Understand

Step into Santa Cruz de la Sierra, a bustling boomtown that has experienced an astounding tenfold increase in population within the last 25 years. Situated at the heart of Bolivia, this vibrant city holds the title of being the capital of the Santa Cruz department. Santa Cruz de la Sierra not only hosts several major universities but also contributes significantly to the country's wealth production, accounting for over 30% of its total output. Reflecting its diverse population, with 40% of its inhabitants originating from other parts of Bolivia, Santa Cruz seeks autonomy from the central government, desiring a more independent and locally managed system. Embark on a journey through the rich historical roots of this land. The indigenous peoples of Santa Cruz trace their lineage back to the Tupi-Guarani cultures. The Tupi arrived from the Caribbean, traversing the vast Amazon jungle to settle in these southern latitudes, while the Guaranis made their way along the Atlantic coast through modern-day Brazil and Argentina, venturing upstream to this region. Although remnants of these ancient cultures are mostly found in Moxos, southern Bolivia, and northern Argentina, their influence continues to captivate those who venture off the beaten tourist paths. Uncover the essence of the local native population known as the "Cambas." Mostly originating from peasant backgrounds, these resilient individuals dedicated themselves to agricultural activities, which remains a significant part of the department's economy. As a land of diverse heritage and migration, Santa Cruz prides itself on welcoming outsiders with open arms, fostering a spirit of tolerance and acceptance. Explore the intriguing characteristic of the "Cruceos" (people from Santa Cruz) who exhibit a preference for avoiding public service roles such as government, armed forces, and police. Their inclination to "move around" rather than migrate has led to an interesting fact: of the nearly 100 Bolivian presidents in two centuries, only three hailed from the Santa Cruz department, all having a military background. Immerse yourself in the fascinating blend of cultures and histories that have shaped Santa Cruz de la Sierra into the vibrant city it is today.

Get in

Looking to travel to Santa Cruz City in Bolivia? You're in luck! There are direct airplane flights available from various South American countries, Miami in the USA, and even Madrid in Spain. Airlines such as Aerosur, American Airlines, GOL, and TAM Mercosul can take you to your desired destination. And that's not all! LAN Chile, TACA, Aerolineas Argentinas, and Cubana de Aviacion are also options for your travel plans. If you're already in Bolivia and need a domestic flight, Aerocon and TAM have got you covered from the downtown airport, El Trompillo. But what if you're coming from Brazil? Well, you can opt for an exciting adventure on the Tren de la Muerte, also known as the Death Train. Don't let the name scare you; it's not as dangerous as it sounds. If you find yourself in Corumba, a Brazilian border city, crossing the frontier and hopping into a Bolivian taxi will get you to the train station. From there, it's just a matter of choosing your class and enjoying the journey to Santa Cruz. For travelers coming from Argentina or Paraguay, the highway is your pathway. Whether it's a bus or another mode of transport, information is readily available at major city bus stations. And if you're lucky, you might even find occasional train rides from the Argentine border. It's good to know that Santa Cruz City also boasts consulates from various countries, ready to assist in case of necessity. So, get ready for an adventure-filled journey to Santa Cruz City!

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Salteña - Salteñas are Bolivia's most famous sandwich. They consist of a crusty roll filled with a mixture of beef, chicken, hard-boiled eggs, olives, and hot peppers, all drenched in a tangy, spicy sauce made from vinegar, chili peppers, garlic and cumin. The dish originates from the Yungas region but can be found throughout the country.

Ají de Gallina - Aji de gallina is a traditional Bolivian stew made with hen or rooster cooked in a spicy aji pepper sauce, which is a mix of yellow chilies and ají amarillo, both native to South America. The bird is marinated in the sauce before cooking and then served with rice, often accompanied by a side dish of potatoes.

Chuño – Chuño is dried white potato, a staple food in Bolivia. These potatoes are peeled, sliced, and placed in the sun to dry until they become hard and wrinkled. They can be eaten raw or toasted, often as an accompaniment to soups, stews, or other dishes. Chuño is high in carbohydrates and can be stored for long periods, making it an important food source in the Andean regions.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing