Paraguay

What are the most recommended things to do in Paraguay?

  • Explore Asunción, the capital city, including the Palacio de los López and National Pantheon of the Heroes.
  • Visit the Itaipú Dam, one of the largest hydroelectric dams in the world.
  • Discover Jesuit Missions, including Ruins of Trinidad and Jesús, UNESCO World Heritage sites.
  • Relax at the Paraná River waterfront and enjoy local parks.
  • Experience local culture at Mercado 4 and craft markets in towns like Encarnación.
  • Attend festivals such as the Expo Feria in Asunción or Carnival celebrations in Encarnación.
  • Explore nature reserves and eco-tourism sites like Ybycuí National Park and Cerro Cora National Park.

Introducing Paraguay

The Republic of Paraguay (Spanish: República del Paraguay), abbreviated as Paraguay, is a landlocked country in central South America, known as the heart of South America.

Paraguay's elegant colonial architecture, lush greenery, and vibrant red flowers, along with its crisscrossing rivers, have earned it the nickname "Forest and Water City." It's also a paradise for anglers. The Paraguay River, South America's fifth-longest, is vast, calm, and has a slow current. Fish species include pacu, chamois, and pachu. Other notable attractions include the House of Independence Museum, the Cathedral of the Assumption, the National Shrine of Heroes, Cerro Cora National Park, and Ciudad del Este.

Climate and best time to travel

The northern part has a tropical savanna climate, while the southern part has a subtropical forest climate;

The best time to travel is from June to August

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting


Dongfang City

Ciudad del Este (Spanish: Ciudad del Este, translated as Ciudad del Este in the People's Republic of China) is a city in the Republic of Paraguay and the capital of the southeastern province of Paraná. Ciudad del Este is the second largest city in Paraguay and has the highest proportion of Asian population among Latin American cities.


Asuncion

Asunción is the oldest city in South America and is known as the "Mother of Cities." It is the capital of Paraguay and the largest city in the country. Asunción retains its rectangular shape from the Spanish era, with wide streets and continuous trees, flowers, and lawns.


Paraguay River

The Paraguay River is the fifth largest river in South America and a major tributary of the Parana River. The Paraguay River basin covers an area of ​​980,000 square kilometers. The basin's climate is mainly humid and hot savanna type, characterized by dry winters and rainy summers, with forests and grasslands on both sides.


It is recommended to visit for about 3 days


Most Popular FAQs for Paraguay

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Paraguay has a rich indigenous and colonial history, with significant Jesuit missionary influence. It played a major role in South American history, including wars of independence and regional conflicts, and has a unique cultural identity blending Guaraní and Spanish heritage.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Paraguay is a landlocked country in central South America, bordered by Argentina, Brazil, and Bolivia. Entry is primarily via Silvio Pettirossi International Airport in Asunción. Local travel is mainly by bus, taxi, or car; public transport is limited outside cities.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Most attractions are open from 9:00–17:00. The best time to visit is during the dry season, from May to September, when temperatures are mild.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Many sites, such as national parks and museums, charge small entrance fees, payable on-site. Major attractions may offer online ticket options, but offline purchase is common.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Advance booking is not usually required for most attractions. For guided tours, UNESCO sites, or special events, booking a few days ahead is recommended.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A typical visit requires 7–10 days to cover Asunción, Jesuit Missions, eco-tourism areas, and riverside towns.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

  • Asunción: Palacio de los López, National Pantheon, Mercado 4.
  • Jesuit Missions: Ruins of Trinidad and Jesús.
  • Itaipú Dam and Paraná River area.
  • Eco-tourism: Ybycuí and Cerro Cora National Parks.
  • Encarnación: riverfront, beaches, and Carnival festivities.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Spanish and English, especially at Jesuit Missions and major museums. Audio guides are limited.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

  • Paraná River waterfront in Encarnación.
  • Itaipú Dam panoramic views.
  • Ruins of Jesuit Missions.
  • Natural landscapes at Ybycuí and Cerro Cora National Parks.
  • Asunción cityscape from viewpoints near Palacio de los López.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

  • Day 1–2: Explore Asunción, including museums and markets.
  • Day 3: Visit Itaipú Dam and surrounding areas.
  • Day 4–5: Travel to Jesuit Missions in the south.
  • Day 6–7: Explore Encarnación and riverfront.
  • Day 8–10: Eco-tourism in Ybycuí or Cerro Cora National Park.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits are limited. Special tours include festival evenings, Carnival events in Encarnación, and occasional guided night hikes in national parks.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Tourist sites are less crowded on weekdays. Peak tourism is during festivals and holidays, particularly in Encarnación during Carnival.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Urban attractions and popular tourist sites have toilets, food stalls, cafes, rest areas, and souvenir shops. Remote areas have limited facilities.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Urban and museum sites are mostly accessible, but Jesuit Ruins and national parks may require moderate physical activity; accessibility for disabled visitors is limited in remote areas.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash (Paraguayan Guaraní) is widely used; cards are accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. Mobile payments are limited.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Paraguay offers local cuisine, including traditional dishes in Asunción and Encarnación. Cafes, parrillas, and casual dining are available in cities and tourist areas.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options exist but are limited. Halal food options are rare outside international hotels. Vegan options are scarce.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Hotels range from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels in Asunción and Encarnación. Eco-lodges and rural accommodations are available near national parks.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

  • Jesuit Ruins of Trinidad and Jesús near Encarnación.
  • Itaipú Dam and border area with Brazil.
  • Eco-tourism reserves like Ybycuí and Cerro Cora National Parks.
  • Encarnación riverfront and beaches.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

  • Handicrafts and traditional Paraguayan lace (ñandutí).
  • Wood carvings and pottery.
  • Locally produced leather goods.
  • Music CDs of Paraguayan harp and folk music.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

  • Domestic buses connect major cities and towns.
  • Car rentals for flexible travel between rural attractions.
  • International flights from Asunción to neighboring countries.