Santa Cruz, the busiest and bubbliest city in Bolivia, is a delightful mix of modern hustle-bustle and ancient whispers. With tall shiny buildings reaching for the sky, and quaint markets teeming with history, Santa Cruz is like a wonderful storybook that’s just waiting to be explored!
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The Fabulous Adventure of Santa Cruz Awaits You!
Trust me, Santa Cruz is so full of interesting things to see and do, you’ll wish you had more hours in a day! Here are a few sparkly highlights:
Ready?
Best tours for visiting Santa Cruz Bolivia
1. Cathedral Basilica of St. Lawrence:
Nestled in the heart of Santa Cruz, this splendid cathedral is an absolute treat for the eyes. And guess what? It’s free to enter! Yay!
When you’re adventuring in our charming square, there are a few sweet reminders I’d love to share. Just like any global hotspots – think Paris, New York – it’s generally safe, but do keep an eye out for the occasional not-so-friendly faces, okay? 💕
Now, onto the fun part! One of our cozy traditions in sunny Santa Cruz is all about sipping and socializing. Picture this: a warm cup of aromatic Cafe in your hands, a deliciously refreshing Somo (our local fave!) by your side, and the company of your fabulous friends or sweetheart. Walking around the square never felt so delightful! Isn’t it just the best way to soak up our vibrant local culture?
2. Amboro National Park:
A magical place filled with exotic wildlife like jaguars, monkeys, and all sorts of birds. You can go for a day trip or even an overnight adventure! How exciting!
Parque Amboro has so many delightful surprises waiting just for you! En route, you’ll find charming camping sites, cozy hostels, and even tranquil refuges. One I absolutely adore is Los Volcanes Refuge – it’s a must-visit!
As for sightseeing? Oh, you’re in for a treat! Visit the enchanting Elbow of the Andes, get lost amongst the majestic Giant Ferns, and revel in the sheer magic of countless sparkling Waterfalls scattered around. It’s a veritable wonderland, darlings!
3. Sloths & biodiversity:
Oh my, who doesn’t love these adorable, slow-moving cuties? There are many tours where you can see sloths in their natural habitat. A couple of hours with these creatures for around $50 USD – isn’t that just lovely?
4. Historical Walking Tours:
A fun and informative way to know about Santa Cruz’s rich history and vibrant culture. It’s like stepping into a time machine from $13 USD!
Let me spill some insider info about the charming city of Santa Cruz de la Sierra! You see, this lovely city is like a magical maze with its adorable “rings.” For a cozy and safe adventure, stick to rings 1 to 4, okay? I wouldn’t recommend venturing too far out, honey.
Now, let’s talk about the heart of this delightful city! The central area, especially around the main square, is a total treasure trove of history and charm. Brace yourself for a feast of museums, darling! There’s something for everyone, from the oh-so-traditional ones to mind-blowing modern art wonders that will leave you absolutely smitten.
5. Guembe Biopark:
This is like a mini paradise where you can hang out with birds, butterflies, and monkeys. What a perfect place to relax and make some feathery and furry friends
Prepare to be whisked away to a little slice of paradise! 🌴✨ Picture this: pools sparkling in the sunshine, butterflies fluttering their colorful wings, a delightful zoo to explore, and oh-so-delicious food options that will make your taste buds dance with joy. And guess what? There’s even cozy lodging available for you to snuggle up with your loved ones. It’s absolute bliss, whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway as a couple or a delightful family retreat.
6. Day Trip to Samaipata:
Just a short trip from Santa Cruz, and voila! You’re in the scenic town of Samaipata, with its lovely landscapes and old-world charm. Don’t forget to visit the Las Cuevas Waterfalls and the intriguing local museums.
Let me tell you about my absolute favorite destination in Santa Cruz—Samaipata! 🌟 It’s a charming town just a delightful three-hour journey away, and it stole my heart completely. The hotel offers there are simply incredible, but there’s one that’s extra special—it’s called Pueblito Resort, and it’s like a dream come true!
While it might not make you go “wow,” there’s this super cute art cafe called CafeArt that’s worth a visit. Trust me, it’s simply adorable! But let me tell you, what Samaipata lacks in food wonders, it more than makes up for in its breathtaking waterfalls. Cuevas is a true hidden gem, and El Fuerte de Samaipata will leave you in awe of its historical beauty. Oh, and don’t even get me started on Viñedos—1745 is my absolute favorite! The bohemian atmosphere that fills the air in this magical place is absolutely enchanting.
7. Lomas de Arena
his enchanting place is like a dreamy wonderland filled with sandy dunes and breathtaking landscapes. It’s the perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers like us!
Imagine running down soft, sandy hills, feeling the warm sun on your face, and hearing the whisper of the wind through the beautiful trees. Ahh, it’s pure bliss! Lomas de Arena is an absolute playground for outdoor activities like hiking, picnicking, and even sandboarding. How cool is that?
8. Plazuela Callejas
With its vibrant atmosphere and charming surroundings, Plazuela Callejas is like a dreamy oasis in the middle of Santa Cruz. It’s the perfect spot to soak up the local culture, enjoy a leisurely stroll, and immerse yourself in the buzzing energy of this incredible city.
9. Botanical Park in Santa Cruz
This magical garden is like a paradise straight out of a fairytale! As you wander through its charming pathways, you’ll discover a treasure trove of plant species from all around the world. From colorful blooms to towering trees, the Botanical Garden is a feast for the eyes and the perfect backdrop for the cutest Instagram photos!
Snuggle Up in Santa Cruz!
Whether you prefer a plush hotel or a cozy guesthouse, Santa Cruz has got you covered, the only ones that i had the chance were:
Hotel Los Tajibos:
Imagine waking up to a dazzling view of Santa Cruz right from your room. Pure bliss!
Hostal Santa Cruz:
Located in the heart of the city, this hostel is super comfy and easy on your pocket.
Guesthouse Casa Vieja:
Tucked away in a peaceful neighborhood, this guesthouse feels just like home.
Hopping Over to Santa Cruz
Getting to Santa Cruz is a breeze! Fly in via the international airport or take a scenic bus ride from other parts of Bolivia. And if you love road trips, just zoom down Bolivia’s main highway.
BOA, Amas (Amaszonas) & Ecojet are the Flight Companies in Bolivia. They have daily departures.
The Best Time to Visit Santa Cruz
To soak up the sun and enjoy the clear, blue skies, plan your visit between April and September. Perfect for all those cute summer dresses!
Cute Tips for a Super Fun Santa Cruz Trip
Here are some fun tips to make your Santa Cruz adventure even more fabulous:
- Bring out your bargaining skills while shopping. Who knows, you might get that cute bag for half the price!
- Don’t forget to try the yummy local food. Bolivian cuisine is a party for your taste buds!
- Learn a few Spanish phrases. It’s fun, and it’ll make your interactions with locals so much smoother.
- Bolivia is a country with deep-rooted traditions, so remember to dress modestly and respect the local customs.
I hope this chirpy guide helps you plan an amazing tripH1: Santa Cruz, Bolivia: A City of Sparkling Surprises!
