Things To Do
in Puerto Suárez
Puerto Suárez is a border town on the Paraguay River in eastern Bolivia, opposite Corumbá, Brazil. It functions as a lively riverport and a gateway for cross-border travel and Pantanal excursions. The town buzzes with markets, dockside eateries, and a friendly mix of locals and travelers who mingle along the water.
Expect hot, humid days, vibrant river life, and welcoming Bolivian hospitality along the waterfront.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Puerto Suárez and settle into your accommodation, enjoying a traditional Bolivian breakfast at a local café. Explore the bustling streets and visit the main square, where you can admire the colonial architecture and interact with friendly locals. Don’t forget to exchange currency and get a local SIM card if needed.
Visit the nearby train station, which is a historical landmark, and learn about the region's railway history. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a popular local eatery, sampling exotic tropical fruits and regional dishes. Spend some time shopping for artisanal crafts and souvenirs in local shops.
Savor dinner at a charming restaurant that serves regional specialties, accompanied by a selection of South American wines. Take a stroll through the vibrant streets, where music and laughter fill the air as locals gather to socialize. Cap off your first night with a visit to a cozy bar, enjoying live music by local artists.
After breakfast, set off early to Lake Poopó, taking in the stunning vistas of the Bolivian landscape. Engage in birdwatching as this area is home to diverse wildlife including flamingos. Enjoy a picnic breakfast by the lake while absorbing the peaceful surroundings.
Explore the shores of Lake Poopó and participate in water activities like kayaking or paddleboarding. Visit local villages around the lake to learn about indigenous cultures and traditions. Relish a packed lunch by the water, enjoying the tranquility of nature.
Return to Puerto Suárez and unwind after an adventurous day. Immerse yourself in the cultural scene by attending a local dance or music performance. Reflect on your day over dinner at a local restaurant, perhaps trying a different Bolivian dish.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short) | $1-4 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $15-35 |
| 🥤Bottle of water (0.5L) | $0.5-1.5 |
| ☕Coffee in cafe | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Riverfront charm and easy border access
- Relatively affordable with warm Bolivian hospitality
- Limited high-end nightlife
- Occasional flooding and heat in the wet season
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does this cost?
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Me gustaría una cerveza, por favor" - I would like a beer, please
Places to Visit in Puerto Suárez
Visit one of these nice places.
Sunrise and sunset over the wide river with boats and birds in flight, offering wide, reflective horizons.
Docks, ships, and river traffic create dynamic harbor scenes, especially during golden hours.
Colorful market corridors with textures, fabrics, and people at work—great for street photography.
Food in Puerto Suárez
Puerto Suárez Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grilled river fish seasoned with herbs, served with yuca or plantains and lime.
Must-Try!
Light, broth-based fish soup featuring local river species and fresh vegetables.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling market stalls offering fish, produce, dairy, and street snacks along the riverfront.
Churros, empanadas, fried plantains, and fresh fruit from portable stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a smile and say 'Buenos días' or 'Hola'; a handshake is common in formal settings.
Be punctual for tours; dress modestly at markets and in religious sites.
Haggling is common in markets; negotiate politely and with a friendly attitude.
Safety
Tipping in Puerto Suárez
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping 5-10% in restaurants if service is not included; guides and drivers often appreciate around 10%.
Cash (Bolivian boliviano and USD) is widely accepted; cards are more common in larger establishments; ATMs are available in town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon showers; carry water, sunscreen, and a light rain layer.
Dry season with warm days and cooler nights; comfortable for outdoor activities but can be dusty.
Milder temperatures and fewer crowds; ideal for river excursions and market strolls.
Puerto Suárez at Night
Hiking in Puerto Suárez
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Guided hiking and wildlife-watching trips into the Pantanal wetlands nearby.
Easy, scenic trails along the river with opportunities for birds and wildlife viewing.
Airports
How to reach Puerto Suárez by plane.
Main gateway to the region with international connections; road transfer to Puerto Suárez.
Brazilian gateway used for cross-border travel; longer overland transfer to Puerto Suárez.
Brazilian gateway closer to the Pantanal region; convenient for cross-border trips.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of mestizo populations with Guaraní influences and local indigenous communities along the river.
A noticeable Brazilian presence due to proximity to Brazil and cross-border trade.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local games and informal matches are common on weekends.
River fishing is a popular activity, often part of guided trips.
Wildlife-focused activities along the wetlands and river.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Puerto Suárez.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Navigate by asking for vegetable sides (rice, potatoes, beans, corn) and avoid meat-based broths; opt for salads or plant-based dishes when available.