Lykkers, imagine untouched rivers weaving through lush forests and centuries-old Jesuit ruins rising from emerald plains. Paraguay, tucked between Brazil and Argentina, remains uncrowded yet brimming with rich culture, dramatic landscapes, and adventures.
This guide unveils its hidden gems—with concrete costs, timings, and transport tips—to craft your perfect Paraguayan escape.
Best Seasons
Paraguay’s subtropical climate delivers hot summers (December–February) with daytime highs of 35 °C, while winter months (June–September) see frequent showers and cooler nights around 15 °C. For comfortable exploration, aim for April–May or September–October, when temperatures hover between 22–28 °C and hotel rates dip by 20 %.
Getting Around
International flights arrive at Silvio Pettirossi Airport (Asunción). A taxi to downtown costs ~₲ 200 000 (US $30). Intercity buses run frequently: Asunción to Ciudad del Este takes 6 hours, fare ₲ 100 000 (US $14). Within cities, taxis start at ₲ 15 000 (US $2) and local “colectivos” (shared minibuses) charge ₲ 5 000 (US $0.70). For rural adventures, renting a 4×4 costs ~US $60/day.
Spectacular Falls
Near the tri-border with Brazil and Argentina, Monday Falls offers sheer curtain cataracts plunging 45 m into emerald pools. Accessible via Ciudad del Este’s north bus station—20 min ride for ₲ 10 000 (US $1.50)—the park entrance fee is ₲ 15 000 (US $2). Ñacunday Falls, within Ñacunday National Park (open 8 AM–5 PM; ₲ 20 000/US $3), features well-marked trails and rustic campsites at ₲ 30 000 (US $4) per night.
Itaipu Marvel
The Itaipu Dam, straddling the Paraná River, ranks among the world’s largest hydroelectric facilities. Guided tours (in English or Spanish) run at 10 AM, 1 PM, and 3 PM daily—₲ 100 000 (US $14) includes the visitor center and panoramic balcony. Rare floodgate openings occur from April to June; check schedules online to witness this engineering spectacle.
Jesuit Missions
Journey back to the 17th century at UNESCO-listed Jesuit missions. La Santísima Trinidad (45 min from Encarnación by bus, ₲ 30 000/US $4) charges ₲ 25 000 (US $3.50) for entry to its vast ruins and interpretive museum. Nearby Jesús de Tavarangüe (₲ 20 000/US $3) showcases soaring stone arches against endless skies—ideal for sunset photography.
Encarnación Charm
Encarnación’s riverfront promenade, the Costanera, invites sunset strolls with views of Argentina across the Paraná. Weekly night markets (Thursdays, 6 PM–11 PM) feature grilled chipa (cheese-bread patties) for ₲ 5 000 (US $0.70) and artisanal crafts from ₲ 20 000 (US $3). Budget hostels start at ₲ 100 000 (US $14) per night.
Asunción Vibes
In Paraguay’s capital—dubbed the “World’s Capital of Friendship”—colorful street art adorns historic quarters like Loma San Jerónimo. Explore the Museo del Barro (₲ 30 000/US $4) to see contemporary ceramics and indigenous masks. Evening asados (barbecues) along Calle Palma offer skewers of saussice and heart-shaped nube meats for ₲ 25 000 (US $3.50).
Culinary Fusion
Paraguay’s cuisine blends native and immigrant flavors. Sample five-cheese chipa guasu (corn pudding) for ₲ 10 000 (US $1.50) or the hearty sopa paraguaya (cornbread soup) for ₲ 15 000 (US $2). Asian eateries in Asunción serve sushi rolls for ₲ 50 000 (US $7), reflecting vibrant Chinese and Korean communities.
Budget Essentials
Paraguay remains remarkably affordable. Daily mid-range expenses—lodging (₲ 150 000/US $22), three meals (₲ 100 000/US $14), and transport (₲ 50 000/US $7)—total under US $50. ATMs dispense guaraní; credit cards are widely accepted in cities but carry small fees. Pack light, breathable clothing and sturdy walking shoes for varied terrain.
Final Thoughts
Paraguay’s untouched landscapes, historic marvels, and warm hospitality promise adventures far from the tourist crowds. Whether chasing thunderous waterfalls, delving into Jesuit legacies, or savoring chipa by moonlight, every moment invites discovery. Now it’s your turn, Friends: map your route, embrace the unexpected, and let Paraguay’s hidden splendors leave their lasting imprint on your journey.
