Paraguay 3 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Asunción Exploration

Morning

  • Breakfast: Start your day with a traditional Paraguayan breakfast at Café Literario, featuring dishes like dulce de leche pastries and strong coffee.
  • Independence Square: Visit the heart of Asunción’s historic center, surrounded by beautiful colonial architecture, including the Palacio de López (Presidential Palace) and the Catedral Metropolitana.

Afternoon

  • National Pantheon of Heroes: Pay respects to Paraguay’s national heroes at this grand monument.
  • Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes: Explore the country’s art scene at this museum, featuring works by local artists.

Evening

  • Dinner: Savor traditional Paraguayan cuisine at La Morada, known for its delicious dishes like surubí (catfish) and sopa paraguaya (corn bread).
  • Nightlife: Experience Asunción’s vibrant nightlife in the trendy Villa Morra neighborhood, with bars and clubs like El Kilo and Britannia Pub.

Things to Know

  • Visa requirements: Citizens of many countries, including the US, EU, and Australia, do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days.
  • Currency: Paraguayan guaraní (PYG); you can exchange currency at banks or use ATMs.
  • Language: Spanish and Guarani are official languages; English is not widely spoken.

Transportation

  • Taxi: A convenient way to get around Asunción, with fares starting from 20,000 PYG (~ $3 USD).
  • Bus: An affordable option for shorter distances, with fares from 5,000 PYG (~ $0.80 USD).

Day 2: Chaco National Park Adventure

Morning

  • Chaco National Park: Depart Asunción and head to this unique national park ( approx. 4-hour drive).
  • Hiking: Explore the park’s diverse landscapes, including forests, grasslands, and wetlands.

Afternoon

  • Wildlife spotting: Keep an eye out for caimans, capybaras, and over 400 bird species.
  • Swimming: Refresh yourself in one of the park’s natural pools or rivers.

Evening

  • Camping: Spend the night under the stars at one of the park’s campsites (book in advance).
  • Stargazing: Take advantage of the park’s minimal light pollution for a breathtaking stargazing experience.

Things to Know

  • Park entrance fee: 50,000 PYG (~ $8 USD) per person.
  • Bring insect repellent, sunscreen, and comfortable hiking shoes.
  • Accommodation options are limited; book in advance or prepare for camping.

Day 3: Encarnación and the Jesuit Missions

Morning

  • Encarnación: Drive to this charming city (approx. 4-hour drive from Chaco National Park).
  • Jesuit Mission of San José: Visit one of Paraguay’s most impressive Jesuit missions, featuring stunning Baroque architecture.

Afternoon

  • Museo de la Ciudad: Learn about Encarnación’s history and culture at this local museum.
  • Beach time: Relax on the banks of the Paraná River at one of the city’s scenic beaches.

Evening

  • Farewell dinner: Enjoy a delicious meal at La Casa de las Ensaladas, known for its creative salads and sandwiches.
  • Return to Asunción: Drive back to the capital (approx. 4-hour drive) or stay overnight in Encarnación.

Things to Know

  • Bus services connect Encarnación to Asunción; book in advance for availability.
  • Try local street food, like chipá guazú (a savory pastry) and tortilla de papas (potato pancake).
  • Be respectful of the Jesuit missions’ historical significance and dress modestly.

Additional Tips

  • Paraguay is a cash-based economy; have some local currency with you at all times.
  • Learn basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience and interact with locals.
  • Be prepared for variable weather conditions, including heat and humidity.