Paraguay 2 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Asunción and its Surroundings

Morning

  • Start the day with a traditional Paraguayan breakfast: Try some chipá guazú (a cheesy bread) or dulce de leche pastries at a local café.
  • Visit the Palacio de López (López Palace), the presidential palace of Paraguay, which offers guided tours.

Afternoon

  • Explore the historic center of Asunción: Walk through the cobblestone streets and visit the Catedral Metropolitana, the oldest cathedral in South America.
  • Visit the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes (National Museum of Fine Arts), which features an impressive collection of Paraguayan art.

Evening

  • Head to the Mercado de Abasto, a bustling marketplace where you can try local street food and drinks, such as chivito (a sandwich) or tereré (a cold tea).
  • Enjoy a traditional Paraguayan dinner: Try some asado (grilled meat) or sopa paraguaya (a hearty soup).

Things to Know

  • Language: While many Paraguayans speak some English, it’s still a good idea to learn basic Spanish phrases.
  • Currency: The Paraguayan guaraní is the local currency, although USD and Argentine pesos are also widely accepted.

Day 2: Chaco National Park and Caacupé

Morning

  • Take an early bus or taxi to Chaco National Park (approximately 1.5 hours from Asunción), a protected area of dense forest and diverse wildlife.
  • Hike the Sendero de la Morotí trail, a scenic route that takes you through the park’s stunning landscapes.

Afternoon

  • Visit the charming town of Caacupé (approximately 1 hour from Chaco National Park), known for its picturesque streets, historic church, and traditional craft shops.
  • Try some local cuisine: Sample some typical Paraguayan dishes, such as payagua mascada (beef and onion stew) or dulce de leche crepes.

Evening

  • Return to Asunción and enjoy a farewell dinner at one of the city’s many restaurants.
  • Explore the nightlife: Visit the trendy neighborhood of Villa Morra, known for its bars, clubs, and live music venues.

Transportation

  • Bus: Companies like Expreso Brítez and Ormeño operate daily bus services between Asunción and other cities in Paraguay.
  • Taxi: Taxis are widely available, but be sure to negotiate the fare beforehand.
  • Car Rental: Renting a car is an option, although road conditions can be rough.

Visa Requirements

  • Citizens of many countries, including the US, EU, and Australia, do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days.
  • Check with the Paraguayan embassy or consulate in your country for specific requirements.

Other Things of Interest

  • Fiestas: Paraguay loves its festivals! The Carnaval is a major event, but there are many other celebrations throughout the year.
  • Indigenous communities: Visit one of the many indigenous communities, such as the Ava Guaraní or Mbyá Guaraní, to learn about their rich cultural heritage.
  • Crafts: Paraguay is known for its beautiful handicrafts, including woven textiles, woodcarvings, and ceramics.

Note: This itinerary assumes good health and average physical mobility. Be sure to check the latest travel advisories and health requirements before traveling to Paraguay.