The Most Unique Things to do in Paraguay

Introduction: Discovering Paraguay’s Unique Activities

When I first moved to Paraguay, I quickly realized how underrated this country is when it comes to tourism and the sheer number of unique things to do in Paraguay. Most travelers passing through South America barely give it a second thought, often heading straight to Argentina or Brazil. But after spending years here, I’ve come to appreciate just how many unique things exist in Paraguay—things you won’t find in any typical travel guide.

From exploring the streets of Asunción to standing at the point where three countries meet in Ciudad del Este (more on that below!), Paraguay is full of hidden gems and surprises.

Whether it’s sipping tereré like a local, hiking to waterfalls few tourists ever see, or visiting a working estancia to experience the country’s cowboy culture firsthand, there’s something here for every type of traveler.

What I love most about Paraguay is its authenticity. It doesn’t feel overly touristy or commercialized like some of its neighboring countries. Paraguay offers a more raw experience where you feel you can really connect to the land, this country, and the kind locals. In this guide, I will showcase some of the most unique things to do in Paraguay that are little talked about among tourists to the country.

Exploring the Unique Charms of Asunción

First up, Asunción, Paraguay’s capital, can be overlooked, but after living here for an extended period of time, I’ve discovered it’s full of hidden gems.

Unlike other major cities in South America, Asunción has a much more relaxed vibe, making it the perfect place to slow down and soak in the culture. Whether you’re into history, street markets, or simply enjoying a good meal with a view (local beef, anyone?!), there are plenty of unique things to do in Paraguay right here in the capital.

1. Wander Through the Historic Center

Walking through downtown Asunción feels like stepping back in time. The colonial buildings, some beautifully restored and others less so, tell the story of Paraguay’s past.

A must-visit is the Palacio de López, the government palace that lights up beautifully at night. Check out my post here on the most delicious restaurant with the best view of the Palace, any time of day (no joke, this is the best restaurant food I’ve had yet in Paraguay).

This blog post shares more about the restaurant and café that is Casa Clari.

Nearby, the Casa de la Independencia is a small but fascinating museum showcasing Paraguay’s independence movement.

I highly recommend to simply go for a stroll and wander the streets in this area, stopping for a fresh juice from a street vendor and watching life unfold in the plazas. Plaza Uruguaya and Plaza de la Democracia are great spots to sit with a tereré and people-watch.

I will note that this downtown area is not always the safest, and certainly not somewhere you want to find yourself as the sun starts to set. Be sure to make it a day trip (and stay in the shade, the heat can get overwhelming in the summer months, which is most of the year).

Check out this post of the overall safety of Paraguay.

Here are a few of my top recommended tours when visiting Paraguay:

2. Visit the Loma San Jerónimo Neighborhood

If you love a colorful, artsy neighborhood, Loma San Jerónimo is the area for you. This is a small but cute area filled with brightly painted houses, murals, and little cafés serving traditional Paraguayan food and drink.

I recommend visiting this area (near the downtown center, about a 20-minute walk from the main center plazas) after 6PM, as that is when all the shops and cafes are open. You can still go to visit in the day, but beware of the heat, and you will be able to take photos, but nothing will be open.

3. Shop at Mercado 4

Mercado 4 is a chaotic, loud, and fascinating market to experience. It’s a massive market where you can find everything from fresh produce to electronics, and of course, traditional Paraguayan herbs for the famous terere.

If you want an authentic local shopping experience while visiting Paraguay, this is the place to go. Just be prepared to navigate the crowds and keep an eye on your belongings while moving through the market.

4. Enjoy the Sunset at the Costanera

The Costanera de Asunción, a waterfront boulevard along the Paraguay River, is the perfect place to relax after a day of exploring downtown. Locals come here to jog, cycle, or simply enjoy the sunset. I love grabbing a cold drink from one of the local food stalls and watching the sky change colors over the river as it sets. I highly recommend checking out the Costanera one evening, then heading over the Negroni, a nearby rooftop bar with great cocktails.

5. Experience Paraguay’s Food Scene

Paraguayan cuisine is hearty and delicious, and Asunción has some of the best places to try it. A personal favorite is Lido Bar, an old-school diner famous for its chipa guasu (a savory corn cake) and caldo de pescado (fish soup).

For a more modern twist on Paraguayan food, Bolsi is a must-visit, serving everything from traditional dishes to amazing empanadas and lomitos.

Of course, if you are downtown, I highly recommend trying out Casa Clari, with the best food and most stunning views of the Palace, you can’t go wrong. Just be sure to make a reservation in advance if you are wanting to arrive after 5PM for dinner.

6. Day Trip to San Bernardino

San Bernardino, also known as San Ber to locals, is an hour drive outside of Asuncion, on the shores of Lake Ypacaraí. This is much more of a summer destination, as most weekends in the summer the locals will escape the city and head over to San Ber.

Of course, prices go up by quite a bit in the summer months (from November-February), however you can usually find year round rentals available, and we have scored some good deals in the winter months, when things are much quieter.

You can’t swim in the lake water, but you can do boating, seadoo, or paddle boarding. There are also many bars open in the summer months, and on weekends they are almost always full. In the winter months, most of these bars and restaurants are closed all season.

Discovering the Energy of Ciudad del Este

Honestly, Ciudad del Este is a complete contrast to Asunción. While the capital has a relaxed, colonial charm, Ciudad del Este is fast-paced, bustling, and full of energy.

Located on the border with Brazil and Argentina, straight across the country from Asuncion, this city is famous for its shopping districts, but there’s much more to experience here than just duty-free stores.

If you’re looking for unique things to do in Paraguay, Ciudad del Este has many natural wonders, adventure, and cultural experiences you won’t find anywhere else in the country. Check out this full article on the best things to do when visiting Ciudad del Este.

1. Explore the Mighty Iguazú Falls (From the Paraguayan Side!)

Most people think of Brazil or Argentina when they hear about Iguazú Falls, but did you know you can experience this natural wonder from Paraguay too?

The lesser-known Monday Falls (Saltos del Monday) is just 10 kilometers from Ciudad del Este, and while it’s smaller than Iguazú, it’s just as breathtaking. The roaring waterfalls, surrounded by lush greenery, make for a perfect day trip. Plus, it’s far less crowded than the tourist-heavy Brazilian and Argentine sides.

2. Shop at the Chaotic Markets of CDE

Ciudad del Este is known as a shopping paradise, and even if you’re not planning to buy anything, visiting the markets is an experience in itself. The main shopping district is packed with massive malls, street vendors, and markets selling everything from electronics to perfumes and clothing.

If you’re up for some haggling with the local vendors, you can find some amazing deals (be sure to speak either Spanish or Portuguese).

Be sure to note that while Asuncion feels quite safe in many areas of the city, Ciudad del Este, especially in the main downtown area (near the Brazilian border) feel much less safe and dirty. You can read more here on the general safety level of Paraguay, but be sure to be cautious when visiting Ciudad del Este.

Check out this walking tour video of downtown Ciudad del Este to get a feel for the city.

3. Visit the Itaipu Dam—One of the Largest in the World

For something completely unique, Itaipu Dam is an absolute must-see. This engineering marvel, which Paraguay shares with Brazil, is one of the largest hydroelectric dams in the world. You can take a guided tour to learn about how it powers nearly all of Paraguay and a large part of Brazil.

While you’re here, don’t forget to head nearby to the Tres Fronteras – where the borders of Paraguay, Brazil, and Argentina all meet!

4. Visit Shopping Lago Mall

The main mall (and largest one in the city), Shopping Lago is not a marvel of a mall, but it is the best traditional mall experience the city offers. While you have other malls like the famous Shopping Paris and Shopping China inside (moreso catered to Brazilian tourists wanting no tax on their goods) Shopping Lago does offer good food options and a modern cinema.

Unique Things to Do in Paraguay’s Countryside

While Asunción and Ciudad del Este offer plenty of exciting experiences, some of the most unique things to do in Paraguay can be found outside the cities.

Paraguay is a country of vast landscapes, untouched nature, and cultural traditions that remain strong to this day. From exploring remote national parks to experiencing indigenous heritage, here are some of the most unforgettable adventures you can experience in Paraguay’s countryside.

1. Discover the Wild Chaco

If you’re looking for a true off-the-beaten-path adventure, the Chaco is one of the most remote and untouched regions in South America. This vast, arid land stretches across north western Paraguay, with rugged terrain, unique wildlife, and small Mennonite and indigenous communities.

One of the best places to explore is Defensores del Chaco National Park, Paraguay’s largest national park. If you’re lucky, you might spot jaguars, armadillos, and even the elusive giant anteater.

Since the Chaco is sparsely populated, you’ll need a good 4×4 vehicle and an experienced guide to navigate the rough roads. It’s an adventure unlike anything else in Paraguay!

Here is a popular tour of the Chaco in Paraguay if you are wanting to visit for yourself.

2. Experience the Jesuit Ruins

This is a little-known history experience, evening some locals don’t know about this!

For history lovers, the Jesuit Missions of Paraguay are a fascinating glimpse into the country’s colonial past. The Jesuit ruins of Trinidad and Jesús de Tavarangue are UNESCO World Heritage sites and some of the best-preserved Jesuit missions in South America. Walking through these ancient stone structures, you’ll get a sense of the influence the Jesuits had on Paraguay’s history and culture.

I recommend visiting in the late afternoon, when the golden light makes the ruins even more magical. Plus, it’s less crowded, so you can soak in the atmosphere of these centuries-old sites.

3. Beachside in Laguna Blanca

Paraguay is a paradise for birdwatchers, and Laguna Blanca is one of the best places to see rare species. This beautiful freshwater lake, located in the east of the country, is home to over 280 species of birds, including toucans and the endangered white-winged nightjar.

Even if you’re not into birdwatching, Laguna Blanca is a perfect escape into nature. The clear blue water is great for swimming, kayaking, or just relaxing on the white sandy shores. Since it’s still a hidden gem, you’ll often have the place almost entirely to yourself.

4. Explore Ybycuí National Park

One of my favorite weekend getaways from Asunción is Ybycuí National Park. Located just a few hours from the capital, this lush, green park is full of waterfalls, hiking trails, and hidden swimming holes. If you love hiking and being in nature, this is the perfect place to explore.

The trails take you through thick forests, past small rivers, and to waterfalls like Salto Cristal, one of the most stunning waterfalls in Paraguay. After a long hike, there’s nothing better than jumping into the refreshing water!

5. Visit the Caves of Vallemí

One of Paraguay’s best-kept secrets is the Caverna de Vallemí, a series of fascinating limestone caves in the north of the country. These underground caverns are filled with stalactites, stalagmites, and eerie rock formations that make you feel like you’re on another planet. Exploring these caves with a guide is an unforgettable adventure, especially if you love spelunking and unique geological adventures.

As you can see from the unique activities above (many that most tourists don’t know about and rarely visit!), Paraguay’s countryside offers a mix of adventure, history, and breathtaking landscapes that you won’t find anywhere else.

While visiting, I highly recommend spending some time between both major cities, Asuncion and Ciudad del Este, but also to choose a few activities that are of interest to you outside of the major cities, as that is where you get a true experience for authentic Paraguay!

Conclusion: Discovering the Hidden Gems of Paraguay

As you can see, Paraguay is an underrated destination filled with unique experiences. Whether you’re exploring the historic Jesuit ruins, hiking to waterfalls, or experiencing the culture in Ciudad del Este’s vibrant markets, there’s something in this country for every type of traveler.

Living in Paraguay has allowed me to uncover so many hidden gems that most people never hear about, and I hope this guide helps you plan an unforgettable adventure. If you’re looking for unique things to do in Paraguay, don’t just stick to the usual tourist spots—venture off the beaten path and experience the country’s true essence.

Read More on Living in Paraguay: The Most Unique Things to do in Paraguay

• Experience The Best Cafe in Paraguay – Cafe de Aca
• Prices and Food Prices in Paraguay: What To Expect
• Visiting Ciudad del Este? Here are the best places to explore in CDE
• What is the Currency of Paraguay and What Is It Worth? Find out more here.
• The Ultimate Three Day Guide to Exploring the Best of Paraguay
• Exploring Ñu Guazu Park in Asuncion Paraguay

FAQ: Best and Unique Things to Do in Paraguay

1. What is the best time to visit Paraguay for outdoor activities?

The best time to visit is during the cooler months from May to September, when temperatures are milder and outdoor activities like hiking and sightseeing are more enjoyable.

2. Are the Jesuit ruins in Paraguay worth visiting?

The Jesuit Missions of Trinidad and Jesús de Tavarangue are UNESCO World Heritage sites and offer a fascinating look into Paraguay’s colonial history. It is one of the little known tourist attractions in Paraguay, and something you should do if you are visiting near Encarnacion.

3. How do I get to the Chaco region?

The Chaco is remote, so you’ll need a 4×4 vehicle or a guided tour. The town of Filadelfia is a good base for exploring, and from there, you can visit Defensores del Chaco National Park and the Mennonite communities.

4. Is Paraguay a good destination for nature lovers?

Yes! Paraguay has national parks, waterfalls, caves, and diverse wildlife—perfect for those who love off-the-beaten-path adventures. Places like Ybycuí National Park, Laguna Blanca, and the Chaco are must-visits for nature lovers.

5. What unique food should I try in Paraguay?

Don’t leave without trying sopa paraguaya (a delicious cornbread), chipa (chewy cheese bread), and asado (Paraguayan barbecue). You’ll also find tereré, a cold herbal tea, everywhere—it’s a cultural staple in Paraguay.

6. Is Paraguay safe for travelers?

Yes, Paraguay is generally safe, especially compared to other South American countries. However, it’s always best to take normal travel precautions, avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas, and be mindful of pickpockets in busy places.

7. Can I visit Paraguay on a budget?

Paraguay is one of the most affordable countries in South America. Food, transportation, and accommodations are relatively low cost, making this a great destination for budget travelers. You can easily find accommodation for a few hundred a month to a few thousand per month, depending on what you are wanting. Read more on food prices in Paraguay and the full breakdown, and here for apartment hunting and rental prices in Paraguay.