Landmarks in Santa Cruz

Tours Day Trips & Excursions in Santa Cruz - Things to do in Santa Cruz

Discover the best experiences and adventures in Santa Cruz. Explore our curated selection of top-rated tours, activities, and excursions that showcase the beauty and culture of this destination.

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38 Available Tour Excursions in Santa Cruz

Free Cancellation
(71 reviews)

In Portugal they have a say: "early to bed, early to rise, makes a man healthy, wealthy and wise ", and in this tour you will experience the revigorating energy of a sunrise, and we will make sure you take this experience in your heart!

Price: $70.77

Duration: 4-5 hours

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Free Cancellation
(5 reviews)

Includes: Pick up and Drop Off Hotel, Qualified Guide for this tour, Small Groups. Maderian Lunch included, Snacks and drinks included. Recommendations: Please bring good footwear and warm jackets. During this excursion, you will be visiting, a private banana farm in Funchal, Biggest Banana Cooperation taking the old road to another interesting local family vegetable and fruit farm,that supplies most of our supermarket chains of the island, a cattle farm that provides most of its milk for the making of our famous “requeijão” cheese, and see the old milking techniques. Stop for lunch in a typical restaurant, visit to this wonderful village with farming history. Visit the rum factory with visit to this attraction, tasting of rum and maderian cake included, this factory exports most of the honeycake. After lunch a drive through countryside in the North stop at the cable car viewpoint. Return to the Hotel. Definetely a way to understand how farming in Madeira works, the tecniques used.

Price: $100.26

Duration: 7 hours

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Free Cancellation
(5 reviews)

Transfer service DE from Funchal to the airport and vice versa conveniently and safely. No waiting saving time and money. You will be picked DE at your hotel or accommodation conveniently and taken to the airport. On arrival be directed immediately to a vehicle and conducted to your accommodation. ATTENTION! Price POR trail! (Only one way)

Price: $17.69

Duration: 0-1 hours

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Free Cancellation
(1 reviews)

Contemplate the sunset at the most iconic peak of Madeira, the Pico do Areeiro! At sunset, the movement is smaller than at sunrise, providing a more relaxing and peaceful experience. With plenty of time to enjoy the view, you can take a little walk along the PR1 trail to the Manta Ninho, a natural viewpoint in the middle of the peaks that offers breathtaking views! If you don't like hiking, you can still enjoy the amazing views at a safer bench/miracle, just 5 minutes from the road.

Price: $41.28

Duration: 3-4 hours

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Free Cancellation
(1 reviews)

This tour package 2+1 can help guests organize their trips for the week. This is a conveniente way to visit all the great attractions in 3 days at an affordable price. Two full days Western side of Madeira with attractions such as Câmara de Lobos fishing village,Cabo Girão high cliff, Porto Moniz natural pools, waterfalls and visit to São Vicente village. Second Tour Eastern Side, Pico Arieiro, Laurel Forest, balcões walk, and the typical houses of Santana, porto da cruz with rum tasting included and short walk 45 minutes along the levada, Machico and são lourenço eastern part of the island Both Tours are full day 7 hours. Half day tour - Nuns valley 4 hours. This tour is only bookable on mondays and thursdays morning. with the stop in monte, eira do serrado viewpoint 1100m, Pico dos Barcelos viewpoint. 355m Return to Funchal

Price: $82.57

Duration: 20 hours

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Free Cancellation
(20 reviews)

Discover the beauty of Madeira on a scenic self-guided hike along Levada do Rei, one of the island's most picturesque trails. Enjoy a convenient morning pickup from Funchal, Caniço, Garajau, or Machico before setting off to São Jorge with an experienced local guide. The moderate 4-hour trek begins at the Quebradas Water Treatment Station, leading you through lush forests and traditional agricultural lands. Explore tunnels and vibrant greenery as you make your way to Ribeiro Bonito, a hidden gem within the Laurissilva forest. After your adventure, unwind with a comfortable return to your pickup point. - 4-hour moderate hike along the stunning Levada do Rei trail - Pickup from various locations including Funchal and Machico - Experience Madeira's exotic forests and wildlife up close - Ideal for nature lovers seeking a self-guided exploration

Price: $47.18

Duration: 4 hours

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Free Cancellation
(32 reviews)

The Ponta de São Lourenço tour is unique for its spectacular rocky coast at the furthest eastern corner of the island, offering amazing views over both the north and south of Madeira. The dramatic, arid landscapes and serene hiking trails through this protected nature reserve make it a perfect adventure for nature lovers.

Price: $54.26

Duration: 6 hours

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Free Cancellation
(31 reviews)

Walk from Pico do Areeiro to the top of Madeira Island in a hiking tour full of emotion and marvellous landscapes.

Price: $54.26

Duration: 6 hours

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Free Cancellation
(84 reviews)

Discover the beauty of Madeira on the scenic Levada do Caldeirão Verde trail. This self-guided hike takes you through the lush Laurissilva forest, featuring historic levadas and stunning waterfalls. Start with convenient morning pickup from Funchal, Caniço, or Garajau before being driven to Pico das Pedras, the trailhead. Along the way, navigate through tunnels and enjoy the serene views of the Caldeirão Verde lake. With a total hike of approximately 16 km and an estimated duration of 4.5 to 5.5 hours, this adventure is ideal for nature enthusiasts seeking a memorable outdoor experience. - Self-guided hike along the picturesque Levada do Caldeirão Verde - Morning pickup from Funchal, Caniço, or Garajau for convenience - Expert local driver provides insights for a safe hiking experience - Total distance of 16 km with an average duration of 4.5 to 5.5 hours

Price: $47.18

Duration: 6 hours

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Free Cancellation
(48 reviews)

Explore the iconic Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço trail with ease, thanks to convenient local transport from Funchal, Caniço, Machico, or Garajau. This self-guided hike unveils Madeira's stunning coastal landscapes and rich biodiversity over a 6 km round trip. With panoramic views of both the north and south coasts, this moderate trail offers a unique opportunity to witness rare wildlife, including the region’s largest seagull colonies and protected seabirds. After your hike, take a refreshing dip at Cais do Sardinha before your comfortable return to your pickup location, making this experience ideal for nature enthusiasts seeking adventure with flexibility.

Price: $35.39

Duration: 3 hours

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Free Cancellation
(21 reviews)

Embark on an adventure through Madeira’s breathtaking landscapes, starting in the Ecological Park of Funchal, surrounded by lush greenery and diverse terrain. The trail leads to Poço da Neve, offering unique views over Funchal harbor. Continue along the PR3 Vereda do Burro trail to the majestic Pico do Areeiro, the island’s third-highest peak. From here, the path guides you to the stunning Miradouro do Ninho da Manta, where you’ll witness Madeira’s rugged beauty. Then, head to Pedra Rija viewpoint, another breathtaking stop. Next, tackle the challenging yet rewarding “Stairway to Heaven,” where the ascent promises awe-inspiring vistas. After conquering this iconic climb, return to Pico do Areeiro to complete your hike. This route is perfect for seasoned hikers and nature lovers, offering some of the most spectacular views Madeira has to offer. Experience the island's wilderness and let it captivate your soul!

Price: $54.26

Duration: 4-5 hours

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Free Cancellation
(188 reviews)

Starting in the serene Paul da Serra and descending into the stunning Rabaçal Valley, you'll walk through the lush Laurissilva Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Unlike other tours, we include a visit to the magnificent Risco Waterfall, adding an extra layer of awe to your journey. Plus, our return route takes you through a 500-meter ancient tunnel, ending on the south side of Madeira, providing a unique and memorable conclusion to your adventure.

Price: $54.26

Duration: 7 hours

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Free Cancellation
(36 reviews)

Come and live Madeiras history. Starting from the reception of your hotel we make our way, passing the Eucalyptus and Mimosa forests unto the breathtaking mountains of Pico do Arieiro at 1800m, descending to Ribeiro Frio where you will find the trout hatchery we stop for a short walk in the most beautiful old forest of Madeira 45 minutes easy walk (this is not compulsory, no walk takes place in rain and bad weather). and the Santana UNESCO BIOSPHERE RESERVE. Taking the old road of Faial, Santana will be the next stop where you will find the traditional thatched houses and vines. A visit to an old original house is included. In this Village a lunch stop will be made. Driving along the sugar cane village a stop for rum tasting. Driving the Southeast coast of Machico where the first Portuguese settlers arrived in the 15 century. The next stop is at Ponta de São Lourenço the eastern point cape of the Island where the rock formation will astound you, we then return to hotel.

Price: $35.39

Duration: 7 hours

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Free Cancellation
(3 reviews)

"Ribeiro Bonito" (Beautiful River) is the name given to the torrential stream that feeds the Levada do Rei. This enchanting walk along the "King´s Levada" leads through a fairly pristine laurel forest (world heritahe by UNESCO since 1999) penetrating deep into the delightful valley of the Ribeiro Bonito. This amazing hike take place in the north of Madeira Island.

Price: $54.26

Duration: 4 hours

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Free Cancellation
(15 reviews)

This tour gives the guests the freedom to choose their itinerary tailored made tour according to their interest, the time for they spend in each stop and the their pick up time. They have their own private knowledgeable qualified guide that will certainly make their holiday memorable. This tour is ideal for families. Also ideal for cruise line guests who are in Madeira only a couple of hours and to see some of Madeiras great attractions without rushing through normal offered tours.

Price: $176.93

Duration: 6 hours

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Free Cancellation
(24 reviews)

Regarded as one of Madeira most popular tours, From your hotel, we make our way to Camara de Lobos where beautiful landscapes were painted by Sr. Winston Churchill in the 1950. The drive through Estreito de Camara de Lobos, where the vines were first introduced and still exist today, Cabo Girão the highest sea cliff in Europe 580m skywalk viewpont, Brief stop in Ribeira Brava to visit old monuments including the church, Paul da Serra Madeira´s popular flat plateau at 1500m above sea level. Embracing the beautiful laurel forest views (great highlight of Madeira) through Madeira´s little green Scotland. Arriving at Porto Moniz (natural volcanic pools) where swimming can be enjoyed in summer. The tour continues along the North coast where waterfalls are visible. Drive through the village of São Vicente where nature will escort you up to the Encumeada pass 1007 (This stop is not done in rain or bad weather). Return to the Hotel.

Price: $35.39

Duration: 7 hours

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Free Cancellation
(56 reviews)

In this type of transfer is going to, santa cruz, caniço and Funchal. Travel in a comfortable and economical way and less polluting. we care about the environment and also about you, in this mode of transport we save a lot of cars in the city of Funchal When you book with Madeiralimo, you are also guaranteed competitive prices and a superior service.

Price: $20.64

Duration: 0-0 hours

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Free Cancellation
(7 reviews)

In this amazing walk, you have a less difficult way to reach the top and be delighted with the best panoramic views of Madeira Island. It's a wonderful way to get the top of Madeira (1862m).

Price: $54.26

Duration: 6 hours

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Key Info for Visitors

  • Currency: BOB
  • Languages: Spanish, Guarani, Quechua, English (tourist areas)
  • Climate: Tropical savanna
  • Timezone: America/La_Paz
  • Population: Approximately 1.5 million people
  • Best Time to Visit: best time to visit for comfortable weather.
  • Visa Requirements Visitors from many countries including the US, EU, and UK generally require a visa to enter Bolivia, which can often be obtained on arrival or through an e-visa system. Some South American countries have visa-free access. Travelers should check the latest requirements before travel, as documentation such as a valid passport, proof of onward travel, and sometimes vaccination certificates may be required.

About Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz is Bolivia’s largest city and a vibrant economic hub known for its tropical climate and dynamic culture. It stands out for its blend of modern urban development and rich natural surroundings. Visitors are drawn to Santa Cruz for its lively markets, diverse gastronomy, and access to nearby natural attractions such as the Amboró National Park and the Lomas de Arena sand dunes. The city offers a warm climate year-round, making it an appealing destination for travelers seeking both cultural experiences and outdoor adventures. Its friendly atmosphere and growing infrastructure provide a comfortable base for exploring eastern Bolivia. Santa Cruz’s unique mix of indigenous traditions and contemporary life creates an engaging environment for tourists interested in history, nature, and local customs.

Santa Cruz Tours & Experiences

  • Top Attractions: Highlights of Portugal
  • Duration Range: 2 to 10 hours
  • Group Size: Private or shared tours
  • Difficulty Level: All Comfort Levels
  • Recommended For: The dry season (May to October) is the best time to visit for comfortable weather. Pack light clothing for the warm climate, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting religious sites. Stay vigilant in crowded places to avoid petty theft. Carry some cash in Bolivianos for small purchases, though cards are accepted in many places.

Average Tour Price: $75

Lowest Price Tour: $50

Highest Price Tour: $200

1. Choose Your Tour

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2. Check Details

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3. Book Online

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4. Enjoy Your Experience

Join the tour and create unforgettable memories in Santa Cruz.

Important Tour Information

  • Bring comfortable walking shoes and appropriate clothing
  • Check tour cancellation and refund policies
  • Arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes early
  • Carry valid identification and tour booking confirmation

Top Attractions

1. Plaza 24 de Septiembre – The central square surrounded by historic buildings and cafes, perfect for people-watching and cultural events. 2. Catedral Metropolitana – A striking cathedral with impressive architecture located on the main plaza. 3. Lomas de Arena Regional Park – Famous for its large sand dunes offering hiking and sandboarding opportunities. 4. Amboró National Park – A biodiverse rainforest reserve near Santa Cruz, ideal for wildlife watching and trekking. 5. Guembe Biocentro – A nature park featuring butterfly gardens, pools, and tropical flora, great for family visits.

Popular Activities

Visitors can enjoy hiking and sandboarding at Lomas de Arena, wildlife tours and birdwatching in Amboró National Park, and exploring local markets for crafts and food. Cultural experiences include attending traditional festivals, visiting museums, and sampling Bolivian music and dance performances. The city also offers vibrant nightlife and culinary tours showcasing local flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

The best time to visit is during the dry season from May to October when the weather is pleasant and outdoor activities are ideal.

Santa Cruz is generally safe, but visitors should take normal precautions against petty crime, especially in crowded areas and at night.

The official currency is the Bolivian Boliviano (BOB), and cash is commonly used, though some places accept credit cards.

We have tours designed for various age groups and fitness levels. Each tour description includes specific requirements and recommendations.

Local Food & Cuisine

Santa Cruz’s cuisine features hearty dishes with influences from indigenous and Spanish traditions. Signature foods include majadito (a rice and meat dish), locro (a thick vegetable and meat stew), and salteñas (savory baked pastries filled with meat and vegetables). Dining customs emphasize sharing meals and enjoying fresh, local ingredients. Noteworthy restaurants include those serving traditional Bolivian fare and international cuisine, offering a range of dining experiences from street food to upscale venues.

Getting Around

Santa Cruz is accessible via Viru Viru International Airport, with flights connecting to major cities in Bolivia and South America. Local transportation includes buses, taxis, and motorcycle taxis. For getting around the city, taxis are affordable and widely available. Walking is convenient in the central areas. Costs are generally low compared to international standards.

Travel Tips

The dry season (May to October) is the best time to visit for comfortable weather. Pack light clothing for the warm climate, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting religious sites. Stay vigilant in crowded places to avoid petty theft. Carry some cash in Bolivianos for small purchases, though cards are accepted in many places.

Culture & Customs

Santa Cruz has a rich cultural heritage blending indigenous and colonial influences. Social customs include polite greetings and respect for elders. Festivals such as Carnaval and local religious celebrations are important cultural events. Visitors should be aware of modest dress codes in churches and public buildings. Hospitality is valued, and it is customary to accept invitations to share food or drink.

About The Author

Calvin Author

Calvin has loved travel and adventure since first visiting Los Angeles with a suitcase in 1992 at the age of 20. He ditched the suitcase and got a backpack pretty fast.
He hates leaving after any trip and has to console himself by writing and sharing articles on it. You can find and connect with him on linked in here.

Likes
Travel, Gaming, Scuba Diving, Skiing and anything to do with water.

Dislikes
Exact luggage sizing police and being tired in an airport and many more..

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