DestinationsSouth AmericaBoliviaSanta Cruz

About Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz is Bolivia's largest and most economically dynamic province, offering travelers a vibrant contrast to the country's Andean highlands. This tropical lowland region is a gateway to breathtaking natural wonders and rich cultural experiences. The capital city, Santa Cruz de la Sierra, pulses with modern energy, boasting excellent restaurants, lively nightlife, and a charming historic center around Plaza 24 de Septiembre. Beyond the city, the province unfolds into vast wilderness areas. The iconic Amboró National Park, where the Andes meet the Amazon, offers incredible biodiversity and hiking. Further east, the mystical Jesuit Missions of Chiquitos, UNESCO World Heritage sites, showcase stunning baroque architecture and living musical traditions. The province is also the heart of Bolivia's agro-industry, with vast soy fields and cattle ranches. For wildlife enthusiasts, the wetlands of Llanos de Moxos and the Noel Kempff Mercado National Park (partly within the province) provide opportunities to see jaguars, pink river dolphins, and hundreds of bird species. Santa Cruz's warm climate, friendly locals (known as 'cambas'), and unique blend of modern development with untamed nature make it an essential and surprising stop on any Bolivian itinerary.

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Travel Tips for Santa Cruz

Getting Around

In Santa Cruz city, use ride-hailing apps like Uber or Bolt, or call registered radio taxis (avoid hailing on the street). The 'micro' (bus) system is extensive but chaotic for visitors. For exploring the province, renting a car with a driver is recommended for long distances or remote areas. Domestic flights connect Santa Cruz (Viru Viru International Airport) to other Bolivian cities. For the Jesuit Missions, comfortable long-distance buses or organized tours are the best options. Motorcycle taxis ('mototaxis') are common in smaller towns.

Best Time To Visit

May to October (Dry Season). This period offers sunny days, lower humidity, and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for visiting national parks, wildlife spotting, and exploring the Jesuit Missions. The weather is pleasantly warm. The rainy season (November to April) features high heat, humidity, frequent downpours, and some rural roads may become impassable. Major festivals like Carnival (February/March) and the Feria Exposición (September) are vibrant but very crowded.

Local Customs

Santa Cruz has a more relaxed and informal culture than the Andean west. Dress is casual, but modest attire is appreciated when visiting churches or rural communities. Greetings are important; a handshake is common. 'Camba' culture is proud of its eastern Bolivian identity. Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated: 10% in restaurants if service isn't included, small change for taxi drivers, and a few bolivianos for tour guides and hotel staff. The pace of life is slower; be patient. Try local specialties like 'sonso' (yucca and cheese), 'masaco', and chilled 'chicha'.

Safety Information

Exercise normal precautions in Santa Cruz city, especially in the Equipetrol and Las Brisas neighborhoods which are popular with tourists. Be vigilant against petty theft, pickpocketing, and bag-snatching in crowded markets, bus stations, and on public transportation. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas. Use registered radio taxis or ride-hailing apps. Road travel to remote areas can be hazardous; check conditions locally. Political demonstrations can occur; avoid large gatherings. Scams involving fake police officers are rare but reported; always ask for official identification.

Health Information

Medical facilities in Santa Cruz city are the best in Bolivia, with modern private hospitals and clinics. Outside the capital, services are limited. Travelers should have comprehensive travel health insurance. Recommended vaccinations include Yellow Fever (especially for visits to lowland parks), Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid, and routine vaccines. Dengue fever, Zika, and Chikungunya are present; use insect repellent and mosquito nets. Altitude sickness is not a concern here. Drink only bottled or purified water. Pharmacies are widely available in cities.

Languages Spoken

SpanishGuaraníQuechuaAymara

Quick Facts

Currency

Bolivian Boliviano (BOB)
Bs

Timezone

America/La_Paz -04:00 (GMT)

Calling Code

+591

Electricity

Type A, C; 230V, 50Hz
Socket types →

Driving Side

Right

Population

3.4 million

Area

370621 km²

Government

Departmental Autonomous Government

About Santa Cruz

Things to do in Santa Cruz

Rincon De La Vieja Volcano Adventure Day.

Round Trip Transfer Liberia Airport to Your Hotel or Airbnb

Private Tour Diria National Park Unspoken Hiking and Nature

Miravalles Volcano: Hanging Bridges, Hot Springs & Mud Baths.

Airport Transportation: San Jose Airport

Private Airport Transportation from and to Tamarindo

Next Level ZIPLINE at Guanacaste

Hornillas hot springs- mud bath-Horses or tractor-waterfalls hike

Half-full Day Sport Fishing Tour from Flamingo Beach

Horseback Riding tours in Brasilito

Shuttle From Liberia Airport To Rythmia Life Advancement Center Guanacaste

Half Day Private Guanacaste Horseback and Farm Tour

Coffee and Clay Cultural Tour

Monteverde Sloth sanctuary, Hanging Bridges, Butterflies garden

Tenorio White Water Rafting Level III & IV Class

Travel Tips for Santa Cruz

Getting Around

Best Time To Visit

Local Customs

Safety Information

Health Information

Languages Spoken

Quick Facts

Currency

Timezone

Calling Code

Electricity

Driving Side

Population

Area

Government

ISO Code

Emergency Contacts

Police

Ambulance

Fire

Tourist Police

Frequently Asked Questions