Things To Do
in Pedro Juan Caballero
Pedro Juan Caballero is a bustling border city in northern Paraguay, perched opposite Brazil's Ponta Porã and deeply influenced by cross-border trade. The town blends Paraguayan culture with Brazilian influences, creating a lively market scene, colorful street life, and a bilingual ambience. It functions as a practical gateway for visitors exploring the border region and the broader Amambay Department.
Expect warm hospitality, vibrant markets, and easy access to rural landscapes just beyond the urban core.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional Paraguayan dishes like 'chipa' and 'tereré'. After breakfast, wander through the historic center of Pedro Juan Caballero, admiring the colonial architecture and vibrant street art. Take time to visit the local market, where you can interact with friendly vendors and see a variety of crafts and fresh produce.
In the afternoon, visit the Municipal Museum to learn about the town's history and cultural heritage, including its indigenous roots and colonial past. Stroll through the Parque de la Paz, where you can relax under the shade of trees and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere. For lunch, stop by a popular eatery to try Paraguay's famous 'sopa paraguaya' and other local delicacies.
As the sun sets, head to a local restaurant for dinner, indulging in grilled meats and traditional Paraguayan sides. After dinner, explore the lively nightlife scene, where you can listen to live music or enjoy a drink at a local bar. Conclude your evening by taking a leisurely walk around the town square, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
If your visit coincides with a local festival, start your day by experiencing the colorful parades and traditional music that fill the streets. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a nearby café, where you can try some 'empanadas' while watching the festivities unfold. Engage with locals who are dressed in traditional attire and learn about the significance of the celebrations.
Continue to immerse yourself in the festival atmosphere by participating in traditional dances and activities, such as artisan craft-making sessions. Enjoy a variety of street food offerings, sampling sweet treats like 'mbeju' and fresh fruit juices. As the afternoon progresses, take a moment to visit artisan stalls to pick up unique handmade souvenirs.
As the festival lights twinkle in the night, grab dinner at a food stall, trying out grilled skewers and other local specialties. Experience the vibrant energy of live performances, featuring local musicians and dancers showcasing their talents. End your night by joining in a communal dance, celebrating the spirit of the festival with friendly locals.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee or soft drink | $1-3 |
| 🚕Taxi 1 km | $0.80-1.50 |
| 🛏️1 night in a mid-range hotel | $25-60 |
| 💧Bottled water (1.5L) | $0.50-1.50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant border-market culture with easy access to Brazilian goods
- Warm hospitality and a relaxed, approachable vibe
- Affordable costs of living and dining compared to many other destinations
- Easy day trips to neighboring Brazil and nearby natural areas
- Limited upscale dining and nightlife options compared to larger cities
- Healthcare facilities are basic in-town; for specialized care you may travel to Asunción or Brazil
- Border crossings can be busy and sometimes require time planning
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "¿Dónde está el mercado?" - Where is the market?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The check, please
Places to Visit in Pedro Juan Caballero
Visit one of these nice places.
A lively square with colonial-flavored architecture, locals, and colorful storefronts—great for candid street photography and portraiture.
Wide river vistas along the border area offering dynamic reflections, sunsets, and silhouettes of crossing activity.
Vibrant market scenes with stalls, textiles, foods, and candid interactions—perfect for documentary style photography.
Food in Pedro Juan Caballero
Pedro Juan Caballero Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A savory corn cake rich in cheese and herbs, often enjoyed as a snack or light meal.
Must-Try!
A gluten-free, cheese-studded tapioca cake typical in Paraguayan kitchens, great with coffee.
A traditional corn-based bread-like dish, dense and flavorful, served with main meals.
Barbecued meats typical of the region, often prepared simply with salt and grilled over open flames.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A busy hub for fresh produce, meats, baked goods, and ready-to-eat snacks—great for people-watching and sampling street foods.
Small stalls offering chipa, empanadas, grilled corn, and other quick bites—ideal for a quick, flavorful lunch.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common; use polite language and address elders with respect. Spanish is the primary language; Guaraní is widely spoken.
Be friendly and patient in crowded markets. Dress modestly in more traditional areas and during religious observances.
Safety
Tipping in Pedro Juan Caballero
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is common but not mandatory. In restaurants, rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% is appreciated; small tips for service at cafes or bars are also common.
Cash (Guaraní) is widely accepted; many places also accept cards, especially in larger establishments. Carry some local currency for street markets and small vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon showers. Stay hydrated, wear light clothing, and plan outdoor activities for early mornings or late afternoons.
Milder temperatures with gradually decreasing rainfall. Pleasant for strolls and market visits; light layers recommended.
Cooler, dry days with comfortable daytime temperatures. Suitable for outdoor exploring and street photography without the heat.
Warm with possible showers; a good time for outdoor markets and nature walks as vegetation revives.
Pedro Juan Caballero at Night
Hiking in Pedro Juan Caballero
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Casual hiking options in the Amambay region and surrounding countryside; best with a local guide for safety and navigation.
Airports
How to reach Pedro Juan Caballero by plane.
Main international gateway to Paraguay; connects to regional and international destinations. Accessible by road or air from Pedro Juan Caballero with a transfer.
A major Brazilian hub in Mato Grosso do Sul; serves many regional and international flights and is a common option for cross-border travelers from the border region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of indigenous and European ancestry typical of Paraguay, with a strong Guaraní influence visible in language and culture.
A sizeable number of residents engage in cross-border trade and daily life with Brazilian counterparts, enriching the local culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The dominant sport in the region with local matches and youth development drawing crowds and community support.
Popular indoor sports with local leagues and pickup games in community centers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Pedro Juan Caballero.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most places offer vegetable dishes and cheese-based options. Seek vegetarian versions of chipa, sopa paraguaya, or salads, and ask for simple preparations without meat stock.