Rainy Season
From October to April, expect heavy rainfall and humidity.
Travel guide
Paraguay
Paraguay, a landlocked country in South America, offers a rich tapestry of culture, history, and natural beauty. Beyond its capital, Asunción, visitors can explore vibrant cities, lush landscapes, and indigenous heritage.
Greg Schechter from San Francisco, USA · CC BY 2.0- Best monthsMay to September
- AirportsAsunción, Ciudad del Este
- TransitBuses, taxis, domestic flights
- Power220V, 50Hz
- TippingNot mandatory, but appreciated
- LanguageSpanish, Guaraní
01
When to go
The best time to visit Paraguay is during the cooler months from May to September, when temperatures are more comfortable for outdoor activities.
Jan
Feb
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May
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Oct
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Best monthsHot monthsCooler months
Dry Season
From May to September, enjoy cooler temperatures and less rain.
Transitional Season
March and October serve as transitions between wet and dry seasons.
02
Where to stay
Pick the neighbourhood by how you want the day to start and end, not by distance to one museum.
Cultural hub
Asunción
The capital city offers a mix of modern and colonial architecture, parks, and cultural sites.
Busy urban environment.
Relaxation
Encarnación
Known for its beautiful waterfront and vibrant nightlife, it's a great spot for relaxation and entertainment.
Can be crowded during festivals.
Shopping
Ciudad del Este
A bustling trade city near the border with Brazil, famous for shopping and the nearby Itaipu Dam.
Busy with tourists and locals.
Nature
Villarrica
A charming town surrounded by nature, ideal for outdoor activities and exploring local culture.
Quieter than larger cities.
Traditional
Concepción
Located in the northern region, it offers a glimpse into traditional Paraguayan life and access to the Pilcomayo River.
Limited tourist infrastructure.
Cultural exchange
Pedro Juan Caballero
A border town with a lively atmosphere, known for its markets and cultural exchanges.
Can be hectic at times.
Leisure
San Bernardino
A popular summer destination with beautiful lakes and recreational activities.
Best visited in summer.
Artisan
Itá
A small town known for its artisanal pottery and proximity to the Ypacaraí Lake.
Less touristy, more authentic.
03
What to eat
Everyday food, eaten the way locals do. Look for a busy place rather than a ranked list.
Sopa Paraguaya
A traditional cornbread made with cheese and onions, found in local markets and restaurants.
→ Try it at family-run eateries.
Milanesa
Breaded and fried meat, often served with rice or salad, available in many local diners.
→ A popular comfort food.
Chipa
Cheese bread made from manioc flour, commonly sold by street vendors.
→ Perfect for a quick snack.
Pira caldo
A fish soup made with local river fish, typically served in coastal towns.
→ Best enjoyed fresh.
Tereré
A traditional herbal drink made from yerba mate, enjoyed cold, widely available in social settings.
→ Join locals for a shared experience.
Bebida de coco
Coconut drink popular in the coastal regions, often found at beachside stalls.
→ Refreshing on hot days.
04
What to see
An order that works on foot, with the trip out of the first city at the end.
Itaipu Dam
One of the largest hydroelectric dams in the world, located near Ciudad del Este.
Ruins of Trinidad
A UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing Jesuit missions from the 18th century.
National Pantheon of the Heroes
A monument dedicated to Paraguay's national heroes, located in Asunción.
Ypacaraí Lake
A picturesque lake popular for water sports and relaxation, near San Bernardino.
Ñandu Ruins
The remains of a Jesuit mission, offering insight into Paraguay's colonial history.
Parque Ñu Guasu
A large park in Asunción, perfect for picnics and outdoor activities.
Cerro Cora National Park
A national park with diverse wildlife and hiking trails, located in the north.
Palacio de los López
The presidential palace, an architectural gem in Asunción.
Museum of Fine Arts
Showcases Paraguayan art and culture, located in Asunción.
Fortin de la Ciudad del Este
A historical fort offering views of the Paraná River.
Salto del Monday
A stunning waterfall near Ciudad del Este, perfect for nature lovers.
La Santísima Trinidad del Paraná
Another UNESCO site, known for its well-preserved Jesuit ruins.
Botanical Garden and Zoo of Asunción
A beautiful garden and zoo showcasing local flora and fauna.
Parque Nacional Defensores del Chaco
A national park known for its wildlife and conservation efforts.
Catedral Metropolitana de Asunción
The main cathedral of Asunción, an important religious site.
Museo del Barro
A museum dedicated to Paraguayan art and crafts, located in Asunción.
05
Getting around
Airport to city, across the city, and onward to the next region.
Air Travel
The main airports are Silvio Pettirossi International Airport (ASU) in Asunción and Guarani International Airport (AGT) in Ciudad del Este.
ASUSilvio Pettirossi International Airport
AGTGuarani International Airport
Bus Services
Buses connect major cities and towns, providing an affordable way to travel across the country.
Taxis and Rideshares
Available in urban areas, offering convenient transportation options.
Domestic Flights
For longer distances, domestic flights can save time and provide scenic views.
06
Practical notes
Plugs
Type C and Type I plugs are used in Paraguay.
Cash
The local currency is the Paraguayan guaraní. Credit cards are accepted in many places, but cash is preferred in smaller towns.
Tipping
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill is common.
Language
Spanish and Guaraní are the official languages. Basic Spanish phrases can be helpful.
Data
A travel eSIM covers maps and tickets after landing, ensuring connectivity.
Trip Duration
A week is ideal to explore the main attractions and experience local culture.