places to visit in paraguay and why

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15 Best Places to Visit in Paraguay

Set right in the heart of South America, Paraguay is a land formed from the interfaces of Europe and Guarani Indians, where traces of earthy indigenous life still lurk in the jungles, colonial megacities rise on the winding rivers, and the Gran Chaco dominates the north. It’s a truly fascinating place.

Let’s explore the best places to visit in Paraguay :

1. Asuncion

A curious metropolis of more than two million people, Asuncion is the beating political, economic and cultural heart of modern Paraguay.

The center clings to the eastern banks of the Paraguay River, which meanders around the downtown along the border with Argentina to the west.

Here, visitors delve into what is – believe it or not – actually one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the Americas.

First raised by the conquistadores, Asuncion was actually the base from which the Spanish ventured out westwards, to the wilds of Peru and Patagonia.

Today, the town is gilded with the great National Pantheon of the Heroes, along with one throbbing nightlife along up-and-coming Paseo Carmelitas.

2. Encarnacion

The so-called ‘Pearl of the South’ reclines carefree on the banks of the Parana River, drawing crowds of Asuncenos (people from the capital) during the summer with the promise of pristine riparian beaches and the country’s most up-and-coming boardwalk boulevard.

The best sands are found at the end of Curupayty, groomed and managed and dotted with bikini-clad fashionistas and sunbathers alike.

Water sports are popular too, with jet skis buzzing around the meanders of Parana, below the shimmering high-rises of the city’s all-new residential neighbourhoods across the bay.

And when the relaxation is done and dusted, be sure to get a culture hit at the UNESCO-attested Jesuit ruins on the edge of the town.

3. Cerro Cora National Park

This pint-sized natural reserve is unquestionably one of the most dramatic and breathtaking sections of backcountry in all of Paraguay.

Only recently established, it encompasses a great swathe of undulating savannah and highland terrain, where otherworldly hills peak above the swaying grasses and mosquitoes buzz around the shuffling carapaces of armadillos.

Muralia peak is a great place to start here; offering sweeping panoramas of the region’s arid forestry and plains, while there are also curious cultural encounters to be had with the indigenous tribespeople and a smattering of mysterious ancient petroglyphs to evoke the curiosity.

4. Ciudad del Este

Like a Moroccan bazaar, the markets of Ciudad del Este sprawl out along the courses of the Parana River, the sounds of Middle Eastern hagglers and Taiwanese electronics hawkers echoing between the rows and rows of blinking electronics and branded clothes.

Yes sir, there’s a reason why this unashamed hub of the Paraguayan black market is hailed as the ‘Supermarket of the Americas’. Thousands of Brazilians cross over to the town every day to catch bargains amidst the emporiums of Camilo Recalde, while visitors typically make a beeline for the colossal engineering masterpiece that is the Itaipu Dam – another of Paraguay’s major economic generators.

5. Ybycui National Park

Capuchin monkeys swing through the canopies while howlers scale the tree trunks at Ybycui National Park, a small and tight-knit protected section of what’s remaining of the Upper Parana Atlantic Forest.

Most travelers make the relatively short 150 kilometer drive here straight from the capital, eager to see the gushing waterfalls that cascade down through the rocky undergrowth of the forests in steps and plunge pools.

Another attraction are the ruins of a onetime iron foundry, where the forces of the hard-fought Paraguayan War once created weaponry and munitions while hidden in the hills.

6. Yaguaron

This small backwater town set in the shadow of the bulbous cliffs and rocky hills just south of the capital at Asuncion began life as a Spanish mission intended as a settlement spot for the Guarani natives back in the early decades of the 1600s.

Today, and the striking church that was raised by the Europeans here to make their mark still stands on the grassy fields where it did all those centuries ago.

It’s one of the prime examples of the Franciscan tradition in the country, and is a fine cultural addition to an exploration through the exhibition rooms of the nearby Gaspar Rodriguez de Francia Museum – the onetime home of the Paraguayan dictator, located just a stone’s throw away down the road.

Just a short drive from the heart of the buzzing downtown streets of Asuncion, and now almost contiguous with the capital thanks to the ceaseless expansion of its outer suburbs, little, lakeside Aregua is a fine place to go to escape the heat and energy of Paraguay’s only real metropolis.

Travelers can expect a pretty maze of cobbled streets and alleyways where the lingering facades of colonial Spain still stand tall.

This all abuts the waters of Ypacarai Lake, sail boats and ferries heading to San Bernardino forever bobbing on its sky-blue waters.

Then there are the fascinating hexagonal geological formations of the Koi and Chorori hills, looming just on the edge of the city.

Famed for its distinctive tribal art and traditional Paraguayan folk music scene, the small city of Itaugua is a great place to while away a few days as you make your way through the very heart of South America.

Its inner streets come lined with swaying, shady eucalyptus trees and there are countless workshops where it’s possible to buy nanduti – a beautiful and intricate form of Paraguayan embroidery that originated in this region long ago.

Meanwhile, the looming hill of Cerrito offers viewpoints on the edge of town and a smattering of colonial houses offer a glimpse at Itaugua’s deeper, Spanish-influenced past.

9. Filadelfia

Filadelfia sits just on the edge of the Gran Chaco, where the forests and undulating hills of the Region Oriental give way to the great boreal plains that form the very heartlands of the continent as a whole.

That makes this far-flung town – the so-called ‘Capital of the Chaco – a very different place to the small southern cities of Aregua and Itaugua.

But the curiosities don’t stop there either.

Filadelfia is also German speaking, and plays host to the people of the Fernheim Colony, a transplanted Mennonite community that fled here from Stalinist Russia in the 1930s.

Add to that a dairy farm and an earthy agricultural vibe, and you’ve got yourself a truly interesting spot smack bang in the middle of the nation!

10. San Estanislao

Named after a Polish saint, founded by Spanish Jesuits, intended to convert the native Guarani Indian peoples of San Pedro in central Paraguay, and infused with the cultures of immigrants from Italy, Germany and Eastern Europe throughout the last two centuries, the pint-sized yet interesting little stop-off of San Estanislao is like the history of the country writ small.

In the 1800s it boomed with tobacco production, while today soy and pulses are the main crop raised in the surrounding fields.

Travelers can come and see pretty tree-lined plazas and wallow in the bucolic feel of the place, all whilst meeting a lively crowd of students, beers in tow, during the later hours.

11. Concepcion

Located just on the cusp of the Grand Chaco and benefitting from great river connections to the larger cities of the south, Concepcion enjoyed an economic golden age before being plunged into conflict during the Paraguayan War.

Today, its central streets and cobbled alleys still bear all the hallmarks of a colonial outpost that did very well indeed from its various agricultural pursuits.

Visitors embark and disembark from their hop-on, hop-off river cruises up the meanders of the Paraguay River, wonder at the elegant facades and painted Spanish-style churches, and enjoy the sultry tropical airs as they go.

12. La Santisima Trinidad de Parana

Paraguay’s historical piece de resistance can be found set just north of the fun-loving southern hub of Encarnacion, rising from the rolling hills just a stone’s throw from the Parana River.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site (the most-visited in the country no less), the spot is a fine example of a South American Jesuit Reduction.

These would once have peppered the Latin lands from Argentina to Bolivia, and worked to convert the local Indian populations to Christianity in a non-invasive (at least as non-invasive as possible) way.

Nowadays, the site showcases crumbling churches and priests’ living quarters, many adorned with European art works, others complete with a curious intermingling of Indian and Italianesque styles.

This one’s simply not to be missed!

13. San Cosme y Damian

Jutting its way out into the colossal oxbow lakes and flooded plains that swell where the Parana River weaves along the borderline with Argentina to the south, the village of San Cosme y Damian is a real sight to behold.

It comes encompassed by shimmering, palm tree-spotted, yellow-sanded dunes, which ebb and flow across the landscape before plunging down directly into the waters.

There is also an interesting old Jesuit mission situated nearby, while boat trips and hiking excursions across the shores are a great way to explore the otherworldly vistas and shifting sands.

14. San Bernardino

Barred off from the chaos of the capital by the great liquid curve of Lake Ypacarai, San Bernardino has firmly established itself as one of the prime gateways for the moneyed jet setter Asuncenos.

Ferries buzz across several times a day from the outer districts of Aregua, depositing folk on the waterside boulevards of Bernardino, between swaying palm trees and the artificial sand stretches that have been set up there.

Of course, the town has oodles of pubs and discos to let loose in, and partiers flock to the plazas with beers and salsa-ready hips right throughout the summer high season (typically running from December to March).

15. Villarrica

Set in the shadow of the rugged Ybyturuzu highland ridges, Villarrica is a proud and historically rich Paraguayan town; a place where monuments to national heroes pepper the plazas, and some of the country’s most important cultural institutions and traditions are on the line-up.

Take the Maestro Fermin Lopez Museum in the heart of town, which showcases collections of old munitions and arms from the Chaco War next to ancient Indian weaponry.

Then there are the booming Easter celebrations, which erupt on the squares and between the gorgeous Spanish-style towers of the Franciscan church – one seriously handsome relic of the colonial era to say the least!

15 Best Places to Visit in Paraguay:

• Encarnacion
• Cerro Cora National Park
• Ciudad del Este
• Ybycui National Park
• San Estanislao
• La Santisima Trinidad de Parana
• San Cosme y Damian
• San Bernardino

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• 7 Places To Visit In Paraguay To Spruce Up Your South American Holiday In 2024

23 Mar 2023

One of the most charming yet underrated countries within the continent of South America is Paraguay. The humble nation has in its bounty a number of destinations that are still relatively unknown to the world outside. Boasting a unique blend of culture when compared to the other nearby nations, these incredible places to visit in Paraguay will definitely stun you. A true wonder tucked away from the shutterbugs of the world, Paraguay is really a destination worth visiting. From nature’s beauty to scenic places, and more importantly so much of the hidden places make it a world within a world.

Why Visit Paraguay?

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The country of Paraguay is a novel destination with many beautiful places in its lap. What makes the nation even more interesting is its geological factors. The country is a nature’s wonderland with a hot and humid climatic factor. While the lush grasslands are situated towards the east, the west has more of an empty salt marsh. Due to its geographical location, Paraguay is often referred to as the “Heart of South America”.

Another one amongst the interesting aspects of the nation is that it lies landlocked by Brazil, Bolivia, and Argentina. Heaven for tourists and home to some of the oldest wildlife of the world, Paraguay is a nation waiting to break the boundaries of sustained oblivion. 

Best Places To Visit In Paraguay

Clearly bifurcated by the Paraguay river, one can uncover hidden gems that makes this such a fun place to visit. Here is the list of famous places to visit in paraguay for first-timers.

1. Asuncion

The country might not have a fuller list of places to satiate the hodophile inside you, but it will for sure leave you awe-struck. This South-American destination is one of the oldest cities in the continent. The stunning location along with a welcoming culture is something that is rare to find in the rest of the places. The place also has a string of hostels which makes it a cool spot to unwind. It is clearly a destination not to miss and one of the top nearby places to visit in paraguay .

Best time to visit: April- September Must-Visit Places in Asuncion: Palacio de los lopez, Loma San Jeronimo, Casa De La Indepencia. How to reach: The place is well connected by the airport through taxi and bus. One can take a taxi and cover a distance of 17 km in 30-40 minutes.

Must Read: 10 Best Things To Do In Brazil For A Wild & Unforgettable South American Sojourn

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2. Saltos Del Monday

A truly beautiful landscape punctuated with the elegance of waterfalls. Also cited as one of the best tourist places to visit in paraguay, one should not miss this place at any cost. A must-see for everyone, the place is home to some gorgeous waterfalls that amplify its beauty. While visiting this amazing place don’t forget to carry your hiking shoes to stay safe around the edges. Also, do make time for some killing photography and captivate the beauty of the place in the lens.

Best time to visit: April- September Must-Visit Places in Saltos Del Monday: Nearby park of Ciudad Del Este. How to reach: The place is well connected by public transport buses. One can take a bus and cover a distance of 325.7 km in 5 hours and 16 minutes.

Suggested Read: Top 15 Places To Visit In Ecuador For A Megadiverse Tour In South America

3. La Santisima Trinidad De Parana

It is yet another of the major highlights of the entire Paraguay trip. An interesting gem of a place this is a former Jesuit reduction. The ruins still stand intact and are a lovely piece of architecture. A trip to this amazing place will provide you with the depth and richness of Jesuit culture. One of the trademarks that will leave you enamored, do visit this place for its age-old legacy.

Best time to visit: April- September Must-Visit Places in Trinidad De Parana: Nearby parks and Encarnacion. How to reach: The place is well connected by public transport buses. One can take a bus or a taxi and cover a distance of 394 km in 6 hours and 8 minutes.

Suggested Read: 12 Places To Visit In California: A Short Trip To Experience Miniature America

4. Encarnacion

This seldom explored town in Paraguay has a scoop of activities for every visitor. Perched on the Parana river, the town has the famous Jesuit ruins which are intricately beautiful. Apart from the above, there are other ancient wonders which are worth your time and money. The city is also a bustling metropolis with trade and communications being a big part and parcel of it. Also to name a few hotspot destinations are San Jose beach and the famous Encarnacion-Posadas Tram that provides a holistic view of both the cities. A must-visit for everyone who loves to enrich their travel bucket this sure is one of the places to visit in paraguay for family .

Best time to visit: April- September Must-Visit Places in Encarnacion: Jesuit ruins, San José beach and Encarnacion-Posadas Tram How to reach: The place is well connected by public transport buses. One can take a bus or a taxi and cover a distance of 31.3 km in 43 minutes.

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5. YBYCUI National Park

The picturesque national park is one of the less-visited places in Paraguay. The park plays a major role in both the civil and military history of the nation. The park will take the toughest test of your patience, as the exploration can get very excruciating. One must carry some light-weight items of clothing to roam around freely. Make a quick way towards this understated destination to discover its sheer beauty.

Best time to visit: April- September Must-Visit Places in Ybycui National Park: The ruins of the iron foundry. How to reach: The place is well connected by public transport buses. One can take a bus or a taxi and cover a distance of 150.3 km in 2 hours 48 minutes. .

Suggested Read: 6 Romantic Places In Brazil For Falling In Love Again!

6. Palacio de Lopez

It is truly one of the best things to see in Asuncion city. The Government palace gives off a Latin American vibe and is a spectacular site for one to behold. The historic center has remained untouched by changing times and has extravagant night lighting which amplifies its grandeur by ten-folds. It is one of the best places to visit in paraguay for travelers.

Best time to visit: April- September Must-Visit Places near Palacio de Lopez: Casa De La Independencia Museum. How to reach: The place is well connected by public transport. One can hire a taxi and cover a distance of 18 km in 24 minutes.

Suggested Read: Iguazu National Park: A Heaven Which Lies On The Border Of Argentina, Brazil, & Paraguay

7. Cerro Cora National Park

This truly impressive location is also one of guarded areas of the nation. The national park is spread across 5.5 hectares and has a massive range of trees that scoot towards the Aquidaban River. If you plan to visit this dense natural expanse then do take a guide along. The rich woodland is one of its kinds and one can easily get lost within its premises.

Best time to visit: April- September Must-Visit Places near Cerro Cora National Park: Nearby auditorium, visitors center and recreational area. How to reach: The place is well connected by public transport. One can hire a taxi and cover a distance of 411.3 km in nearly 6 hours.

Further Read: Top Places For Shopping In Brazil Where You Can Splurge All Your Hard-Earned Money!

A quick trip to the above-mentioned best places to visit in paraguay will help you have access to Latin America’s hidden gem. So, the next time you think of planning a trip to Brazil , be mindful of these breath-taking locations that truly redefine beauty.

Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Paraguay worth visiting?

Unlike its other contemporaries, Paraguay has a limited range of tourist attractions that make it worth visiting. The beauty of the place lies in its simplicity thus making it a quick favorite for the retreat.

What is Asuncion known for?

The city is also known by the moniker “Mother of Cities” as it was the first few cities in south-America to be founded by European explorers.

What is the language spoken in Paraguay?

Spanish and Guarani are the official languages spoken in the country. More than 80% of people here are Mestizos as the nation itself is a bilingual one.

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Must-see attractions in Paraguay

Yaguarón Church

This 18th-century Franciscan church is a landmark of colonial architecture that is not to be missed. The simple design of the exterior, with its separate…

A visually striking red-sandstone structure with an ornate style incorporating Roman arches, and strongly featuring the passion-flower motif, signature of…

Museo Jesuítica de Santa Fe

A must-see for those interested in Jesuit history, housing fine examples of religious carving. The indigenous carvers were taught their trade by a Jesuit…

Panteón de los Héroes

Asunción's most instantly recognizable building, the imposing Panteón de los Héroes protects the remains of Mariscal Francisco Solano López and other key…

Casa de la Independencia

The Casa de la Independencia dates from 1772 and is where Paraguay became the first country on the continent to declare its independence in 1811. Rooms…

Chaco Lodge

Chaco Lodge is a forest reserve around a large salt lake famous for its flamingos. It is one of the last in the area to dry out, and is accessible only…

Museo del Barro

Everyone's favorite, Museo del Barro displays everything from modern paintings to pre-Columbian and indigenous crafts, to political caricatures of…

Sambadromo Carnaval

The Sambadromo (Carnival parade ground) is along Av Costanera, which is Encarnación's main strip for nightlife. Outside of Carnival season it is used for…

Monumento Bertoni

A family of Swiss immigrants led by father Moisés, the Bertonis had the idea of breeding a community of scientists deep in the Paraguayan jungle at the…

Salto del Monday

This impressive 80m-high waterfall, located 10km south of Ciudad del Este, suffers from its close proximity to Iguazú Falls on the other side of the…

San Cosme y Damián

The only Jesuit church that still functions for services, San Cosme y Damián is more impressive for its wooden statues than for the church itself, which…

Jardín Botánico

From the center, Av Artigas runs approximately 6km to the Jardín Botánico. The former estate of the ruling López dynasty, it now houses the city zoo, a…

Jesús de Tavarangüe

The name Jesús de Tavarangüe means 'Jesus the town that was never finished,' as the Jesuits were expelled before it could be completed. The Spanish…

Palacio López

The grand pink Palacio López is the seat of government. During the early years of independence you could be shot for merely looking at the exterior! These…

North of the Plaza de los Héroes near the waterfront is the pink cabildo (colonial town council), which was once the center of government. This…

Basilica de Caacupé

Paraguay's answer to the Vatican City, the enormous Basilica de Caacupé looks quite out of place in this otherwise quiet provincial town. Though modern,…

Museo del Doctor Francia

In a little colonial house with a pleasant garden, the Museo del Doctor Francia is the house where Paraguay's first president/dictator spent much of his…

The headquarters of Conmebol, the South American football confederation, is in Luque, on the road to the airport. It houses an impressive museum depicting…

Museo del Cuartel de la Villa Real

The museum in the beautifully restored barracks exhibits historical and war paraphernalia. The attack on Mato Grosso, Brazil, was launched from here…

Cabildo Histórico

The old seat of local government is a two-tiered wood-and-adobe building on the leafy plaza.

Flora and Fauna Itaipú Binacional

In the creation of the Itaipú Dam, the dam company was obliged to set up a series of eight private reserves that now protect the last remnants of the Alto…

Fortín Boquerón

Fortín Boquerón is the site of one of the decisive battles of the Chaco War (1932–35). There is an excellent museum, as well as a graveyard of the fallen…

Estación Ferrocarril

The Asunción–Encarnación railway line was the first in South America. One of the first trains to run the route is on display at the old Estación…

The former Jesuit quarry has now been turned into a pleasant park. The Jesuits removed the stone by hammering along fault lines until the rock broke,…

Manzana de la Rivera

Just across the street from Palacio López is the Manzana de la Rivera, a complex of nine colorful and restored houses. The oldest is Casa Viola (1750),…

Colonists' Museum

The creaky wooden building that houses the museum is the original colony headquarters. It's filled with a bit of everything, from information about…

Cementerio de la Recoleta

This cemetery, 3km east of the center along Av Mariscal López, is a maze of incredible mausoleums as Asunción's wealthy try to do outdo each other in the…

Tupasy Ycuá

No trip to Caacupé would be complete without bathing yourself in the holy water of the Tupasy Ycuá. You can also take some home with you. Virgin-shaped…

Jakob Unger Museum

The natural-history museum, named after the famous Mennonite naturalist, is stuffed with taxidermied animals and is part of the impressive Filadelfia…

Museo de Arqueología Industrial

If machines rev you up, this open-air museum down the middle of Concepcion's main avenue features an assortment of antique industrial and agricultural…

Basilica Menor de Nuestra Señora del Pilar

A charming little church with a marble-and-wood interior. It is the only temple officially declared a basilica in Paraguay, granting it special papal…

María Auxiliadora

Concepcion's most eye-catching monument is the enormous statue of María Auxiliadora (Virgin Mary), which towers over the northern end of the main avenue.

Catedral Metropolitana

On the eastern side of Plaza Constitución is the unremarkable Catedral Metropolitana, with its equally unremarkable museum.

Museo Loma Plata

A small museum of Mennonite history, next to the tourist information office. Information in English available.

Former House of Stroessner

The former house of dictator Alfredo Stroessner is now a private university just behind the bus terminal.

Escalinata San Pedro

A Gaudí-esque ornamental stairway in a residential neighbourhood at the far end of Av Costanera.

Contains assorted war memorabilia from the era of the War of the Triple Alliance.

More destinations you need to see

36 Hours in Asunción, Paraguay

By Laurence Blair Updated March 7, 2024

• Share full article

Paraguay’s hot, humid capital doesn’t top many bucket lists. It lacks Rio de Janeiro ’s spectacular setting and Buenos Aires ’s cultural heft. Corruption and the legacy of dictatorship have kept it in a time warp of cobbled streets, moldering mansions and the odd horse-and-cart. Now, the good news: For the adventurous traveler, Asunción’s off-the-radar quality is its strongest asset. Tourists are met with a friendly curiosity they are unlikely to find in other South American capitals. A renaissance in how the city is embracing its heritage is palpable: Restaurants are defining the New Paraguayan cuisine, a stylish showroom is putting Indigenous folk art on the map and new tours are unlocking ornate palaces and hardscrabble neighborhoods alike. Spend a weekend in this slow-paced, overlooked city before taking the new bridge, inaugurated this month, to the Chaco forest : one of the world's last great wildernesses, but quickly disappearing.

Recommendations

• Calle Palma is a downtown street of historic residences with striking fin de siècle façades.
• Óga , meaning “home” in the Indigenous Guaraní language, is a restaurant pioneering a novel Paraguayan cuisine that pays homage to the country’s gastronomic traditions.
• ChacaTours takes visitors down the winding staircases and colorful alleyways of the much-misunderstood Chacarita neighborhood.
• POpore is a new gallery that spotlights Paraguay’s vibrant Indigenous and popular art.
• La Estación Central del Ferrocarril , a museum in a charming old train station, offers a journey in time to when Paraguay had a national rail network.
• El Panteón Nacional de los Héroes , an opulent chapel, is the resting place of leaders both revered and reviled.
• El Palacio de López , the government palace, is taking visitors for the first time in years.
• El Jardín Botánico is a sprawling, forested park patrolled by monkeys and caimans.
• La Costanera is a riverside promenade and a great place to people-watch.
• La Chispa , a pop-up cultural space, lights up a dilapidated block with live music and strident political theater on weekends.
• Contacto Café Social Club serves iced concoctions of blood-orange syrup, tonic and espresso in a small-but-friendly coffee shop.
• Garage Sónico , a relaxed cocktail club in the owners’ home, plays bossa nova while you sip highballs made with native fruit infusions.
• Café Consulado does tasty lunches and sandwiches in a hip downtown location.
• Karu , a cafe with a verdant patio, tops brownies with swirls of passionfruit mousse in the trendy Las Mercedes neighborhood.
• Casa Clari , a cafe-bar in a colonial building, lets you peer into the presidential palace across the street.
• Pakuri , a restaurant built from upcycled shipping containers, does Paraguayan dishes with a Peruvian twist, pairing them with fine Argentine wines.
• Club Condesa pumps out electronica for the in-crowd until well past sunrise and has an in-house music store, Pampanam , selling rare vinyls of Brazilian samba alongside records by up-and-coming Paraguayan artists.
• Bolsi , a restaurant in the city center, doles out empanadas and other parcels of fried goodness to the peckish and hungover.
• Don Oscar provides no-frills barbecue and bright-orange hot sauce in repurposed Pepsi bottles.
• Negroni Rooftop serves cocktails and sushi from a privileged perch among the shopping malls and skyscrapers of the new Asunción.
• Shopping del Pescado , a cheap and cheerful family restaurant, grills fresh fish on a concrete boardwalk above the river.
• La Red Agroecológica y Artesanal is a Saturday market with stalls selling handicrafts and organic foodstuffs.
• El Paseo Artesanal is a good place to buy souvenirs like hammocks and ponchos.
• El Mercadito is a market with fresh vegetables, herbal remedies and vendors selling a restorative chicken soup called vori vori.
• Palmaroga Hotel , which opened in 2019, has 107 rooms soaring above a restored atrium. The terrace offers panoramic views, and the adjoining restaurant, La María Cocina y Carbón, serves prime Paraguayan steak. Rooms start at 520,000 guaraníes, or about $71.
• Gran Hotel del Paraguay boasts colonnaded courtyards filled with banana, calabash and palm trees, a chandelier-lit ballroom with frescoes creeping up the warped wooden ceilings and a generous-size pool frequented by miniature emerald hummingbirds. Rooms start at 350,000 guaraníes.
• Nómada is a hostel close to the main sights and cheap lunch options. Shared dorms (from 80,000 guaraníes per bunk) face a convivial dining area and garden with hammocks. It only takes cash.
• Short-term rentals are plentiful and relatively cheap. Most cluster near the Villa Morra district, close to high-end stores and nightlife. Apartments with sweeping views of the river can be found in the old center, where it’s safest to use Ubers after dark.
• Ride-hailing apps like Uber, Bolt and a homegrown version called MUV are the best options to get around Asunción. Battered yellow taxis run on meters and can be found near the Panteón and outside shopping malls. To ride the buses , gaudily decorated with saints and tassels, buy a rechargeable Jaha card from a supermarket or pharmacy (2,300 to 3,400 guaraníes per journey). Yank the cord to get off. Walking is a good way to enjoy the historic center, but bring water, a hat and sunscreen during summer (December to February).

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The 9 most beautiful places to visit in Paraguay

1. asunción, 2. jesus del tavarangue, 3. ybycuí national park, 4. the laguna blanca, 5. encarnación, 6. la santísima trinidad de paraná, 7. gran chaco, 9. saltos del monday.

• 8. Itaipu Dam

Are you planning to visit Paraguay? Here are the 9 most beautiful places not to be missed to fully enjoy this endearing country!

A "small" country wedged between three giants, Brazil, Argentina and Chile, Paraguay is often forgotten by tourists. Indeed, unlike its neighbours, it does not have a must-see and does not occupy an important place in the imagination of travellers. However, the country has a unique character. Freed from tourist infrastructures, it represents a destination of choice for lovers of authenticity. To visit Paraguay is to get rid of the big travel agencies and crowded buses to trust its inhabitants. And we might as well tell you right away: an exceptional welcome awaits you!

Let yourself be carried away by the discreet charm and the sweetness of life that hangs over the Paraguayan lands. But what are the places not to be missed during your stay? Here are the nine most beautiful places in Paraguay.

Capital of Paraguay, Asunción is nicknamed the Mother of all Cities. And with good reason, it was founded in 1537, making it one of the oldest colonial cities in South America. From this period, it has preserved an architectural heritage that is worth the detour. In 1811, the city freed itself from the yoke of Spain and finally gained its independence. However, the rest of the country's history is marked by long years of dictatorship that are barely over today. To walk around Asunción is to discover historical monuments that mark the history of Paraguay: the house of independence, the national pantheon of heroes or the Lopez Palace.

The city has a peaceful and warm atmosphere. Take the opportunity to discover Paraguayan culture! Don't miss the Museo del Barro, a museum of indigenous folk art. Finally, lose yourself in the maze of its multicoloured markets and taste the local cuisine.

Paraguay's history is marked by an episode that is unparalleled in the rest of the world. From 1609 to 1763, the Jesuit Mission established a theocratic state in the territory. This unusual province declares the native Americans "as free as the Spaniards". On condition, of course, that they submit to the Church... The society is organized around the reducción, small villages structured by the Jesuits. At first, the Guaraníes can keep their own family structure. But little by little, the Jesuits imposed a Christian way of life on them. However, this "utopia" offered exceptional living conditions for the time. All the inhabitants are educated and literate, the public services are open to all, the working day lasts 6 hours, free time is dedicated to the arts, etc.

On your way to Jesus del Taravangue, you have the opportunity to observe the remains of a Jesuit reducción. The site consists of a church, cloister, houses, workshops and a vegetable garden.

Want to escape? The Ybycuí National Park is the most visited in Paraguay. Indeed, it is the easiest to access. Moreover, the wardens ensure the security of the place and will be able to guide you during your visit. Covering more than 5,000 hectares, the park offers extraordinary landscapes. As you set off to discover them, you will encounter a biodiversity that is unique in the world. Magnificent orchids and a wide variety of trees cover the park. But you will also have the opportunity to meet monkeys, armadillos and coatis.

Once there, go to the emblematic waterfalls: el salto Mina y el salto Guarani. They pour their crystal-clear water into a tropical setting teeming with life. On the way, you can admire the flight of the immense multicoloured butterflies that inhabit Ybycuí. All in all, a visit to the park is a must during your stay in Paraguay!

The Laguna Blanca is one of the most beautiful sites in Paraguay. Vast limpid lake surrounded by white sand dunes, it possesses an undeniable charm that even the visitors like it. It is a dream place for those who wish to relax and enjoy water activities such as diving or kayaking. But its gentle landscape also conceals a fauna and flora of a rare richness. Indeed, the Laguna Blanca is located at the junction of three biotopes. Nature lovers will be delighted! More particularly, the site is known to be a great place for bird watching. Indeed, more than 280 species of birds live in the area. Take your binoculars with you and discover them!

Nicknamed the Pearl of the South, Encarnación is also known as the Capital of Carnival. And for good reason, every year in January, February or March, the town puts on its festive clothes! It is then a destination not to be missed in Paraguay. The streets come alive and the parades follow one another every weekend. A hallucinating spectacle for the visitors, who are numerous to come to see the biggest carnival of Paraguay.

But Encarnación also shows its full potential in the summer. The banks of the river are then made suitable for swimming and a crazy atmosphere pervades the town after dark. This festive and summery atmosphere is ideal for meeting Paraguayans! In short, it is a sparkling destination that you should not miss during your stay.

Read also: The 15 most beautiful carnivals to be done in the world

Trinidad de Paraná is the second Jesuit relic to visit in Paraguay. Like its neighbour, Jesus del Tavarangue, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Both sites are among the least visited on the list! Take advantage of it! Especially since the ruins of the reducción de Trinidad are particularly well preserved. The low influx of visitors helps to make the place magical. There is a good chance that you will find yourself alone in front of the old stones. In the worst case, a few birds will accompany you. An ideal place to enjoy the atmosphere full of history... A history that was decisive in the destiny of Paraguay.

Tinged with mystery, the Gran Chaco is a wild territory of South America that occupies the western part of Paraguay. The eloquent meaning of its name, in Quechua "the hunting territory", makes even the most adventurous travelers dream. If you love nature and solitude, this is the place to go.

However, visiting the Gran Chaco is not a project that is prepared lightly. If you wish to embark on this adventure, it is advisable to hire a guide. This deserted territory experiences episodes of stifling heat that can reach 50 degrees Celsius! Not to mention the fact that you will find yourself a thousand miles from any inhabited land... The only creatures that will cross your path will come from the exceptional fauna that inhabits the area. Unfortunately, these birds, mammals and other reptiles are now threatened by the development of livestock farming on these lands.

8. The Itaipu Dam

The Itaipu Dam is the largest and most productive power plant in the world, located on the border with Brazil. This titanic structure is indeed no less than 7 kilometres long! It is here that 90% of the electricity that supplies Paraguay and 25% of the electricity that supplies Brazil is produced. But why go to see a dam? Simply because the view is breathtaking. Rising 65 stories, Itaipu dominates the landscape. It unfolds its gigantism with an aura of formidable power. If you wish to go there, you should know that there is a "special" visit that allows you to get inside the dam. And if you plan to stay there for the evening, a light show is given there from 8 pm.

In a tropical setting, not far from Ciudad del Este, River Monday falls abruptly to a height of 45 metres. A triptych of bubbling waterfalls is formed. This spectacular sight will not fail to twist your guts. However, few visitors come to admire Los Saltos del Monday. Is it because of the low tourist influx in Paraguay? Or is it due to the presence of the famous Iguazú waterfalls nearby? Either way, it helps to reinforce its status as a hidden treasure. If you are staying in the country, ask a taxi to take you there to contemplate this incredible natural heritage.

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The Top 12 Things to Do in Asunción, Paraguay

With a history dating back to the 1530s, Paraguay's capital city is rife with historical sites, long-held communal practices, and museums documenting the mythology and art of the Indigenous Guarani people. With 65 percent of the current population under 30, though, Asunción is also a city full of new ideas: young people give educational talks and throw parties at cultural centers, boisterous crowds flock to soccer club stadiums to cheer on their favorite teams, and the gastronomy scene is evolving at a rapid pace. Wherever you might go in Paraguay , chances are you’ll end up here at some point, as nearby Silvio Pettirossi International Airport is the main international flight hub. So take a few days and get to know this South American city.

Learn History at the National Pantheon of Heroes

A national mausoleum where the remains of Paraguayan leaders are interred—including the country's first president, Don Carlos Antonio López, and the victor of the Chaco War, Marshal José Félix Estigarribia—the Panteón Nacional de los Héroes (National Pantheon of Heroes) acts as a memorial to Paraguay’s war-torn history. Modeled after the classical and Baroque style of Paris’ Les Invalides, it has a high dome and stained glass windows, with commemorative plaques from the Paraguayan Navy and foreign dignitaries hung throughout its chambers. See the changing of the guard and consider booking a guided tour with the tourist office, located in the historic center.

See Homegrown Art at Museo del Barro

Courtesy of the Museo del Barro

Spend several hours in the Museo del Barro for a crash course on Paraguay’s past and present art scene. Free to the public, it contains three sections focused on Indigenous art, pottery, and contemporary art. Here you can see ñandutí (traditional Paraguayan lace), miniatures of Jesuit reductions, and clay sculptures and vessels from pre-Colombian times. Browse the Indigenous art section to familiarize yourself with some of the country’s Indigenous groups, whose ceremonial clothing, statues, and baskets make up the 1,750 piece-strong collection. After, learn about current art in Paraguay by viewing more than 3,000 contemporary paintings, drawings, and installations. In addition to featuring Paraguayan artists, works of other creatives from throughout South America are displayed as well.

Watch Soccer at the Estadio General Pablo Rojas

See one of Paraguay’s most popular soccer teams, the Club Cerro Porteño, at their home stadium, Estadio General Pablo Rojas. With a record of 38 appearances in the Copa Libertadores and 33 Primera División titles, the team is one of the country’s best—yet their skill isn’t the only reason to attend. Expect fireworks, thundering chants, and high energy commentary from the stands, where 45,000 seats hold diehard fans who call the stadium by its nickname, La Olla (the cooking pot). Tickets to league games can be purchased in the Obrero neighborhood, within several blocks of La Olla.

Wander Loma San Jerónimo's Graffiti Art Alleys

Only a 20-minute walk from the city center lies Loma San Jerónimo, a small, colorful neighborhood of graffiti murals, a literary café , and a staircase adorned with a meta mosaic of Asunción. One of the oldest neighborhoods in the city, it is said to have been the site of the founding of Asunción in 1537, and was named after its resident monks of the Order of Jerónimo. Tour the small church, see the city from the mirador (viewing platform), and drink some herb-infused libations at sunset at La Casa del Mojito rooftop bar. Though small, you’ll find many spots to snap pics, lots of traditional houses to observe, and dancing performances on the weekends.

Shop at Mercado 4

Go to Asunción's largest open-air market for souvenirs, electronics, fresh fruits, street food, and traditional Paraguayan dishes like pira caldo (fish stew) and asado with chunks of yucca. Find the stalls with the tea sellers grinding yerba mate with a giant mortar and pestle, and order some tereré (a highly caffeinated cold tea). If you like it, consider purchasing the freshly ground herb, along with your own guampo (a cup shaped like a horn) and bombilla (metal filtered straw) to drink it properly after you leave Paraguay.

Observe Strange Sights at Asunción's Botanical Garden and Zoo

Courtesy of the Botanical Garden and Zoo of Asuncion

While the 270-acre forest of 150-year-old trees at the Jardín Botánico y Zoológico de Asunción (Botanical Garden and Zoo of Asunción) might draw you in, the ground’s natural history museum is what will keep you enthralled. Strange scenes of taxidermy wildlife from the Chaco in their recreated habitats, embalmed animals with various oddities (like two heads), and a large collection of native butterflies will give you a sample of the varied and distinctive wildlife that call the country home. Check out the medicinal plant nursery or Herbarium (seed repository) to learn more about the country’s flora.

Grab a South American Meal at Bolsi

Courtesy of El Bolsi

The only restaurant in Asunción with 24-hour service, El Bolsi is known for serving primarily Paraguayan, Brazilian, and Argentina dishes—and for being a prime people-watching spot. Toeing the line between casual and sleek, the best seats are at the counter, where you'll get views of the whole restaurant. Order a crispy yet soft coxinha (shredded chicken that's breaded then fried into a cone), plump salmon sashimi, or fudgy carrot cake. With fresh ingredients, vegan and vegetarian options, and seasonal specials, El Bolsi delivers good food at affordable prices.

Photograph the López Presidential Palace

Deeply tied to the history of the country and currently its seat of government, the Palacio de los López stands on the Costanera del Río Paraguay. Construction started in 1857, with the pink palace intended to be the home of Paraguay’s second president, General Francisco Solano López. The Neoclassical building incorporated the finest of Paraguay’s raw materials—Emboscada stone, Ybycuí iron, and Yaguarón wood—and was still under construction when López left to fight the War of the Triple Alliance (from which he would not return). Today, you can only tour the inside of the building on national holidays in May and August. However, you can take a picture of the exterior at any time; head across the street to Casa Viola's balcony for the best angle.

Retrace Revolutionary Steps at the Casa de la Independencia

The focal point for the planning and commencement of Paraguay’s independence from Spanish rule, the Casa de la Independencia (Independence House) is now a small museum commemorating the saga of the Martínez Sáenz-Caballero de Bazán family and their revolutionary associates. Take the free guided tour to learn how the revolutionaries strong-armed the governor into agreeing to independence in 1811. During your visit, you'll see clandestine documents, stately clothes from the 19th century, an odd toilet, and various paintings and busts of prominent Paraguayan historical figures. Take note of the alley outside, as it was the route the revolutionaries ran down to confront the governor the day independence was declared.

Go to a Mixer at a Cultural Center

Courtesy of Dracena

Centro culturales (cultural centers) dot the city, showcasing concerts, educational talks, traditional dance, and international cultural encounters—and they’re usually free to attend. Some spaces, like the Centro Cultural de España Juan de Salazar , focus on disseminating information about specific countries, while others boost creative practices, like Drácena and its regular jazz shows. Meanwhile, one of the most popular cultural centers, Manzana de la Rivera , contains a library, theater, café, and museum in a restored city block. It's best to attend a mixer here at night to enjoy not only the space and event, but the lights of the López Presidential Palace, glowing across the street.

Learn to Speak Guaraní

Studying language helps to understand culture, meaning you’ll want to learn two languages to better know Paraguay: Spanish and Guaraní. The country claims both as its official languages, and both can be studied at IDIPAR, a language school operating since 1982. Take a course for one to four weeks, or do the monthly option (time permitting). Offering online classes as well as in-person private, semi-private, and group classes, the school can also set up a homestay and host meals for you to try traditional Paraguayan food with local families.

Ride on the Río Paraguay

Head across the Paraguay River to the town of Chaco-í. Once the abode of Asunción’s wealthy, it's now a humble settlement where goats run through the streets and mom-and-pop shops sell homemade dulce de leche and Paraguayan cheese. Some residents run boats to and from Asunción, but you can also hire a fisherman to take you across. Once back, promenade along La Costanera (Asunción’s Riverwalk) and check out the abandoned port with its poetic rusty cranes. Throughout the excursion, be on the lookout for the area’s many birds, who use the river as a water source. Paraguay has nearly 700 avian species, making the capital a dream for birdwatchers.

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• Top 10 Things To See...

Top 10 Things to See and Do in Asunción, Paraguay

Asunción is a vastly underrated city. One of the oldest settlements in South America, this sprawling metropolis is home to some striking architecture, fascinating museums, colonial gems and a recently upgraded coastal boardwalk. For something a little different, stick around in Paraguay’s capital and check out our top things to see and do. For travellers in search of untrampled pastures, Asunción’s crumbling colonial buildings only add to its charm. Locals speak a mixture of Spanish and the indigenous Guaraní – and little English. Dirt poor and recovering from the dictatorships that gripped South America in the latter part of the 20th century, Paraguay’s capital is still dusting off its knees when it comes to tourism. Yet, for the curious, there’s plenty lurking beneath the surface. Imposing palacios rub shoulders with up-and-coming restaurants, while the renovated Costanera draws hundreds to watch the sunset over the Río Paraguay. Here’s where you should head on your next trip.

1. Palacio de los López

2. Museo del Barro

The essential museum for all things Paraguayan, Museo del Barro is a must-visit spot on the outskirts of the city. Packed with historic art – including wood carvings, ceramics, masks and religious sculptures – the exhibitions trace more than 400 years of indigenous culture and colonial invasion. If you want to learn more about this little-known country and its diverse history, join a (Spanish speaking) workshop or a guided tour.

Museo del Barro, Grabadores del Cabichuí 2716 esq. Cañada y Emeterio Miranda, Asunción, Paraguay +595 2160 7996

http://instagram.com/p/BJfwSFLj6_v/?taken-by=museodelbarro&hl=en

La Costanera

Loma San Jerónimo

Head to this upbeat, colourful neighbourhood for a glimpse of authentic Paraguay. It’s a little tricky to find, though the locals are especially welcoming here, even more so if you can show off some Spanish. When night falls, pick up some chipá (cheese rolls) as you wander around, then grab a cocktail at the delightful rooftop bar, La Casa del Mojito.

http://instagram.com/p/BSE7VVVjPW9/?taken-at=295353440&hl=en

3. Mercado Cuatro

Mercado Cuatro is the most bustling market in the capital. It’s about a 30-minute walk away from the centre, so the perfect trip for a quiet weekday morning. Street food stalls mingle with stands selling indigenous crafts, pets and Chinese electronics. Pick up some fresh local produce, a bright scarf to shade you from the midday heat and an icy lager for the road.

Mercado Cuatro, Silvio y Mayor Fleitas, Galería de Bonanza, Asunción, Paraguay

Mercado Cuatro © Leandro Neumann Ciuffo / Flickr

4. Casa de la Independencia

5. Catedral de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción

Right at the heart of Barrio Catedral, this towering church is an integral part of the Asunción skyline. Built in 1845 to replace a 16th century chapel and clad in silver, it’s a powerful sight, with a stripped-back interior and dainty stained glass windows. Today, the cathedral is at the heart of the city’s religious celebrations – the pope even celebrated mass here in November 2015.

Catedral de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción, Av. Mariscal Lopéz, Asunción, Paraguay

Catedral de Asunción by night © Leandro Neumann Ciuffo / Flickr

6. Estadio Defensores del Chaco

Football is one of Paraguay’s most passionate pastimes. The 2010 World Cup saw the national team reach the final, while several of the country’s best players are dotted throughout Europe’s top clubs. Rowdy matches at Asunción’s Estadio Defensores del Chaco aren’t for the faint hearted. If you’re feeling brave, catch a game between Olimpia and Cerro Porteño – the city’s greatest rivals.

Estadio Defensores del Chaco, Martinez Mayor 1393, Asunción, Paraguay +595 99150 1001

http://instagram.com/p/BR6lygSDhNc/?taken-at=1025647779&hl=en

7. El Cabildo

8. Panteón Nacional de los Héroes

Guarded by two solemn sentinels, Panteón Nacional de los Héroes is a shrine paying homage to Paraguay’s fallen and a restful place for quiet reflection. Interred inside the chapel are Don Carlos Antonio López – Paraguay’s first president – and hero of the Chaco War, Mariscal José Félix Estigarribia, as well as the remains of two unknown soldiers. Look out for the ceremonial changing of the guard throughout the day.

Panteón Nacional de los Héroes, Chile, Asunción, Paraguay

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Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

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