Santa Cruz de la Sierra is not a typical city in Bolivia with its tropical climate and low altitude. Beautiful wildlife around it and unique culture make it one of the most interesting cities in Latin America.
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If you are coming to Bolivia, the chance is your flight will land in Santa Cruz, the main hub for flights in and out of the country and the starting point for many Bolivian adventures. Its position below the Andes and unusually pleasant climate for that area were the reason the city grew from a colonial settlement to a metropolis with big restaurants alongside small street sellers, modern buildings along colonial architecture and native art that blends it all together.
For some reason, every city in Latin America settled after Europeans came, has two main characteristics: A cathedral and parks. And those two things are always nicely fit into local environment. Catedral de Santa Cruz is a beautiful 400 year old cathedral worth to see inside too because from the top of its clock tower you may enjoy panoramic views of the city. Also inside, the Museo de Arte Sacro contains old relics and one of the world’s smallest books, the Lord’s Prayer in several languages.
Museo Etno-Folklórico with artifacts from Bolivia’s ethnic groups and Museo Guaranà with 150 pieces from Guaranà indigenous sites throughout the Department of Santa Cruz are places you don't wanna miss if you are into history even just a little bit. And now, go green! Parque El Arenal is one of the oldest parks in Santa Cruz and a favorite among local people. A place of nature, a scenic lagoon, and a wonderful setting to take a stroll.
After El Arenal, La Rinconada is simply calling you to visit it. This is a beautifully designed eco resort and restaurant with swimming pools, gardens and a river where you can find the Victoria Amazonica the world’s largest water lily. If you want even more fun, Playland Water Park is your next stop. This water park with large wave pools, water slides, restaurants, playgrounds and everything water related will make you day pass in a second.
The home of an butterfly dome, a huge soccer field, and all kinds of outdoor activities, a hotel, bungalows and camping facilities are ideal for families. Even more nature you will find in Jardin Botanico with 186 hectares of gardens and a nature trail where you can see large groups of monkeys and lazy sloths to everything in between. And when you get back, go to 7 Calles Market. This is the place to grab some good local food and buy beautiful local fabrics or tailor made piece. ■
