Paraguay

Paraguay: general info for travelers

Paraguay is a landlocked country located in South America, bordered by Argentina to the south and southwest, Brazil to the east and northeast, and Bolivia to the northwest. The capital and largest city is Asunción. The official languages are Spanish and Guarani and the currency is the Paraguayan Guarani. Paraguay has a diverse cultural heritage and rich history, with influences from indigenous peoples, Spanish colonialism, and immigration. Additionally, the country boasts impressive natural wonders, including the Iguazu Falls and the Chaco region, which is home to unique wildlife and vegetation. Overall, Paraguay is a fascinating and unique destination for travelers seeking rich culture and natural beauty.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Paraguay, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Paraguay: places to visit

Sure, here are some of the top places to visit in Paraguay: 1. Asuncion: This is the capital city of Paraguay, and it has a rich mix of colonial and modern architecture. Places to see include the Palacio de los Lopez, the National Pantheon of the Heroes and the Central Market.
2. Ybycui National Park: This national park is located in the south of the country, and it is known for its stunning waterfall, the Saltos del Monday. Other highlights include hiking trails, camping sites, and opportunities to spot wildlife like jaguars and armadillos.
3. Itaipu Dam: This is one of the largest hydroelectric dams in the world and is located on the border between Paraguay and Brazil. Visitors can take tours of the dam and learn about its construction and how it provides electricity to the region.
4. Jesuit Missions of La Santisima Trinidad de Paraná and Jesus de Tavarangue: These are two 17th-century Jesuit missions that have been designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. They feature a unique blend of European and indigenous architecture and offer insights into the history of the region.
5. Iguazu Falls: Although the majority of the falls are located on the Brazil-Argentina border, Paraguay also offers beautiful views of this natural wonder. One option is to visit the Presidente Franco viewpoint, which offers a panoramic view of the falls.
There is more to see and do in Paraguay: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Paraguay: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Paraguay, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
Paraguay generally has a subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. Here's a breakdown of each season and what to expect weather-wise: - Summer (December to February): hot and humid with average temperatures ranging from 25°C (77°F) to 35°C (95°F). Thunderstorms are common during this time.
- Autumn (March to May): mild temperatures, with average temperatures ranging from 17°C (63°F) to 27°C (81°F). It is a bit drier compared to the summer season.
- Winter (June to August): cool temperatures, with average temperatures ranging from 12°C (54°F) to 22°C (72°F).
- Spring (September to November): temperatures start to warm up, with average temperatures ranging from 18°C (64°F) to 28°C (82°F). It is still relatively dry during this time.
The best time to visit Paraguay would be during the autumn and spring months, as the weather will be milder and less humid. However, it really depends on what type of activities you plan on doing during your trip. If you want to visit the Iguazu Falls, for example, it's best to go during the summer when the falls are at their highest due to the rainy season.

Paraguay: activities and what to do

Paraguay offers a variety of exciting activities and sports for travelers looking for fun and adventure. Here are some of the top options: 1. Canoeing and Kayaking - With its numerous rivers and waterways, Paraguay is a great place to explore by canoe or kayak. Some of the most popular spots for water sports include the Paraguay River, the Aquidaban River, and the Tebicuary River.
2. Horseback Riding - Paraguay has a strong equestrian tradition, and visitors can take a guided horseback ride through the countryside or join a horseback tour to explore rugged terrain.
3. Bird Watching - With its diverse ecosystem, Paraguay is a paradise for bird lovers. The country is home to over 700 bird species, including toucans, macaws, and ibises.
4. Hiking and Trekking - For those who love the great outdoors, Paraguay's national parks and nature reserves offer a range of hiking and trekking trails. The Cerro Cora National Park and Defensores del Chaco National Park are two popular options.
5. Paragliding - With its stunning landscapes and clear skies, Paraguay is a great place to experience the thrill of paragliding. Some of the best locations for paragliding include the hills around Asuncion and Ciudad del Este.

Paraguay: few words on history and culture

Paraguay has a rich history and culture that is influenced by its indigenous Guarani heritage, Spanish colonial legacy, and more recent international migration. The Guarani people have lived in the region for thousands of years and continue to be an important cultural force, with their language and traditions still prevalent throughout the country.
Paraguay was colonized by Spain in the 16th century and achieved independence in the 19th century. Its history is marked by periods of civil war, political instability, and foreign intervention. Today, Paraguay is a democratic republic that is working to build a stronger economy and promote social development.
The country's culture is diverse and reflects its unique blend of indigenous and European influences. Traditional music, dance, and crafts are still important parts of Paraguayan culture, and the country is also known for its distinctive cuisine. Popular dishes include chipa (a type of cornbread), sopa paraguaya (a savory cornbread), and asado (grilled meat).

Paraguay: how to move around on holiday

There are several means of transport to reach and visit Paraguay, including: 1. Airplane: The easiest way to reach Paraguay is by airplane. The main airport is Silvio Pettirossi International Airport (ASU), located near the capital city Asuncion. There are international flights to Paraguay from various countries in South America, North America, Europe, and Asia.
2. Bus: Paraguay has a well-connected bus system that runs between the major cities and towns. Buses are generally comfortable and affordable.
3. Car: If you prefer more flexibility and independence, renting a car is a good option. However, be aware that the roads in Paraguay can be in poor condition, especially in rural areas.
4. Train: There are no passenger train services in Paraguay, so it is not an option for travel.
Once you are in Paraguay, you can also use taxis, Uber, and local buses to move around the cities and towns. To hire a car to visit Paraguay, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Paraguay: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Paraguay with a full stomach:D
Paraguay has a rich culinary tradition, influenced by its Guarani and Spanish heritage. Here are some typical foods from Paraguay: 1. Sopa Paraguaya: A traditional cornbread made with cornmeal, onions, and cheese that's often served as a side dish.
2. Chipa: A gluten-free bread made with cassava starch and cheese, often sold by street vendors.
3. Asado: Grilled meat, especially beef, is very popular in Paraguay. It's often served with yuca or boiled potatoes.
4. Mbeju: A type of pancake made with cassava starch, cheese, and sometimes aniseed.
5. Empanadas: These savory, pastry-like pockets are usually filled with beef, chicken, or cheese.
6. Mandioca or cassava: It's a staple food in Paraguay, similar to potatoes in North America. It's often served boiled or fried.
7. Chicha: A traditional drink made from fermented corn and often served at festivals or special occasions.
These are just a few of the traditional foods you might encounter in Paraguay!

Paraguay: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

Paraguay is generally considered a more affordable destination compared to other South American countries. Accommodation, food, and transportation are generally cheaper than in nearby countries like Argentina and Brazil. However, the availability of international standard hotels and luxury facilities may be limited and can be more expensive. It's always a good idea to research and compare prices to create a budget that fits your needs and expectations.

Paraguay: where to find accodation

There are several online resources you can use to search for accommodations in Paraguay. Here are some popular options: 1. Booking.com: This website has a good selection of hotels, hostels, and apartments in Paraguay.
2. Airbnb: This platform allows you to rent unique accommodations from local hosts, including apartments and houses.
3. Agoda: This site specializes in offering budget-friendly accommodations in Paraguay, including hotels and hostels.
4. TripAdvisor: This website offers a comprehensive list of accommodations in Paraguay, along with reviews from previous guests to help you make an informed decision.
5. Hostelworld: This platform is particularly useful for budget travelers, as it offers a large selection of hostels and guesthouses in Paraguay.
You can check hotel prices in Paraguay here:
Booking.com

Paraguay: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
According to the Ministry of Tourism of Paraguay, the country received around 1.3 million tourists in 2019. However, due to the pandemic, the numbers have decreased in the past year.
There are some crowded periods in Paraguay, such as the summer months (December to February), when locals go on vacation, and during the religious celebrations of the Holy Week in April. Additionally, some festivities and cultural events may attract a higher number of visitors. It's recommended to plan ahead and book in advance during these periods to avoid any inconvenience.
Paraguay is generally a safe country for tourists, but like any other country, travelers should take precautions to ensure their safety. The crime rate is relatively low, but petty theft and pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas or public transportation. It is advisable to avoid certain neighborhoods on the outskirts of the major cities, especially at night.
The city of Ciudad del Este, which borders Brazil and Argentina, has a reputation for being a hot spot for smuggling and counterfeit goods, and travelers should exercise caution when visiting the area. Additionally, travelers should avoid political demonstrations or protests as they can quickly become violent.
Overall, Paraguay is safe for tourists who are sensible and aware of their surroundings. Travelers should consider taking basic safety measures such as not flashing valuables or carrying a large amount of cash and keeping an eye on their belongings.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Paraguay on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Paraguay: events for tourists

Paraguay has several events and festivals throughout the year that are worth experiencing as a tourist. Some of the most interesting events are: 1. Asunción Carnival: This colorful carnival takes place in Asunción in February every year. Visitors can enjoy the floats, parades, and traditional music and dance performances.
2. Semana Santa: The Holy Week or Semana Santa in Paraguay is celebrated with great reverence. Visitors can witness processions, religious ceremonies, and other related events.
3. Paraguayan Independence Day: Paraguay celebrates its Independence Day, or Día de la Independencia, on May 15th every year, which is marked by festivities all over the country.
4. National Folklore Festival: This festival is celebrated every year in Encarnación in September, where visitors can experience traditional Paraguayan music, dance, and crafts.
5. Itaipu Binacional International Half Marathon: This marathon takes place every year in October in Ciudad del Este, which brings together runners from all over the world.
These are some of the highlights; however, Paraguay also has other events and festivals that are unique and fascinating, and worth checking out.

Paraguay: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Paraguay, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
Here's a two-week itinerary for a typical tourist in Paraguay: Day 1-2: Start your trip in Asunción, the capital of Paraguay. Visit the historic center, including landmarks like the Metropolitan Cathedral, the Government Palace, and the Panteón Nacional de los Héroes. Spend some time exploring the charming streets of the city center and trying local cuisine.
Day 3-4: Head to Yaguarón, a small town about 50km from Asunción. Visit the Jesuit ruins of La Santisima Trinidad de Paraná and Jesús de Tavarangue. Both sites are UNESCO World Heritage Sites and provide insight into Paraguay's colonial history.
Day 5-6: Travel to the Cerrado region and visit the Reserva Natural del Bosque Mbaracayú, a protected area known for its biodiversity and access to unique activities like birdwatching and waterfall treks.
Day 7-9: Explore the Gran Chaco, Paraguay's vast semi-arid region. Here you can find Paraguay's indigenous peoples and visit the Chaco National Park, one of the largest national parks in the world.
Day 10-11: Travel to Encarnación, a city in southern Paraguay. Here you can visit the Jesuit ruins of Trinidad and Jesús. You can also take a boat tour of the Yacyretá Dam and visit the moon-like landscape of Serranía de San Juan.
Day 12-13: From Encarnación, head to the popular tourist destination of the Itaipu Dam, one of the largest hydroelectric dams in the world. Take a tour of the facility and learn about its history and the energy it produces.
Day 14: Return to Asunción and spend time exploring the city's museums, like the National Museum of Fine Arts or the Ethnographic Museum Andres Barbero.
Hope this helps!

Paraguay: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Paraguay described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Aregua is a small city located in Paraguay, specifically in the central department. It is situated on the shores of Lake Ypacarai, which makes it a popular tourist destination and a great place to eng... CONTINUE here for a trip to Aregua
- Asuncion is the capital and largest city of Paraguay located in the southern region of the country. It is situated along the Paraguay River and has a population of approximately 550,000 people. Asunci... CONTINUE here for a trip to Asuncion
- Caacupe is a city located in the central region of Paraguay, approximately 55 kilometers east of the capital city of Asuncion. It is a historic and religious site, known for the Basilica of Our Lady o... CONTINUE here for a trip to Caacupe
- Caacupemi is a small town located on the eastern coast of Paraguay, about 61 kilometers east of Asuncion, the capital city. It is situated on the shores of the Parana River, which separates Paraguay f... CONTINUE here for a trip to Caacupemi
- Caaguazu is a department (administrative region) in Paraguay, located in the eastern part of the country. It is known for its agricultural production, including soybeans, corn, and cotton. The main ci... CONTINUE here for a trip to Caaguazu
- Caazapa is a department, or administrative division, located in the southern region of Paraguay. It is known for its lush natural landscapes, including forests, hills, and waterfalls. The capital city... CONTINUE here for a trip to Caazapa
- Capiibary is a small town located in the department of San Pedro, in eastern Paraguay. It is primarily an agricultural community, producing soybeans, cotton, corn, and other crops. The town is surroun... CONTINUE here for a trip to Capiibary
- Ciudad del Este is a city in eastern Paraguay, situated on the border with Brazil and Argentina. It is one of the country's most important commercial centers and a major hub of trade and tourism. The ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ciudad del Este
- Colonia Mariano Roque Alonso is a city located in the Central Department of Paraguay, South America. It is the second largest city in the department and is located about 20 kilometers from the capital... CONTINUE here for a trip to Colonia Mariano Roque Alonso
- Concepcion is a city located in the northern part of Paraguay, near the border with Brazil. It is the capital of the Concepcion department and has a population of approximately 60,000 people. The city... CONTINUE here for a trip to Concepcion
- Coronel Bogado is a small town located in the Caazapá department of Paraguay, in the southern part of the country. It has a population of just over 10,000 people and is known mainly for its agricultur... CONTINUE here for a trip to Coronel Bogado
- Coronel Oviedo is a city located in the center of Paraguay, about 160 kilometers (99 miles) east of the capital Asunción. It is the capital of the Department of Caaguazú. The city has a rich history a... CONTINUE here for a trip to Coronel Oviedo
- Encarnacion is a city located in the southern part of Paraguay, on the banks of the Paraná River. It is the capital of the Itapúa Department and has a population of approximately 130,000 people. The c... CONTINUE here for a trip to Encarnacion
- Fernando de la Mora is a city located in the Central Department of Paraguay, which is the country's most populous and economically important region. It is a suburban area of the capital Asunción, and ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Fernando de la Mora
- Hohenau is a small city located in the southern part of Paraguay, in the department of Itapúa. It has a population of around 30,000 people and there are various small businesses, shops, and restaurant... CONTINUE here for a trip to Hohenau
- Itá is a small town in the Central Department of Paraguay. It is known for its famous Itá Lake, which offers a variety of water activities such as fishing and boating. The town is also home to the Itá... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ita
- Itaugua is a city in the Central Department of Paraguay, located approximately 30 kilometers east of the capital city, Asuncion. It is known for its historic seaport architecture, pottery industry, an... CONTINUE here for a trip to Itaugua
- Lambare is a city located in the Central Department of Paraguay, near to the capital city, Asuncion. It has a population of around 150,000 people and its economy is mostly based on services and commer... CONTINUE here for a trip to Lambare
- Limpio is a city in the Central Department of Paraguay, located about 20 kilometers north of the capital city, Asuncion. It has a population of approximately 65,000 people and is known for its agricul... CONTINUE here for a trip to Limpio
- Pedro Juan Caballero is a city located in the department of Amambay, in eastern Paraguay. It is situated on the border with Brazil, with the Brazilian city of Ponta Porã just across the border. The ci... CONTINUE here for a trip to Pedro Juan Caballero
- Pilar is a city and district in the department of Ñeembucú, Paraguay. It is located approximately 350 km south of Asunción, the capital city of Paraguay. The city was founded in 1779 and is known for ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Pilar
- Presidente Franco is a city located in the department of Alto Paraná in Paraguay, bordering both Brazil and Argentina. It is a hub for trade and commerce due to its location and has a growing tourism ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Presidente Franco
- San Antonio is a small city located in the southern region of Paraguay. It is the capital city of the Misiones Department and has a population of around 17,000 people. The city is known for its histor... CONTINUE here for a trip to San Antonio
- San Cosme y Damian is a small town located in the Itapúa Department of Paraguay, situated on the banks of the Paraná River. The town is known mainly for its tranquil atmosphere and stunning natural sc... CONTINUE here for a trip to San Cosme y Damian
- San Estanislao is a small city located in the department of San Pedro, Paraguay. It is known for its rich cultural heritage, traditional festivals, and natural attractions such as rivers, forests, and... CONTINUE here for a trip to San Estanislao
- San Ignacio is a small town located in the southern part of Paraguay, near the border with Argentina. It is known for its Jesuit Missions, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was established in the 17th... CONTINUE here for a trip to San Ignacio
- San Juan Bautista is a city in the southern part of Paraguay, located in the department of Misiones. It has a population of approximately 20,000 people and is known for its colonial architecture and h... CONTINUE here for a trip to San Juan Bautista
- San Juan Nepomuceno is a town located in the department of Caazapá in Paraguay. It has a population of approximately 17,000 people and is situated about 125 kilometers southeast of the capital city, A... CONTINUE here for a trip to San Juan Nepomuceno
- San Lorenzo is a city in Paraguay, located in the Central Department. It is one of the most populated cities in the country, with a population of approximately 265,000 people. San Lorenzo is also know... CONTINUE here for a trip to San Lorenzo
- San Miguel is a city located in the southern region of Paraguay, specifically in the department of Misiones. It has a population of around 26,000 inhabitants and is known for its rich Guarani culture ... CONTINUE here for a trip to San Miguel
- San Pedro de Ycuamandyyu is a small town located in the department of San Pedro, Paraguay. The town is situated about 250 kilometers to the northeast of the capital city, Asuncion. The town is known f... CONTINUE here for a trip to San Pedro de Ycuamandyyu
- Tobati is a small city located in the Cordillera Department of Paraguay, about 60 kilometers east of Asuncion, the capital city. It is known for its beautiful natural surroundings, including hills, fo... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tobati
- Villa Elisa is a city located in the Central Department of Paraguay, about 17 kilometers southeast of the capital, Asunción. It is known for its beautiful parks, gardens and green spaces, and for bein... CONTINUE here for a trip to Villa Elisa
- Villarrica is a city located in Paraguay.... CONTINUE here for a trip to Villarrica
- Yaguaron is a small town located in the Central Department of Paraguay, about 48 kilometers east of Asuncion, the country's capital. It is known for its beautiful colonial architecture, particularly t... CONTINUE here for a trip to Yaguaron
- Yataity del Norte is a small town located in the department of San Pedro, in Paraguay. It has a population of around 6,000 people and its main economic activities are agriculture and cattle farming. T... CONTINUE here for a trip to Yataity del Norte
- Ypacarai is a town in the Central Department of Paraguay, located about 50 km east of the country's capital, Asuncion. The town is situated on the shores of Lake Ypacarai, which is a popular vacation ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ypacarai


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