Jardin Botanico (Botanical Garden), Santa Cruz de la Sierra

Nestled just 8 km east of Santa Cruz de la Sierra, the Botanical Garden of Santa Cruz spans approximately 185–217 hectares, offering a lush natural retreat on the city’s edge. Founded in the mid‑1980s by botanist Noel Kempff Mercado, the garden was established to conserve Bolivia’s native aquatic and terrestrial flora, and today is an accredited member of the Association of Botanical Gardens of Latin America and the Caribbean.

The garden is organized into three major ecological zones: the subtropical forest, hosting tall canopy trees and dense understory; a dry Chaco forest habitat, characterized by cacti and thorn‑scrub species; and a broad transition zone between them, marked by resilient plants adapting to seasonal dryness. A serpentine stream, the arroyo Guapilo, runs through the property and feeds a scenic lagoon, where aquatic plants thrive and birds frequently alight. Overall, more than 500 plant species, 200 species of birds, and a dozen mammal species call the garden home.

Tourists visiting can enjoy well‑marked walking trails-about 6 kilometers in total-that wind through landscaped gardens, cactus collections, a greenhouse, and naturally forested areas. One popular feature is the wooden lookout tower, which grants sweeping views of the tree canopy and distant cityscape. The garden also provides facilities for picnics, guided group tours, and barbecues (additional fees apply), making it suitable for family outings, nature photography, and environmental learning.

Whether you’re seeking a peaceful stroll, wildlife spotting, or a deeper understanding of Bolivia’s diverse ecosystems, the Botanical Garden offers a refreshing escape just outside the city.