Craving adventure, nature, and vibrant culture? Set your sights on Paraguay! This hidden gem in the heart of South America offers waterfalls, wildlife, and rich traditions. Whether you’re hiking jungle trails, exploring colonial towns, or dancing to local rhythms, Paraguay invites you to experience its warmth and wonder.
Paraguay Highlights:
- Wander the streets of Asunción: Explore Paraguay’s historic capital filled with colonial architecture, museums, and bustling markets.
- Marvel at the Jesuit Ruins of Trinidad: Step back in time at these UNESCO-listed mission ruins surrounded by peaceful countryside.
- Chase waterfalls at Saltos del Monday: Witness the breathtaking power of nature near Ciudad del Este, often called Paraguay’s answer to Iguazu Falls.
- Spot wildlife in the Chaco: Discover the wild side of Paraguay in its vast western region, home to jaguars, anteaters, and unique birdlife.
- Relax at Lake Ypacaraí: Enjoy lakeside scenery, swim, or boat near San Bernardino, a popular local getaway.
Best Time to Visit Paraguay
The best time to visit Paraguay is during the dry season from May to September. The weather is cooler and ideal for exploring nature, attending cultural festivals, or sightseeing comfortably across the country.
How to Get to Paraguay
- By Air: Fly into Silvio Pettirossi International Airport (ASU) in Asunción, which connects with major cities in South America and some international hubs.
- By Land: Buses and cars can enter Paraguay from Brazil, Argentina, or Bolivia. Popular crossings include Ciudad del Este and Encarnación.
Where to Stay in Paraguay
- Hotel Guaraní Asunción – Modern and centrally located, great for exploring the capital.
- La Misión Hotel Boutique – Upscale boutique option in Asunción with Paraguayan art and luxury touches.
- Austral Hotel Ciudad del Este – Ideal for travelers visiting the eastern region and Saltos del Monday.
Best Things to Do in Paraguay
1. Saltos del Monday
See powerful waterfalls and explore lush trails on an exciting nature trip.
On the outskirts of Ciudad del Este is Saltos del Monday, a spectacular series of 45 meters tall and 120 meters wide waterfalls. The falls consists of three waterfalls on the Monday River. The tallest fall drops from about 130 feet to the pool below. Adventurers like to climb up and down the rocky walls around the falls. For those who prefer to stay dry, there are wooden walkways along the river that provide great observation points. The water spray around the falls creates lush environment for a variety of plants and trees. There is a restaurant and bar at the edge of the river, with the elevator that reaches the base of the falls.
Saltos del monday Street, Pdte. Franco 7000, Paraguay, Phone: +59-59-74-55-25-12
2. Ita Letra
Discover ancient rock carvings and admire unusual cultural sights on a quick visit.
Itá Letra is a historic site located about 18 km from the town of Tororô , district of Villarrica. The site, discovered in the 1950’s by Austrian surveyor Michael Moosrainer, is known for rich petroglyphs carved into the walls of caves in the Amambay Hills, depicting pawprints, fertility symbols and the star constellations. The carvings belong to the complex orographic system of Ybytyruzú. According to the archaeologists of the Museum of Altamira , Spain, the most remote pictographs of Itá Letra date back to more than 5000 years BC and are among the oldest in America. Paraguay has the largest number of sites with rock art on the continent, but much of it is inaccessible and protected by the thick jungle vegetation.
Independencia, Paraguay
3. Bella Vista’s terere plantations
Tour leafy fields and savor local flavors on an affordable cultural trip.
The bitter herbal tea known as tereré is Paraguay’s national beverage. It was considered so valuable that it was exported to Europe in the 19th century and even used as currency, exchanged for boats and building materials. The town of Bella Vista in the south of the country is one of the biggest producers of yerba mate, a tree that is used to make terere. Take a guided tour of one of the massive plantations and learn about this interesting drink, how it is made and what it is made of. It is an exciting tour that combines nature, fauna, science, technology, customs and traditions that surrounds the yerba mate.
Bella Vista, Paraguay
If you are a photographer, don't miss:
4. Ybycui National Park
Hike jungle paths and swim near waterfalls on a fun family adventure.
One of the smaller Paraguay parks, a 5000 hectares Ybycui National Park is the perfect place to spend a day meandering through sub-tropical rainforest, cooling off at the hidden waterfalls, jump over narrow brooks and watch for rich wildlife. You are likely to see capuchin monkeys, peccaries and coatí among the trees as well as huge, colorful butterflies such as the metallic blue morpho. Visit the old abandoned iron foundry and learn about munitions production during the Triple Alliance War. The park is accessible from Asuncion and it can make a wonderful daytrip.
Asuncion, Paraguay
Activities and Attractions for Couples:
5. Manzana de la Rivera
Explore colonial buildings and enjoy local art on an easy urban outing.
The Manzana de la Rivera is a historic city block in Asuncion, Paraguay, across from the Palacio de Lopez. With nine colorful houses dating from the 1750s, transformed into a museums, libraries, theaters and café, this lively complex has become a cultural symbol of Paraguay. Painted in bright colors and lovingly restored, the houses portray the city’s colonial spirit and the strong Spanish influence on the architecture. One of the most significant houses is Casa Viola, a home to Museo Memoria de la Ciudad, the museum of the city’s history. Next to Casa Viola is Clari House, built at the beginnings of the 20th century in Art Nouveau style. The house is now the Café Bar Casa Clari.
Asuncion, Paraguay
6. La Santisima Trinidad de Parana
Walk ancient ruins and admire historic sights on a peaceful weekend trip.
La Santisima Trinidad de Paraná, or the Most Holy Trinity of Paraná, is a former Jesuit reduction or small colony in Paraguay built in 1706. It is one of the many Jesuit colonies established by the missionaries in different parts of South America throughout the 17th and 18th century. These missions were built as independent societies that existed outside of regular Spanish colonial life, which had a mission to convert indigenous populations into Christian faith. La Santisima Trinidad de Paraná, called by the locals as the "ruins of Trinidad" was one of the last of the Jesuit colonies built in the Paraná River area. Once a lively city within walls, it’s now a crumbling ruin, located near the city of Encarnación. Trinidad is UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Encarnacion, Paraguay
Where to Eat in Paraguay
- Bolsi (Asunción) – Iconic 24-hour diner serving local and international cuisine in a relaxed setting.
- Lido Bar (Asunción) – Beloved for its traditional Paraguayan soups, empanadas, and fresh juices.
- Lo de Osvaldo (San Bernardino) – Lakeside steakhouse known for juicy cuts and charming views.
If you are interested in local events:
- Festival de la Raza (October, Villarrica) – Celebrates Paraguay’s multicultural identity with music, dance, and cuisine.
- Fiesta de San Juan (June) – Traditional bonfire festival with games, folk music, and typical foods.
- Expo Feria Internacional (July, Mariano Roque Alonso) – Paraguay’s largest expo with livestock shows, concerts, and gastronomy.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes to 2 Hours of Asunción:
- Yaguarón (45–60 min) – Visit the beautifully preserved 18th-century Franciscan church and local artisan shops.
- San Bernardino (1 hr) – Enjoy beachside relaxation, nightlife, and lake activities at Paraguay’s summer retreat.
- Caacupé (1 hr) – Discover Paraguay’s spiritual heart and the Basilica of Our Lady of Miracles.
- Areguá (45 min) – Known for its strawberry treats, lake views, and charming colonial architecture.
- Itauguá (40 min) – Shop for traditional ñandutí lace and learn about Paraguay’s textile traditions.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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Where is Paraguay located?
- Paraguay is a South American country bordered by Argentina, Brazil, and Bolivia. It is home to large areas of swamps, subtropical forests, savannas, and scrubland.
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What is the capital of Paraguay?
- The capital of Paraguay is Asunción, which is located on the banks of the Paraguay River.
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What is Asunción known for?
- Asunción is famous for its grand architecture, including the stately Government Palace.
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What is Manzana de la Rivera?
- The Manzana de la Rivera is a historic city block in Asunción, located across from the Palacio de López. It features nine colorful houses dating back to the 1750s, which have been transformed into museums, libraries, theaters, and cafés.
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What is Saltos del Monday?
- Saltos del Monday is a spectacular series of three waterfalls on the Monday River, offering breathtaking natural beauty.
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What is Itá Letra?
- Itá Letra is a historic site located about 18 km from the town of Tororô. It is known for its rich petroglyphs carved into the walls of caves in the Amambay Hills.
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Where is yerba mate produced in Paraguay?
- The town of Bella Vista is the largest producer of yerba mate, a plant used to make tereré, the national drink of Paraguay.
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