Paraguay 5 Day Itinerary

Paraguay 5-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Asunción City Tour

  • Morning: Arrive in Asunción, the capital city of Paraguay. Check-in to your hotel and freshen up.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Palacio de López, the presidential palace, and take a stroll through the historic center, including the Plaza Independencia and the Catedral Metropolitana.
  • Evening: Enjoy traditional Paraguayan cuisine, such as asado (grilled meats) and sopa paraguaya (a hearty cornbread-based stew), at one of the many local restaurants.

Day 2: Chaco National Park

  • Morning: Take a bus or taxi to the Chaco National Park ( approx. 1 hour journey). Explore the park’s unique wildlife, including caimans, capybaras, and toucans.
  • Afternoon: Go hiking or take a guided tour through the park’s trails, spotting monkeys, birds, and other native species.
  • Evening: Return to Asunción and enjoy a traditional Paraguayan folk show at a local peña (folk club).

Day 3: Encarnación and Jesús de Tavarangüe

  • Morning: Take a bus or taxi to Encarnación (approx. 4 hours journey). Visit the Jesús de Tavarangüe, a stunning Jesuit mission featuring beautiful architecture and artifacts.
  • Afternoon: Explore Encarnación’s historic center, including the Plaza Independencia and the Catedral de Encarnación.
  • Evening: Enjoy local cuisine and drinks at one of Encarnación’s many restaurants and bars.

Day 4: Ita Guasu National Park

  • Morning: Take a bus or taxi to the Ita Guasu National Park (approx. 2 hours journey). Explore the park’s lush forests, waterfalls, and scenic hiking trails.
  • Afternoon: Go birdwatching or take a guided tour through the park’s unique ecosystem.
  • Evening: Return to Asunción and enjoy a traditional Paraguayan dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 5: Shopping and Departure

  • Morning: Visit the Mercado de Abasto, a bustling marketplace featuring local handicrafts, food, and souvenirs.
  • Afternoon: Last-minute shopping or exploration of Asunción’s neighborhoods.
  • Evening: Depart for the airport and fly back home.

Things to Know

  • Paraguay is a relatively safe country, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
  • The official language is Spanish, but many locals speak some English, especially in tourist areas.
  • The local currency is the Paraguayan guaraní (PYG). You can exchange money at banks or use ATMs.
  • Power sockets are Type A and C, with a standard voltage of 220V.

Visa Requirements

  • Citizens of most countries do not need a visa to enter Paraguay for tourism purposes. Check with the Paraguayan embassy or consulate in your country for specific requirements.

Transportation

  • Asunción has a modern international airport (ASU) with connections to major cities in South America and beyond.
  • Buses and taxis are widely available, but consider renting a car or hiring a private driver for longer trips.
  • Domestic flights are also an option, but be prepared for limited schedules and availability.

Other Tips

  • Try the local drink, tereré (a refreshing tea-like beverage made from yerba mate).
  • Be prepared for hot and humid weather during the summer months (December to February).
  • Paraguay is a great value destination, with affordable accommodation, food, and activities.
  • Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting indigenous communities or rural areas.

Accommodation

  • Asunción: Hotel Guarani Asunción, Hotel Palace, or similar
  • Encarnación: Hotel del Sur, Hotel Ñasaindy, or similar

Budget Breakdown

  • Accommodation: $30-50 per night (average)
  • Food: $10-20 per meal (average)
  • Transportation: $10-50 per trip (average)
  • Activities: $10-30 per person (average)

Total estimated budget for 5-day trip: $500-800 per person