Santa Cruz Vacations

Plaza 24 de Septiembre

Rating: 8.8/10 (164 reviews)

Plaza 24 de Septiembre buzzes with local culture beneath swaying palms and colonial architecture. Climb the Cathedral's bell tower for spectacular city views while sampling authentic Bolivian coffee from vendors.

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San Lorenzo Cathedral

Rating: 9.0/10 (84 reviews)

This grand neoclassical cathedral dominates Santa Cruz's skyline with its towering spires and ornate façade. Climb the bell tower at sunset for breathtaking panoramic views of the city.

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Ventura Mall

Rating: 9.0/10 (183 reviews)

Ventura Mall, Santa Cruz's premier shopping destination, features international brands and local boutiques. Enjoy the cinema complex, food court, and entertainment options in this contemporary Bolivian retail hub.

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Guembe Biocenter

Rating: 8.8/10 (60 reviews)

This vibrant ecological sanctuary showcases hundreds of butterfly species in a lush, tropical environment. Explore walking trails, enjoy boat rides, and learn about biodiversity in this serene natural retreat.

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Santa Cruz Zoo

Rating: 8.4/10 (53 reviews)

The Santa Cruz Municipal Zoo showcases Bolivia's native wildlife in naturalistic habitats, featuring jaguars, tapirs, and free-ranging sloths. Morning visits offer the best chance to see active animals.

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Ramon Tahuichi Aguilera Stadium

Rating: 8.4/10 (18 reviews)

This multi-purpose stadium hosts Bolivia's most passionate football rivalries and tournaments. Experience the electric atmosphere of a local derby while enjoying modernized facilities and vibrant Santa Cruz culture.

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Cine Center

Rating: 8.0/10 (53 reviews)

This premier entertainment complex offers state-of-the-art cinema experiences with immersive 4D E-Motion formats. Enjoy the latest films, then explore the shopping center and diverse dining options in the food court.

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Blacutt Square

Rating: 8.2/10 (19 reviews)

Plaza Blacutt offers a verdant escape in Santa Cruz with mature trees shading tiled pathways. Enjoy local flavors from vendors along the northern edge while children play in the well-equipped playground areas.

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Find out more about Santa Cruz

Things to do in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz offers a vibrant mix of city-themed and cultural experiences perfect for families. Visitors can explore shopping centers and malls, unwind at resorts, and enjoy outdoor adventures like hiking and standup paddleboarding. For those looking for leisure, there's plenty of window shopping and long strolls to enjoy. Thrill-seekers can also find exciting roller coasters to experience, making Santa Cruz a well-rounded destination for all types of tourists.

Shopping

In Santa Cruz, visit Ventura Mall for a vibrant shopping experience with entertainment and family-friendly vibes. La Recova Artisan Walk offers a unique market atmosphere perfect for local crafts. If you're up for a drive, check out Patio Design LifeStyle Center for a stylish shopping environment.

Recreation

Experience the vibrant atmosphere at Ramon Tahuichi Aguilera Stadium, where you can enjoy local sports events. For a family-friendly outing, catch a movie at Cine Center. Don't miss the cultural richness at Casa Municipal de Cultura Raúl Otero Reiche, featuring captivating performances and artistic events.

Adventure

Parque Nacional Amboró offers thrilling hiking trails through diverse ecosystems, where you can spot unique wildlife. For adrenaline seekers, the nearby Chapare region features exhilarating white-water rafting experiences amidst stunning landscapes, perfect for adventure enthusiasts looking for an unforgettable experience.

Nightlife

In Santa Cruz, Bolivia, experience vibrant nightlife at Plaza 24 de Septiembre, filled with lively bars and clubs. Visit the trendy Equipetrol neighborhood for upscale lounges and dance the night away at popular venues like La Casa de la Cerveza and Club Level, where the energy is electric.

Find the best attractions in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz, Bolivia, is perfect for city-themed and family vacations, offering rich cultural experiences. Explore popular attractions like the piazza, cathedral, and various landmarks that cater to diverse interests, including culture and outdoor activities. Don't miss out on discovering local gems and immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Santa Cruz for an unforgettable experience.

• Plaza 24 de Septiembre: This vibrant square serves as the heart of Santa Cruz, where locals and visitors gather to enjoy cultural events, music, and lively street performances. Its lush gardens and historical significance make it a perfect spot to soak in the city's atmosphere and people-watch.
• San Lorenzo Cathedral: A stunning example of colonial architecture, San Lorenzo Cathedral features intricate designs and a serene ambiance. Visitors can appreciate its artistic beauty and rich history while attending mass or exploring its peaceful surroundings.
• Blacutt Square: Known for its unique excursions, Blacutt Square is a popular gathering place for locals and tourists alike. The square often hosts cultural fairs and events, offering a glimpse into the region's traditions and local crafts.

Best time to go to Santa Cruz

The best time to visit Santa Cruz can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Santa Cruz falls in October, when visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Santa Cruz falls in June, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

Tips to save on your trip to Santa Cruz

• Take advantage of package deals on Expedia and combine flights, hotels, or car rentals for a convenient and cost-effective trip to Santa Cruz.
• Consider traveling during the off-peak season (typically June, August and November) for more affordable package holidays to Santa Cruz.
• Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
• Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of vacation packages are available in Santa Cruz?

Santa Cruz is primarily known for its city and urban attractions, offering several types of vacation packages:

• Budget: Most hotels in Santa Cruz fall into the budget tier, with options like Gran Hotel Santa Cruz, a 4.5-star property rated 8.9 out of 10 by travelers, offering family rooms and an outdoor pool about a 5-minute walk from Plaza 24 de Septiembre.
• Couples: For couples, a package with a stay at Los Tajibos, Santa Cruz de la Sierra, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, a 3.5-star property rated 8.9 out of 10 by travelers, provides a hot tub and outdoor pool, with travelers often praising the friendly staff and excellent location.
• Family: A family-friendly Santa Cruz vacation package can feature Camino Real Hotel, a 4.5-star property rated 8.8 out of 10 by travelers, which includes family rooms and an indoor pool, and travelers highlight the super helpful staff and great location.
• Luxury: For a more upscale experience, Hampton by Hilton Santa Cruz/Equipetrol, Bolivia, a 4.5-star hotel rated 8.8 out of 10 by travelers, offers amenities like family rooms and free breakfast, and is praised for its great breakfast and helpful staff.
• Breakfast: Many hotels in Santa Cruz offer complimentary breakfast, such as Alfonsina Hotel Boutique by Inboccaluppo, a 3.5-star hotel rated 9.4 out of 10 by travelers, which also features an outdoor pool and kitchenette.

How can I save money on a Santa Cruz vacation package?

When you bundle, you can save up to 30%*. To save money on a Santa Cruz package, consider traveling during the quieter months or be flexible with your dates to find more options. Bundling your flights and hotel together often unlocks savings compared to booking separately. *Members only. Savings vary.

How much does a Santa Cruz vacation package cost?

A Santa Cruz vacation package typically costs around $1,350 per adult for a week-long trip. Lower-priced bookings are starting from $550 per adult, while luxury options can reach up to $2,050.


*Package prices shown are the average total cost per adult across Expedia bookings over the past year and may change depending on availability, dates, and demand.

How do I find cheap Santa Cruz vacation package deals?

The cheapest Santa Cruz vacation package deals can be as low as around $190 per adult for weekend trips. Bundling flights and hotel together also typically saves money — most Santa Cruz vacation package deals include some savings versus booking separately, typically around $40 per adult for week-long trips. Browse cheap vacation packages in Santa Cruz on Expedia for current deals.


*Package prices shown are the average total cost per adult across Expedia bookings over the past year and may change depending on availability, dates, and demand.

What is the best time to go to Santa Cruz?

The best time to go for a Santa Cruz vacation package is during the peak booking months of March, May, and July. Santa Cruz has a distinctly tropical climate year-round.


While these months are popular, travelers should be aware that from July to August can experience "Surazos," strong southern winds from Argentina that bring cold fronts. For a potentially quieter and more affordable Santa Cruz vacation, consider traveling outside these peak periods.

What's included in a Santa Cruz vacation package?

A Santa Cruz vacation package lets you combine round-trip flights, hotel stays, and rental cars. Given Santa Cruz's urban setting, many hotels offer airport shuttle service for convenient transfers, and most hotels also include free breakfast, which can be a practical saving during your trip.


Exactly what's included will vary by hotel and package, so it's worth reviewing the details before you confirm your booking.

What's the best vacation package for Santa Cruz?

For families, a Santa Cruz vacation package built around a stay at Novotel Santa Cruz De La Sierra, a 5-star property rated 8.4 out of 10, is a strong choice. This hotel, about 2 miles from Plaza 24 de Septiembre, offers family rooms, a kids club, and a playground, with travelers often praising its excellent food and comfortable rooms.


Couples seeking a romantic escape might consider a package with a stay at Hotel Cortez, a 3.5-star hotel rated 9 out of 10. Located about 1 mile from Plaza 24 de Septiembre, it features a hot tub, outdoor pool, and spa, and travelers frequently highlight the friendly staff and nice pool.


For a luxury Santa Cruz vacation package, Camino Real Hotel, a 4.5-star property rated 8.8 out of 10, offers an indoor pool, hot tub, and fitness center. Travelers often note the super helpful staff and great location of Camino Real Hotel, situated about 2 miles from Plaza 24 de Septiembre.

Is Santa Cruz better suited for a beach vacation or a cultural trip?

Santa Cruz is primarily a cultural and urban destination, offering a rich history and vibrant city life. Travelers can explore historical sites like Plaza 24 de Septiembre and San Lorenzo Cathedral, both about a 5-minute walk from central Santa Cruz. The city also boasts numerous museums and cultural centers, such as the Santa Cruz de la Sierra Contemporary Art Museum and the Franco Aleman Cultural Center.


A Santa Cruz vacation focuses on exploring its heritage, local traditions, and urban attractions. The city's culture is a blend of Spanish and indigenous influences, reflected in its gastronomy, dances, and festivals.

Is Santa Cruz a good choice for a family vacation package?

Santa Cruz is a good choice for a family vacation package, offering a variety of attractions and hotels suitable for all ages. A select few of Santa Cruz vacation package bookings are family trips, and many hotels provide family-friendly amenities like family rooms, kids clubs, playgrounds, and pools.


For example, the Novotel Santa Cruz De La Sierra, a 5-star hotel rated 8.4 out of 10 by travelers, features family rooms, a kids club, and a playground, making it a strong base for families. Travelers often highlight its comfortable rooms and nice staff.


Families can explore the Guembe Biocenter, a nature park about 8 miles from central Santa Cruz with a butterfly conservatory. The Cine Center, about a 15-minute walk from central Santa Cruz, also offers movies, a food court, and an indoor playground for small children.

Are luxury vacation packages in Santa Cruz suitable for couples?

Luxury Santa Cruz vacation packages are well-suited for couples, offering upscale hotels with amenities designed for a comfortable and relaxing stay.


The Camino Real Hotel, a 4.5-star property rated 8.8 out of 10 by travelers, provides a hot tub, indoor pool, and a bar/lounge, making it a great choice for couples. Travelers often highlight the super helpful staff and the nice pool area.


Another excellent option is the Swissôtel Santa Cruz De La Sierra, a 4.5-star hotel rated 8.6 out of 10 by travelers. This property features a spa, outdoor pool, and a bar/lounge, with travelers praising its excellent facilities and well-maintained rooms.


Explore luxury vacation packages in Santa Cruz and romantic vacation packages in Santa Cruz on Expedia to find the perfect couples' retreat.

What luxury vacation packages are available in Santa Cruz?

Luxury Santa Cruz vacation packages often feature highly-rated hotels that combine comfort with premium amenities, perfect for an urban escape:


Browse luxury vacation packages in Santa Cruz on Expedia to compare options.

What is the best time to book a Santa Cruz vacation package?

Book your Santa Cruz vacation package around 2 weeks before you travel. It gives you time to secure your preferred flights and hotel while rates are still competitive. Most travelers book between 1 and 6 weeks out.


March, May, and July are the most popular months for Santa Cruz packages, so booking earlier is advisable if you're traveling during these times.

What are the top things to do in Santa Cruz?

A Santa Cruz vacation offers a mix of cultural experiences, urban exploration, and natural escapes:


Browse and book things to do in Santa Cruz on Expedia.

How many days do you need for a Santa Cruz vacation?

Most Santa Cruz vacation packages last around 5 days, providing ample time to explore the city's cultural attractions and urban offerings. This duration allows travelers to visit sites like Plaza 24 de Septiembre, the Santa Cruz de la Sierra Contemporary Art Museum, and enjoy shopping at Ventura Mall.


About half of travelers choose week-long trips, while nearly a third opt for weekend trips. Some travelers also choose two-week trips, which can allow for deeper exploration or excursions outside the city.

Is Santa Cruz a good destination for a weekend vacation?

Santa Cruz is a good destination for a weekend vacation package, especially for travelers focused on urban and cultural exploration. Nearly a third of Santa Cruz vacation package bookings are for weekend trips.


In a short stay, you can comfortably visit central attractions like Plaza 24 de Septiembre, explore the San Lorenzo Cathedral, and enjoy local dining. A Santa Cruz vacation can be tailored to a focused weekend itinerary.

Do you need to rent a car in Santa Cruz, or is public transport enough?

For a Santa Cruz vacation package, public transport, taxis, and ride-share apps are generally sufficient for getting around the city. Santa Cruz has an extensive bus system with 132 routes covering the city, and shared taxis (trufis) also operate on various routes. Ride-share apps are widely used and offer competitive fares.


While many hotels offer airport shuttle services to and from Viru Viru International Airport (VVI), local taxis are also readily available. Renting a car can provide more flexibility for exploring attractions further outside the city center, such as the Guembe Biocenter or Lomas de Arena Regional Park, both about 8 miles from central Santa Cruz, but it is not essential for navigating within the urban core.

Are Santa Cruz vacation package hotels conveniently located?

Santa Cruz vacation package hotels are generally conveniently located, with many properties placing you within a few miles of the city's central attractions.


For example, Alfonsina Hotel Boutique by Inboccaluppo is about 1 mile from Plaza 24 de Septiembre, while the Camino Real Hotel is about 2 miles away. Some options, like the Sun Hotel, are located further out, about 9 miles from Plaza 24 de Septiembre, offering a different experience away from the immediate city center. Compare locations to match your preferred Santa Cruz vacation style.

Are there vacation package hotels in Santa Cruz within walking distance of restaurants and shops?

Santa Cruz vacation package hotels offer several options within walking distance of restaurants and shops, particularly in central areas and near major shopping centers.


For instance, Senses Boutique Hotel is about a 5-minute walk from Plaza 24 de Septiembre, which is surrounded by dining and retail options. If you prefer proximity to modern shopping, the Camino Real Hotel is about a 5-minute walk from Ventura Mall, and Hampton by Hilton Santa Cruz/Equipetrol, Bolivia is about a 10-minute walk from the same mall.


Always check the specific location of your chosen hotel so it aligns with your preferred walking routes.

Can I change or cancel my Santa Cruz vacation package if my plans change?

Yes, you can cancel your vacation package via your itinerary page on Expedia or by contacting customer service. Remember that some packages are fully refundable, but the details vary based on each unique booking. A fully refundable package may depend on how far out from the travel dates you're canceling and what airline you are traveling with.

Do One Key members get extra savings when booking Santa Cruz vacation packages?

Yes, members who join our free One Key™ travel rewards program can instantly unlock additional savings and save 10% or more on over 500,000 stays worldwide with Member Prices and over 1 million car rentals.

Does Expedia offer Book Now, Pay Later Santa Cruz vacation packages?

Yes, with Expedia's Book Now, Pay Later option, powered by Affirm, you can spread the cost of your Santa Cruz vacation over 3, 6, or 12 months. With no late payment fees or hidden costs, it's easy to secure your ideal vacation package as soon as you spot it.

How do I find last-minute vacation packages to Santa Cruz?

To find last-minute vacation packages to Santa Cruz, explore the last-minute deals section for the latest package offers, including flights, departing in the coming weeks. Being flexible with your travel dates and hotel preferences can help you secure the best prices.

How does free cancellation work on Santa Cruz vacation packages?

Free cancellation on a Santa Cruz vacation package depends on the specific hotel and rate combination you book. Many bookings allow free cancellation up to a stated deadline (often a few days before travel) where eligible. Read the cancellation terms carefully when reviewing the package, and visit Expedia help center for further details.

Is it cheaper to book a Santa Cruz vacation as a package or separately?

Booking flights and hotels together can unlock lower overall prices. Better still, you can tailor your Santa Cruz getaway to match your exact preference. Pick your preferred flight time, select the hotel type and add a car rental. Explore our bundles to see how much you can save.

Why should I book my Santa Cruz vacation package with Expedia?

Booking your vacation package on Expedia makes it easier to get more out of your trip from the start. With a wide choice of hotels, you can compare prices, reviews and amenities all in one place, then bundle your hotel with flights which could help you save even more. Flexible booking options on selected stays also make it easier to plan with confidence.

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