Paraguay-4-day-itinerary

Day 1: Asunción Exploration

Morning

  • Arrive in Asunción, the capital city of Paraguay
  • Check-in to your hotel and freshen up
  • Visit the Palacio de López, a stunning presidential palace that offers guided tours (free admission)
  • Explore the nearby Plaza Independencia, a historic square surrounded by important government buildings

Afternoon

  • Head to the Mercado de Abasto, a bustling marketplace where you can try local street food and buy souvenirs
  • Visit the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes, a museum showcasing Paraguayan art and culture (free admission)
  • Take a stroll along the Costanera Avenue, a scenic waterfront promenade with great views of the city

Evening

  • Enjoy a traditional Paraguayan dinner at a local restaurant, such as La Morada or El Fogoncito
  • Experience the vibrant nightlife of Asunción by visiting the Barrio Obrero neighborhood, known for its bars and clubs

Things to Know

  • Asunción is a relatively safe city, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings
  • The official currency is the Paraguayan guaraní (PYG), although US dollars are widely accepted
  • Spanish and Guarani are the official languages, but many locals speak some English

Day 2: Chaco National Park

Morning

  • Take a domestic flight from Asunción to Filadelfia, a small town in the Chaco region ( approx. 1-hour flight)
  • Visit the Chaco National Park, a protected area of subtropical forests and grasslands (entrance fee: PYG 20,000)
  • Go on a guided hike or horseback ride through the park’s trails

Afternoon

  • Look out for the diverse wildlife, including toucans, monkeys, and capybaras
  • Visit the Mennonite colonies, where you can learn about the history and culture of these German-speaking settlers

Evening

  • Return to Filadelfia and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant
  • Stay overnight in Filadelfia or return to Asunción (approx. 1-hour flight)

Things to Know

  • The Chaco region is known for its hot and humid climate, so pack accordingly
  • The park’s trails can be challenging, so wear comfortable shoes and bring sunscreen and insect repellent

Day 3: Encarnación and Jesús de Tavarangüe

Morning

  • Take a bus or taxi from Asunción to Encarnación, a charming city located in the southeastern part of the country (approx. 4-hour journey)
  • Visit the Jesús de Tavarangüe, a picturesque Jesuit mission town with well-preserved colonial architecture (entrance fee: PYG 10,000)

Afternoon

  • Explore the town’s historic center, including the Iglesia de Jesús de Tavarangüe and the Museo Jesuítico
  • Take a stroll along the Paraná River, which offers great views of the surrounding countryside

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant in Encarnación
  • Stay overnight in Encarnación or return to Asunción (approx. 4-hour journey)

Things to Know

  • Encarnación is known for its vibrant carnival celebrations, which take place in February and March
  • The city has a more relaxed atmosphere than Asunción, so take your time and enjoy the local pace of life

Day 4: Return to Asunción and Departure

Morning

  • Return to Asunción by bus or taxi (approx. 4-hour journey)
  • Spend the morning shopping for last-minute souvenirs or visiting any attractions you missed on Day 1
  • Depart from Silvio Pettirossi International Airport for your onward journey

Visa Requirements

  • Citizens of most countries do not need a visa to enter Paraguay, but it’s always best to check with the Paraguayan embassy or consulate in your home country
  • Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay

Transportation

  • Domestic flights and bus services connect major cities and towns across Paraguay
  • Taxis are widely available, but agree on the fare before you start your journey
  • Renting a car is not recommended due to the country’s poor road infrastructure

Other Things of Interest

  • Iguazú Falls: While not in Paraguay, these famous waterfalls are located just across the border in Argentina and can be visited as a day trip from Encarnación
  • Festival de San Juan: A colorful festival held in June to celebrate the patron saint of Paraguay
  • Tereré: A traditional Paraguayan tea made from yerba mate leaves, which is an integral part of local culture