Paraguay is a fascinating South American destination known for its Guarani culture, historic cities, dramatic rivers, subtropical landscapes, traditional food, and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you are visiting for a short vacation, planning a longer stay, or living in Paraguay, there are many interesting things to do and places to explore.
From the historic streets and cultural attractions of Asuncion to the spectacular Itaipu Dam, the waterfalls and attractions around Ciudad del Este, the historic Jesuit Missions of Itapua, and the beaches of Encarnacion, Paraguay offers experiences for history lovers, nature enthusiasts, families, food lovers, and adventure travelers.
The best things to do in Paraguay depend on the region you visit. The country has major attractions in and around Asuncion, the eastern region, the Itapua area, and the vast Chaco.
| Activity | Best Area | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|
| Explore historic buildings and museums | Asuncion | History & culture |
| Visit Itaipu Dam | Ciudad del Este | Technology & sightseeing |
| Visit the Jesuit Missions | Itapua | History & heritage |
| Relax beside the Parana River | Encarnacion | Families & leisure |
| Explore nature and waterfalls | Eastern Paraguay | Outdoor activities |
| Experience Paraguayan food | Nationwide | Food lovers |
| Explore the Chaco | Western Paraguay | Nature & adventure |
Asuncion, the capital of Paraguay, is one of the best places to begin exploring the country. The city combines colonial-era history, modern neighborhoods, museums, restaurants, parks, markets, and riverfront attractions.
The Paraguay River is an important part of life in Asuncion. The Costanera area provides opportunities for walking, cycling, relaxing outdoors, and enjoying views of the river.
It is particularly attractive around sunset and can be combined with a visit to the historic center of Asuncion.
Ciudad del Este is one of Paraguay's most important commercial and tourist cities. Located near the borders with Brazil and Argentina, it is also an excellent base for exploring the attractions of the Triple Frontier region.
The Itaipu Binacional hydroelectric plant is one of Paraguay's most remarkable engineering and tourism attractions. Itaipu itself describes tourism as an important part of its mission and offers public tourist visits throughout the year, with different options covering the plant, Ecomuseum, and Biological Refuge.
A visit to Itaipu can be particularly interesting for travelers interested in engineering, renewable energy, architecture, history, and large-scale infrastructure.
Encarnacion, in southern Paraguay, is famous for its riverfront, beaches, summer atmosphere, and proximity to the country's most important Jesuit heritage sites.
One of the most important cultural experiences in Paraguay is visiting the Jesuit Missions of La Santisima Trinidad de Parana and Jesus de Tavarangue.
The two mission complexes were inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1993. They are important examples of Jesuit mission architecture and the cultural interaction between European and Guarani traditions during the 17th and 18th centuries.
The missions are especially worthwhile for travelers interested in archaeology, architecture, Paraguayan history, Guarani culture, and colonial South American history.
Paraguay has a surprisingly diverse natural environment. Travelers can explore forests, rivers, wetlands, waterfalls, grasslands, and the enormous Chaco region.
The Gran Chaco covers a large part of western Paraguay and provides a completely different experience from the eastern part of the country.
The region is known for its dry forests, wildlife, indigenous cultures, ranching landscapes, and remote wilderness. Travelers interested in nature and wildlife can explore Chaco destinations with appropriate local guides and planning.
Paraguay's UNESCO listings and tentative heritage inventory also recognize the importance of natural and cultural areas in the Chaco and other parts of the country.
Food is an important part of experiencing Paraguay. Visitors should try traditional Paraguayan dishes and drinks during their trip.
Terere is much more than a refreshing drink in Paraguay. It is an important part of everyday social and cultural life.
Visitors can experience terere in homes, parks, markets, and social gatherings. Paraguay's traditional knowledge and practices associated with terere and pohã ñana are also recognized by UNESCO as part of the country's intangible cultural heritage.
Shopping is particularly popular in major cities such as Asuncion and Ciudad del Este.
Paraguay can be an enjoyable destination for families, with a mixture of outdoor activities, cultural attractions, parks, beaches, and educational experiences.
| Destination | Why Visit? |
|---|---|
| Asuncion | History, culture, museums, restaurants, nightlife and riverfront |
| Ciudad del Este | Itaipu, shopping, waterfalls and the Triple Frontier |
| Encarnacion | Beaches, Costanera, festivals and access to Jesuit Missions |
| Trinidad | UNESCO-listed Jesuit Mission |
| Jesus de Tavarangue | Historic Jesuit architecture and archaeological remains |
| Eastern Paraguay | Forests, waterfalls, rivers and outdoor activities |
| Paraguayan Chaco | Wildlife, wilderness and unique landscapes |
The best time to visit Paraguay depends on the type of activities you want to enjoy. The warmer months are popular for beaches, outdoor recreation, and summer events, while cooler periods can be more comfortable for sightseeing and exploring historic attractions.
Because Paraguay has significant regional differences in climate and geography, travelers should check local weather conditions before planning outdoor activities, especially when visiting remote areas.
Some of the best things to do in Paraguay include exploring Asuncion, visiting Itaipu Dam, discovering the Jesuit Missions, relaxing in Encarnacion, visiting waterfalls, exploring nature, experiencing Paraguayan food, and learning about Guarani culture.
Itaipu Dam and the Jesuit Missions are among Paraguay's best-known attractions. The Jesuit Missions of La Santisima Trinidad de Parana and Jesus de Tavarangue are especially important because they are UNESCO World Heritage properties.
Yes. Paraguay offers cultural attractions, historic sites, nature, rivers, waterfalls, food, shopping, and distinctive Guarani traditions. It can be especially appealing to travelers looking for destinations that are less heavily visited than some neighboring South American countries.
Yes. Asuncion is an excellent starting point for exploring Paraguay and offers historic attractions, museums, restaurants, parks, riverfront areas, nightlife, and access to other parts of the country.
Popular activities include visiting Itaipu Dam, exploring the Triple Frontier region, visiting Monday Falls, shopping, and exploring the natural attractions of eastern Paraguay.
Yes. The Jesuit Missions of La Santisima Trinidad de Parana and Jesus de Tavarangue are among Paraguay's most important historic attractions and were inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1993.
Visitors should consider trying sopa paraguaya, chipa, mbeju, Paraguayan asado, traditional sweets, and terere.