Santa Cruz de la Sierra

Getting to Santa Cruz de la Sierra

If you arrive during carnival (during February, sometimes March) it is almost impossible to change money as everything except markets, restaurants and internet cafes are closed. Traders will accept U.S. dollars but at half the going rate. Also be prepared to be pelted with ink filled water balloons, soaked with water bombs and covered in string spray. Wear clothes you don`t mind having permanently stained.

1. 01
   Viru Viru International Airport

   Bolivia's largest and most modern airport, and a hub for BoA.

Worth seeing

El Rio Pirai - this is the river that symbolizes so much to Santa Cruz citizens. Monseñor Rivero (Boulevard Cruceño) - this is where most people spend the late afternoon portion of the days; starting at 17:00. La Plaza - go on a Sunday, at around 23:00... just feel the breeze, relax, and close your eyes.

Things to do

1. 01
   Climb

   Of the Cathedral of Santa Cruz.

2. 02
   Jardín Botánico Municipal
3. 03
   Sloths of Cotoca

   Go sloth "hunting" with your camera at the plaza of Cotoca and try if you can spot the 6ish sloths in the treetops without the help of the locals.

Where to eat

There are several good restaurants in the north of the city. One of the main clusters of restaurants is spread around Avenida Monseñor Rivero. El Aljibe,. 4 blocks from the central square, on the corner between Potosí and Ñuflo de Chavez. Very good place to try delicious Camba food in a beautiful setting. The restaurant is named for the traditional style well it has in its central courtyard (aljibe in Guaraní).

Getting around Santa Cruz de la Sierra the local way