Things To Do
in Puerto Quijarro

Puerto Quijarro is a small, bustling town located in the southeastern part of Bolivia, near the border with Brazil. It serves as a vital transit point for travelers heading to the Pantanal, one of the world's largest tropical wetlands. The town is characterized by a mix of cultural influences, with a vibrant atmosphere fueled by its proximity to the Brazilian border.

Visitors can experience local Bolivian culture while enjoying the convenience of easy access to Brazil.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Town
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local market, Mercado Municipal, where you can sample fresh fruits and Bolivian breakfast dishes.

afternoon
:

Explore the town's main square, Plaza 14 de Septiembre, and enjoy a leisurely walk while taking in the local architecture and culture.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant, such as Restaurante La Casa, which offers traditional Bolivian cuisine, and then stroll through the town to experience its evening ambiance.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

After breakfast, take a guided tour of the nearby Pantanal wetlands, where you can spot diverse wildlife.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a picnic lunch in the Pantanal and continue your exploration with activities such as birdwatching or fishing.

evening
:

Return to Puerto Quijarro for dinner at a local steakhouse, followed by a visit to a local bar for live music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$5
🍺Local beer$1
🚌Bus ticket (local)$0.50
🏨Budget hotel per night$15
🛒Grocery shopping (weekly)$30

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences with local traditions.
  • Proximity to the stunning Pantanal wetlands.
  • Affordable cost of living and dining.
  • Limited healthcare facilities in the area.
  • Transportation can be challenging for longer distances.
  • Language barrier for non-Spanish speakers.
  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "" - Yes

Places to Visit in Puerto Quijarro

Visit one of these nice places.

Plaza 14 de Septiembre

The main square with vibrant local life, colorful buildings, and lush greenery.

Pantanal Wetlands

A breathtaking landscape filled with water, wildlife, and stunning sunsets, ideal for nature photography.

Local Markets

Capture the hustle and bustle of local life, with vibrant colors and unique stalls.

Culinary Guide

Food in Puerto Quijarro

Puerto Quijarro offers a vibrant culinary scene that reflects its cultural diversity and regional flavors. Must-try local dishes include traditional Bolivian meals that are rich in flavor and history. The food markets are bustling with fresh produce, and street food vendors provide a taste of local life.

Puerto Quijarro Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Salteñas

These are savory pastries filled with meat, vegetables, and spices, perfect for a quick snack.

Must-Try!

Llama Steak

A popular dish in the region, known for its tender meat and rich flavor, often served with potatoes.

Pique Macho

A hearty dish consisting of beef, sausages, and fried potatoes, topped with a fried egg.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal

This bustling market is the perfect place to sample local fruits, vegetables, and street food.

Street Vendors

You can find various street vendors selling everything from fresh fruit juices to grilled meats.

Climate Guide

Weather

Puerto Quijarro has a tropical savanna climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season from December to March brings heavy rainfall and humidity, while the dry season from May to October has cooler temperatures and less humidity. Average temperatures range from 20°C (68°F) to 35°C (95°F), with the hottest months being September and October.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A handshake is common; among friends, a hug or kiss on the cheek is common.

Respect for Elders

Show respect to older individuals by using formal greetings and addressing them politely.

Dress Modestly

Dress modestly, especially in rural areas and religious sites, to respect local customs.

Safety Guide

Safety

Puerto Quijarro is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas, and keep valuables secured. Be aware of your surroundings in crowded markets to prevent pickpocketing.

Tipping in Puerto Quijarro

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping around 10% is customary in restaurants; round up the bill for taxi drivers.

Payment Methods

Cash is preferred, but some places accept credit cards; always check in advance.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (December - February)

Expect warm temperatures and occasional rains; perfect for exploring the outdoors.

Autumn (March - May)

Milder temperatures and less rain, making it ideal for hiking and outdoor activities.

Winter (June - August)

Cooler temperatures; evenings can be chilly, so bring warm clothing.

Spring (September - November)

Temperatures start to rise, making it a great time for wildlife viewing in the Pantanal.

Nightlife Guide

Puerto Quijarro at Night

The nightlife in Puerto Quijarro is lively, with a mix of bars and clubs that cater to both locals and travelers. Expect live music, especially on weekends, with genres ranging from traditional Bolivian folk music to contemporary Latin beats. Street vendors often stay open late, providing snacks and drinks, while some venues feature dance floors where you can experience local rhythms.

Hiking in Puerto Quijarro

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cerro San Miguel Trail

A moderately challenging hike that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and wildlife.

Pantanal Nature Trail

An easy trail that winds through the wetlands, providing opportunities for birdwatching and photography.

Airports

How to reach Puerto Quijarro by plane.

Cerro Largo Airport

Located approximately 15 km from Puerto Quijarro, this airport offers limited domestic flights, primarily connecting to Santa Cruz.

Getting Around

Walkability

Puerto Quijarro is relatively walkable, especially in the town center where most attractions, restaurants, and markets are located within walking distance. Sidewalks are available, but some areas may have uneven surfaces. It is advisable to wear comfortable shoes and be cautious of traffic when walking.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Indigenous People

The region is home to several indigenous groups, including the Guarani, who have a rich cultural heritage.

Mixed Heritage (Mestizos)

A significant portion of the population includes mestizos, people of mixed indigenous and European ancestry.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is the most popular sport in the region, with local teams playing in community leagues.

Volleyball

Commonly played in parks and beaches, volleyball is a popular pastime among locals.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Puerto Quijarro is typically light, with most people using bicycles or walking. Public transportation consists mainly of buses and shared taxis, which are affordable and readily available. Be cautious when crossing streets, as some drivers may not adhere to traffic rules.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Puerto Quijarro.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it is advisable to ask for modifications.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are limited; inform restaurant staff about your dietary needs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Puerto Quijarro are basic, with a few small clinics and a hospital. For serious medical issues, it is recommended to travel to larger cities like Santa Cruz. Carry a travel insurance policy that covers medical emergencies.

Discover Bolivia

Read more in our Bolivia 2025 Travel Guide.

Bolivia Travel Guide