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Things to Do in Santa Cruz De La Sierra

Things to Do in Santa Cruz De La Sierra

Santa Cruz Department Bolivia Travel Guide

Outdoor Adventures

The territory's natural beauty makes a perfect playground for outdoor enthusiasts.

Hiking & Trekking

Lomas de Arena

Offers easy to moderate walking and hiking on its unique dunes of sand.

Biocentro Güembé

Features easy walking tracks in the park, suitable for all ages.

Amboró National Park

Ranges from easy nature walks to strenuous multi-day treks; guided tours are required.

Adventure & Sports

  • Sandboarding: A popular activity at Lomas de Arena, with rentals and instruction.
  • Zip-lining: Potentially available at adventure parks or resorts outside the city.
  • Mountain Biking: Possible in the upland areas around Samaipata or Amboró with specialized tours.
  • Water Activities: Limited to pools (Biocentro Güembé, hotels) or natural lagoons.

Biocentro Güembé

  • Close encounters with butterflies.
  • Birdwatching (including toucans).
  • Observe monkeys in protected environments.
  • Semi-captivity or natural habitats.

Amboró National Park

  • Significant biodiversity.
  • Bird and monkey viewing.
  • Jaguar sightings (rare and shy).
  • True wilderness experience via guided tours.

Bolivian Pantanal

  • Extensive wildlife safaris.
  • Spot jaguars, capybaras, caimans.
  • Multi-day trip (e.g., from The harbor Suárez).
  • True wilderness adventure.

Important Note: Water Sports & Camping

Major water sports facilities do not exist directly within Saint Cruz city. Camping is generally limited to designated areas within national parks or private properties outside the urban area.

Cultural Immersion

Engage with Santa Cruz de la Sierra's the local culture through various workshops, performances, and events.

Workshops & Learning

  • Art & Crafts: Check locally for workshops in traditional artisan crafts.
  • Music: Some cultural centers provide classes in traditional Bolivian music.
  • Dance: Workshops in traditional Bolivian dance (e.g., Caporales, Saya) can be found.
  • Language Learning: Spanish language learning centers have intensive or part-time courses.

Performances & Community

Cultural Performances

Check schedules at the Central district de la Cultura Plurinacional for traditional dance, music, or theater.

Traditional Ceremonies

Local listings or inquiries might reveal specific traditional ceremonies or events during your visit.

Carnival

A highly energetic and widely celebrated event with parades, music, and dancing.

Fiesta de la Cruz

A local sacred festival celebrated during The month of may with conventional practices and gatherings.

Anniversary of Santa Cruz

Celebrated on September 24th with parades, cultural events, and festivities across the city.

Relaxation & Wellness

Find opportunities to unwind and rejuvenate in Santa Cruz de la Sierra’s tranquil surroundings and modern facilities.

Spa & Wellness Centers

  • Luxury Hotels: Many upscale hotels (Los Tajibos, Marriott) offer spas and services for massage.
  • Independent Centers: Wellness centers exist in Equipetrol and other modern districts with a range of treatments.
  • Fitness Facilities: Most major hotels include gyms and fitness centers.
  • Rejuvenating Treatments: Discover options for relaxation and personal care.

Natural Therapy Options

Hot Springs

No hot springs are directly near Santa Cruz de la Sierra. Some exist elsewhere in Bolivia (e.g., near Oruro or Potosí).

Yoga & Meditation

Some private studios offer yoga classes within the city. Retreats occur in quieter, rustic settings outside the city.

Traditional Healing

Less visible in the urban center of Santa Cruz, focus on other health and wellness activities.

Pools & Leisure

Hotel Swimming Pools

Many hotels feature swimming pools exclusively for guest use, great for a refreshing dip.

Biocentro Güembé Pools

Boasts extensive rock pools accessible for day tripors, offering a refreshing escape in an ecological setting.

Urban Parks Relaxation

Parque Urbano Middle and Parque El Arenal provide green spaces for relaxation plus airy recreation.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Experience the evenings and late-night attractions in Saint Cruz de la Sierra.

Live Music & Performance

  • Live Music Venues: Several bars and restaurants, especially in Equipetrol, feature live music.
  • Theater & Cultural Centers: Teatro Eagles and cultural centers host plays and concerts.
  • Local Listings: Check "Agenda Cultural" upon arrival for specific events and performances.
  • Music Genres: Often includes Latin, jazz, or local folk music, tempting to diverse tastes.

Nightclubs & Dancing

Equipetrol District

The main district for nightclubs and bars, specifically along Avenida San Martín and nearby streets.

Music Genres

Venues offer a variety including reggaeton, cumbia, and electronic music.

Latin Dance

Salsa and other Latin dance clubs are common choices for a night out.

Bar Districts

Equipetrol offers a concentration of bars and pubs for an evening out.

Late-Night Options

Nightclubs typically operate until early morning on weekends, providing extended entertainment.

Casinos

Casinos are also available for late-night entertainment, offering another option for evening enjoyment.

Practical Nightlife Advice

Safety First
  • Stay aware of your surroundings, especially when leaving venues.
  • Use reputable taxis or ride-sharing services for transport.
  • Travel in groups if possible, particularly late at night.
Local Customs
  • Basic Spanish expressions can enhance your social interactions.
  • Carry some local currency for smaller purchases or tips.
  • Carry a copy of your ID, not your original passport.

Nightlife Etiquette

Most venues have a relaxed dress code, but smart casual is often appropriate for upscale clubs. Be respectful of local customs.

Shopping & Markets

Discover unique souvenirs, local crafts, and current goods across Santa Cruz de la Sierra's diverse shopping landscape.

Traditional Markets

  • Mercado Los Pozos: Large, bustling, selling fresh produce, meats, clothing, electronics.
  • La Ramada: Another extensive traditional market with a wide array of products.
  • Mercado Mutualista: Also a large market with a wide array of products, similar to Los Pozos.
  • Fairs ("Ferias"): Weekly or seasonal fairs pop up inside different neighborhoods.

Artisan Crafts & Souvenirs

Artisan Workshops

Smaller artisan shops around the city center or in specialized handmade goods markets display area craftsmanship.

Local Materials

Look for items made from wood, leather, textiles, and ceramics reflecting regional artistry.

Souvenir Recommendations

Carved wood, leather products, Cruceño specific figurines, and excellent Bolivian coffee.

Unique Souvenirs

  • Textiles (handwoven items, blankets, clothing).
  • Wood Carvings (decorative items from local hardwoods).
  • Leather Products (wallets, belts, bags).
  • Cruceño Specific (figurines, traditional clothing).

Luxury & Boutique

  • Modern shopping malls: Ventura Mall, Las Brisas Centro Comercial.
  • Multinational brands, fashion, electronics.
  • Upscale boutiques.
  • Equipetrol district: features boutique stores.

Ethical Shopping

  • Support local artisans directly at markets.
  • Guarantee fair prices for products.
  • Avoid items made from endangered species.
  • Choose souvenirs reflecting local culture and craftsmanship.

Shipping & Customs Information

Shipping Options
  • Check with local postal services (Correos de Bolivia).
  • International couriers (DHL, FedEx) are available for international shipping.
  • Inquire about shipping costs and packaging requirements.
Customs Regulations
  • Be aware of customs regulations in your home country.
  • Understand potential duties for items purchased abroad.
  • Keep receipts for customs declarations if required.

Shopping Tip

Bargaining is common in traditional markets for non-fixed price items. Do it politely and with a smile for the best results.

Activity Planning Summary

Adventure Checklist

  • Appropriate gear for hiking or outdoor sports.
  • Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen) for all outdoor activities.
  • Drink plenty of fluids with bottled water, especially in warm climates.
  • Consider hiring local guides for safety and insight into natural areas.

Cultural Exploration

  • An open mind and willingness to engage with local practices and traditions.
  • Basic Spanish phrases for more convenient correspondence and interaction.
  • Local currency (Bolivian Boliviano) for markets and smaller establishments.
  • Capture moments respectfully, asking permission for photos of people.