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Santa Cruz, or its more formal name Santa Cruz de la Sierra, is the second most populated city in Bolivia. Santa Cruz is commonly mistaken for cities of the same name in Argentina and Brazil. But don’t let that fool you, this Santa Cruz is unique and one of a kind. Unlike many other popular cities in Bolivia, Santa Cruz has a relatively low climate sitting at a comfortable 416 meters above sea level. This city is prosperous mainly by economical services and is in that way more financially stable than some of the poorer cities. In 1560 Ñuflo de Chávez founded this lovely city and dedicated it to his homeland of Extremadura, Spain. It was originally 50 km from where it stands now, however since the 1600’s this city has been located roughly 50 km from the Cordillera Oriental foothills. Santa Cruz averages between 70 and 95 degrees Fahrenheit and makes an excellent resort like place to visit all year round. Come to Bolivia and experience this beauty yourself.

Santa Cruz Pictures

Things to do in Santa Cruz

The best things to do here are free, which is great for students looking to save money. Take a nice long walk around the city and soak up the culture. One of the nice things about Santa Cruz is that it isn’t an intimidating city and is relatively safe. So you can stroll along the old streets and pretend like you’re back in 1560. Swiss Bolivian Adventures is a tour company that runs out of Santa Cruz. With them, you can take a cultural or adventure tour of the city. You can take it to either Allegrande and La Higuera; both are special in their own way and worth taking a day trip to. Take a look into the Jesuit Missions or follow the footsteps of the actual Bolivian Revolution. River boat rides up the Amazon are popular as well, especially among college students who come here for a vacation or on spring break. You will see tons of incredible wildlife that you can’t see anywhere else.

Nightlife in Santa Cruz

Near the center of the city, Avenida Busch is a good place to start because there are so many bars located right around here. Espresso del Oriente serves Italian bakery goods and espressos, while an old Irish pub serves up pints of the good stuff down the street. If a nightclub scene is more your idea of a good time, Equipetrol is the best place to look. All of the discos are located here. Along the river there are a few cafes and bars for a quite drink or cafe with some friends. And there are beautiful views from the terraces.

Dining in Santa Cruz

Lunch is the largest meal in Santa Cruz. Breakfast isn’t very popular at all, although you can find some bread and baked goods. Potato, rice, and noodle-based dishes are served the most in restaurants. Humitas is a fresh corn and cheese dish wrapped in corn leaves and then steamed. Empanadas are a savory pastry dish, filled with cheese and onions. Changa de pollo o de conejo is a typical soup made with chicken or cuy (guinea pig), and potato, peas, avas and green onion. Casa del Camba, Picolo’s, and Michelangelo’s are nice restaurants where you can find these dishes, and they are always served with a smile.

Shopping in Santa Cruz

Since Santa Cruz is the most affluent and wealthy city in Bolivia the shopping is nice. And many people prefer to shop in this city above any others. Santa Cruz is really the only place you can find international retailers in all of Bolivia. Brand names and labels are popular, although don’t expect a huge selection. The Artecampo is a great place to pick up gifts and craft products. Artists, both local and foreign, sell their stuff here so you can get a good variety and a good deal. The good news is the money you spend here goes into the artists pockets. So sleep well knowing you are helping the locals when you buy your souvenirs.

Santa Cruz Travel Tips

• Buses run the full length of the city and are easily accessible.
• Keep mind of pickpockets.
• When you go out at night, make sure you’ve got a friend or two with you!