Things To Do
in Ponta Porã

Ponta Porã is a vibrant city located in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil, right on the border with Paraguay. Known for its rich cultural blend, the city showcases a unique mix of Brazilian and Paraguayan influences, especially in its cuisine and festivals. Ponta Porã is also a gateway for tourists heading to the nearby Paraguayan city of Pedro Juan Caballero.

With its warm climate, welcoming locals, and lively atmosphere, it offers a unique experience for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Ponta Porã
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Praça International, where you can enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café and experience the morning hustle and bustle of the city.

afternoon
:

Explore the local shops along Avenida Brasil, then visit the Museu Histórico de Ponta Porã to learn about the city's history and cultural heritage.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at Restaurante Tio Sam, known for its delicious grilled meats, followed by a stroll through the vibrant streets to experience the local nightlife.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Take a short trip to the Parque dos Poderes for a nature walk, where you can enjoy the lush greenery and local wildlife.

afternoon
:

Visit the Mercado Municipal to sample local snacks and buy unique souvenirs. Don't miss trying the traditional Paraguayan empanadas.

evening
:

Attend a cultural event or local music performance if available, or dine at Churrascaria do Gaúcho for an authentic Brazilian barbecue experience.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a local restaurant$10
Coffee$2
🚕Taxi fare (within city)$5
🏨Hotel (per night)$40
🥤Bottle of water$1

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Unique cultural blend of Brazilian and Paraguayan influences.
  • Rich culinary experiences with diverse food options.
  • Friendly locals and a vibrant community atmosphere.
  • Language barrier for those not speaking Portuguese or Spanish.
  • Limited public transportation options.
  • Potential safety concerns in certain areas at night.
  • "Olá" - Hello
  • "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Desculpe" - Sorry
  • "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Ponta Porã

Visit one of these nice places.

Praça Internacional

A beautiful square located at the border with Paraguay, perfect for capturing the vibrant atmosphere and city life.

Museu Histórico de Ponta Porã

Capture the historical essence of the city in this museum, featuring artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of Ponta Porã.

Parque dos Poderes

A scenic park with lush greenery and walking trails, ideal for nature photography and enjoying the outdoors.

Culinary Guide

Food in Ponta Porã

Ponta Porã offers a delightful culinary experience that reflects its unique cultural blend of Brazilian and Paraguayan flavors.

Ponta Porã Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Chipa

A traditional Paraguayan cheese bread made from manioc flour, widely enjoyed in Ponta Porã.

Must-Try!

Asado

A popular grilled meat dish, often served with a variety of sides, showcasing the Brazilian barbecue tradition.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal de Ponta Porã

A bustling market where you can find local produce, street food, and traditional snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Ponta Porã has a tropical climate, characterized by a wet and dry season. Summers are hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F) and occasional rain showers. Winters are cooler, with temperatures dropping to around 10°C (50°F) at night but remaining mild during the day. The transitional seasons of spring and autumn offer comfortable temperatures, making them ideal for travel.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly handshake is common when meeting someone, along with a smile and direct eye contact.

Personal Space

Brazilians are generally warm and friendly, often standing closer during conversations than in some other cultures.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to begin eating before you start, and it’s polite to finish everything on your plate.

Safety Guide

Safety

Ponta Porã is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid displaying valuables in public and be cautious in less crowded areas, especially at night. It's also advisable to stay informed about local safety recommendations and travel advisories.

Tipping in Ponta Porã

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to leave a tip of around 10% in restaurants, although it is not mandatory.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but credit cards are also commonly used in larger establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (December - February)

Expect hot temperatures and occasional rain; it's perfect for outdoor activities but stay hydrated.

Autumn (March - May)

Milder weather with less humidity makes it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor exploration.

Winter (June - August)

Cooler temperatures are common, making it a pleasant time for visiting local attractions.

Spring (September - November)

A great time to visit with blooming flora and moderate temperatures, perfect for outdoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Ponta Porã at Night

Ponta Porã's nightlife is vibrant and diverse, with numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues that cater to different tastes. The city offers a lively atmosphere, especially on weekends, with options ranging from casual bars to energetic dance clubs. Local music, particularly traditional Brazilian genres, often fills the air, creating a festive environment for both locals and tourists.

Hiking in Ponta Porã

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Trilha do Parque dos Poderes

A scenic trail suitable for hiking, offering views of local flora and fauna.

Caminho da Serra

A more challenging hiking route that leads to beautiful vistas and a chance to connect with nature.

Airports

How to reach Ponta Porã by plane.

Aeroporto Internacional de Ponta Porã

The nearest airport, offering limited domestic flights and easy access to the city.

Getting Around

Walkability

Ponta Porã is fairly walkable, especially in the downtown area where many shops, restaurants, and attractions are located within a short distance. The city has wide sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly zones, making it easy for visitors to explore on foot. However, some areas might require a vehicle for longer distances or rural attractions.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Brazilian Locals

The majority of the population, characterized by a mix of indigenous, Portuguese, and other immigrant backgrounds.

Paraguayan Community

A significant number of Paraguayans live in Ponta Porã, contributing to the cultural diversity and economic activity of the city.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is the most popular sport in Ponta Porã, with many local teams and a passionate fan base.

Volleyball

Another popular sport, often played in local parks and beaches, attracting both amateurs and enthusiasts.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Ponta Porã is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation options include buses and taxis, but many travelers prefer to walk or use rideshare apps for convenience.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Ponta Porã.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While meat is prevalent, there are vegetarian dishes available in many restaurants, especially rice and bean dishes.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Ponta Porã is available through local clinics and hospitals, but the quality may vary. It is advisable for travelers to have adequate health insurance and, if necessary, to seek medical care in larger cities like Campo Grande for more specialized services.

Discover Brazil

Read more in our Brazil 2025 Travel Guide.

Brazil Travel Guide