Things To Do
in Puerto Quijarro
Puerto Quijarro is a Bolivian border town in the Santa Cruz Department, situated on the Paraguay River near Brazil. It acts as a gateway to the Pantanal, offering a blend of Bolivian and Brazilian influences, river life, and a laid-back border vibe. The town serves as a transit hub for freight and travelers heading toward Santa Cruz or into Mato Grosso do Sul, with markets, riverside scenery, and easy cross-border access.
Expect hot, humid days, friendly people, and a taste of frontier life in this compact border town.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Land at the border town of Puerto Quijarro and take in the vibrant atmosphere as you acclimatize to this unique location. After checking into your accommodation, enjoy a local breakfast that typically features Bolivian delicacies. Spend the morning exploring the town, visiting local markets and interacting with friendly locals.
Post-lunch, embark on a guided tour of the area, including the picturesque landscapes and the nearby iconic Pantanal wetlands. Experience the diverse wildlife, from exotic birds to fascinating reptiles, as you immerse yourself in this natural paradise. Capture stunning photographs to remember the beauty around you.
As the sun sets, return to town and dine at a local restaurant to sample traditional Bolivian cuisine. Enjoy the lively atmosphere as locals gather for a night out, and perhaps listen to some live folk music. End the evening by strolling along the streets and enjoying the vibrant night scene.
Set out early for a wildlife safari in the Pantanal region, known for its incredible biodiversity. Enjoy a hearty breakfast packed for your adventure as you head into the lush landscapes. Keep your eyes peeled for animals such as capybaras, caimans, and a wide variety of birds.
After a thrilling morning, indulge in a delicious picnic lunch surrounded by nature's serenity. Continue exploring by canoe or on foot with a knowledgeable guide, who will share insights about the local ecosystem. Witness breathtaking scenery as you navigate through wetlands and forests.
Return from your safari to Puerto Quijarro, where you can unwind after a long day of adventure. Relish a satisfying dinner featuring fresh local ingredients and regional flavors. Reflect on the day's experiences as you enjoy a leisurely evening stroll beneath the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| 🧃Bottled water (1.5L) | $0.50-1.00 |
| 🚌Local transport ticket | $0.25-0.75 |
| 🏨Budget hotel (1 night) | $15-40 |
| ☕Coffee | $1-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Border-town access to Pantanal and Brazil
- Low-cost, welcoming locals
- Vibrant riverside markets and scenery
- Limited infrastructure in some areas
- Language barrier for non-Spanish speakers
- Seasonal flooding can affect travel plans
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The bill, please
Places to Visit in Puerto Quijarro
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide river views with golden light and silhouettes of boats and palm trees.
Iconic crossing point with reflections on water and border signage; best at dawn or dusk.
Colorful stalls, textiles, and daily life—vibrant portraits and candid scenes.
Open space with boats, locals, and the horizon framed by water and sky.
Food in Puerto Quijarro
Puerto Quijarro Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grilled pacú fish from the Pantanal rivers, typically served with rice, yuca, and lime.
Must-Try!
Peanut soup with vegetables and sometimes meat; vegetarian options are available on request.
A one-dish staple of beef, rice, beans, plantains, and sometimes eggs, reflecting lowland Bolivian flavors.
A hearty mix of beef, sausages, peppers, onions, and fried potatoes, best for sharing.
Grilled beef cuts seasoned with local spices; often accompanied by yuca or cassava.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling local market offering fresh produce, dairy, meats, and ready-to-eat snacks.
Waterfront stalls where grilled fish, tamales, and street meals are commonly found.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly 'hola' or 'Buenos días'; use polite forms like 'usted' with strangers.
Dress modestly for religious sites; be respectful, avoid loud behavior in public spaces; queue patiently at markets.
Safety
Tipping in Puerto Quijarro
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, if service is not included, tip around 5–10%. Guides and drivers often expect a small tip for a day trip.
Cash is widely accepted; many larger establishments take cards, but street vendors and small eateries often prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with heavy afternoon showers; carry lightweight rain gear, light clothing, and sun protection.
Warm days and cooler nights; wildlife concentrates near water sources; great for photography and hiking, but trails can be dusty.
Puerto Quijarro at Night
Hiking in Puerto Quijarro
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Day hikes along the Pantanal edge offering wildlife viewing, birdlife, and open savannah scenery; best in the dry season.
Airports
How to reach Puerto Quijarro by plane.
Main international gateway to the region; from here you can connect to domestic flights to various Bolivian towns, then onward to Puerto Quijarro by land.
Closest international access point for Pantanal trips; cross-border travel is possible via road or rail connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mixed community of mestizos and Indigenous groups with Bolivian cultural traditions.
Seasonal workers and shoppers who cross for markets and river trade.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; casual kickabouts and local matches are common in plazas.
Recreational fishing in the Paraguay River and nearby wetlands is popular among locals and visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Puerto Quijarro.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist; look for beans, rice, plantains, salads. Request no meat broth in soups; many cooks are accommodating with advance notice.