Weekend in Ponta Pora

Main Catholic church built in the 1950s with simple modernist architecture. Interior has stained-glass windows depicting saints. Free to enter.

Tip: Visit during a weekday mass (usually 7pm) to hear the choir sing in both Portuguese and Guarani. The church keeps its doors open until 8pm daily.

Local market selling fresh produce, Paraguayan herbs, yerba mate, and handicrafts. No entry fee, but bring cash for street food stalls outside.

Tip: Try the 'tereré' (cold yerba mate) from a vendor near the main entrance — costs about R$2 and locals drink it all day. The market is busiest Saturday mornings.

Street-level marker where the Brazil-Paraguay border runs through town. You can stand with one foot in each country. No entrance fee.

Tip: Come at dusk for the best photos—the line is painted yellow and stands out against the asphalt. Watch out for fast traffic; it's an active road.

Large urban park with native trees, a small lake, walking trails, and playgrounds. Good for birdwatching and a quiet afternoon.

Tip: Go early morning (around 7am) to see toucans and capybaras near the lake. The park gates actually open at 6am.

Small historical museum housed in a restored 1920s mansion by a lake. Exhibits cover the town's founding, yerba mate trade, and border conflicts. Free admission.

Tip: The museum is run by a local couple—ask them to show you the old photographs of Ponta Porã from the 1940s. Opens only in the afternoon, contrary to some online listings.