Santa Cruz De La Sierra Santa Cruz Department, Bolivia Travel Guide
Santa Cruz de la Sierra generally offers warm to hot temperatures year-round. The average annual temperature hovers around 24-25°C (75-77°F).
Warmest Months (October to March): Daily highs often exceed 30°C (86°F), frequently reaching 35°C (95°F) or more. This period aligns with the wet season, bringing high humidity, often above 70-80%.
Coolest Months (June to August): Average highs sit around 25-28°C (77-82°F), with lows around 17-20°C (63-68°F). Humidity drops during this dry season. "Surazo" Phenomenon: During the winter months (June-August), cold, strong winds from the south, known as a "surazo," bring temporary temperature drops. Temperatures fall to 10-15°C (50-59°F) during these cold snaps, which typically last a few days.
Precipitation: Wet Season (November to April): This season brings frequent heavy rainfall and thunderstorms. Monthly rainfall exceeds 150-200mm (6-8 inches). Dry Season (May to October): This period sees less rainfall, lower humidity, and more clear, sunny days. Monthly rainfall typically stays below 50mm (2 inches).
Outdoor Activities (Lomas de Arena, Biocentro Güembé, Amboró National Park) are ideal in the dry period (May-October).
City Sightseeing and Cultural Events are enjoyable year-round, dry season presents more nice for walking conditions. Wildlife Viewing (especially for birdwatching) is generally better in the dry period.
May - October (Dry Season)
Less rain, ample sunlight, lower humidity, comfortable temperatures for outdoors.
Busier, potentially higher prices. Occasional "surazo" cold fronts.
April & November
Mix of weather, fewer crowds, potentially better accommodation deals.
Weather unpredictable, rainfall and humidity changes.
December - March (Wet Season)
Lush green landscapes, fewer tourists, lower prices for accommodation and flights.
High humidity, frequent heavy rainfall disruptions. Increased mosquito activity. Flooding risk.
Temperatures exceed 35°C (95°F) during the wet season. Stay hydrated and avoid prolonged time in the sun during midday.
Heavy rains during the peak of the wet season cause localized flooding, notably in lower-lying and rural areas. This impacts transportation.
Mainly in winter (June-August).
Sudden temperature drops and blustery conditions.
Lasts for several days.
Temperatures fall to 10-15°C (50-59°F).
Pack layers to adjust to these changes.
Requirements vary based on your nationality. Always verify the most recent information before travel.
Bolivia categorizes countries into three groups for visa purposes.
Ensure you have all necessary paperwork for smooth entry.
Visa requirements are subject to change without much notice. Always verify with official sources.
Bolivia offers options for various budget levels, from backpacker-friendly to luxury experiences.
The official currency is the Boliviano (BOB), plural Bolivianos. The exchange rate is approximately 1 USD ≈ 6.90 BOB, stable due to government policies. Denominations include 10, 20, 50, 100, and 200 BOB bills, with coins for 10, 20, 50 centavos, and 1, 2, 5 BOB.
ATMs are available in Santa Cruz de la Sierra at major banks (Banco Mercantil Santa Cruz, Banco BISA, Banco Nacional de Bolivia). ATMs offer local currency access. Inform your bank before travel to avoid card blocks. Currency Exchange Houses (Casas de Cambio) in the city center offer affordable rates; count money carefully. Larger hotels, upscale restaurants, and supermarkets accept credit cards. Smaller businesses are cash-only.
Daily Costs: 120-290 BOB (approx. $17-42 USD)
Accommodation: 70-150 BOB (dorm/basic room)
Meals: 40-70 BOB (street food/market)
Daily Costs: 430-910 BOB (approx. $62-132 USD)
Accommodation: 250-500 BOB (comfortable private room)
Meals: 100-200 BOB (sit-down restaurants)
Daily Costs: 1250-2900+ BOB (approx. $180-420+ USD)
Accommodation: 700-1500+ BOB (4-5 star hotel)
Meals: 250-600+ BOB (fine dining)
| Category | Item | Price Range (BOB) |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | Hostel dorm bed | 70-120 |
| Meals | Street food/market almuerzo | 15-30 |
| Transportation | Local bus (micro) per ride | 2.50-3 |
Prioritizing health and safety leads to a smooth journey. Awareness of local conditions is part of travel.
Strongly advised for Santa Cruz Department and lowland areas. Administer 10 days before travel.
Ensure TDAP, MMR, Polio are current.
Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid, Rabies (for specific travelers) are recommended.
Mosquito-borne diseases like Dengue, Chikungunya, Zika are frequent.
Traveler's Diarrhea is common due to shifts in diet and hygiene practices.
Sunburn and Overheating result from tall temperatures and strong sun. There's No risk of altitude sickness in Santa Cruz.
Prevention strategies include insect repellent, purified water, and sun protection.
Private hospitals (Clínica Foianini, Siraní) offer good facilities. Public hospitals are also available.
Widely available, many medications without prescription. Some are 24 hours.
Dial 110 (police), 119 (fire), 160 (ambulance). Response times vary; taxis to hospitals are sometimes faster.
Tap water is not safe for drinking. Food hygiene practices help prevent illness.
Santa Cruz de la Sierra is generally safer than some large South American cities, but petty crime is prevalent. Remain aware of your surroundings.
Pickpocketing, bag snatching (motorcyclists), phone theft occur in crowded areas. Do not display valuables. Use a money belt.
Unlicensed taxis overcharge. Use radio taxis (called by hotel) or ride-sharing apps (Uber, Didi).
City Center safe daytime, Equipetrol & Las Palmas safer. Bus terminals & markets are high-risk for petty theft.
