Barra do Quaraí
Barra do Quaraí, the southernmost municipality in Rio Grande do Sul state, is located at the confluence of the Quaraí and Uruguay rivers, at the tri-border between Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay.
Founded in 1898, the city is known for its strong gaúcho tradition, free shops, and border tourism. Its strategic location — across from Monte Caseros (AR) and just a few kilometers from Bella Unión (UY) — makes it a hub for tri-national commerce.
Barra do Quaraí offers beaches on the Uruguay River, boat excursions, sport fishing, and a privileged natural environment. The Municipal Beach is the main gathering point for tourists and locals, with facilities for spending the day by the river.
How to Get There
Transportation
Airplane
Uruguaiana International Airport (IATA: URG). The closest airport is in Uruguaiana, about 100 km from Barra do Quaraí.
Porto Alegre International Airport (IATA: POA) — The nearest international airport with regular flights from Buenos Aires and São Paulo.
Bus Station
Barra do Quaraí has a bus station with regular services to Uruguaiana, Porto Alegre, Santa Maria, and other cities in southern Brazil.
Boats - River Transport
Barra do Quaraí - Monte Caseros International Crossing
Passenger ferry crossing the Uruguay River connecting Barra do Quaraí (BR) with Monte Caseros (AR).
Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
By Car - Routes and Access
From Porto Alegre
- Take BR-290 (Freeway) to Triunfo, then BR-386 through Santa Maria and Rosário do Sul. Continue on BR-453 to BR-472, which leads directly to Barra do Quaraí. The trip is approximately 600 km.
Region Map
Barra do Quaraí is located in the Rio Grande do Sul state, Brazil, at the tri-border with Uruguay and Argentina.
Language
Portuguese: The official language of Brazil.
Spanish: In the border area, Spanish is widely understood and spoken.
Portuñol: A mix of Portuguese and Spanish common throughout the tri-border region.
Weather in Barra do Quaraí
Humid subtropical climate. Average annual temperature of 20°C, with hot summers (up to 40°C) and mild winters with lows of 5°C.
Season
High season is summer, from December to March.
Currency
The Brazilian Real (BRL) is the official currency. Free shops and border-area businesses accept US dollars, Argentine pesos, and Uruguayan pesos.
Emergencies
Emergencies: 190 (Military Police)
Police: (+55) 55 99999 9999
Hospital: Barra do Quaraí Emergency Care Unit
Safety Tips
Barra do Quaraí is a quiet town. Take basic precautions as in any border city.