Table of Contents
Introduction
Tucked away in the heart of South America, Paraguay remains one of the most underrated destinations on the continent. Despite its small size, this landlocked country packs quite a punch, with stunning natural landscapes, rich indigenous culture, and historic colonial towns. Beyond the capital Asunción, Paraguay offers intrepid travelers the chance to uncover hidden gems off-the-beaten-path. From wildlife-filled wetlands to Jesuit ruins, roaring waterfalls to folk festivals, Paraguay’s best-kept secrets are waiting to be explored. In this article, we peel back the layers on this understated country and showcase the very best it has to offer. Read on to unveil Paraguay’s hidden wonders.
Asuncion
First up on any Paraguay itinerary is Asunción, the country’s capital and largest city. Founded in 1537, Asunción boasts a charming colonial center rich with historic buildings, leafy plazas, and cultural attractions. The limestone Catedral Metropolitana and adjacent Palacio de los López showcase stunning 18th-century architecture. The latter houses the nation’s government and the Museo del Barro, exhibiting contemporary Paraguayan crafts. Other museums worth visiting include the Museo Memorias de la Ciudad, tracing Asunción’s past, and the Museo de la Tierra Guaraní spotlighting indigenous culture. Beyond the museums, the bustling markets and vibrant street life provide a taste of the city’s energy. From sampling street food like empanadas to sipping tereré (cold mate tea), Asunción offers an enticing introduction to Paraguayan culture.
The Chaco
Heading north from the capital, the landscapes shift dramatically into the vast wilderness of the Chaco. This semi-arid lowland region occupies about 60% of Paraguay’s land area, with a rich diversity of habitats including wetlands, forests, and savannas. The Chaco provides crucial sanctuaries for wildlife like jaguars, tapirs, and more than 400 bird species. Several indigenous groups including the Ayoreo, Nivaclé, and others also inhabit the Chaco, preserving their traditional hunter-gatherer cultures. Adventurous safari tours visit remote indigenous communities and spot creatures like the endangered giant armadillo. An unforgettable way to experience the scale and biodiversity of this inaccessible region.
Laguna Blanca
In western Paraguay near the border with Bolivia lies the dazzling Laguna Blanca. This expansive salt lake nearly blends into the horizon, with its bright white shores refracting the sunlight dramatically. The high salinity creates an otherworldly landscape that seems to stretch into infinity. The lake’s edges provide a thriving ecosystem for varied birdlife, including three flamingo species painting the shores pink with their plumage. Out on the open water, flocks of Chilean flamingos sweep across the bright canvas in synchronized movements. Laguna Blanca captures Paraguay’s wilderness in one unforgettable view.
The Pantanal
Straddling the borders with Brazil and Bolivia, the Pantanal is the world’s largest tropical wetland. Paraguay protects a portion of this diverse biome in the northwestern corner of the country. During the wet season, much of the Pantanal becomes submerged under several feet of water, creating a haven for wildlife. Caiman, giant river otters, hyacinth macaws, and other species thrive in this fish-filled ecosystem. Boating tours traverse the water channels, allowing close encounters with creatures like the endangered marsh deer. On land, guided hikes and horseback riding reveal the area’s ecology, from primate-filled forests to colorful bird colonies. With careful environmental practices, the Paraguayan Pantanal offers incredibly lush biodiversity.
Jesuit Missions
One of Paraguay’s most celebrated UNESCO sites is the former Jesuit Missions located east of Asunción. In the 17th and 18th centuries, Jesuit priests established settlements called reducciones to convert indigenous Guaraní people. They built impressive churches and schools, showcasing a syncretic blend of European and Guaraní styles. The ruins of architectural marvels like Santísima Trinidad del Paraná still stand tall amidst lush forests. Other sites include the stone ruins of La Santisima Trinidad de Parana and Jesus de Tavarangue. The historic Jesuit sites provide a window into a unique period of Paraguayan history and an exchange between cultures.
Iguazu Falls
Along the border with Argentina lies one of South America’s most spectacular natural attractions: Iguazu Falls. Paraguay shares access to these mammoth waterfalls, which plunge with brute force over limestone cliffs. Visitors can get right under the action via pontoon boat tours offering soakings from the mist and spray. A series of metal walkways allow you to access distinct vantage points, from wide panoramic views to intimate spots surrounding by the tumultuous cascades. The Devil’s Throat is the star attraction, where 14 falls converge into the fiercest rapid of them all. With rainbows arcing overhead, Iguazu Falls showcase nature’s power and beauty perfectly.
Museums
Beyond its natural and historic attractions, Paraguay boasts some fascinating museums to understand the country’s culture. The Museo Etnográfico Andres Barbero showcases the living culture of Paraguay’s indigenous groups, including arts, artifacts, and traditional dwellings. Itaipu Dam, one of the world’s largest hydroelectric plants, has its own museum chronicling the megaproject’s construction through photos and interactive exhibits. Other highlights include the Museum of Indigenous Arts displaying ceramic pieces and musical instruments, and museums dedicated to Paraguay’s two major independence heroes.
Food and Drink
One of the great joys of traveling Paraguay is sampling the flavorful cuisine. Iconic dishes include sopa paraguaya, a cheesy cornmeal bread, as well as empanadas stuffed with beef, cheese, or other fillings. Chipa guasu often appears at breakfast, consisting of cornmeal molded around cheese or milk curds. Don’t leave without trying chipa, a chewy cheese bread and quintessential Paraguayan snack. Washing it down with ice-cold tereré (mate tea) is a classic local tradition. The cuisine showcases influences from Spanish, Portuguese, and Guaraní cultures using homegrown ingredients like corn, manioc, and yerba mate.
Festivals
Paraguay celebrates many lively festivals highlighting the country’s cultural heritage. On the Christian calendar, Carnaval kicks off the action in February with parades, costumes, and nonstop merrymaking. Leading up to Easter, the city of Caacupé honors the Virgin of Miracles with pilgrimages, street fairs, and dancing. In towns and cities nationwide, Dia de San Juan (June 24) involves huge bonfires and fireworks displays. Paraguayans also love their patron saint days known as fiestas patronales, featuring elaborate processions, music, and food. Folk tunes played on the harp and guitarra resonate proudly at these community celebrations.
Getting Around
Despite its small size, traveling around Paraguay can take some time due to limited infrastructure. That said, domestic flights and buses connect major cities and attractions. The capital Asunción serves as the transport hub, with buses reaching destinations like Encarnación near the Jesuit Missions. Northern routes access the Mennonite colonies and Brazilian border. Along the Pilcomayo River, boats can reach remote communities in the Chaco region. Tour companies also offer 4×4 excursions or horseback riding into off-the-grid areas. Once you arrive, walking and biking help explore the towns and natural areas at an intimate pace.
Safety Tips
While Paraguay is relatively safe, it helps to exercise some basic precautions. Avoid showing off expensive jewelry or electronics, dress modestly, and only exchange money at authorized locations. Using hotel safes, locking bags, and concealing valuables can further prevent issues. Confirm the legitimacy of “undercover” police and other suspicious encounters. As a foreigner, remember to always carry identification and register with your embassy. Learning a few key phrases in Spanish or the indigenous language Guaraní also helps bridge communication gaps. With common sense and respect for local culture, Paraguay offers a warm welcome.
Lodging Recommendations
One of the charms of travel in Paraguay is spending nights at intimate, locally-run accommodations. Estancias (ranch stays) allow you to ride horses, dine on home-cooked meals, and immerse yourself in rural life. Colonial hotels and guesthouses in historic towns ooze with character. Around the Chaco and national parks, eco-lodges place you close to nature with rustic yet cozy amenities. In Asunción, boutique hotels in restored buildings capture the city’s artistic flair. While options may be basic, the local touch makes for wonderful cultural exchanges.
Final Thoughts
It’s clear that Paraguay offers far more than meets the eye. This underrated gem invites you to venture beyond the major cities and unveil breathtaking landscapes, indigenous culture, delectable food traditions, and remnants of Jesuit history. Hospitable locals and rich biodiversity add to its off-the-radar appeal. For travelers seeking unspoiled natural beauty and cultural immersion, Paraguay warrants a top spot on your South American itinerary. The country’s wealth of hidden secrets are waiting to be uncovered by intrepid visitors. Don’t miss your chance to explore Paraguay’s many facets.
Conclusion
Paraguay’s small size belies the enormous diversity of experiences within its borders. Looking past the lack of fame, this country rewards intrepid travelers with phenomenal natural areas, from the wetland wildlife of the Pantanal to the intense power of Iguazu Falls. The living indigenous culture shines through in museums, communities, and festivals nationwide. Historic colonial towns, Jesuit ruins, and vibrant cities offer glimpses into Paraguay’s past and present. Whether spotting creatures in the Chaco wilderness or sampling chipa bread fresh from the oven, Paraguay engages the senses through nature and culture. For anyone seeking authentic travel adventures beyond the guidebook headlines, Paraguay promises memorable discoveries. The hidden gems unveiled here make a compelling case to add this South American nation to your travel wishlist.
5 Unique Things Not to Miss in Paraguay
- Roam the atmospheric ruins of Jesuit Missions like La Santísima Trinidad de Paraná
- Savor iconic dishes like sopa paraguaya and tereré cold mate tea
- Spot exotic wildlife in the lush wetlands of the Pantanal
- Soak up indigenous culture at museums like the Museo Etnográfico Andres Barbero
- Feel the power of Iguazu Falls first-hand on a boat tour under the cascades