Puerto Quijarro Travel Guide

Plan your visit to Puerto Quijarro with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the top attractions, best things to do, where to stay, and local customs.


Introduction to Puerto Quijarro

Located in the Santa Cruz department of Bolivia, Puerto Quijarro is a small town on the border with Brazil. It is a popular stop for travelers on their way to the Pantanal wetlands or Paraguay. Despite its size, Puerto Quijarro offers a unique mix of natural and cultural attractions, including hiking and biking routes, historical sites, and delicious local cuisine.

List of Places to Visit in Puerto Quijarro

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Fortín General Galvarino: Built in the 19th century, this historic fort served as a vital military base during the Chaco War between Bolivia and Paraguay. Today, visitors can explore the barracks, view exhibitions on the war, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area.

  • Puerto Quijarro Railway Station: This station dates back to the early 20th century and serves as one of the main railway access points from Bolivia to Brazil. Visitors can marvel at its architecture and watch the comings and goings of the trains.

  • San Francisco de Asis Church: This beautiful old church is an architectural gem, featuring a mix of colonial and indigenous styles.

Natural Attractions of Puerto Quijarro: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Parque Nacional Noel Kempff Mercado: This stunning national park is located about 300 km from Puerto Quijarro but definitely worth a visit. It boasts a diverse range of flora and fauna, including jaguars, pumas, and macaws. Hiking and trekking routes are available for visitors interested in exploring the park.

  • Sunset Point: This popular viewpoint provides an excellent spot to watch the sunset over the Paraguay River and the Brazilian city of Corumbá in the distance.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Puerto Quijarro

  • Cueva de los Cristales: This natural cave features crystal formations and stunning rock formations. A hike to this cave is an excellent option for adventurous hikers.

  • Biking along the Paraguay River: Puerto Quijarro is located on the banks of the Paraguay River, and biking along the river is a fun and relaxing way to enjoy the stunning scenery.

Best Things to Do in Puerto Quijarro: Activities and Tours

  • Wetlands Tour: Exploring the nearby Pantanal wetlands is a must-see activity for travelers to Puerto Quijarro. Visitors can spot a diverse range of flora and fauna, including capybaras, caimans, and a variety of bird species.

  • Visit the Puerto Suarez Market: Just across the border in Brazil, the Puerto Suarez market is a vibrant and colorful marketplace that offers an excellent opportunity to learn about local customs while picking up some unique souvenirs.

Week-Long Itinerary for Puerto Quijarro

Day Activity
1 Explore the historic Fortín General Galvarino
2 Visit the San Francisco de Asis Church and the Railway Station
3 Go on a biking tour along the Paraguay River
4 Hike to the Cueva de los Cristales
5-6 Take a Wetlands Tour
7 Visit the Puerto Suarez Market

Food and Drink Scene of Puerto Quijarro

Must-Try Dishes

  • Sopa Paraguaya: This traditional dish is similar to a cornbread and is usually served as a side dish.

  • Pacumutu: A hearty meat stew featuring beef, pork, and chicken cooked with vegetables.

Local Beverages

  • Mate: A traditional South American drink made from the leaves of the yerba mate plant.

  • Singani: A Bolivian brandy made from white Muscat grapes.

Where to Stay in Puerto Quijarro: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Hotel Bolivar: A simple and affordable hotel located in the town center.

  • La Escondida: A charming guesthouse with a beautiful garden situated on the outskirts of town.

  • Puerto Arturo Lodge: Located on the banks of the Paraguay River, this lodge offers a stunning view of the river and easy access to the nearby wetlands.

What to Buy in Puerto Quijarro: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Handmade pottery: Local artisans sell beautiful and unique pottery for a reasonable price.

  • Mate cups and bombillas: Take home a traditional mate set as a souvenir or gift.

  • Gemstones: Bolivia is known for its wide range of gemstones, including amethyst, topaz, and tourmaline.

Local Culture and Customs of Puerto Quijarro

The local culture of Puerto Quijarro is strongly influenced by the Guarani indigenous communities living in the surrounding areas. Traditional customs and clothing can be seen during festivals and celebrations. Visitors should be respectful of these traditions and ask for permission before taking pictures of locals.

Best Time to Visit Puerto Quijarro

The best time to visit Puerto Quijarro is during the dry season, from May to October. The weather is cooler and drier, making outdoor activities more enjoyable.

Do’s and Don’ts of Puerto Quijarro

Do:

  • Try the traditional dishes and local beverages.

  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions.

  • Visit the nearby Pantanal wetlands.

Don’t:

  • Take pictures of locals without asking for permission.

  • Leave valuables unattended or walk alone at night.

  • Drink tap water without first filtering it.

Safety and Health

Safety in Puerto Quijarro

While Puerto Quijarro is generally a safe destination for travelers, visitors should be aware of petty crime, especially in crowded areas. It is advisable to keep valuables secure and avoid walking alone at night.

Health in Puerto Quijarro

Visitors should be aware of the risk of mosquito-borne diseases, such as dengue fever and malaria, in the area. It is advisable to take precautions, such as using insect repellent and wearing long sleeves and pants.

Getting to Puerto Quijarro: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Puerto Quijarro

The nearest international airport is Viru Viru International Airport, located in Santa Cruz. From there, visitors can take a domestic flight to the Puerto Quijarro airport.

Bus Stations Near Puerto Quijarro

The bus station in Puerto Quijarro provides connections to major Bolivian cities, including Santa Cruz and La Paz.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Puerto Quijarro by train or taxi from nearby cities.

How to Get Around in Puerto Quijarro

Most of Puerto Quijarro’s attractions are located within walking distance of the town center. Taxis and minibusses are also available for hire.

Where to Go Next from Puerto Quijarro: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Paraguay: Just across the border, the city of Corumbá and the nearby Pantanal wetlands offer a unique blend of Brazilian and Bolivian culture.

  • Santa Cruz: One of Bolivia’s largest cities, Santa Cruz is a mix of modern and historic architecture, a bustling food scene, and colorful markets.

Conclusion

Puerto Quijarro may be a small town, but it offers an array of natural and cultural attractions that are sure to appeal to any traveler. From the nearby wetlands to the historic fort and gorgeous scenery, there is always plenty to see and do in this unique destination.