Paraguay: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Did you know that Paraguay is the only country in the world where over 90% of the population speaks both official languages fluently? This unique bilingual nation, where Spanish and indigenous Guaraní are seamlessly interwoven in daily life, offers travelers an authentic South American experience unlike any other. Tucked between Brazil, Argentina, and Bolivia, this landlocked gem remains one of the continent’s least-visited countries—making it perfect for travelers seeking genuine cultural immersion without the crowds.

Why Visit Paraguay?

Paraguay offers a fascinating blend of indigenous Guaraní culture, Spanish colonial heritage, and untouched natural landscapes. From the vibrant streets of Asunción to the tranquil Jesuit Missions and the wild Chaco region, Paraguay rewards curious travelers with authentic experiences, fewer crowds, and exceptional value.

Top Things to Do in Paraguay

From UNESCO World Heritage sites to wildlife-rich wetlands, Paraguay offers diverse experiences for every type of traveler. Here are the must-see attractions that showcase the best this country has to offer.

1. Explore the Jesuit Missions

The Jesuit Missions of La Santísima Trinidad de Paraná and Jesús de Tavarangüe are Paraguay’s most impressive UNESCO World Heritage sites. Dating back to the early 1600s, these once-magnificent cathedrals and residences were built by European missionaries. Today, the red sandstone ruins stand as a testament to the country’s complex colonial history and architectural achievements.

Located near Encarnación in southern Paraguay, these sites offer a glimpse into the unique social experiment of the Jesuit reductions, where indigenous Guaraní people lived and worked alongside the missionaries. The ruins are particularly stunning at sunset when the red stone glows in the fading light.

2. Wildlife Watching in the Pantanal Wetlands

While Brazil’s portion of the Pantanal gets more attention, Paraguay’s share of these massive wetlands offers equally impressive wildlife viewing with far fewer tourists. Unlike the dense vegetation of the Amazon, the open landscapes of the Pantanal provide unobstructed views of the diverse wildlife that calls this region home.

Visitors can spot rare species like the giant anteater, jaguar, capybara, and hundreds of bird species. The best way to explore is by boat or on guided tours from the town of Bahía Negra. Early morning and late afternoon offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities when animals are most active.

3. Marvel at the Itaipu Dam

The Itaipu Dam, shared with Brazil, is one of the world’s largest hydroelectric plants and a modern engineering wonder. This massive structure generates nearly 90% of Paraguay’s electricity and is powerful enough to produce more energy than 12 nuclear plants combined.

Visitors can take guided tours of the facility to learn about sustainable energy production and the dam’s construction. The evening light shows, where colorful illuminations dance across the dam’s surface accompanied by music, are particularly impressive. The dam is located near Ciudad del Este, making it an easy day trip from the city.

4. Discover Asunción’s Historic Center

Paraguay’s capital, Asunción, is one of South America’s oldest cities and offers a fascinating mix of colonial architecture, historic sites, and vibrant street life. Begin your exploration at the Palacio de López, the striking pink government palace that serves as the seat of Paraguay’s government.

Nearby, the Casa de la Independencia museum tells the story of Paraguay’s fight for independence, while the Panteón Nacional de los Héroes honors the country’s war heroes. For local flavor, visit Mercado 4, a massive market with thousands of stalls selling everything from street food and fresh produce to handicrafts and international goods.

5. Adventure in the Gran Chaco

The Gran Chaco is a vast, semi-arid region covering western Paraguay that offers intrepid travelers a true wilderness experience. This biodiverse area is home to unique wildlife including armadillos, anteaters, peccaries, and over 500 bird species. The region also hosts fascinating Mennonite communities who settled here in the early 20th century.

Visit the town of Filadelfia to learn about Mennonite history at the Jakob Unger Museum, then explore the Chaco Wildlife Reserve for wildlife spotting. The best way to experience the Chaco is with a knowledgeable guide who can navigate this remote region and help you appreciate its ecological importance.

Cultural Experiences in Paraguay

Paraguay’s unique cultural identity blends indigenous Guaraní traditions with Spanish colonial influences. Here are some essential cultural experiences to enhance your visit.

Tereré Culture

Tereré is more than just a drink in Paraguay—it’s a social ritual and cultural institution. This cold yerba mate tea is prepared by steeping yerba leaves in ice water, often infused with medicinal herbs, and shared among friends using a guampa (drinking vessel) and bombilla (metal straw).

Paraguayans gather for tereré rounds throughout the day, especially during hot afternoons. Joining locals for this social ritual offers insight into Paraguayan hospitality and daily life. You’ll see people carrying thermos bottles and guampas everywhere, from parks to offices.

Traditional Handicrafts

Paraguay is renowned for its distinctive handicrafts, particularly ñandutí lace—an intricate spider web-like textile art with roots in both indigenous and Spanish traditions. The town of Itauguá is the center of ñandutí production, where you can watch artisans create these delicate pieces.

Other notable crafts include ao po’i (a lightweight embroidered cotton fabric), filigree silver jewelry from Luque, and carved wood items. The best places to purchase authentic handicrafts are at El Paseo Artesanal behind the Panteón in Asunción or directly from artisans in smaller towns.

Music and Dance

The Paraguayan harp is the national instrument and central to the country’s folk music tradition. This distinctive instrument produces the characteristic sound of Paraguayan polka and guarania, the two main musical styles. Live performances can be found in cultural centers, restaurants, and during festivals throughout the country.

Traditional dances like the bottle dance (where women balance bottles on their heads while dancing) are performed during cultural events and festivals. The National Ballet in Asunción regularly stages performances showcasing these traditional art forms.

What to Eat in Paraguay

Paraguayan cuisine reflects the country’s agricultural heritage with a focus on corn, cassava (manioc), cheese, and meat. Don’t miss these traditional dishes during your visit.

More Must-Try Dishes

• Mbeju – A starchy pancake made from cassava starch and cheese, often served for breakfast
• Vori Vori – A hearty soup with chicken and cornmeal dumplings
• Asado – Paraguayan-style barbecue featuring high-quality local beef
• Kivevé – A sweet pumpkin pudding made with cheese and corn flour
• Cocido Quemado – A hot drink made with burnt yerba mate, sugar, and milk

Practical Travel Information

What to Pack

• Lightweight, breathable clothing – Paraguay can be extremely hot and humid
• Sun protection – Hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen
• Insect repellent – Especially important for visits to the Pantanal and Chaco
• Light rain jacket – For unexpected showers during the rainy season
• Comfortable walking shoes – For exploring cities and natural areas
• Power adapter – Paraguay uses Type C plugs (European style)
• Spanish phrasebook – While many in tourism speak English, Spanish is helpful

Safety Tips

Paraguay is generally safe for tourists, especially compared to some neighboring countries. However, standard travel precautions apply. Keep valuables secure, be aware of your surroundings in cities, and avoid displaying expensive items. The most common issues travelers face are petty theft and street scams in urban areas.

Healthcare facilities are good in major cities but can be limited in rural areas. Travel insurance with medical coverage is strongly recommended. Tap water is generally not safe to drink—stick to bottled or purified water.

Where to Stay in Paraguay

From boutique hotels in historic buildings to eco-lodges in natural settings, Paraguay offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences.

Suggested Paraguay Itinerary

Make the most of your visit with this 10-day itinerary covering Paraguay’s highlights.

Experience Paraguay’s Hidden Treasures

Paraguay may not top the list of South American destinations, but that’s precisely what makes it special. Without the crowds of its more famous neighbors, you’ll discover a country where traditions remain authentic, nature is unspoiled, and visitors are welcomed with genuine warmth and curiosity.

From the architectural wonders of the Jesuit Missions to the wild expanses of the Chaco, from the vibrant culture of Asunción to the tranquil waters of the Pantanal, Paraguay offers experiences that will surprise and delight even the most seasoned traveler. Pack your sense of adventure and discover one of South America’s best-kept secrets before everyone else does!