The 9 most beautiful places to visit in Paraguay

Are you planning to visit Paraguay? Here are the 9 most beautiful places not to be missed to enjoy this very enduring country!

“Little” country stuck between three giants, Brazil, Argentina and Chile, Paraguay is often forgotten by tourists. Indeed, unlike its neighbours, it does not shelter must-see and does not occupy an important place in the imaginary of travellers. Yet, the country has a unique cachet. Freed from the tourist infrastructures, it represents a destination of choice for lovers of authenticity. Visiting Paraguay is getting rid of large travel agencies and crowded buses to trust its residents. And so tell you right away: it is an exceptional welcome that awaits you!

Let yourself be carried by the discreet charm and the sweetness of living that are planted on Paraguayan lands. But what are the places not to be missed during your stay? Here are the nine most beautiful places in Paraguay.

1. Asunción

The capital of Paraguay, Asunción is nicknamed the Mother of all the cities. And for cause, it was founded in 1537, making it one of the oldest colonial cities in South America. From this time, it has preserved an architectural heritage that is worth the detour. In 1811, the city liberated itself from the yoke of Spain and finally took its independence. However, the continuation of the country’s history is marked by long years of dictatorship that barely end today. Walking around Asunción is discovering historical monuments that mark the history of Paraguay: the house of independence, the national pantheon of heroes or the palace Lopez.

The city has a peaceful and warm atmosphere. Enjoy it to discover Paraguayan culture! Don’t miss the museum del Barro, a native popular art museum. Finally, lose yourself in the mazes of its multicolored markets and taste local cuisine.

2. Jesus del Tavarangue

Paraguay’s history is marked by an unmatched episode in the rest of the world. From 1609 to 1763, the Jesuit Mission established a theocratic State in the Territory. This unusual province declares American natives "as free as Spanish." On condition, of course, that they submit to the Church... The company organizes itself around reducción small villages structured by the Jesuits. At first, Guaraní can maintain their own family structure. But gradually, the Jesuits impose on them a Christian way of life. However, this “Utopia” offers exceptional living conditions for the time. All inhabitants are educated and literate, public services are open to all, working days last 6 hours, free time is for the arts, etc.

By visiting Jesus del Taravangue, you have the opportunity to observe the remains of a reducción Jesuit. The site is composed of a church, a cloister, houses, workshops and a vegetable garden.

3. Ybycuí National Park

Want to escape? Ybycuí National Park is the most visited in Paraguay. Indeed, it is the easiest access. In addition, guardaparques ensure the security of the place and can guide you during your visit. Over 5,000 hectares, the park offers extraordinary landscapes. Starting to discover them, you will encounter a unique biodiversity in the world. Beautiful orchids and a wide variety of trees tap the park. But you will also have the opportunity to cross monkeys, tattoos or coatis.

Once on site, go to the iconic waterfalls: el salto Mina y el salto Guarani . They pour out their crystalline water in a crawling tropical decor. On the way you can admire the voltige of the huge multicolored butterflies that live in Ybycuí. In short, visiting the park is a must during your stay in Paraguay!

4. Laguna Blanca

Laguna Blanca is one of the most beautiful sites in Paraguay. Vast limpid lake surrounded by white sand dunes, it has an indisputable charm that loves visitors up to it. It is a great place for those who want to relax and enjoy water activities, such as diving or kayaking. But its gentle landscape also contains a fauna and a flora of rare riches. Indeed, Laguna Blanca is located at the junction between three biotopes. The nature lovers will be filled! In particular, the site is known to be a high place for bird watching. More than 280 species of birds live in the region. Get in touch with your twins and go to their discovery!

5. Encarnación

Known as the South Pearl, Encarnación is also known to be the Capital of Carnival. And for cause, every year, in January, February or March, the city has its party clothes! It is then a must-see destination in Paraguay. The streets are animated and the parades are held every weekend. A hallucinating show for visitors, many of whom come to see the largest carnival in Paraguay.

But Encarnación also deploys all its potential in the summer. The river banks are then set up for swimming and a crazy atmosphere wins the city once the night falls. This festive and summer atmosphere is ideal for meeting Paraguayans! In short, it is a sparkling destination that will not be missed during your stay.

6. La Santísima Trinidad de Paraná

Trinidad de Paraná is the second Jesuit vestige to visit in Paraguay. Like his neighbour, Jesus del Tavarangue, he is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The two sites are among the least visited of the list! Enjoy it! Especially as the ruins of the reducción of Trinidad are particularly well preserved. The small influx of visitors participates in making the place magical. You're very likely to find yourself in front of the old stones. At worst, a few birds will accompany you. An ideal setting to enjoy the atmosphere filled with history of the places... A story that was decisive in Paraguay's destiny.

7. Gran Chaco

Teinté of mystery, Gran Chaco is a wild territory of South America that occupies the western part of Paraguay. The eloquent meaning of his name, in quechua "the hunting territory", makes the most adventurous travellers dream. If you love nature and loneliness, this is where you have to go.

However, visiting Gran Chaco is not a project that prepares for light. If you want to embark on the adventure, it is advisable to use a guide. This desert territory has stifling heat episodes that can reach 50 degrees Celsius! Not to mention that you will find a thousand miles of all inhabited land... The only creatures that cross your path will come from the exceptional fauna that lives in the place. Unfortunately, these birds, mammals and other reptiles are now threatened by the development of livestock on these lands.

8. The dam of Itaipu

At the border of Brazil, the dam of Itaipu is the largest and most productive power plant in the world. This titanium structure is no less than 7 kilometres long! It is here that 90% of the electricity is produced that supplies Paraguay and 25% of the electricity generated in Brazil. But why go see a dam? Just because the view is breathtaking. Itaipu rises over 65 floors, overlooking the landscape. He deploys his gigantism with a dreadful power aura. If you want to go there, know that there is a special visit that allows you to access the inside of the dam. And if you plan to stay there for the evening, a bright show is given from 20 hours.

9. Saltos del Monday

In a tropical setting, not far from Ciudad del Este, the río Monday suddenly falls on 45 meters high. It then forms a triptych of bouillonous cascades. This spectacular vision will not fail to bite your guts. Yet, few visitors come to admire the Saltos del Monday. Is it because of the low tourist influx in Paraguay? Or is it due to the nearby presence of the famous Brazilian cascades Iguazú? In any case, it helps to strengthen its hidden treasure status. If you stay in the country, ask a taxi to take you there to contemplate this incredible natural heritage.