Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz de la Sierra is Bolivia's largest city and the commercial heart of the eastern lowlands. Situated about 400 metres above sea level in the Santa Cruz Department, the city has a warm tropical climate and has grown rapidly from a quiet colonial outpost into a modern, fast-moving urban centre.

Founded in 1561 by Ñuflo de Chaves, the settlement originally stood about 220 kilometres east of its current location before being moved to its present site near the Piraí River. The historic core remains anchored by Plaza 24 de Septiembre, where the San Lorenzo Cathedral and its Museum of Sacred Art preserve centuries of local religious and artistic heritage.

Neighbourhoods such as Equipetrol, the historic centre, Las Palmas and Urubó each bring a different rhythm to the city. Equipetrol is known for restaurants, cafés and nightlife, while the centre offers colonial-era landmarks, museums and shopping. Green escapes include the Guembé Biocenter, the Botanical Garden and the sand dunes of Lomas de Arena regional park.

Santa Cruz drives much of Bolivia's agro-industry, trade and services economy and hosts major business events such as the Expocruz international fair. Its food scene blends cruceño staples, grilled meats and international dining, and its carnival, festivals and lively evening culture keep the calendar full.

For travellers, Santa Cruz works both as a destination and a gateway. The city connects to the Jesuit Missions of Chiquitos and the archaeological site of El Fuerte de Samaipata, two UNESCO World Heritage sites in the region, while its airport links the Bolivian lowlands with domestic and international routes.