How Much Does a Transfer from Viru Viru Airport to Santa Cruz Cost?

Viru Viru International Airport is 17 km from Santa Cruz de la Sierra, and the transfer costs are reasonable by international standards. Here is what each option costs in 2026.

Official taxi counter fares

The taxi counter inside the arrivals hall charges fixed fares based on your destination zone within Santa Cruz. Typical rates:

• City center (Casco Viejo, Plaza 24 de Septiembre): 100-120 BOB ($14-17 USD)
• Equipetrol / Ventura Mall area: 80-100 BOB ($11-14 USD)
• Northern ring (2nd/3rd ring): 70-90 BOB ($10-13 USD)
• Southern areas / 7th-8th ring: 120-150 BOB ($17-22 USD)

These are per vehicle, not per person. The fare is paid at the counter, and you receive a ticket to give to your assigned driver. This system is transparent and fair.

Pre-booked private transfer

A private transfer booked in advance runs $15-25 USD for central Santa Cruz destinations. The price includes a named driver at arrivals, luggage assistance, and a direct ride to your hotel. For the Equipetrol business district, which is closer to the airport, prices are at the lower end. For more distant neighborhoods, they push toward the higher end. SUVs or larger vehicles for groups cost $25-40.

Unofficial drivers

Drivers outside the terminal may offer rides for less than the official counter. Prices of 50-80 BOB to the city center are possible but come with trade-offs: no registration, no recourse if something goes wrong, and variable vehicle quality. If you speak Spanish and are comfortable with the negotiation, this can work. Otherwise, the official counter is not much more expensive and considerably safer.

Currency and payment

The official counter accepts Bolivianos only. ATMs in the arrivals hall dispense BOB, and there are exchange counters for USD, EUR, and BRL. Credit cards are not typically accepted for taxi fares. For pre-booked transfers, many providers accept card payment at the time of booking.

The Boliviano has been relatively stable against the USD, but verify the current rate before your trip. In recent years, the fixed rate of approximately 6.9 BOB per USD has held.

Tipping

Tipping taxi drivers is not a strong custom in Bolivia, but rounding up or adding a few Bolivianos is appreciated. For private transfer drivers, 10-15 BOB for good service is generous by local standards.

Bottom line

For $11-25 USD, you get a comfortable ride from the airport to anywhere in Santa Cruz. The official taxi counter offers fair pricing with no negotiation. Pre-booked transfers add convenience and fixed pricing at a modest premium. Either way, this is not a transfer that will strain your budget.