Ready for your next Paraguay vacation? From the capital buzz of Asunción to the Jesuit ruins near Encarnación, the wetlands of the Chaco to the cultural heart of the Guaraní, this guide outlines the ultimate Paraguay itinerary.
These easy-to-use curated itineraries help you find the best things to do in Paraguay—featuring waterfalls, wildlife reserves, colonial towns, indigenous crafts, and massive cultural festivals.
Want to make your Paraguay trip even more special? Learn basic Spanish (or Guaraní) before you go
- Asunción: Paraguay’s capital blends colonial charm, a laid-back vibe, lively street markets, and riverside sunsets.
- Encarnación: Known as the “Pearl of the South,” this city offers river beaches, a lively carnival scene, and access to stunning Jesuit ruins.
- Ciudad del Este: A bustling border hub for shopping and gateway to the epic Itaipú Dam and nearby waterfalls.
- Jesuit Ruins (Trinidad & Jesús de Tavarangue): UNESCO-listed relics of a fascinating past—stone carvings, grand plazas, and a powerful sense of history.
- Ybycuí National Park: A lush retreat with hiking trails, waterfalls, and tropical wildlife in Paraguay’s rainforest interior.
- Areguá: A colorful artist town by Lake Ypacaraí, famous for its pottery, galleries, and bohemian atmosphere.
- San Bernardino: A summertime escape for locals—think lakeside breezes, parties, and weekend relaxation on Ypacaraí’s shores.
- San Ignacio: Gateway to the Misiones, this town is a base for exploring nearby Jesuit ruins and cultural festivals.
- Filadelfia (Chaco Region): A surprising mix of Mennonite culture, desert landscapes, and wildlife reserves in Paraguay’s wild west.
- Villarrica: A cultural stronghold with music, literature, and local pride nestled in scenic, rolling hills.
- Caacupé: Site of Paraguay’s biggest pilgrimage—thousands flock each year on December 8 to honor the Virgin of Caacupé at the towering blue-domed basilica.
- Saltos del Monday: Just outside Ciudad del Este, this thundering waterfall is Paraguay’s mini‑Iguazú and an underrated natural wonder.
💡 Paraguay Tips
- Cash is essential: The local currency is the Paraguayan guaraní (PYG). Credit cards are accepted in cities, but small towns, markets, and street vendors usually require cash.
- Tipping is customary: Leave around 10% in restaurants if not included. Tip porters, taxi drivers, and guides for good service.
- Spanish and Guaraní are both official languages: Many locals speak a mix of both. Learning basic phrases, especially in Spanish, will enhance your experience.
- Public transport is basic but cheap: Buses are affordable but often old and crowded. Taxis can be negotiated, and ride apps like Bolt operate in Asunción.
- Tap water is safe in cities: But bottled water is recommended in rural areas or if you have a sensitive stomach.
- Dress modestly and comfortably: Paraguay is conservative, especially outside urban areas. Lightweight clothes are ideal for the subtropical climate.
- Sunday is a rest day: Many shops and businesses close or operate on reduced hours. Plan ahead, especially in smaller towns.
- Expect a slower pace of life: Things move at a relaxed rhythm. Be patient and embrace the tranquilo atmosphere.
- Wi-Fi is common in cities: Most hotels, cafés, and restaurants offer free internet, but speeds can vary in rural areas.
- Street food is popular and safe: Eat where locals eat — fresh food with high turnover is usually a good bet.
- Paraguay is landlocked, but full of rivers: The Paraguay and Paraná rivers offer boating, fishing, and waterfront activities.
- Visit during festivals: Events like Carnival (February) and San Juan (June) offer music, dancing, traditional food, and fire-based games.
🇵🇾 Paraguay Menu
- Sopa Paraguaya: Despite the name, it’s not a soup — it’s a savory cornbread made with cornmeal, cheese, eggs, and onions. Dense, moist, and a national favorite.
- Chipa: A cheese bread made with cassava (yuca) flour and anise — chewy, slightly crisp outside, and often eaten for breakfast or snacks.
- Mbejú: A flat, crispy cake made from cassava starch and cheese — pan-fried and eaten hot, often with cocido (Paraguayan tea).
- Chipa Guazú: A moist corn and cheese casserole made with fresh corn, milk, and onions — similar to corn pudding and served as a side dish.
- Asado: Traditional Paraguayan barbecue — beef, pork, or sausage grilled over wood fire, usually shared with family and friends.
- Bori Bori: A thick soup with cheesy cornmeal dumplings and meat (usually chicken or beef) — warming and rich, perfect for cooler days.
- So’o Yosopy: A hearty beef soup with vegetables and rice — simple, comforting, and widely enjoyed.
- Pira Caldo: A traditional river fish soup made with milk, vegetables, and spices — especially popular in river towns.
- Empanadas: Fried or baked pastry pockets filled with beef, cheese, or chicken — popular across the country as street or party food.
- Tortilla Paraguaya: A thick, fried pancake made with flour, eggs, and sometimes cheese or herbs — eaten at breakfast or as a snack.
- Cocido: A traditional drink made by caramelizing yerba mate with sugar and boiling it — served hot with milk or water.
- Tereré: Paraguay’s national drink — cold yerba mate infusion served in a guampa (cup) and shared socially, especially in hot weather.
- Kivevé: A sweet-savory porridge made from pumpkin, cornmeal, and cheese — smooth, creamy, and typically eaten warm.
- Dulce de Guayaba: A sweet guava paste often eaten with cheese — a classic Paraguayan dessert pairing.
- Caipirinha & Paraguayan Rum: While not exclusive to Paraguay, local rum and caipirinha-style drinks are popular at social gatherings.
📅 Paraguay Calendar
- Festival Ykua Bolaños (January, San Ignacio): Folk music, chipa baking, and processions
- Encarnación Carnaval (February/March, Encarnación): The country’s biggest party with samba parades and dazzling costumes
- Festival de San Blas (February 3, Ciudad del Este & Nationwide): Patron saint celebrations with processions and music
- Semana Santa (March/April, Nationwide): Religious processions, special foods, and handmade carpets of sawdust
- Independence Day (May 14–15, Asunción): Patriotic events, fireworks, and music
- San Juan Ára (St. John’s Festival) (June, Nationwide): Traditional games, fire-walking, and festival foods
- Nandutí Festival (July, Itauguá): Celebration of Paraguay’s iconic lace with fashion, parades, and dance
- Transchaco Rally (July, Chaco region): Off-road endurance racing through wild desert terrain
- Expo Feria Internacional (July, Mariano Roque Alonso): Major fair with livestock, food, culture, and business
- Autonomy of Asunción Festival (August 15, Asunción): City’s founding day with parades and fireworks
- Jesuit Ruins Sound & Light Show (September–November, Trinidad): Evening audiovisual experience at Paraguay’s most famous ruins
- Festival Nacional del Arpa (October, Luque): Celebration of Paraguay’s national instrument with live performances
- Expo Rodeo Trébol (October, Filadelfia): Chaco livestock and cultural fair
- Christmas & Año Nuevo (December, Nationwide): Fireworks, feasts, and family gatherings under summer skies
- Feast of the Immaculate Conception (December 8, Caacupé): Paraguay’s biggest pilgrimage to the Catedral Virgen de Caacupé with processions, fireworks, and open-air market