Visit Paraguay and enjoy all this country has to offer. This South American treasure is full of history, culture, and nature. Get the most out of your 3-day, 5-day, or 1-week adventure in this South American country with this travel guide to Paraguay. With urban explorations, cultural sites, and natural wonders, you will understand why Paraguay is surely worth visiting.
Why Visit Paraguay?
Paraguay is a country with warm-hearted people, rich traditions, and incredibly beautiful landscapes. The capital city, Asunción, is complemented by breathtaking national parks throughout the country.
So if you are asking yourself, “Is Paraguay a nice country?” – then yes! Modern cities and untouched nature all intertwine in this country. Whether you are backpacking across Paraguay or looking for a comfortable escape, this country has something for you.
7-Day Paraguay Travel Itinerary
Day 1-2: Explore Asunción
Start your trip in Asunción, Paraguay’s lively capital city, where modern energy and history collide. The city features colonial architecture, historic landmarks, busy markets, and a thriving street life.
Things to See and Do in Asunción:
- Plaza de los Heroes: It is a great spot to start your visit. Expect some vendors selling crafts, along with musicians performing, who have local people gathering and stopping by. You would just walk around the square or grab a cup of coffee and something to eat at cafes as city life unfolds.
- National Pantheon of Heroes: Monument dedicated to the national heroes of Paraguay and a national monument. It is incredibly beautiful at night, as when dusk falls, the spotlights focus on its classical buildings. Guided tours are full of interesting stories about the past of this nation.
- Palacio de los López: The House of López is the presidential residence and a rather impressive white building with neoclassical architecture. Although it is not possible to enter, the night view is magical because it lights up. It is ideal for photography and an excellent place to have a peaceful evening stroll.
- Museo del Barro: This is a cultural treasure house showing indigenous and folk art. Visit the pottery, masks, sculptures, and handicrafts from different parts of Paraguay. It shows more about the identity of Paraguay.
Day 3: Day trip to San Bernardino and Lake Ypacaraí
Just an hour outside of Asunción, San Bernardino is a favorite weekend getaway for locals and tourists alike who want to have a relaxing day near Lake Ypacaraí.
What to see and do in San Bernardino
- Lake Ypacaraí: This lake is very peaceful and quiet. It is perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding, and you can easily get rentals at a good price. You can appreciate the beauty of the lake through these water sports.
- Promenade Walk: There are local vendors selling snacks and souvenirs as you walk along the promenade of the lake. The sunset here is spectacular and ideal for pictures.
- El Alemán Restaurant: One of the region’s top restaurants, El Alemán combines Paraguayan and German cuisines. Great for a lunch stop to indulge in sausages, grilled meats, and local accompaniments.
Day 4-5 Drive to Encarnación and the Jesuit Missions
Encarnación offers festivals, and white and golden sand beaches, along with nearby Jesuit Missions. It’s perfect to enjoy the dynamic of Paraguay, especially the last month of the Carnival celebration.
Activities to do at Encarnación:
- Riverside Beach (Costanera): Riverside Beach, also known as Costanera Beach. These sandy beaches are where people from all walks of life come out to spend their sunbathing time and enter the waters for a fun time with family and friends; beach chairs and umbrellas are available for rent along the boulevard walkway lined with cafes, snack stands, and snack shops.
- Jesuit Missions of La Santísima Trinidad and Jesús de Tavarangue: UNESCO World Heritage Jesuit Missions of La Santísima Trinidad and Jesús de Tavarangue: Located just outside Encarnación, these are some of the best-preserved examples of Jesuit architecture in South America. Take a guided tour to learn about the history of the missions established in the 17th century and explore the grand arches and carvings, especially at sunset.
- Encarnación Carnival Museum: If you’re interested in Paraguayan festivals, this could be a fun day visiting the city of Encarnación, which hosts one of the largest Carnival festivals in Paraguay. It consists of costumes, exhibitions, and video recordings.
Day 6: Itauguá and Ñandutí Lace
Stop over in Itauguá, a small town known for its Ñandutí lace, before continuing to Asunción. Stunning lace that resembles spiderwebs, exclusively available in Paraguay, makes an ideal memento or gift item.
What to Do in Itauguá:
- Ñandutí Lace Shops: There’s such a place as Ñandutí Lace Shops. You should visit local shops to see, by hand, artisans putting their skill into lace crafting. It’s beautiful stuff: tablecloths with lovely designs, wall hangings, and scarves, all of which are in delicate-colored lace. It’s just fabulous to see the technique employed and support local craftsmanship.
- Relax and Walk: Itaúna is a cute town. So, take some time to go for a walk on its streets. Stop at some local coffee shop and relax in a quiet and welcoming place. In many shops you can watch some artisans creating lace; be sure to ask to visit the process.
Day 7: Ybycuí National Park – Nature Day End
Wrap up your week by visiting Paraguay’s leading natural tourist attraction, Ybycuí National Park. Ybycuí boasts sceneries of beautiful waterfalls, luscious green forests, and varied flora and fauna.
Top Activities in Ybycuí National Park:
- Salto Minas Waterfall: A top attraction in the park, Salto Minas is a beautiful, refreshing waterfall perfect for a swim. The surrounding jungle and rock formations make it an ideal spot for nature lovers.
- Hiking Trails: Ybycuí offers trails for all skill levels, from easy walks to more challenging hikes through dense forests. Trails lead to hidden pools, and rivers, and overlooks with stunning views. Wear comfortable shoes, bring water, and watch for the unique flora and fauna.
- Historic Iron Foundry “La Rosada”: Established in the 1850s, this foundry was once a bustling ironworks site. Today, it’s an intriguing historical ruin within the park, showcasing early industrial architecture and equipment. Signs provide background on its history, making it a great learning stop.
Other Suggested Itineraries
If you have fewer days, this is how you can alter the itinerary to fit your schedule:
- 2-Day Itinerary: Spend two days in Asunción. You will be able to visit all the main attractions such as Plaza de los Heroes, Museo del Barro, and the National Pantheon.
- 3-Day Itinerary: Instead of a day trip in San Bernardino around Lake Ypacaraí.
- 5-Day Itinerary: Combines Asunción, San Bernardino, and Encarnación and the Jesuit Missions to gain an understanding of Paraguay’s history with time on the beaches
Top Attractions of Paraguay: Must Experience Things To Do
- Learn Asunción Culture: Be sure to visit some ancient places in Asunción that are not less than olden days, starting with the Pantheon of Heroes and Museo del Barro.
- Relax by Lake Ypacaraí: The best relaxation by Lake Shores with kayaking and all the local food around.
- Explore Jesuit Missions: Historical ruins are some of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites and are not to be missed at all, especially by lovers of history.
- Expo Ñandutí Lace in Itauguá: You get full insight into its history through a visit to the village where this lace production took place.
- Hike by National Park Ybycuí: Trails, waterfalls, and great sceneries are sure guarantees to make for a perfect hike for anyone who is all about nature and living things.
FAQs
How many days to Paraguay?
5 to 7 days for the true experience of Paraguay, staying in Asunción, going up to the lakeside town of San Bernardino, the historic Jesuit Missions around Encarnación, and chilling in the Ybycuí National Park.
Even more restricted itineraries are feasible with 3 days enough to have a glimpse into the delights within the Asunción region itself.
What is the best month to visit Paraguay?
Best time to visit Paraguay: May-September. At these times, it’s cool and less rainy; the city is okay, as is one or two national parks. Avoid Paraguay during summer, Dec-Feb; the temperatures reach extreme highs, mostly in the Chaco area.
Is it safe to travel to Paraguay today?
Yes, Paraguay is generally safe for travelers, but taking standard precautions is recommended. Stick to well-populated areas, especially at night, and be cautious with valuables in crowded areas. As in any destination, being aware of your surroundings will help ensure a safe trip.
Is Paraguay a cheap country to visit?
Yes, Paraguay is one of the most affordable destinations to travel to. Food, accommodation, and transportation are relatively more affordable as compared to other South American countries.
Street food and local eats are very considerable in value, and public transportation is quite cheap, which makes Paraguay an economical choice for people to travel to.
Why do tourists visit Paraguay?
Paraguay is visited because of its perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. There are the Jesuit Missions, the national parks full of lush greens, the rich indigenous culture, and the vibrant capital city, Asunción.
The authentic and lesser-explored South American experience that travelers look for makes Paraguay an appealing place for off-the-beaten-path destinations. People seeking a relaxed pace and friendly locals find Paraguay a better destination compared to Uruguay.
Is Uruguay or Paraguay better to visit?
Both countries have varied experiences, so the choice will depend on your travel preferences. Beaches, wine regions, and cosmopolitan cities like Montevideo and Punta del Este make Uruguay ideal for such holiday travel.
Paraguay offers a more authentic South American experience with historical sites, colorful markets, and natural parks. If you have a preference for history, culture, or budget holiday, Paraguay would be perfect; while Uruguay is perfect for beach lovers and wine enthusiasts.
What are 5 interesting facts about Paraguay?
- Bilingual Nation (The Country with Two Official Languages): Paraguay is an officially bilingual nation. Spanish and Guaraní are the two official languages. Many people speak Guaraní, and it is a large part of Paraguay’s cultural heritage.
- Landlocked Country: Paraguay is one of only two landlocked countries in South America. Its borders intersect the borders of Argentina, Brazil, and Bolivia.
- Ñandutí Lace Capital: Paraguay is famous for its beautiful Ñandutí lace, a handwoven spidery embroidery.
- Yerba Mate Culture: Paraguayans have a culture of tereré, a cold herbal tea prepared with yerba mate and often shared among friends. It is refreshing, and a twist on traditional yerba mate.
- Historic Jesuit Missions: Paraguay has some of the best-preserved Jesuit Missions in South America, which are classified as UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Conclusion: Your Paraguayan Adventure Awaits
With this Paraguay travel itinerary, you are now prepared to find the best in this country. Be it 3 days in Paraguay, a week exploring, or backpacking Paraguay, the itinerary blends history, culture, and nature for you to get an all-around experience. Pack your bags and prepare to start on a unique South American adventure!