7 Free Things to Do in Santa Cruz de la Sierra

Santa Cruz de la Sierra, is a vibrant city that offers a unique blend of modern amenities and cultural heritage, making it an ideal destination for digital nomads looking for a blend of work and adventure. With its tropical savanna climate, friendly locals, and a growing expat community, Santa Cruz provides a comfortable base for those looking to explore South America. For digital nomads who are budget-conscious or simply looking to enjoy the city's offerings without spending a dime, there are plenty of free activities to fill your days. From popular attractions to hidden gems, here are nine free things to do in Santa Cruz de la Sierra.

Plaza 24 de Septiembre

The heart of Santa Cruz de la Sierra is the Plaza 24 de Septiembre, a bustling square surrounded by historic architecture, including the Cathedral of Santa Cruz. It's a popular spot for both locals and tourists to relax, people-watch, and soak in the city's atmosphere. The plaza is also the site of various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, providing a glimpse into the local traditions and celebrations.

Location: Center of Santa Cruz de la Sierra, Bolivia. The plaza is easily recognizable with its central location and the cathedral's spire as a landmark.

Travel Tip: Visit the plaza in the evening when the weather is cooler and the area comes alive with street performers and vendors selling local snacks.

Nearby: Café 24 is a great spot to grab a coffee or a light meal. It's known for its cozy atmosphere and is just a short walk from the plaza.

Parque El Arenal

Parque El Arenal is a serene park in the middle of the city, featuring a picturesque lagoon and lush greenery. It's a perfect place for a leisurely stroll, a picnic, or even a jog. The park also has a playground for children and outdoor exercise equipment, making it a great spot for families and fitness enthusiasts.

Location: Between Calle Libertad and Avenida Bush, Santa Cruz de la Sierra. The park is a green oasis amidst the urban landscape.

Travel Tip: Bring some bread to feed the ducks at the lagoon, but be mindful not to overfeed them or leave litter behind.

Nearby: La Casa del Camba is a local restaurant within walking distance, famous for its traditional Bolivian cuisine, especially the grilled meats.

Biocentro Güembé

While not entirely free, Biocentro Güembé offers free entry on certain days of the year. This sprawling eco-resort and conservation area is home to a butterfly dome, aviary, and orchid garden. It's a fantastic place to learn about Bolivia's biodiversity and enjoy the natural beauty of the region.

Location: Km 5 Camino a Porongo, Santa Cruz de la Sierra. It's a short drive from the city center, offering a quick escape to nature.

Travel Tip: Check their social media pages for announcements on free entry days, typically during off-peak seasons or special events.

Nearby: After exploring Biocentro Güembé, stop by La Rinconada for a refreshing drink and some local snacks.

Museo de Arte Contemporáneo

Art enthusiasts will appreciate the Museo de Arte Contemporáneo, which showcases modern art from Bolivian and international artists. The museum offers free admission and is a great way to spend an afternoon immersed in the creative expressions of contemporary culture.

Location: Calle Sucre esq. Potosí, Santa Cruz de la Sierra. It's situated in the city center, making it easily accessible.

Travel Tip: The museum often hosts free workshops and talks by artists, so keep an eye on their event calendar for a chance to engage with the local art scene.

Nearby: Café Patrimonio is a charming spot close to the museum, ideal for a post-art discussion over a cup of Bolivian coffee.

Manzana Uno Espacio de Arte

Manzana Uno Espacio de Arte is a lesser-known art gallery located in a refurbished building that once served as the city's jail. It now hosts a variety of contemporary art exhibitions, cultural events, and educational programs, all free of charge. The space is a testament to Santa Cruz's commitment to cultural development and the arts.

Location: Plaza 24 de Septiembre, Santa Cruz de la Sierra. The gallery is right in the heart of the city, adjacent to the main square.

Travel Tip: Visit on a weekday when it's less crowded, allowing for a more intimate experience with the art on display.

Nearby: Siete Barbas Café is a cozy place nearby, offering delicious pastries and a variety of coffee blends.

Parque Urbano

Parque Urbano is the largest public park in Santa Cruz and a favorite among locals for sports and recreation. With its vast open spaces, sports courts, and playgrounds, it's an excellent venue for digital nomads to take a break from their screens and enjoy some outdoor activities.

Location: Avenida La Salle, Santa Cruz de la Sierra. The park is located in a residential area, providing a peaceful retreat from the city bustle.

Travel Tip: If you're into sports, bring a soccer ball or a frisbee and join in on the pick-up games that often take place in the afternoons.

Nearby: Tia Gladys is a small eatery close to the park, known for its hearty and affordable almuerzos (lunch specials).

La Recova Artisan Market

La Recova Artisan Market is a hidden gem where you can explore the work of local artisans without the pressure to buy. It's a great place to appreciate the craftsmanship of traditional Bolivian textiles, jewelry, and pottery, and to learn about the cultural significance behind each piece.

Location: Calle René Moreno, Santa Cruz de la Sierra. Nestled in a quieter part of the city, the market offers a more authentic shopping experience.

Travel Tip: Even if you're not looking to purchase, engaging with the artisans and asking about their work can lead to interesting conversations and insights into Bolivian culture.

Nearby: El Aljibe is a nearby restaurant that serves up traditional Bolivian dishes, perfect for a taste of local flavors after browsing the market.

Centro Cultural Franco Alemán

The Centro Cultural Franco Alemán often hosts free cultural events, including film screenings, art exhibitions, and language exchange meetups. It's a fantastic opportunity for digital nomads to mingle with locals and other digital nomads and expats while enjoying a dose of culture.

Location: Calle 24 de Septiembre #36, Santa Cruz de la Sierra. The center is conveniently located near the main plaza.

Travel Tip: Check their calendar for upcoming events and try to attend one of the language exchange evenings to practice your Spanish or French.

Nearby: Kiosko Las Velas, just a short walk from the center, is a popular spot for a quick bite and offers a variety of local street food options.

Paseo de los Artesanos

Paseo de los Artesanos is a lesser-known street fair that takes place on weekends. It's a colorful and lively event where local artists and craftsmakers display their work. Strolling through the fair, you'll encounter everything from handmade jewelry to traditional Bolivian instruments, all while enjoying the festive atmosphere.

Location: Along the Avenida Monseñor Rivero, Santa Cruz de la Sierra. The fair stretches along one of the city's most picturesque boulevards.

Travel Tip: Go in the late afternoon to avoid the heat and stay for the sunset when the fair takes on a magical glow with its lights and live music performances.

Nearby: República is a café and bar on the Avenida Monseñor Rivero, offering a great selection of drinks and a relaxing ambiance to wind down after visiting the fair.

Santa Cruz de la Sierra is a city that truly caters to the needs of digital nomads, offering a wealth of experiences that don't have to cost a cent. Whether you're looking to immerse yourself in local culture, enjoy the great outdoors, or simply find a quiet spot to relax, there's something for everyone in this dynamic Bolivian city.