Travel to Bolivia: Santa Cruz Tours

Why travel to Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz lies far from the Altiplano, in the huge eastern lowlands of Bolivia. It is one of the largest cities in Bolivia and is rapidly becoming a hub of economic growth. However, the swift economic development here has not affected the charming colonial character of the old city center and its back streets. At a height of just 1,365 feet above sea level (416 meters), the city has a tropical climate and ambiance, and is a relieving retreat from many of Bolivia’s high-altitude cities.

Santa Cruz mainly attracts visitors due to its international airport and its train connection (tren de los muertos) with Brazil. Also, the nearby Amboro National Park and the city of Samaipata (with the pre-Columbian fortress 'El Fuerte') are touted destinations for which Santa Cruz is an ideal stopover.

What to do in Santa Cruz

City tour. When you explore this sprawling city, you may be surprised by its modernity. Start at Plaza 24 de Septiembre, the city’s main square. Here you’ll find the massive, main cathedral—be sure to climb up to the bell tower for a great view of the city below. Right behind the cathedral is Manzana Uno, a block dedicated to art and cultural exhibitions. Stroll to Parque El Arenal to enjoy the lagoon and visit the small but interesting Museo Etno-Folklórico with traditional art displays.

When to visit Santa Cruz

Thanks to its low-lying location, Santa Cruz enjoys a semi-tropical climate with an annual average temperature of 73°F. It rains the most in January and February, and those interested in visiting the nearby national parks should be aware that the rivers rise dramatically during this period and there are significantly more mosquitoes. Santa Cruz also experiences dramatic cold wind patterns (suazos) that blow in from Argentina and can suddenly drop the temperature by up to 30 degrees, though the fronts only last a few days at a time.

Travel Testimonials

Peru For Less hooked us up with all the tools and plans to have an unforgettable experience. We toured Lake Titicaca, which was fascinating, especially the floating islands of Uros. The main part of Bolivia that I highly recommend is the Salt Flats of Uyuni. It's like being on another planet. We spent two days driving on and around the flats in a four runner with a guide and a driver. I couldn't recommend Peru For Less more if you're planning a trip to Peru or Bolivia.

Chris from New Orleans traveled to Bolivia in July 2011

Thank you for an excellently organized trip to Peru and Bolivia. The Bolivian experience including Lake Titicaca, and tortora boat visit to Tiwanaku ruins was a different (high altitude!) experience. The unforgettable decent from high Regal Cordilleras and the La Cumbre Pass (4,650 meters a.s.l.) to a steamy Yungas tropical rain forest at only 1,500 meters a.s.l. and a visit to small town of Coroico was very interesting. All in all, the itinerary was followed closely and punctually and all local tour guides were very professional and informative.

Ned Kljucec from Alberta, Canada, traveled to Bolivia in October 2010

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Santa Cruz Hotels

All types of accommodations are available in Santa Cruz. One of the best hotels in town is the hotel Los Tabijos, which has everything you would expect from a 5-star hotel. Contact your travel advisor for more information.