For travelers with a layover in Santa Cruz, the proximity of SRZ to the city center is a real gift. Getting into town takes around 35 minutes via Taxi, and we’ve mapped out the logistics so you can spend less time planning and more time exploring.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Three things to verify before you walk out of SRZ:
- Can you legally enter Bolivia? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 35-minute journey each way by Taxi, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the BOB. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some BOB in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Getting from SRZ to Santa Cruz
From SRZ, the Taxi gets you to Santa Cruz in around 35 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 55 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Taxi offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Luggage Storage at SRZ
Dedicated luggage storage at SRZ may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Santa Cruz’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
What to Budget for Your Santa Cruz Side Trip
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Santa Cruz might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$5 USD
- A meal: ~$8 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$23 USD
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
What’s Worth Seeing in Santa Cruz
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Santa Cruz, two standouts are:
- Plaza 24 de Septiembre — Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
- Catedral BasÃlica Metropolitana — It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Santa Cruz.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside SRZ, you can spend time at Watching Local Aviation Traffic or try Relax in Main Terminal Waiting Area. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Best Bites Near SRZ
In Santa Cruz
If you make it into town, La Casa del Camba (Centro) is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try El Aljibe.
Inside SRZ
If you’re staying in the terminal, CafeterÃa El Vuelo is your main option. Snack Bar La Terminal works too if you want something quick.
Staying Connected
WiFi at SRZ should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in Bolivia and you’re good to go.
Taking a Break at SRZ
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at SRZ, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Santa Cruz count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave SRZ. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.