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Santa Cruz (city, Bolivia)

Santa Cruz (or Santa Cruz de la Sierra) is the capital of the department of Santa Cruz.

Understand
Santa Cruz is the most populous city and heart of the second most populous metropolitan area in Bolivia, and it is considered the most economically prosperous city in the country.

Santa Cruz is a boomtown whose population has increased tenfold in the last 25 years, it is almost in the center of Bolivia and is the capital city of the department of Santa Cruz. It lies at one end of the Death Train's line.

History
For its first 400 years Santa Cruz was very poor and far from potential markets to be able to grow at all. It shares this with the rest of eastern, northern and south eastern Bolivia for most of its history, up until some 50 years ago when a paved road was opened and the possibility of markets opened which summed with some royalties from oil production they also started receiving served as seed to one of the fastest growing cities and economies in the continent. Growth was slow to start but after some 20 years it was spectacular. Today it is difficult to imagine this city and provincial towns of the department for what they really were some 25 or 50 years ago.

Climate
In contrast to La Paz and the other major Bolivian cities located high in the Andes, Santa Cruz lies at an altitude of 416 meters, and its climate is distinctly tropical. Santa Cruz is furrowed by drainage ditches.

During the winter months of July-August, there are occasional periods when strong Southern Winds (Surazos) come from Argentina and bring a cold front accompanied by extreme winds.

Talk
Although, the country´s official language and main language is Spanish, most places (stores specially) will be able to understand Portuguese and English. If they do not speak those languages, they will probably get someone that does. The people are really friendly, they will try their truly best to talk to you if you are a foreigner.

Get in
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.

By bus
There are many bus companies from another cities, like Cochabamba, La Paz, Sucre, Trinidad, that go to Santa Cruz de la Sierra. You can arrive from La Paz in about 18 hours, and it takes about 10 hours from Cochabamba.

To and from the Brazilian border in Corumba/Puerto Quijarro is cheaper and faster (10 hr and tickets from Bs. 40) than the famous death train.

Asunción (Paraguay) – The bus is extremely slow (the Transchaco Highway is only paved as far as the Bolivian border), buses generally travel only at night - meaning that you miss out on any views of the Chaco, and roadblocks on the Bolivian side of the border can cause your journey time to double. There is at least one bus daily. The trip takes 21-24 hr, costs US$40-60 (bargain if you can), and flights might actually only be marginally more expensive, depending on the time of booking. Any intermediate exit or boarding (like Filadelfia or Villamontes) will likely cost the same as the complete trip. But if your nerves are strong, you will get the price down bargaining directly with the bus driver.

A taxi from the bus terminal to the center will cost about Bs. 12.

By train
The "death train" (so named because of its history in transporting Yellow Fever victims) runs on bumpy tracks from Puerto Quijarro, close to Corumbá on the Brazilian side. There is a variety of different trains offering different classes and prices. The journey takes 13-17 hr. The most comfortable option, with cama seats, is the "Ferrobus" (Tu Th Sa) which costs Bs. 235 per person (Jul 2019). Expreso Oriental needs longer, but only costs Bs. 70. Tickets can be purchased days in advance at the station (Terminal Bimodal) or online (ticktsBolivia.com, plus a US$7 fee). Biting insects are plentiful, so get repellent before you go. It's also a good idea to have blankets or a sleeping bag with you in the colder months of June-August.

The railway between Santa Cruz and Puerto Quijarro is operated by Ferroviaria Oriental S.A..

For crossing the border see Puerto Quijarro.

From Corumbá the bus-ride to Sao Paulo takes about another 24 hr.

By plane

 * Getting there/away: To get into downtown Santa Cruz from the airport you have two options. The first is to take a taxi that will charge you approximately Bs. 50. This is probably the easiest and most comfortable way to get into town. Make sure to ask the driver the fare since there is not a sign with prices to different parts of the city. If you are on a tight budget the second option is a "micro" or mini-bus that waits outside the front doors of the airport that leaves every 20 min, the fare for the bus is Bs. 6.50. There is an additional surcharge of Bs. 4 for the buses that depart after 22:00. This bus follows the Cristo Redentor Avenue and then along the First Ring where it stops near the former bus terminal. To get to the main plaza, ask the driver to let you off at Libertad and Primer Anillo (First Ring). From there, it is about a seven-block walk.
 * Getting there/away: To get into downtown Santa Cruz from the airport you have two options. The first is to take a taxi that will charge you approximately Bs. 50. This is probably the easiest and most comfortable way to get into town. Make sure to ask the driver the fare since there is not a sign with prices to different parts of the city. If you are on a tight budget the second option is a "micro" or mini-bus that waits outside the front doors of the airport that leaves every 20 min, the fare for the bus is Bs. 6.50. There is an additional surcharge of Bs. 4 for the buses that depart after 22:00. This bus follows the Cristo Redentor Avenue and then along the First Ring where it stops near the former bus terminal. To get to the main plaza, ask the driver to let you off at Libertad and Primer Anillo (First Ring). From there, it is about a seven-block walk.

 * Getting there/away: Trompillo is very close to the city center, and is thus a cheaper taxi ride. Micros also pass by the airport, exit the departure hall and walk down the road to the right until you reach an intersection. Cross the street and wait for Micro 40 or 42. The information counter in the airport provides helpful information and distributes free maps.
 * Getting there/away: Trompillo is very close to the city center, and is thus a cheaper taxi ride. Micros also pass by the airport, exit the departure hall and walk down the road to the right until you reach an intersection. Cross the street and wait for Micro 40 or 42. The information counter in the airport provides helpful information and distributes free maps.

About Bolivian airlines and flying within Bolivia: Bolivia

By bus
Micros 17 and 18 travel the first ring, Micros 72 and 73 travel the second ring. To get to the center from Parque Urbano take Micro 69 or 100. You can pick up a map of all the bus routes from many "librerias" or bookstores downtown. There is also a great mobile app called Cruzero (both for iOS and Android) which contains route maps of all micros. It can also find you an optimal route if you just select the source and the destination on the city map. There is a website with the same content as well: http://cruzero.net/.

The fare for most micros is Bs. 2, but some of the ones that go further charge more, and the one that goes to the airport charges Bs. 6.

Shared taxis circulate the rings as well, they are called "trufis". Look for the signs on the roof. Faster than Micros and more comfortable because you can actually sit down. The fare for most trufis is Bs. 2.

By taxi
Taxis in Santa Cruz are relatively expensive to other Bolivian cities. Make sure to settle on a price with a driver before heading to your destination. Fares are typically around Bs. 10-15, but if the driver senses you are a tourist they may charge you upwards of Bs. 20-40. Prices to the airport may be between Bs. 60-90.

Uber has been operating in Santa Cruz. Fares are very competitive with radio taxis or taxis hailed from the street with cars generally in good condition with air conditioning. Option to pay in cash also available. InDriver is the most common app used in Santa Cruz. You set your own price for a trip and wait until a driver accepts it. You can set a lower rate but may wait longer until someone accepts. Easy Taxi is another app-based service.

See

 * 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. Also, and *very* important: get a "cafe con leche" or "cafe cortadito" from anyone who sells them, especially if you see on their shirts the name "Cafe Marcelino". Best coffee of your life.

Beyond the city
In Santa Cruz you can book some great excursions, like a trekking in Park Amboro, Noel Kempff, a river boat trip in the Amazon region, cultural excursions to the Jesuit Missions etc.

Do

 * Biocentro & Resort Güembé. Nature park with a big aviary, butterfly conservatory, monkey island, monkey enclosure and some other animals. There are also a few swimming pools and a restaurant. It's a few km out of Santa Cruz, but there is a shuttle bus from Ventura Mall going there every day at 10.00, 11.00, 12.00 and 13.00 (as of April 2018). Single fare Bs. 10. The bus stops at Cuarto Anillo street just in front of the mall. The stop is not signposted, but the bus has some Güembé labels on it. There are also return buses at 14.30 and 16.45. Entrance fee to the park is Bs. 140 which is a bit pricey for the value you get, but having said that the aviary is really nice and the whole area is really well-maintained.
 * Biocentro & Resort Güembé. Nature park with a big aviary, butterfly conservatory, monkey island, monkey enclosure and some other animals. There are also a few swimming pools and a restaurant. It's a few km out of Santa Cruz, but there is a shuttle bus from Ventura Mall going there every day at 10.00, 11.00, 12.00 and 13.00 (as of April 2018). Single fare Bs. 10. The bus stops at Cuarto Anillo street just in front of the mall. The stop is not signposted, but the bus has some Güembé labels on it. There are also return buses at 14.30 and 16.45. Entrance fee to the park is Bs. 140 which is a bit pricey for the value you get, but having said that the aviary is really nice and the whole area is really well-maintained.
 * Biocentro & Resort Güembé. Nature park with a big aviary, butterfly conservatory, monkey island, monkey enclosure and some other animals. There are also a few swimming pools and a restaurant. It's a few km out of Santa Cruz, but there is a shuttle bus from Ventura Mall going there every day at 10.00, 11.00, 12.00 and 13.00 (as of April 2018). Single fare Bs. 10. The bus stops at Cuarto Anillo street just in front of the mall. The stop is not signposted, but the bus has some Güembé labels on it. There are also return buses at 14.30 and 16.45. Entrance fee to the park is Bs. 140 which is a bit pricey for the value you get, but having said that the aviary is really nice and the whole area is really well-maintained.
 * Biocentro & Resort Güembé. Nature park with a big aviary, butterfly conservatory, monkey island, monkey enclosure and some other animals. There are also a few swimming pools and a restaurant. It's a few km out of Santa Cruz, but there is a shuttle bus from Ventura Mall going there every day at 10.00, 11.00, 12.00 and 13.00 (as of April 2018). Single fare Bs. 10. The bus stops at Cuarto Anillo street just in front of the mall. The stop is not signposted, but the bus has some Güembé labels on it. There are also return buses at 14.30 and 16.45. Entrance fee to the park is Bs. 140 which is a bit pricey for the value you get, but having said that the aviary is really nice and the whole area is really well-maintained.

Events

 * FEXPOCRUZ - Feria Exposicion de Santa Cruz / Exposition fairs
 * Gobierno Municipal de Santa Cruz de la Sierra / City hall - general tourism information
 * Gobierno Departamental de Santa Cruz / Local government - general tourism information available

Learn
Santa Cruz hosts one of the most famous soccer academy in the world. "Academia de Futbol Tahuichi Aguilera". Their unique and original way of training young soccer players to become professionals in the future. They train in rivers and ran through mountains of sand. Young players from all over the world come to this academy to experience its training method.

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.

 * Capri – Many locations including Avenida Monseñor Rivero and Avenida Melchor Pinto. Excellent pizzeria with Italian-style pizza. Owned by an Argentinian of Italian descent. Pizzas cost around Bs. 50 each and are large enough to share between two people.
 * Empanaderia Las Charcas – On Avenida Melchor Pinto, one of the best empanaderias in the centre. They are fried while you wait and cost Bs. 6 or 7 each depending on the filling (the Lechón, or suckling pig, filling is one of the richest).
 * Papa Jack – A very impressive restaurant located in an ally near Avenida Monseñor Rivero. It is very clean and modern, and has many types of food in it (their definition -casual restaurant). The prices around Bs. 50 per person.
 * Picolo's – One of the local favorites. There, you can get some of the best ice cream in Santa Cruz. Look for the small Jesus statute on your tourist maps, most of them are in the Avenida Monseñór Rivero.
 * Casa del Camba – On the second ring, Tel: 342-7864. Excellent outdoor style restaurant with option to eat indoors as well. Has live music and dance floor with a traditional Santa Cruz atmosphere. Very good service, clean and reasonably priced. Friday and Saturdays are busy it can handle a lot of people.
 * Michelango's – Calle Warnes and Chuquisaca. Serves excellent Italian style food in a great atmosphere.
 * The Irish Pub – In the main plaza is a great place for meeting other tourists, locals, watching sports on TV and enjoying good food, beer, music and a cozy atmosphere. Service is slow but there is a pleasant terrace that has a good view of the main plaza. Does not have Guinness or any beer other than the usual lagers.
 * Another good tip for small snacks and eating are the Cafeterias, Cake and Ice stores in the Avenida Ayacucho (more or less the corner España) - Dumbo is quite good.
 * Another good tip for small snacks and eating are the Cafeterias, Cake and Ice stores in the Avenida Ayacucho (more or less the corner España) - Dumbo is quite good.

Quarters

 * Equipetrol – this is the neighborhood where all the night life happens! Try any club or disco there.
 * Avenida Busch is a good place to start a longer night. There are several Pubs there and you are still close to the center. If you want some classic Italian cappuccino, espresso, frappuccino or croissant there is the "Espresso del Oriente" Cafe-Pub on Bolivar Street 272 2½ blocks from the main Plaza. A during-the-week runner is the Irish pub at the main Plaza.
 * Av. Monseñor Rivero is a popular boulevard if you want a coffee or a drink.

Buy

 * Supermarkets – 5 main supermarket chain service the population. Prices are generally higher than in the Europe since a great part of the available groceries is imported. Same applies for cosmetics and accessories. IC Norte, Fidalga, Hipermaxi, HiperPlaza and SLAN basically offer the same range of producuts and none is significantly better or cheaper than the other. The Hipermaxi in Av. Banzer has usually freshly baked goods, the Fidalga on the other side of the street is pretty new and has a nice food court.
 * Clothes, furniture, etc. – In this section as well a great deal of the products is imported resulting in a higher price than usual in western countries. Cheaper, second hand articles can be found in the markets of La Ramada or Los Pozos. There are no big stores such as BestBuy or IKEA that offer this kind of secondary need products in a large scale environment.
 * Souvenirs – Although tyipical Bolivian Souvenirs can be found cheaper and in better quality and variety in the Andean region, Santa Cruz offers those as well mainly around the main Plaza 24 de Septiembre. Typically Oriental Bolivian products can be found there as well. A nice alternative is the handicrafts market on Sundays behind the main church in the so called Manzana 1. Accessories store Hevea Bolivia Accessories offers stylish handbags and accessories (you guessed it) in its own workshop made from recycled tire inner tubes. Direction is Calle Nuflo de Chavez #715, almost first ring.
 * Souvenirs – Although tyipical Bolivian Souvenirs can be found cheaper and in better quality and variety in the Andean region, Santa Cruz offers those as well mainly around the main Plaza 24 de Septiembre. Typically Oriental Bolivian products can be found there as well. A nice alternative is the handicrafts market on Sundays behind the main church in the so called Manzana 1. Accessories store Hevea Bolivia Accessories offers stylish handbags and accessories (you guessed it) in its own workshop made from recycled tire inner tubes. Direction is Calle Nuflo de Chavez #715, almost first ring.

Budget
There are some hotels close to the bus terminal which is a bit further away from the center. A large Bolivia hotels and hostels directory is www.boliviahostels.com, they offer accommodation all over the country and you can make reservations for free.

 * Cheaper alojamientos and hospedajes are located across the First Ring Road down smaller streets near Calle Mercado. Rooms here run around Bs. 40-60 for a single without a fan, or Bs. 60-90 for a single with a fan. The area can be a little rough after dark, mostly later at night. It would be recommendable to look for a place to stay here in the daylight.
 * Alojamiento Viajero - basic rooms with hard beds for Bs. 20. Next to the Samaipata Taxi company.
 * Hotel Suecia - double rooms from Bs. 80
 * Residencial 7 de Mayo - double rooms Bs. 60
 * Hotel Bibosi Junín 218, 1 block west of main square. Cheaper rooms are small and dark with only a fan, while more expensive rooms have air con and more light. Includes breakfast, cable TV, WiFi. Singles from $19.
 * Hotel Amazonas Junín 214. It is located in Downtown, Some rooms have balconies, other windows, and for those who want to avoid noise, it has indoor rooms. Includes cable Tv, WiFi, it's a good simple choice. Singles from US$18.
 * Residencial 7 de Mayo, next to the new Bus-Terminal (Ismael Montes/Interradial) - double rooms with shared bathrooms: Bs. 60
 * Hotel Amazonas Junín 214. It is located in Downtown, Some rooms have balconies, other windows, and for those who want to avoid noise, it has indoor rooms. Includes cable Tv, WiFi, it's a good simple choice. Singles from US$18.
 * Residencial 7 de Mayo, next to the new Bus-Terminal (Ismael Montes/Interradial) - double rooms with shared bathrooms: Bs. 60

Mid-range

 * Hotel Copacabana Junín 217, 1 block west of the main plaza. Tel: 336-2770. Across the street from Amazonas and Bibosi. Friendly staff, clean and modern rooms with cable TV and WiFi throughout. Rooms are small, however, and the cheaper ones don't offer much privacy. Rooms with fans start at Bs. 144. for a single. Rooms with AirCon more. Simple continental breakfast included.
 * Hotel Viru Viru - Junín 338, 2 blocks West of main plaza. Tel: 333-5298. A bit run-down, entire place needs sprucing up. Supposedly has WiFi. "Breakfast" included, offerings of which are typically gone by 8:30AM. Most rooms have cable TV and air con. The big selling point of this hotel, however, is the pool - the only hotel in town in this price range to have one. Nice on those stifling hot Santa Cruz days. Singles start at US$25.
 * Senses Boutique Hotel Calle Rene Moreno esq Plaza 24 Septiembre. Claims to be Santa Cruz's only boutique hotel. Overlooks the main plaza and the rooftop bar/restaurant offers a direct view on to the cathedral. Rooftop pool. Decorated in a minimal style. Multi-lingual staff.
 * Senses Boutique Hotel Calle Rene Moreno esq Plaza 24 Septiembre. Claims to be Santa Cruz's only boutique hotel. Overlooks the main plaza and the rooftop bar/restaurant offers a direct view on to the cathedral. Rooftop pool. Decorated in a minimal style. Multi-lingual staff.
 * Senses Boutique Hotel Calle Rene Moreno esq Plaza 24 Septiembre. Claims to be Santa Cruz's only boutique hotel. Overlooks the main plaza and the rooftop bar/restaurant offers a direct view on to the cathedral. Rooftop pool. Decorated in a minimal style. Multi-lingual staff.

If you have a layover in Viru Viru, you can rent a room in the airport if you want to take a nap or if you get in late and have an early flight the next morning. It's called en-kma and is a small dorm style room with wi-fi, bed, mini-fridge, tv, and air conditioning. It's US$10/hour but if you stay longer, they will give you a discount. It's surprisingly very clean and more comfortable than expected.

Stay safe

 * Do not go beyond the fourth ring "El Cuarto Anillo" alone with or without a car.
 * Do not participate in political demonstrations before finding out more.
 * One very positive thing about Santa Cruz is that it is mostly dog-free.

Consulates
🇺🇸 United States

Connect
Most hostels and upper hotels have proper WiFi.

A good internet cafe is at the corner of Avenida Cañoto and Buenos Aires. Its hyperfast, air conditioned and cheap.

Cheap call centers can be found everywhere in the city. Tel Viva use communication over the internet and charge Bs. 0.50/minute.

Bolivia

 * Samaipata – A small town in the mountains 2 hr away, old and beautiful. It has El Fuerte ruins and other attractions. Shared taxis leave from:
 * Expresso Samaipata (Av. Omar Chavez Ortiz 1147 esquina Soliz de Olguin - Tel. 333-5067). From the terminal take the bus number 8 to get there. They leave with at least 4 passengers, Bs 30. Takes 3 hr.
 * El Fuerte (2do Anillo Av. Grgota esq. Aruma - Tel. 359-8958). Bs. 25.

 * Cotoca – A little town 40 min away from Santa Cruz, extremely old and filled with culture. Features an interesting Sunday market. Also, in the treetops of the plaza you can find a handful of just sitting around and barely moving sloths, if you are able to spot them—if not, ask the locals. (Bring a zoom camera!)
 * Buena Vista – A little colonial town 2.5-3 hr away town with tropical climate and filled with culture / beautiful. Enjoy the fish there served on a plate, which seems to be popular.
 * San Javier – A little colonial Jesuit town 3.5 hr away with semi tropical climate and filled with culture baroque music and old cattle ranches.
 * Concepción – Another little colonial Jesuit town 4.5 hr away with semi tropical climate and filled with culture (spectacular church) and baroque music.
 * Sucre – Constitutional capital of Bolivia, white and beautiful city with relaxed atmosphere, has interesting surroundings. There are overnight buses (cama) from Terminal Bimodal (i.e. leave at 16:00 and cost 160 Bs.) on mainly bumpy roads. The ride at night may be cold, so prepare some warm clothes. Buses stop at Samaipata (though tourist info people in Terminal Bimodal may say otherwise).

Beyond

 * Asunción, Paraguay – There are buses, and the trip takes around 23 hr. Daily departures in the evening from the Nuevo Terminal. US$40-50 for a bus including food (bargain as much as you can). The travel agencies will not hesitate to lie to sell you a ticket and an old seat will become a "cama". Expect 15 to 18 police checks on the way, especially in Paraguay. The road through the Chaco is quite good, but the trip is very long.
 * Corumbá, Brazil – Take the famous Death Train to the Brazilian border and from there head west into Brazil or south into Paraguay. See Get in (By train) for more details.

title: Santa Cruz (city, Bolivia)


text:
Santa Cruz (department, Bolivia)

Santa Cruz department is in the Tropical Lowlands of Bolivia, and is the largest in the country.

Cities

 * – The capital.
 * – A little and beautiful colonial town, 2.5 hr away from Santa Cruz city with tropical climate and filled with culture. Enjoy the fish there served on a plate, which seems to be popular.
 * – A little town 40 min away from Santa Cruz, extremely old and filled with culture. Features an interesting Sunday market. Also, in the treetops of the plaza you can find a handful of just sitting around and barely moving sloths, if you are able to spot them—if not, ask the locals. (Bring a zoom camera!)
 * / Puerto Quijarro – On the border with Brazil.
 * – 2.5 hr east of Santa Cruz with heavenly climate, El Fuerte and lots of other things.
 * – 2.5 hr east of Santa Cruz with heavenly climate, El Fuerte and lots of other things.

Understand
Santa Cruz is in the lowlands at the east of the country. This department concentrates 27% of the country´s population, several of the major universities of Bolivia and is responsible for over 30% of the country wealth production, forty something percent of the national taxes. Its population is variate, some 40% of its inhabitants were born elsewhere (mainly in the rest of the Bolivian departments). They seek what more of what they call "Autonomia" which means autonomy and intends to separate more functions from the central government in a way similar to Spain government system, more independent and locally managed. In this country like many others of South America, citizens have to support the burden of time and cost of doing most bureaucratic administrative procedures from far away from La Paz in a corrupt and inefficient system.

History
When the Spaniards originally arrived to these lands, they came from Paraguay and Argentina. The local indigenous peoples came from two lines, or as they are called Tupi-Guarani. The first, the Tupi originally came from the Caribbean through the Amazon jungle down to these latitudes. The Guarani´s came here down the Atlantic coast through what today is Brazil and Argentina, and upriver from there. They were the original humans in this region and they had gone well into the lower Andes. Nowadays it is only possible to find possible reminders of the onetime greatness of this two cultures in Moxos (Beni department) or in southern Bolivia or northern Argentina and it requires investigation because little is known and they are not part of touristic routes.

The blend of these three and other latecomers are the local native population, they call themselves "Camba or Cambas". These people are mostly of peasant origin that dedicated itself to farming related activities, this still is the main department´s activity. Today, with the migrations of this last quarter century these people are maybe around one half of the local population. One interesting characteristic of this region is that most of the more recently arrived inhabitants have integrated fairly well. Obviously there are exceptions to this. Being a land with so many bloods, sympathy and tolerance to outsiders is fairly high by any standard.

One interesting characteristic of the "Cruceños" or people from Santa Cruz is that apparently they prefer not having to work in public services (Government, armed forces, police, diplomatic services, church, others) and as someone said, they don´t migrate, they just move around. This probably explains why of some 100 Bolivian presidents in almost two centuries, only three were from Santa Cruz department. And all three were military, which is a factor that changes people through doctrines embedded into its members during their careers.

One very interesting testimony of this history can be downloaded (in Spanish for free) from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). The document is called Informe de Desarrollo Humano de Santa Cruz and the first chapter relates the history of Santa Cruz in this last half of the 20th century.

By bus
Mostly Santa Cruz city will be your transfer hub.

If you are coming in from Argentina or Paraguay, you will have to come in by highway (bus or other), information is available in any major city´s bus station.

By plane
Direct airplane flights are available to and from Santa Cruz city's Viru Viru International Airport and El Trompillo Airport.

By train
If you are coming from Brazil, you can take the Tren de la Muerte or Death Train. (The name does not reflect the degree of safety of the train, but rather how many people died building the railroad along this route.) So, if you are in Corumbá, a Brazilian border city, you just have to cross the frontier, take a taxi to the train station in Bolivia (they don't accept Brazilian taxi drivers there) and go to the train station. Depending on the class of train you want to take, it will take a different time to get to Santa Cruz city.

Also, trains are occasionally available from the Argentine border.

By boat
You can get in but slow and authentic cargo boat from the Beni department—read there for more details.

Get around
There are numerous minibuses if not buses from Santa Cruz city into all directions. Ask the locals, they will know best where to find the bus stations, especially for the minibuses.

See

 * Jesuit Missions of the Chiquitos

Do

 * Rent a boat or in, or take a cargo ferry in  and go down the river  or even further into the Amazon region. Stack enough food, and bring chlorine tablets for clean water and mosquito net. See the Beni department for all the details.

Events
Depending the time of the year, there are other seasonal activities. Most are concentrated around the capital city of Santa Cruz, but many are in the provincial towns, which usually are fairly easy to reach. These include baroque music, theatre, orchids, and other festivals, international commercial fairs, music concerts, sports competitions and more. Depending on ones interests some addresses which might be useful to search in are:

 * APAC - Asociacion Pro Arte y Cultura / Music and theater festivals (In English available)
 * CEPAD -Centro para la Participación y Desarrollo Humano Sostenible / Orchid festival

Stay safe
Do not participate in political demonstrations before finding out more.

In the case of civic or political struggles or events, locals are usually peaceful and don´t mind foreigners. Peaceful rallies are truly a party and safe, this is how these people are. Violent ones should be avoided, although foreigners normally having fairer skin and/or different clothing than any of the locals are easily identifiable by them and are usually left alone.

These last two comments do not apply to Bolivia as a whole, there are many towns and areas of the country with less mixed and more closed societies that react differently to outsiders or foreigners.

license: Creative Commons - Attribution Share-Alike - https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/

title: Santa Cruz (department, Bolivia)


text:
Santa Cruz (Galapagos)

Santa Cruz is the most important (although not the largest) island in the Galapagos Islands archipelago, in Ecuador. It contains the largest town in the Galapagos Islands, Puerto Ayora, which is the only location on the island with tourist infrastructure, on the southern side of the island, and is connected by road and ferry to the airport on Baltra Island. It is also home to the Galapagos National Park administration, the Darwin Foundation, and the Charles Darwin Research Station.

Understand
Due to the central location of Santa Cruz in the archipelago, Puerto Ayora makes the best base for those wishing to visit the Galapagos while staying onshore. Although it is a small town, it has the best infrastructure in the Galapagos with the largest number of hotels and restaurants, as well as shopping and supplies. Services include grocery stores, pharmacies, hardware stores, boat supplies, a small hospital and a hyperbaric chamber.

History
European and American interest in the Galapagos was stimulated by the publication of William Beebe's book Galapagos: World's End in 1924. This book inspired the beginnings of the eco-tourism that today dominates the Galapagos economy. Tourism began, however, as only a trickle (one of those early tourists was U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt, who visited the islands in 1938). There was also a trickle of Europeans immigration to the Galapagos around this time. The largest group was 60 Norwegians, persuaded to settle on Floreana in 1927 by several young journalists and a whaler who had written about the Galapagos. Floreana turned out to be anything but the paradise the promoters promised, as the colonists came to realize after the promoters left. Most managed to survive for a difficult year or two there. Some of the survivors eventually returned to Norway, others moved to the settlement on San Cristobal, and others settled on Academy Bay on Santa Cruz, joining another group of Norwegians that had set up a cannery there the year before. Within a few years, most of the colonists left as well, but a few remained. A few years later, other Norwegians came to Santa Cruz, as well as a sprinkling of others from Europe, America, and Ecuador, all seeking a simpler life. Among them were the four Angermeyer brothers from Germany, who settled on Santa Cruz in 1935. Their descendants still live there and operate touring yachts and a hotel in Puerto Ayora.

Towns
The island is administrated as a single municipality, but contains several towns:
 * - largest town in on the island and the only one with major tourist accommodation
 * - at the center of the island
 * - near Puerto Ayora
 * - very small

By plane
Access to Santa Cruz is almost exclusively by air, with planes landing at the on the small nearby island of Baltra.

Inter-island flights are available from EMETEBE Airlines, which operates nine seater aircraft to transport passengers and their luggage from San Cristobal Airport to Isabela, Santa Cruz and Baltra islands. Bookings can be done directly through EMETEBE's website or a travel agent.

As of Nov 2022, upon exiting the Baltra airport, board a bus to the Itabaca channel for US$5 (you buy the ticket in a booth in front of the bus stop). Proceed on a ferry/a smaller water taxi for $1. At the other end of the canal you can ride the bus into town ($5, paid to the bus driver) or take a taxi ($25).

For the reverse direction, buses from Puerto Ayora to the channel only leave in the morning (Every 30mins between 7am and 9am). Check locally at the time (at least a day before your flight). If you have an afternoon flight, you'll have to take a private taxi ($25), shared taxi ($9pp) or find alternative transport.

By boat
There is public transportation (operated by Ferry Galapagos) via local speed boats to both San Cristobal and Puerto Villamil on Isabela daily. They leave at 7am and 3pm, the ride takes 2 hours and tends to be rough and noisy ($35.00, Nov 2022). If you suspect you may get seasick then you likely will, so consider taking a seasickness pill. Also the four seats at the end of the boat are less bumpy than the side ones. Some of these boats can have a bathroom, but there are no other services available on them and passengers should carry their own water or snacks.

Private yacht
Many people arrive annually by private yacht as part of a trip around the world. Puerto Ayora and Puerto Baquerizo Moreno are the main ports of entry in the Galapagos - however most sail boats will enter at Puerto Villamil. Boating in the Galapagos is restricted. A non-Ecuadorian vessel arriving from a non-Ecuadorian port may stay up to 20 days in a single port. Arrival fees are approximately $130 plus $3 per tonne for the vessel, plus $110 per person for the Park's pass and island immigration. National Immigration and Customs are about another $50.

A permit to visit the five ports in the Galapagos (Puerto Ayora, Baltra, Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, Puerto Villamil and Puerto Velasco Ibarra) can be obtained by applying in advance with a ship's agent. These permits cost $300 for the vessel, in addition to the fees above. This permit is the only way for an Ecuadorian vessel or a vessel arriving from mainland Ecuador to visit the Galapagos. Licensed Yacht Handling Agencies can assist private vessels secure cruise permits.

Get around

The only paved road on the island is between the Itabaca channel and Puerto Ayora. Busses will transport airport passengers from the ferry to Puerto Ayora and back. There are also white pick-up trucks functioning as collectivo, just wait at one of the parades but they usually won't go further than Santa Rosa. They also double as taxi

Puerto Ayora is small enough to explore by foot. Most tourism is concentrated along the waterfront. White pickup truck taxis operate and can provide transportation around town, into the highlands, or across the island. Water taxis are available at the main dock and can take you to either a waiting boat or the dock on the other side.

Elsewhere on the island

 * Lava Tunnels - the longest (up to 3 km) are on private property off farms near Bellavista or Santa Rosa; count on $5 entry fee. There is a small one 2.5 km out of Puerto Ayora on the road to Baltra which can be visited for free.

Do

 * Snorkeling - good places are Tortuga bay, Punta Estrada beach and Las Grietas.
 * Mountain biking - in Puerto Ayora there are several places to rent mountain bikes. The price is around $15 for a full day.
 * Bay Tour

Scuba diving
Diving in the Galapagos isn't cheap - count on paying at least $150 per dive.

Buy
Ecuador uses the U.S. dollar. Bring bills in smaller denominations. $100 bills are accepted in Ecuador, but only at large businesses or big hotels.

Drink
The water quality in Puerto Ayora is poor so visitors should only use bottled water for drinking and brushing your teeth. This advice comes from the scientists at the Charles Darwin Station which study the water on the island.

Puerto Ayora nightlife is not comparable to many tourist destinations. It is more relaxed. There are several bars and discos where you can go out and have a good time.

Sleep

Accommodation in Puerto Ayora is generally over-priced. There might be a 22% tax added. There are several places which privately rent rooms for $10.

Go next
It is possible to visit the following islands as day tours from Santa Cruz. Puerto Ayora is the best place on the islands to arrange a boat trip. Head out to one of the other islands:
 * Bartolome
 * Daphne
 * Floreana
 * Isabela
 * Mosquera
 * North Seymour
 * Plazas
 * Rabida
 * San Cristobal
 * Santa Fe

title: Santa Cruz (Galapagos)


text:
Santa Cruz (Marinduque)

Santa Cruz is a municipality in the province of Marinduque in the Philippines.

Sleep
Santa Cruz has a number of hotels and resorts available.

title: Santa Cruz (Marinduque)


text:
Santa Cruz County (California)

Santa Cruz County is in California just south of the Bay Area. The north half of Monterey Bay is part of the county. It is the state's second-smallest county by land area, with only San Francisco County occupying a smaller physical area.

Cities

 * - Santa Cruz is best known as a countercultural hub, with a fun bohemian feel and youthful vibe, and weekend tourist attractions like the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, a historic mission, and the dubious Mystery Spot. The beaches north and south of Santa Cruz are considered some of the more pristine areas of natural beauty in central California, and while conditions generally make them impractical for swimming, several are considered an expert surfer's cold, cold paradise.
 * - Santa Cruz is best known as a countercultural hub, with a fun bohemian feel and youthful vibe, and weekend tourist attractions like the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, a historic mission, and the dubious Mystery Spot. The beaches north and south of Santa Cruz are considered some of the more pristine areas of natural beauty in central California, and while conditions generally make them impractical for swimming, several are considered an expert surfer's cold, cold paradise.
 * - Santa Cruz is best known as a countercultural hub, with a fun bohemian feel and youthful vibe, and weekend tourist attractions like the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, a historic mission, and the dubious Mystery Spot. The beaches north and south of Santa Cruz are considered some of the more pristine areas of natural beauty in central California, and while conditions generally make them impractical for swimming, several are considered an expert surfer's cold, cold paradise.
 * - Santa Cruz is best known as a countercultural hub, with a fun bohemian feel and youthful vibe, and weekend tourist attractions like the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, a historic mission, and the dubious Mystery Spot. The beaches north and south of Santa Cruz are considered some of the more pristine areas of natural beauty in central California, and while conditions generally make them impractical for swimming, several are considered an expert surfer's cold, cold paradise.
 * - Santa Cruz is best known as a countercultural hub, with a fun bohemian feel and youthful vibe, and weekend tourist attractions like the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, a historic mission, and the dubious Mystery Spot. The beaches north and south of Santa Cruz are considered some of the more pristine areas of natural beauty in central California, and while conditions generally make them impractical for swimming, several are considered an expert surfer's cold, cold paradise.

Understand
In most of this county, you will be required to pay a 25¢ fee on all disposable cups – even for a cup of water, which would otherwise be free. You can bring your own water bottle, cup, or coffee mug to restaurants to avoid paying this fee.

Get in
Although the Highway 17 bus, which can be booked on Amtrak, connects the main train station in San Jose to downtown Santa Cruz, and the Monterey–Salinas Transit Route 28 connects Watsonville to Salinas and Monterey, most people drive in, following either the Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) along the coast or Highway 17 from San Jose.

Get around
The bus system is the Santa Cruz Metro.

Go next

 * - Located to the north of Santa Cruz County, San Mateo County has a split personality. Its eastern half is a heavily populated urban area, home to Silicon Valley companies, San Francisco International Airport, and all of the hotels, restaurants, malls, and other amenities needed to support a bustling population.  The western half is completely different, offering an amazing escape for those looking to hike among redwoods, or who want to see seabirds, seals and whales while enjoying a drive along the Pacific Coast Highway, or for couples hoping for a romantic getaway in a quiet B&B.
 * - Santa Cruz County's northern neighbor is home to Silicon Valley, headquarters to hundreds of tech companies including giants like Apple, Intel and Hewlett Packard. Visitors will appreciate the massive array of restaurants, museums, and cultural opportunities offered by the huge city of San Jose, while at the other end of the spectrum the tiny town of Gilroy is famous for garlic, with its annual festival attracting over 100,000 garlic lovers.
 * - Southeast of Santa Cruz County, San Benito County is an inland county dominated by the Coast Mountain Range. It is relatively sparsely populated, with only about 55,000 inhabitants.  Pinnacles National Park and its dramatic rock formations lies in this county, as well as the town of San Juan Bautista and its historic mission.
 * - Located south of Santa Cruz County, Monterey County is what many people think of when they think of the Central Coast - the Monterey Bay Aquarium, the beautiful 17-Mile Drive, Cannery Row, Pebble Beach golf course, and the rugged beauty of Big Sur. The northern part of the county contains every manner of amenity for travelers, ranging from chain motels to five star resorts, while the southern portion of the county is remote and accessible mainly by the Pacific Coast Highway or on foot by hikers.

title: Santa Cruz County (California)


text:
Santa Cruz de Mompox

Santa Cruz de Mompox (also known as Mompox or Mompós) is a city and a UNESCO World Heritage site in Bolívar, Colombia.

Understand
Mompox (often spelt Mompós) is a friendly, sleepy town on an island on the Magdalena River, which thrived during colonial times as it was the main resting port for ships travelling up the Magdalena from Cartagena to Honda. It has beautiful colonial architecture which rivals Villa de Leyva’s. The historic centre of Mompox was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995.

Mompox used to be isolated on an island in the Magdalena river and was only accessible by ferry, but since March 2020 a set of bridges around 12 kilometres long (called the Reconciliación bridge) now span the Magdalena, reducing travel time from the Caribbean coast by some 3 hours. This means that by far the best way to travel to Mompox is by road from Cartagena or Santa Marta. Nevertheless, it is not on the usual backpacker route, and most Colombian tourism is concentrated around religious festivals, Christmas and Holy Week in particular. Outside of these periods, prices for accommodation are reasonable, and the town still feels like a hidden gem.

You should plan to stay overnight for at least one night, ideally more. It is a town for relaxed strolling along the pedestrianized river-front, for taking a river tour along the Magdalena, and for drinking in the sleepy, sultry atmosphere. The climate throughout the Magdalena Medio valley is hot and humid, so accommodation with air conditioning is highly recommended. Also bring insect repellent, as the river is rich with highly diverse insect life. While most don't bite, they can be annoying through their sheer numbers if they land on you, especially at dusk.

Get in
Please note that because Mompox is now connected to the Ruta del Sol highway by the new Reconciliación Bridge (a sight in its own right), some of the travel information below is now of date, and travel times are much shorter.

 * From/to Valledupar or Maicao, there are some early morning buses which take the ferry straight to Mompox with Cotracegua (6 hours from Valledupar, COP$30,000).
 * From/to Medellin, you need to travel to Magangué via Sincelejo. Then take a chalupa across the river, and take the short trip to Mompox.
 * From/to Cartagena, you can catch the Unitransco bus that come directly from Cartagena to Mompox and includes the ferry trip or you can opt for a later bus to Magangue and then do the chalupa and taxi combo from there. The Unitransco bus leaves Mompox for Cartagena at around 6am and you need to confirm the day before if indeed it is leaving at all!
 * From/to Bogotá and Bucaramanga, the best route is probably via El Banco. Then from El Banco catch a 4x4 to mompox.
 * From/to Santa Marta or Taganga, there is a "puerta-a-puerta" daily shuttle usually leaving at 3AM or 1PM in Taganga and 30 minutes later in Santa Marta. Travel time is anywhere between 7 and 12 hours depending on weather, traffic and number of people to pick up and drop off. In Taganga, you can book this shuttle at Casa Felipe or Hostel Moramar. Prices: COP$50,000 (from Santa Marta) - COP$60,000 (from Taganga).

As of 2024, it is no longer possible to go by public boat to Barranquilla.

It’s also possible to fly to Mompox if you have a private plane.

Get around
Mompox is small. Mototaxis take passengers to any point with the town for 600 COP. Note that they may take several passengers to different places at the same time, so they are unlikely to take you directly to your destination.

See
There are various colonial churches, of which the Iglesia de Santa Barbara is probably the most famous as it appears on many representative photos of Mompox. It is unusual in that it has a Moorish-style tower with a balcony. Most of the churches only open for mass, which is unfortunate. The best time to take photos of most of the churches is in the morning, as their facades are not in the shade.

Walk around the streets of the colonial center and along the river front, which are all very beautiful. If it’s too hot, you can arrange an hour’s tour of Mompox on a mototaxi (COP$10,000); it’s also a good way to get your bearings and if you’re lucky, learn some of the local history.

 * There's a museum on the Calle Real del Medio.
 * The former botanical gardens are now permanently closed due to lack of funding. Information is retained here for historical reasons, or in case you can persuade someone to show you round! The botanical gardens appear, at first sight, to be rather unkept and overgrown. The principal reason to visit this place may be to talk to the guide, Don Ernesto, who resembles a living encyclopedia with his extensive knowledge about all the plants and trees in the garden, including their medicinal properties. Although this man has never received a formal education he is extremely knowledgeable in general. Sadly, the future of the botanic garden seems to be uncertain, as the local council are not supporting it, and the owners are considering selling it as they cannot afford to keep it running.
 * It is possible to go on tour to the Cienaga del Pijiño if you are interested in seeing wildlife such as birds and reptiles. These tours can be arranged by calling at “La Cuarta” hotel and talking to a guy named Chipi.

Do

 * Stroll along the pedestrianized river front, stopping at the many local cafés.
 * Poem by Candelario Obeso, Mompox, Colombia.jpg the many local placards with historical information about the colonial houses and famous visitors (such as the Liberator Simón Bolívar).
 * Strike up conversations on the street with the friendly locals, and they may let you peek into their Colonial mansions.
 * Swim at hotel Doña Manuela for a small fee.
 * Climb the water tower for a small fee.
 * Take a lancha on the river for a small fee.
 * Rent a bike and tour the town.
 * Take a city tour and be sure to visit the cemetery.

Buy
Try the local wine at ViniMompox (Cra 3 No. 20-34), where they sell various wines made of banana, guayaba, Spanish lime, orange and tamarindo.

Buy silver jewellery at various workshops around the Calle Real del Medio. Gold jewellery is also produced, but is less common.

Eat

 * Mompos has plenty of informal eateries catering to appetites of all sorts with local delights but be very picky about the chosen venue ensuring minimum sanitary standards are met.
 * The newly opened Mompoj Restaurant located at Bioma Boutique Hotel serves reasonable fusion dishes and the bar offers a variety of exotic cocktails. Service is not great and it is the priciest place in town.
 * Walking upriver two blocks from the Santa Barbara church you can find El Fuerte, where Austrian chef Walter, prepares stone-baked pizzas and homemade pasta in his eclectic bar.

Drink
The so-called “Zona Rosa” has several bars along the riverfront, quite a pleasant place to have a drink in the evening. The bar at Bioma Boutique Hotel offers a nice selection of exotic cocktails and natural juices guaranteed to quench your thirst, delight your taste buds and get you in the mood for further enjoyment.

Sleep
All the prices quoted here increase substantially during the Christmas vacation and Holy Week. Mompox is hot, and you may want to consider staying in a room with air conditioning.

 * The mid-range hotels which are set in colonial buildings are Hotel La Cassona at Cra 2 No. 18-58, Tel. (095) 685 5307 which costs COP$22,000 for a double with a fan, COP$35,000 for air-conditioning, and Casa Hotel San Andrés at Cra 2 No. 18-23, Tel. (095) 685 5886 which costs COP$35,000 COP for a double with a fan, and COP$50,000 with air-conditioning.
 * The mid-range hotels which are set in colonial buildings are Hotel La Cassona at Cra 2 No. 18-58, Tel. (095) 685 5307 which costs COP$22,000 for a double with a fan, COP$35,000 for air-conditioning, and Casa Hotel San Andrés at Cra 2 No. 18-23, Tel. (095) 685 5886 which costs COP$35,000 COP for a double with a fan, and COP$50,000 with air-conditioning.
 * The mid-range hotels which are set in colonial buildings are Hotel La Cassona at Cra 2 No. 18-58, Tel. (095) 685 5307 which costs COP$22,000 for a double with a fan, COP$35,000 for air-conditioning, and Casa Hotel San Andrés at Cra 2 No. 18-23, Tel. (095) 685 5886 which costs COP$35,000 COP for a double with a fan, and COP$50,000 with air-conditioning.
 * The mid-range hotels which are set in colonial buildings are Hotel La Cassona at Cra 2 No. 18-58, Tel. (095) 685 5307 which costs COP$22,000 for a double with a fan, COP$35,000 for air-conditioning, and Casa Hotel San Andrés at Cra 2 No. 18-23, Tel. (095) 685 5886 which costs COP$35,000 COP for a double with a fan, and COP$50,000 with air-conditioning.

Go next

 * The route to (around 1.5 hours by car) is highly scenic, crossing large stretches of the ecologically important Ciénaga wetlands thanks to the Reconciliación suspension bridges.
 * From Magangué, continue on to . In total, Cartagena is now a 5-6 hours' drive from Mompox, via Magangué and the Ruta Caribe.

title: Santa Cruz de Mompox


text:
Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Santa Cruz de Tenerife is the capital and largest city of Tenerife. It's also the capital city of the Canary Islands, together with Las Palmas.

Understand
Santa Cruz de Tenerife is at the eastern tip of the island of Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Island chain. The municipal borough covers an area of 150 km² and it is divided into two areas: the Anaga Massif and the southern ramp formed by the lava flows that run down from the Acentejo peak to the coast. The city's population was 205,000 in 2018.

History
From the beginning, the economic nucleus of the city centred on the port. The first wharf, constructed in 1548, was by the beach of Añazo, later destroyed in a storm. The bay of Santa Cruz was appreciated by navigators due to its natural advantages and that turned it into a food supply centre for the ships that sailed for the New World.

At the end of the 15th century a heterogeneous society began to form. The first settlements were near the castle of San Cristóbal, a fortification that protected the small town. New defensive castles were constructed along the coastal areas because the people of Santa Cruz had to defend themselves from frequent attacks by privateers and berberiscos pirates, Gallic and English. It fell to the British Navy, commanded by Admiral Nelson, on 25 July 1797.

By plane
There are two different airports in Tenerife.

The  (Aeropuerto de Tenerife Sur) is about 60 km away from Santa Cruz, in the south of Tenerife. It's open 24 hours a day with almost 9 million passengers every year.

The other airport is  (Aeropuerto de Tenerife Norte), closer to the capital, receives island, national flights, and international flights.

Getting there

 * By taxi: A fare from Tenerife North Airport to Santa Cruz is €15, from Tenerife South Airport - €60.
 * By bus: Bus lines 102, 108, and 109 go from Tenerife North Airport to Santa Cruz (€2.65 as of Jan 2018). Line 111 goes from Tenerife South Airport to Santa Cruz (just under €10.00 as of Feb 2022). The company operating these routes is Titsa, times and fares can be checked on its website. Note that some 111 buses run express and take ~50 minutes to Santa Cruz and some are all-stops and take ~90 minutes. Don't get caught out by getting an express bus to Santa Cruz and assuming the bus back to the airport will be just as fast!

By bus
There are lots of buses coming from other cities of Tenerife island. Routes and times can be checked on Titsa's website.

The Titsa website is terribly difficult to use unless you are already familiar with the island, and Google Play doesn't let you download the Android app unless your phone's region is set to Spain. A good alternative is to use Google Maps. Simply tap on the bus stop you want to go from and it will display a list of all upcoming buses and their times and destinations. This doesn't work in all Intercambrios (bus interchanges) however.

By car
The highways TF-1 (Tenerife Sur) and TF-2 (Tenerife Norte) meet south of Santa Cruz, making the capital well connected by the road network. Traffic may be an issue, and finding a parking spot can be a challenge before noon. The Meridiano shopping centre has a large, free underground parking that's open from 09:00 until 01:30.

By boat
The Port of Santa Cruz de Tenerife has become one of the main ports of the country. You can arrive at the city on a ferry that connects Santa Cruz de Tenerife with Cadiz, on the mainland, but the trip takes two days, the company that operates this route is Acciona Transmediterranea.

Another possible destination is nearby island of Gran Canaria. Transmediterranea company runs ferries to Las Palmas (3 times a day, €35, 3 hours). Fred Olsen has ferries to Agaete - small town on the western coast of Gran Canaria (almost every 2 hours, €31, 50 minutes).

By bus
Fairly cheap and fairly regular. The local company has a website in Spanish and English, but you're probably better off using google maps or a similar app to plan trips.

Better prices if you have either a ten+ card, which can be purchased at the bus terminal, from a tobacco shop or a tram station; or the ten+ app (Android and iPhone, requires you to scan the QR code in the bus with the app and show it to the driver). Daily and weekly tickets allow for unlimited travels in every bus line in the island, but are only worth it if you're planning to take intercity buses.

By tram
Line 1 starts from the bus terminal and connects Santa Cruz with La Laguna, though it's slower than bus 15 if you're planning to travel the whole line. Paid with the same methods as buses (see above), but sometimes slightly more expensive.

By car
Driving is very fast or very slow with little in-between. Streets can be very narrow. Parking is hard in the centre unless you're willing to pay for private parking. More useful in the outskirts or if you're planning to go outside the cities.

See
One of the capitals of the Canary Islands, Santa Cruz de Tenerife is a modern city with a rich colonial history. It has a variety of historic and modern architecture, parks, and museums for travellers to discover.

Do

 * There are a number of museums. A good history museum is five minutes' walk from the bus station, where Bus 14 stops. An art gallery in town and a small planetarium/science centre on the way to La Laguna (Bus 14 passes it). A Bono bus card not only entitles you to cheap travel on TITSA buses, but also cut-rate museum entrance. Large Sunday market near the bus station.
 * Football: CD Tenerife play soccer in Segunda División, Spain's second tier. Their home ground Estadio Heliodoro Rodríguez López (capacity 22,800) is just east of Av Reyes Catolicos. The women's team UGD Tenerife play in Liga F (their top tier) at Granadilla de Abona, the far end of the island.

Buy
There are two El Corte Ingles department stores selling pretty much everything, as well as various shopping complexes on the outskirts. The main market is well worth a visit, although it is not aimed at the tourists - great fruit, veg, flowers, etc. There is a flea market on a Sunday near the bus station, if you're short of fleas. Some electrical tourist tat near the main square, which are probably best avoided.

If you're on holiday though, there's more to life than shopping. Why not stroll around the beautiful park up by the Rambla instead?

Eat
Canaries food, Spanish food and inevitably, fast food. Most places are good value, but one or two tourist traps near the port. Plenty of good fish, although a dictionary may be helpful.

Budget
All these are in the city centre:

Drink
There are only a few bars, with a few local people in them.

Connect
As of June 2022, Santa Cruz has 4G from MasMovil/Yoigo, and 5G from Movistar, Orange and Vodafone.

title: Santa Cruz de Tenerife


text:
Santa Cruz Islands

The Santa Cruz Islands are part of the Solomon Islands.

Understand
The Santa Cruz Islands were visited by Álvaro de Mendaña de Neira in 1595, the first explorer to sight them during his expedition.

They lie approximately 400 km to the southeast of the Solomon Islands archipelago. The Santa Cruz Islands lie just north of the archipelago of Vanuatu

Islands

 * Nendö — the largest of the islands, with a population over 5,000. Lata is the largest town.
 * Vanikoro — population 1,300, which is actually two islands, Banie and its small neighbour Teanu. The inhabitants of Vanikoro consist of two different populations, who tend to live separately. The Melanesian majority, about 800 people, are the descendants of the original population of Vanikoro. A minority of about 500 individuals are of Polynesian descent: they have migrated from the island of Tikopia, an island lying 200 km eastwards, which they identify as their origin. They established their first settlements on Vanikoro about 400 years ago on the southern coast of Banie. The two major villages are Murivai and Taumako Bay.
 * Utupua — population 850. The main villages in the island are: Avita, Malombo, Tanimbili, Apakho and Nembao.

Do
Utupua has a forested path that leads to viewpoints overlooking the coral reef that encloses the island.

title: Santa Cruz Islands


text:
Santa Cruz la Laguna

Santa Cruz la Laguna is a small town on Lake Atitlán in Guatemala.

Get in
From Panajachel or San Pedro you can take a public "taxi" boat to Santa Cruz for 10/20Q per person. They pass by every 30 min or so from 6am to 7pm. Can ask the boat captain to drop you in any hotel you choose. If you prefer a private boat call Lee at Los Elementos to pick you up at the private dock in Pana. Groups up to 6 are Q150 each way, Q15 per person up to 8 people. 53598328. The private boat is also available after hours.

To get the feel of the town the best option is to walk around. The public trail system is extensive and will lead you through many tropical gardens and to hidden waterfalls. One of the most beautiful hikes on the lake is between Santa Cruz and Jaibalito. There is road access, but the road is really only suitable for heavy-duty vehicles. It's far more practical to get there/away by boat. You can stop a public taxi boat any time to go any other town or spot around the lake.

Get around
Walk, walk, walk and enjoy the scenery. You can stop for a swim or at the different cozy hotels and restaurants around this charming little town.

Do

 * Skin Diving Rentals at La Iguana Perdida
 * Nature Preserve nearby
 * Apparently the only town around the lake that offers waterskiing.
 * San Pedro night life a short water taxi ride away but none of the hassle or theft.

Sleep

 * Villa Sumaya, an elegant, yet simple small lake-front hotel near Santa Cruz La Laguna, accessible only by water taxi. The owner has an amazing knack of adding beautiful, subtle touches everywhere you look. The food is great, and there are good vegetarian options. The "Blue Tiger Temple" is a beautiful meeting/yoga room. It's not the cheapest place on the lake, but it's unique and still very reasonable.
 * Villa Sumaya, an elegant, yet simple small lake-front hotel near Santa Cruz La Laguna, accessible only by water taxi. The owner has an amazing knack of adding beautiful, subtle touches everywhere you look. The food is great, and there are good vegetarian options. The "Blue Tiger Temple" is a beautiful meeting/yoga room. It's not the cheapest place on the lake, but it's unique and still very reasonable.
 * Villa Sumaya, an elegant, yet simple small lake-front hotel near Santa Cruz La Laguna, accessible only by water taxi. The owner has an amazing knack of adding beautiful, subtle touches everywhere you look. The food is great, and there are good vegetarian options. The "Blue Tiger Temple" is a beautiful meeting/yoga room. It's not the cheapest place on the lake, but it's unique and still very reasonable.
 * Villa Sumaya, an elegant, yet simple small lake-front hotel near Santa Cruz La Laguna, accessible only by water taxi. The owner has an amazing knack of adding beautiful, subtle touches everywhere you look. The food is great, and there are good vegetarian options. The "Blue Tiger Temple" is a beautiful meeting/yoga room. It's not the cheapest place on the lake, but it's unique and still very reasonable.
 * Villa Sumaya, an elegant, yet simple small lake-front hotel near Santa Cruz La Laguna, accessible only by water taxi. The owner has an amazing knack of adding beautiful, subtle touches everywhere you look. The food is great, and there are good vegetarian options. The "Blue Tiger Temple" is a beautiful meeting/yoga room. It's not the cheapest place on the lake, but it's unique and still very reasonable.
 * Villa Sumaya, an elegant, yet simple small lake-front hotel near Santa Cruz La Laguna, accessible only by water taxi. The owner has an amazing knack of adding beautiful, subtle touches everywhere you look. The food is great, and there are good vegetarian options. The "Blue Tiger Temple" is a beautiful meeting/yoga room. It's not the cheapest place on the lake, but it's unique and still very reasonable.

title: Santa Cruz la Laguna


text:
Santa Elena

There is more than one place called Santa Elena:

Argentina

 * Santa Elena (Argentina)

Belize

 * Santa Elena (Belize)

Costa Rica

 * Santa Elena (Costa Rica)

Ecuador

 * Santa Elena (Ecuador)

Honduras

 * Santa Elena (Honduras)

Guatemala

 * Santa Elena (Guatemala)

Mexico

 * Santa Elena (Campeche)
 * Santa Elena (Chiapas)
 * Santa Elena (Chihuahua)
 * Santa Elena (Coahuila)
 * Santa Elena (Guerrero)
 * Santa Elena (Nuevo León)
 * Santa Elena (Sonora)
 * Santa Elena (Yucatán)
 * Santa Elena (Zacatecas)

Paraguay

 * Santa Elena District (Paraguay)

Philippines

 * Santa Elena (Philippines)

Spain

 * Santa Elena (Spain)

United States of America

 * Santa Elena (Texas)

Venezuela

 * Santa Elena de Uairén

Santa Elena Santa Elena

title: Santa Elena


text:
Santa Elena (Costa Rica)

Santa Elena is a village in Costa Rica on the border between the provinces of Puntarenas and Alajuela. It is a popular base camp for eco travelers and backpackers because it lies next to some spectacular rainforests and rugged mountain hiking areas. Nearby are the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve and the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve as well as the mountains and volcanoes of the Cordillera de Tilaran. Santa Elena provides places to stay, catch a bus, or arrange a tour of nearby natural attractions.

Get in
Santa Elena is a little over 160 km (100 miles) from San Jose Costa Rica. You can get there by bus--they say in 4.5 hours--but it often can take 5 or 6 hours. The cost for bus transport is very little, around US$4. Easier and faster transport is by Interbus which takes 3 hours and costs about $29. Interbus will take you door to door from hotels in San Jose and Santa Elena. There are also buses from Puntarenas, twice a day leaving from across the street from the main bus terminal (2000CRC).

You can also drive, in which case a 4x4 is recommended. If you are coming south along Highway 1 from Liberia, take the turn off to Sardinal (near a gas station), which will give you a paved road until about Guacimal, at which point the road becomes dirt and is quite rough. The views along these roads are stunning. The drive to Santa Elena once you leave Highway 1 will take anywhere from 1 to almost 2 hours depending on your vehicle type and how often you stop to take pictures. Santa Elena has a gas station and a supermarket. The roads in the centre are paved.

Get around
Santa Elena is a very small mountain town located in the cloud forests of Costa Rica. The main part of town is where three roads come together forming a single block triangular center to the town. Everything in Santa Elena can be seen on foot. Busses and taxis queue up along one street for transport to nearby Monteverde and the Monteverde Cloud Forest Preserve. In the center there is also a discotheque, which offers music, a bar, and karaoke. Although it can be a fun time, it is often occupied by drunk locals looking for a good time with female tourists. Fortunately, the town also has a police station with uncomfortable cells for rowdy drunks.

See
Each of these sites has a fee, from about $8 to enter the Ranario and Butterfly gardens, to $35-50 to do the zip line tours.

 * Monteverde Cloud Forest Preserve
 * Monteverde Coffee Coops
 * Children's Rainforest
 * Zip Line tours of Cloud Forest Canopy
 * Ranario (frog pond)
 * Butterfly and insect garden)
 * Orchid garden
 * Sepetorium
 * Cerro Amigos (Free hike just east of town. Starts behind the gas station. Steep hike with a nice view at the top, weather permitting)

Do
A tour operator in Santa Elena described the area as a "giant amusement park", which is not far from the mark. There are many touristy things to do, like zip lines canopy tours, ATV or horseback riding, and many flora and fauna exhibits. As far as touristy towns go, however, Santa Elena feels different, as the activities are all centered around enjoying the natural beauty and diversity of the region, and there generally seems to be a good deal of respect for the environment, due in part to the presence of nearby eco-tourism and sustainability universities.

The main attraction in Santa Elena is of course the cloud forest. You have two basic options here: the Monteverde cloud forest (the classic) and the Santa Elena cloud forest. There are very similar in terms of what you will see and experience, but Santa Elena is cheaper. Monteverde is about $17 to enter per person (about $9 for students), and $17 per person for a guided tour. The guided tours are strongly promoted by the parks, to the extent that they seem to have removed signs describing trees and wildlife to make a guide all the more necessary. That said, the guides really do know what they are doing and talking about. They are adept at spotting wildlife and identifying plants and trees, and discussing the ecosystem, and they will get you close-up views with their telescopes (and even snap pictures for you through the telescope).

In the cloud forests, you will have a decent chance of seeing any of the following, in addition to a wide variety of trees (including the spectacular parasitic fig trees), plants, and fungi.

 * Quetzals, the national bird of Costa Rica
 * White-faced capuchin monkeys
 * Howler monkeys
 * Orange-kneed tarantulas
 * Any of 8-9 species of hummingbird
 * Sloth
 * Pumas do inhabit the forest, but the most you will see are prints

You may also be treated to the far-off howling sound of Wolf Guindon, celebrated conservationist after whom several things in Monteverde are named.

Admission to the parks is good for a full day. Tours generally start early (around 7:30AM) and run for about 3 hours, so you'll be able to do some walking around by yourself after the tour. At Monteverde, you will also be able to enjoy a coffee or espresso (made with locally-produced beans) and sandwich next to the Hummingbird garden.

Buy
There really isn't too much in the way of tourist junk to buy. There is a local super market and many hostels, several places to eat and a bakery.

Eat

 * Kako's Pizza serves pizza, Italian food, and Casados for reasonable (if a bit touristy) prices. Service, while typical Tico service (they take their time!) is friendly and not terribly inefficient. It is located behind the bank, up a driveway. If there is a fútbol match on the TV, the staff can get caught up in that instead of cooking however!
 * M&F Burgers, just below the center of town, serves typical Tico food. The special burger comes on a tortilla, with ham and many interesting toppings not found at McDonald's!  Also, very cheap casados.

 * Chimera - across the road from El Establo hotel. Excellent latin inspired dishes and fancy reasonably priced drinks. The coconut rice, roasted eggplant, yucca fries, and fried plantain are all tasty and all about $3 each.

Sleep

 * Casa Tranquilo is a good budget option, 5 minutes from the centre of Santa Elena. The rooms are clean, nice rustic cabin Dorms or private rooms are available with shared or private bathroom. Free internet and free unlimited breakfast in the shared kitchen area. ~$8-12 per person per night. Staff can book tours and future accommodations.
 * Pension Santa Elena is a good choice for low budget travel in the heart of Santa Elena. The staff is extremely helpful and there is a shared kitchen and the lobby and dining areas are always full of fellow travelers with interesting stories. It is a great jumping-off point for any and all activities in the area.
 * El Establo is in the heart of the touristic zone of Monteverde 7 km from the Santa Elena Rain Forest and 4 km from the Monteverde Cloud Forest. Set in a private 150 acres farm (50 % protected primary forest) adjacent to the Monteverde Reserve.

Go next
Recommended is the Jeep/Boat/Jeep trip to LaFortuna. This trip takes about half a day. Ask at the desk at Pension Santa Elena, they know everything about the area

title: Santa Elena (Costa Rica)


text:
Santa Elena de Uairén

Santa Elena de Uairén is a small frontier town in La Gran Sabana in Venezuela.

It's home to several indigenous groups, and children are educated not only in Spanish but also Pemon, an indigenous language. Its proximity to the border with Brazil makes it a busy trade town... mostly importing products from Brazil, and exporting oil from Venezuela.

Get in
Flights to and from the airport are operated with small Cessna aircraft. Schedules change frequently.

There are very few flights to Santa Elena de Uairén. Rutaca is the only airline that services the town with any regularity from Ciudad Bolívar and Puerto Ordaz. You should contact the airline at the Ciudad Bolívar Airport +58 285 632-4465 / 632-8426 to find out more information about the flights. They should direct you with information on how to book.

Night buses go to Santa Elena from Ciudad Bolivar, Puerto Ordaz, Maturin and Puerto la Cruz in Venezuela and from Boa Vista in Brazil. There is one day bus Puerto Ordaz and Ciudad Bolivar. A few buses travel to/from Caracas (Oriente Terminal) stopping in Cuidad Bolivar. These are semi-cama buses, and take 22 hours to make the journey. Bus companies that do the route are Expresos Los Llanos, Expreso Occidente, and a state owned company with red buses.

If you take a bus please understand that the buses are cold and drivers refuse to raise the temperature. Bus temperatures average around 7ºC (45ºF).

The Boa Vista route is the best connection for those coming from anywhere in Brazil - just one bus leaving from the bus terminal at 07:00. Co-taxis leave from a second bus terminal to Pacaraima (Sep 2013).

Carritos por puesto (co-taxi) from/to the Brazilian border (Pacaraima/"la linea") (Sep 2013).

If you need a stamp for your passport, consider that the Venezuelan Authority is closed from about 12:00-14:00

Get around
Taxis are very cheap. Taxi to the bus station (about half an hour walk): (Sep 2013).

Eat

 * Breakfast: Panaderia Gran Sabana Deli, good sandwiches.

There are many choices around town: Brazilian comida a kilo - not far from the church (Calle Zea). Opens just for lunch at 11:00, so don't be too late.
 * Venezuelan Primero (Calle Perimetral)- atmosphere as in an exclusive Italian restaurant in Europe, good Venezuelan dishes apart from Pollo asado; by far not the cheapest option in town, but absolutely worth it. The nice waiter is a plus!
 * La Frontera (Calle Ikabaru, at Hotel Caribaldi). Combine with a fresh natural juice.

Drink
Excellent coffee in the bakery (Panaderia Gran Sabana Deli, Calle Bolivar), good drinks (longdrinks/juices) in the bar "Goldwasser" (Posada Backpackers).

Go next

 * Mount Roraima – tepuy six (or five) days hiking tour. In case you do not want to go with a tour operator, buy your food and kerosine in Santa Elena and rent/hire the equipment (consisting of tent, kitchen stove, sleeping bag and sleeping mat) and guide (porter) in Paraitepui.
 * Angel Falls – the highest single-drop waterfall in the world (807m)
 * Canaima National Park – a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for it's tepuis, or "table-top" mountains. It's the second largest park in Venezuela.
 * Brazil – the border is about 12 km away, and this is the last place that you can obtain a Brazilian visa, which usually takes 1-3 days. Update: the visa system is now going electronic. Unfortunately they have stopped the manual visa process before the new system is up and running. Until that happens, the only place to get a Brazil visa in Venezuela is in Caracas.
 * Cantarana is a small hamlet about 100 km west of Santa Elena. There are several 4WD collective taxi-jeeps going there every day on an unpaved track (3 hr). You can stay at:

title: Santa Elena de Uairén


text:
Santa Eulària des Riu

Santa Eulària des Riu is a coastal town on the southeastern seaboard of the Spanish island of Ibiza. Home of some of the island's greatest 'fiestas'; like the centuries old 'First Sunday in May' (Catalan: Primer Duimenge d' Mai), and the Easter Procession. It is home to a famous yacht harbour, which is small and surrounded by shops and top-notch restaurants.

Understand

Santa Eulària is the third largest town on the island. It was home to about 36,000 people in 2019.

The town sits next to a wide bay with the promontory of Punta Arabí at the east end of the Bay. Also at the eastern end of the bay is new harbour, mariner called Port Esportiu which is full of restaurants, shops and bars. The town has two beaches which are kept clean and tidy and have gently sloping sands and are ideal for young families.

The 15th-century hill-top fortress church, Puig de Missa overlooks the entire town and bay at the western end of the bay. The hill is dotted with apartments, hotels and private houses, and at night is dotted with the dwellings lights. Just a bit below on the hill there is Can Ros, a "living museum", which will give you an idea of how life was on the island (for centuries) before the tourist boom.

Santa Eulalia has long been home to artists and writers and personalities from around the globe seeking tranquility and anonymity.

Get in
The town is on the designated road PM 810. It is 15 km northeast of Ibiza Town.

By plane
The town is 22 km from Ibiza Airport. See Ibiza Airport for details.

Get around
The town streets run grid like from the ‘Plaça d’Espanya’ with the ‘Carrer Saint Jaume’ running west to east. The ‘Carrer da Sant Vincent’ runs parallel, one street back from ‘Carrer Saint Jaume’ with the western end of ‘Plaça d’Espanya’. This street is pedestrianized and is filled with typical tavernas and restaurants. There are also one or two lively bars.

See

 * At the centre of the town on the Plaça d’Espanya is the Ajuntament (town hall) which is now one of the last historical buildings of the town. The present building, which has been renovated, dates from 1795 and reflects the typical architecture of the period on the island.
 * In front of the Ajuntament is a small square which has a fountain with a stone surround which faces the busy main street, Carrer Saint Jaume. Behind the fountain is a stone monument, erected by the city of Palma, Mallorca to thank and honour the local fishermen who, on 17 January 1913, rescued victims of the shipwrecked steamboat Mallorca which had run aground on a reef near the rocky inlet of Redona at Punta Arabí. The Carrer Saint Jaume is full of stores, banks, bars and restaurants.
 * The Passeig de s’Alamera is an attractive thoroughfare which runs south from the Plaça d’Espanya down to the seafront. This boulevard has a tree-lined central pedestrianised area with gardens. In the summer this shady ‘Ramblas’ is lined with market stalls selling jewellery, sarongs, tie-dye Thai garb and trinkets of all kinds.
 * At the southern end of Passeig de s’Alamera is Santa Eulalia's harbourfront, the Passeig Marítim, with views of the bay. Running in either direction is a paved and landscaped promenade. Below the promenade are the resorts two sandy beaches which have safe designated bathing areas which in the season are patrolled by lifeguards. Behind the promenade the bay is ringed by concrete apartment blocks, some of which have shops, bars, café and restaurants opening on to the promenade.

Buy

 * There are two Hippy Markets which attract large numbers of tourists and locals: Punta Arabi, located in Es Canar runs all day every Wednesday from April through October. Las Dalias, near Sant Carles, runs all day every Saturday, throughout the year. Las Dalias also has a "Night Market" which runs Monday and Tuesday evenings from June through September.
 * There are two Hippy Markets which attract large numbers of tourists and locals: Punta Arabi, located in Es Canar runs all day every Wednesday from April through October. Las Dalias, near Sant Carles, runs all day every Saturday, throughout the year. Las Dalias also has a "Night Market" which runs Monday and Tuesday evenings from June through September.

Eat
Calle San Vicente is a restaurant street of the town.

title: Santa Eulària des Riu


text:
Santa Fe

There's more than one place called Santa Fe.

Argentina

 * Santa Fe (city, Argentina) - capital city of Santa Fe (province, Argentina)
 * Santa Fe (province, Argentina) - a province in Pampas region

Ecuador

 * Santa Fe (Galapagos) - an island in the Galapagos Islands

Mexico

 * Santa Fe - a district of Mexico City

Panama

 * Santa Fe (Panama) - a small town in Veraguas province

United States of America

 * Santa Fe (Florida) - a town in Florida
 * Santa Fe (New Mexico) - capital of the state of New Mexico
 * Santa Fe Trail - historic route between Missouri and the Southwest, treated here as an itinerary

title: Santa Fe


text:
Santa Fe (city, Argentina)

Santa Fe is the capital city of the eponymous province in Argentina. Its riverside bars and nightclubs, chic restaurants, the beauty of the landscape, and the various attractions that tourists enjoy make this a popular region in which to spend holidays. Visitors also come for hunting, fishing, excursions, walks by the river, practising water sports on the River Paraná (18 km away via Nº168 National Road), visiting the Space Observation Centre or the Zoo- Experimental Station of "La Esmeralda" Farm.

Understand
Its population is about 390,000 people, with 650,000 in the metro area (2010). Santa Fe is the commercial and transportation center for a rich agricultural area that produces grain, vegetable oils, and meats. The city is the site of the National Technological University – Santa Fe Regional Faculty, Catholic University of Santa Fe (inaugurated in 1959), and the National University of the Littoral.

Climate
Winters are generally mild, though minimum temperatures can fall below 0 °C (32.0 °F) on cold nights during the winter. Summers are generally hot and humid. During the most extreme heat waves, temperatures have exceeded 45 °C (113.0 °F). Temperatures have exceeded 35 °C (95.0 °F) in every season).

Rainfall can be expected throughout the year though summer is usually the wettest season. Thunderstorms can be intense with frequent lightning, powerful downdraughts and intense precipitation.

Watch out for voracious mosquitoes that will make a meal out of you, especially along brackish retainment pools of water or even the Rio Santa Fe.

Get in
From Buenos Aires (Retiro) there are plenty of bus companies that will take you there. Some of them are FlechaBus, Basa and Pulqui. The trip is 6 hours long or a bit less, so many people travel by night. The last bus in the night leaves from Buenos Aires at 00:30, or from Santa Fe to Buenos Aires at 01:50. Some of the services include meals, most of them have very comfortable seats. Santa Fe's bus terminal, is four streets from the city centre. You will find many bars and fast food restaurants. There are personal pay-per-view television screens and free WiFi service.

Santa Fe's airport is in the near location of Sauce Viejo and its international code is SAAV (local code SFN). Aerolíneas Argentinas flies daily (except Saturday), with a trip time of 50 minutes, departing from Buenos Aires domestic airport (Aeroparque).

Get around
Being a middle size town, avid pedestrians are to have a good time in Santa Fe. Still, when extending the tour outside downtown and the south area ("barrio sur") distances and with of the streets suits better a car or motorcycle. Beware of the traffic which can get heavy around downtown on week days and the sudden lane switching.

Most of the points of interest (that is Historical and Architectural landmarks) are on the southern end of town, pretty close to downtown, very well within walking distance.

The other grand attraction Santa Fe offers is its shore on the east side of town. The "Laguna Setúbal" is rated among the biggest in the world and is absolutely lovely. Grab a patio chair, cold beverages and just relax. Although stay away of it on Sundays and holidays since it get really crowded.

See
Santa Fe is a small firepot of cultural activity. On a bi-annual basis, the National University (Universidad Nacional del Litoral) hosts a week long music and arts festival which is very well known and appreciated among the youth. Other week-long events are hosted around the year, specially in theater, poetry, dances and choirs. It's really astonishing the amount of cultural events happening on a daily basis for such a small town.

The local rock music scene is quite restless also, despite the scarcity of stages. It is also very rich as it spans almost any sub-genre of the rock music, from completely ethnical (or Folklore-like rock music) to heavy and even trendy or experimental and "peñas folkclóricas" are a must if you come across one, they are basically one of the truest form of local culture: empanadas and wine, music (Zambas, Chacareras, Gatos, Cielitos, Pericón, etc.) and dancing.

Standard package of museums is to be found as in any major city: Rosa Galisteo, Etnográfico are the 2 biggest, both in the southern area.

Eat
As almost everywhere in Argentina, grilled meat or barbecue (also known as "asado") is a must; always joined with assorted salads and red wine. The local specialty must be the fish, caught fresh from the surrounding rivers. There's a large number of species in the area but due to depredation issues, only a few seem to be available in a given season. It's specially good the "chupín", a sort of soup of fish with potatoes and tomatoes, do try it!

Otherwise, the Italian and Spanish roots among the locals take special place in the menu of every restaurant, with minor additions of almost every European culture (from Greek to Armenian and French to German). Hindu and Japanese dishes are actually very hard to find, if at all.

Drink
Beer (cerveza) is considered the most popular drink in the area. In fact, the city has one of the biggest brewers in the country (chilenean owned Cervecerías Unidas) producing the Santa Fe, Schneider, Budweiser and Heineken brands. Allegedly, the local brewer produces a over million liters daily and a good portion of that production is consumed within the city. One of the best ways of enjoy such goods is out of a straight glass (called "liso") while sitting at a table in any of the many bars in the city, preferably outdoors in the hot days of January and February. Locals prefer to have the beer cold (within 0ºC and 5ºC).

Sleep
There's a wide range of Hotels, starting from very cheap but comfortable accommodations around the bus station to the Holiday Inn, Río Grande, Hostal and Conquistador hotels (all 4 stars) in centre town, a Holiday's Inn (5 stars) and one in the harbour area (Los Silos, 5 stars), right next to the Casino.

A small number of aparthotels exist, and campers have some camping areas within few minutes of the city, but accommodations and the quality of the services might vary.

Connect
At the bus terminal there is a free wireless Internet connection at the restaurant. This kind of services is to be found commonly in many restaurants and coffee houses. Local Energy Network is 220 V so many appliances brought from Europe might work. Appliances brought from USA won't. Check before plugging in.

Go next
There are direct buses to Paraná (Entre Ríos), Córdoba, Posadas (Misiones), Corrientes, Resistencia (Chaco) and many other provincial capitals, as well as to other interesting cities in the province like Rafaela, Esperanza, San Carlos, San Javier, San Justo.

title: Santa Fe (city, Argentina)


text:
Santa Fe (Galapagos)

Santa Fe Island, (Isla Santa Fe or Barrington Island) is one of the Galapagos Islands of Ecuador.

Understand
Santa Fe is a small island, but has an interesting cactus forest and range of birds. As it's close to Santa Cruz, it can get quite a few people on day trips.

See the Galapagos wildlife page for information on the flora and fauna of the islands.

Santa Fe
A wet landing on a sea lion covered beach leads to two different trails.

One of the trails leads through an Opuntia cactus forest where you can see Yellow Warblers, Galapagos Mockingbirds, Galapagos Doves, Lava Lizards and of course some Darwin Finches.

The highlight of visiting Santa Fe is to see the endemic chocolate brown Santa Fe Land Iguana.

Santa Fe
Apparently there is good snorkeling off Santa Fe.

Go next
The closest islands to Santa Fe are:

 * Santa Cruz - the main island, with quite a few interesting visitor's sites as well
 * South Plaza - a small island, good for wildlife
 * San Cristobal - capital of the Galapagos with many interesting visitor sites

title: Santa Fe (Galapagos)