |
| Wildlife | Chance to spot monkeys, sloths, and colorful birds |
| Opening Hours | 7 AM to 5 PM daily |
| Entry Cost | About 10 BOB (1.50 USD) |
| Best Time to Visit | Early morning for better wildlife spotting |
I spent a whole day here, just walking the trails and trying to spot wildlife. The best moment was when I saw a sloth high up in a tree. It was just slowly munching on leaves, totally unbothered by all the excited tourists below. Just remember to bring bug spray – the mosquitoes here are no joke!
Visit Güembé Biocentro and Resort
Another great spot for nature lovers is the Güembé Biocentro and Resort. It’s closer to the city, only about 15 minutes by car. This place is a bit more touristy than the Botanical Garden, but it’s still really cool.
The highlight here is the butterfly house. It’s the biggest in Bolivia, and walking through it is like being in a colorful, fluttering dream. They also have a big bird area where you can see toucans, macaws, and other tropical birds up close.
One thing to note – Güembé is pricier than the Botanical Garden. When I visited, the entrance fee was about 140 BOB (around 20 USD). But it includes access to their swimming pools, so you can make a whole day of it if you want.
Plan a Trip to Amboro National Park
If you’re up for a bigger adventure, you’ve got to check out Amboro National Park. It’s about 40 kilometers (25 miles) from Santa Cruz and it’s one of the most biodiverse places I’ve ever been.
You can’t just wander into Amboro on your own – you need to go with a guide. There are lots of tour companies in Santa Cruz that arrange trips. I went with a company called Nicks Adventure Tours and had a great experience.
We did a day trip, which included a bumpy ride in a 4×4, a hike through the jungle, and a swim in a beautiful waterfall. The highlight was seeing a group of howler monkeys in the trees above us. They’re called howlers for a reason – the noise they make is incredible!
A trip to Amboro is not a walk in the park. The hike can be pretty tough, especially if it’s been raining (which it often has). But if you’re reasonably fit and love nature, it’s totally worth it.
3. Try Local Food and Shop at Santa Cruz Markets
Okay, let’s talk about one of my favorite subjects – food! Santa Cruz has some really tasty local dishes that you’ve got to try. And one of the best places to do that is at the local markets.
Explore Los Pozos Market
Los Pozos Market is this big, busy market where locals go to buy… well, pretty much everything. It’s about a 20-minute walk from the main plaza, and it’s a great place to experience local life in Santa Cruz Bolivia.
Here’s what you can find at Los Pozos Market:
| Salteñas | Savory pastries filled with meat and vegetables. A must-try! |
| Anticuchos | Grilled beef heart on a skewer. Sounds weird, tastes great. |
| Fresh Produce | Tons of local fruits and veggies, including some you might never have seen before. |
| Souvenirs | Colorful textiles, leather goods, and local crafts. Great for gifts. |
I loved wandering around Los Pozos, trying different foods and chatting with the vendors. It can get pretty crowded and chaotic, especially on weekends. Keep an eye on your belongings and don’t be afraid to bargain a bit on prices for souvenirs.
Taste Local Bolivian Dishes
Santa Cruz has some delicious local food that you should definitely try. Here are a few dishes I really enjoyed:
- Majadito: This is like a Bolivian version of fried rice. It’s usually made with rice, beef or chicken, eggs, and plantains. Super filling and tasty.
- Locro: A hearty soup made with beef, corn, and potatoes. Perfect for a cooler day.
- Cuñapé: These are little cheese bread rolls that are great for a quick snack. You can find them all over the city.
One place I really liked for traditional Bolivian food was a restaurant called El Aljibe. They serve a dish called patasca, which is a soup made with beef and corn. It’s traditionally eaten for breakfast, believe it or not!
Shop for Souvenirs
If you want to bring home some souvenirs, the markets are a great place to shop. You can find all sorts of things like colorful woven textiles, leather goods, and local crafts.
Know that bargaining is expected at the Santa Cruz Bolivia markets. Don’t be afraid to negotiate a bit on the price, especially if you’re buying multiple items. Just remember to be respectful – the vendors are trying to make a living, after all.
4. Take Day Trips from Santa Cruz to Nearby Places in Bolivia
One of the great things about Santa Cruz is that it’s a good base for exploring the surrounding area. There are several interesting day trips you can take if you want to see more of Bolivia.
Visit the Town of Samaipata
About 120 kilometers (75 miles) southwest of Santa Cruz is the town of Samaipata. It’s a popular spot for Santa Cruz Bolivia sightseeing because it’s cooler than the city and has a really laid-back vibe.
The main attraction here is El Fuerte de Samaipata, which is actually a UNESCO World Heritage site. Despite its name (which means “Fort” in Spanish), it’s not really a fort.
It’s this huge rock carved with all sorts of shapes and figures. Archaeologists think it was a ceremonial site for the Inca and pre-Inca people who lived in the area.
I took a day trip to Samaipata and really enjoyed it. The town itself is cute, with lots of little cafes and good restaurants. And the drive there is beautiful, winding through the mountains. It’s about a 3-hour drive each way from Santa Cruz.
Go Sandboarding at Lomas de Arena Regional Park
For something completely different, check out Lomas de Arena Regional Park. It’s only about 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) south of Santa Cruz, but it feels like you’ve been transported to the Sahara Desert!
The Lomas de Arena Regional Park has these huge sand dunes that are perfect for sandboarding. If you’ve never tried it before, it’s basically like snowboarding, but on sand. I gave it a go and let me tell you, it’s harder than it looks! I spent more time falling than actually boarding, but it was a lot of fun.
You can rent sandboards at the park, or go with a tour that includes equipment and instruction. Bring plenty of water and sunscreen because there’s not much shade out on those dunes.
See Jaguars at San Miguelito Conservation Ranch
If you’re into wildlife, you might want to check out the San Miguelito Jaguar Conservation Ranch. It’s about 150 kilometers (93 miles) east of Santa Cruz, so it’s a bit of a trek, but it’s one of the best places to see jaguars in Bolivia.
The San Miguelito Jaguar Conservation Ranch works to protect jaguars and other wild cats. They have a few jaguars in large enclosures that you can see up close, as well as pumas and ocelots. But the really cool part is that they also work to protect wild jaguars in the surrounding area.
I didn’t make it to San Miguelito myself (ran out of time!), but I heard great things from other travelers. Seeing a wild jaguar is never guaranteed though – they’re pretty elusive animals.
5. Learn About Santa Cruz History in Museums
If you’re interested in learning more about the history and culture of Santa Cruz, there are several interesting museums you can visit. They’re not huge or fancy like museums you might find in bigger cities, but they give you a good insight into the area’s past.
Explore Melchor Pinto House Cultural Center
The Melchor Pinto House Cultural Center is in this beautiful old colonial house near the main square. It’s a good place to start your history tour of Santa Cruz.
When I visited, they had an exhibition about the traditional dress of Santa Cruz, with some really colorful and intricate outfits on display. They also often have art exhibitions by local artists.
The building itself is really interesting too. It’s built around a central courtyard in the traditional Spanish colonial style. Even if you’re not super into history, it’s worth popping in just to see the architecture.
Visit the Santa Cruz History Museum
The Santa Cruz History Museum is another interesting spot to visit in Bolivia. It’s in an old building that used to be the city hall, right on the main plaza.
The museum takes you through the history of Santa Cruz from pre-Columbian times to the present day. They have displays about the indigenous people who lived in the area before the Spanish came, as well as exhibits about the colonial period and more recent history.
One thing I found really interesting was learning about how Santa Cruz has grown so much in recent years. It’s now the largest city in Bolivia, which is pretty impressive considering it was a small town not that long ago.
Check Out the Chaco War Museum
For something a bit different, there’s the Chaco War Museum. It’s small but gives an interesting look at the Chaco War, which was fought between Bolivia and Paraguay in the 1930s.
The Chaco War Museum has old weapons, uniforms, and photos from the war. It’s not a very well-known conflict outside of South America, so I found it really interesting to learn about.
Just a heads up – the information in the museum is mostly in Spanish. If you don’t speak Spanish, you might want to go with a guide who can translate for you.
These museums are all pretty small, so you could easily visit them all in one day if you wanted to. Most charge a small entrance fee, usually around 5-10 BOB (less than 2 USD).
6. Enjoy Outdoor Activities Around Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz’s warm climate and nearby natural areas make it a great place for outdoor activities. If you’re looking for things to do in Santa Cruz Bolivia that get your blood pumping, here are some options:
Go Hiking in Amboro National Park
I mentioned Amboro National Park earlier, but it deserves another shout-out here. The park has some amazing hiking trails that take you through three different ecosystems – Amazon rainforest, Chaco savanna, and Andean foothills.
There are Amboro trails for different fitness levels, from easy walks to challenging treks. I did a moderately difficult hike to a waterfall, and it was tough but totally worth it. The waterfall at the end was beautiful, and we got to cool off with a swim.
You need to go with a guide in Amboro. And be prepared for some muddy, slippery trails, especially if it’s been raining.
Try Kayaking at Güembé Biocentro
If you like water activities, head back to Güembé Biocentro. Besides the butterfly house and bird area I mentioned earlier, they have several swimming pools and a lake where you can go kayaking.
I gave kayaking a try and it was a lot of fun. The lake is pretty calm, so it’s good even if you’re a beginner. It’s a great way to cool off on a hot Santa Cruz day.
Have a Picnic in Parque Urbano
For a more relaxed outdoor experience, check out Parque Urbano. It’s a big park right in the city where local families go on weekends to relax and have picnics.
The park has lots of green space, walking paths, and playgrounds for kids. There’s also a small lake where you can rent paddle boats. I spent a Sunday afternoon here and it was nice to see how locals enjoy their free time.
Take note that Santa Cruz can get really hot, especially in the middle of the day. If you’re doing outdoor activities, try to start early in the morning or later in the afternoon when it’s cooler.
7. See Amazing Animals in Santa Cruz
If you’re an animal lover like me, you’ll be happy to know that Santa Cruz Bolivia is a great place to see some amazing wildlife. Here are some of the best spots:
Spot Sloths in the Botanical Garden
The Botanical Garden in Bolivia is also one of the best places to see sloths in Santa Cruz. These slow-moving animals can be hard to spot, but they’re there! Look for what looks like a ball of fur high up in the trees.
I spent a good hour just walking slowly and looking up, trying to spot sloths. Finally, I saw one! It was just hanging out in a tree, munching on leaves. It’s pretty amazing to see these creatures in their natural habitat.
Besides sloths, the Botanical Garden also has monkeys, turtles, and lots of bird species. I saw some cool-looking toucans and these tiny hummingbirds that move so fast you can barely see them.
Visit the Butterfly House at Güembé Biocentro
The butterfly house at Güembé Biocentro is another must-visit for animal lovers. When you walk in, you’re surrounded by hundreds of butterflies of all colors and sizes.
What I found really interesting was seeing the different stages of a butterfly’s life cycle. They have displays showing the eggs, caterpillars, and chrysalises.
Güembé Biocentro also has a section with hummingbirds. These little birds are amazing to watch as they hover and dart around. They move so fast that it’s hard to get a good look at them, but it’s fun to try!
8. Experience Santa Cruz Nightlife and Culture
Alright, let’s talk about what happens in Santa Cruz during the night. This city in Bolivia has a pretty lively nightlife scene, with lots of bars, clubs, and places to hear live music.
Explore Bars and Clubs in Equipetrol
One of the most popular areas for nightlife in Santa Cruz Bolivia is a neighborhood called Equipetrol. It’s known for its restaurants and bars, and it’s where a lot of the younger crowd in Santa Cruz likes to hang out.
I spent a couple of evenings in Equipetrol, and it was pretty fun. There’s a good mix of places, from chill bars where you can sit and chat with friends, to more lively clubs where you can dance all night.
One place I really liked was called Moe’s. It’s this cool bar with live music most nights. I heard some great local bands playing everything from rock to traditional Bolivian music.
Just a heads up – many places in Santa Cruz don’t get busy until pretty late, like after 11 PM. So don’t go out too early or you might find yourself in an empty bar!
Attend a Peña for Live Music
For a more cultural evening in Santa Cruz, look out for peñas. These are places where you can hear live folkloric music and sometimes see traditional dances. It’s a great way to experience Bolivian culture.
I went to a peña called La Casa del Camba, and it was one of the highlights of my trip. The music was amazing – lots of guitars, pan flutes, and drums. And the energy in the place was incredible, with locals and tourists alike getting up to dance.
Ask at your hotel or hostel for recommendations on good peñas. They can be a bit hard to find on your own, and some are better than others.
Join in Carnaval Celebrations
If you’re lucky enough to be in Santa Cruz during Carnaval, you’re in for a treat. Santa Cruz Bolivia Carnaval happens in February or March (the date changes each year), and it’s the biggest party of the year in Santa Cruz.
During Carnaval, there are parades, music, dancing, and lots of water fights in the streets. Yes, you read that right – water fights! People throw water balloons and spray each other with water guns. It’s all in good fun but be prepared to get wet if you go out during Carnaval.
A word of caution about nightlife in Santa Cruz: like in any big city, it’s important to be careful when you’re out at night. Don’t walk alone in unfamiliar areas, especially late at night. It’s usually safer to take a taxi or Uber, even for short distances. And of course, keep an eye on your drinks and don’t leave them unattended.
Where to Stay in Santa Cruz Bolivia for Travelers
Finding a good place to stay is super important for enjoying your trip. Santa Cruz has lots of options, from cheap hostels to fancy hotels. Here’s a rundown of some areas to consider and types of accommodation you can find:
City Center
Staying near Plaza 24 de Septiembre puts you right in the middle of everything. It’s great if you want to be close to the main tourist spots and don’t mind a bit of noise and bustle.
I stayed at a place called Hostal Residencial Ikandire II, which was pretty basic but clean and affordable. It was just a couple blocks from the main square, which was super convenient.
Equipetrol
This is a nicer residential area with lots of restaurants and bars. It’s a bit quieter than the center but still has plenty to do. It’s a good choice if you want a more upscale experience.
Urubo
This area is across the river from the main city. It’s much quieter and more spread out, with some nice hotels and resorts. It’s a good option if you want to relax and don’t mind being a bit far from the city center.
Here’s a quick comparison of accommodation options:
| Type | Price Range (per night) | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Budget Hostels | 50-80 BOB (7-12 USD) | The Jodanga Backpackers Hostel, Residencial Ikandire II |
| Mid-range Hotels | 200-400 BOB (29-58 USD) | Hotel Cortez, Cosmopolitano Hotel Boutique |
| Luxury Hotels | 700+ BOB (101+ USD) | Los Tajibos Hotel, Camino Real Hotel |
I stayed in a mix of hostels and mid-range hotels during my trip. The hostels were great for meeting other travelers, but if you want more privacy and comfort, the mid-range hotels offer good value for money.
One place I really liked was the Cosmopolitano Hotel Boutique. It was in a good location, the rooms were nice and clean, and the staff were super helpful with giving tips about the city.
Tips When Booking Places to Stay in Santa Cruz
Remember to book in advance, especially during busy times like Carnaval or the summer months (December to February). Santa Cruz can get pretty busy with both foreign tourists and Bolivians on vacation, so popular places can fill up quickly.
Also, wherever you stay, make sure to ask about air conditioning. Santa Cruz gets really hot, especially from November to March, and a good AC can make a big difference in how well you sleep!
How to Get Around Santa Cruz Bolivia
Santa Cruz is a big city, so knowing how to get around is important. Here are your main options:
Micro Buses
These are small buses that run on set routes around the city. They’re super cheap – only about 2 BOB (that’s like 30 cents USD) per ride. The downside is they can be really crowded, especially during rush hour. And if you don’t know the routes, they can be confusing to use.
I tried using the micros a couple of times, and while they’re an adventure, I wouldn’t recommend them unless you’re on a really tight budget or feeling particularly adventurous.
Taxis
You can find taxis everywhere in Santa Cruz. They’re a convenient way to get around, but there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Make sure the taxi has a meter and that the driver turns it on.
- If the taxi doesn’t have a meter, agree on the price before you get in.
- Official taxis are usually white with a number on the side.
A short ride in the city center should cost about 10-20 BOB (1.50-3 USD).
Uber
Yep, Uber works in Santa Cruz! I found it to be really convenient. The prices are similar to regular taxis, but I liked being able to see the route and price estimate before getting in the car.
Rental Cars
If you’re comfortable driving in a busy city, you can rent a car. This gives you more freedom to explore outside the city. Expect to pay around 200-300 BOB (29-43 USD) per day for a basic car.
Just be warned – driving in Santa Cruz can be pretty chaotic. Traffic rules seem to be more like suggestions, and the roundabouts can be particularly tricky to navigate.
Walking
For short distances in the city center, walking is a great option. It’s free, and you get to see more of the city up close. Just be careful crossing streets as traffic can be busy and drivers don’t always stop for pedestrians.
No matter how you choose to get around, remember that traffic in Santa Cruz can get very heavy, especially during rush hours (around 8 AM and 6 PM). Plan extra time if you need to be somewhere at a specific time.
Why Santa Cruz Bolivia is Worth Visiting
So, after all that, you might be wondering: is Santa Cruz really worth visiting? In my opinion, absolutely yes!
There are not many things to do in Santa Cruz Bolivia and might not have the famous sights of La Paz or the Salt Flats, but it offers a totally different side of Bolivia that many tourists miss.
Of course, Santa Cruz isn’t for everyone. If you’re short on time and want to see Bolivia’s most famous sights, you might want to focus on other areas. And if you’re not a fan of big cities or hot weather, you might find it challenging.
In the end, what I loved most about Santa Cruz was the energy of the place. It’s a city that’s growing and changing rapidly but still holds onto its traditions. It’s a place where you can see the past, present, and future of Bolivia all mixed together.
