I’ve got to be honest – Paraguay completely caught me off guard. When I spent three weeks backpacking through this overlooked heart of South America, I discovered a country that’s wildly different from its famous neighbors. Between sipping ice-cold tereré with the friendliest locals and wandering through towns that feel frozen in time, I couldn’t believe more travelers weren’t here.
Ready to discover the most beautiful places to visit in Paraguay? From the misty waterfalls of Ybycuí to the grand colonial squares of Asunción where old men play chess all day long, these 12 spots will show you why this country deserves way more love than it gets. And trust me, you’re in for some amazing surprises!
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#1 tip to save money on your trip to Paraguay
Let’s first cover some quick tips that will save you time and money on your Paraguayan adventure.
- FLYING: If you haven’t already, I HIGHLY recommend signing up for Scott’s Cheap Flights (now called Going). Last summer, I flew to Asunción for just $200 roundtrip thanks to their email alerts. The premium and elite version are even better!
- Food: Save by eating at local comedores where a complete meal costs 20,000-30,000 guaraníes ($3-4). Markets like Mercado 4 offer fresh fruit and traditional foods like sopa paraguaya at local prices. Street vendors sell empanadas and chipa for under 5,000 guaraníes. Skip the restaurants in shopping malls – they’re often triple the price!
- Transport: Use local buses in Asunción. They’re incredibly cheap, though not always air-conditioned. For intercity travel, companies like NSA and Nuestra Señora de la Asunción offer comfortable bus service. Between using public transport and avoiding tourist taxis, this has saved me hundreds of thousands of guaraníes on each trip.
Paraguay is one of South America’s most affordable countries, especially compared to its neighbors Brazil and Argentina. But if you follow the strategies above, you can explore this off-the-beaten-path destination for even less. Now, without further ado, let’s jump into the best places to visit in Paraguay:
1. Eye of the Sea
- 📍 Location: Bella Vista, Itapúa
- 🏆 Best For: 🌿 Nature lovers, 📸 photographers, ✨ peaceful getaways
- 📸 Top Experiences: Walk the lagoon trail, enjoy a picnic by the shore, spot birds and butterflies
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: October to March for warm, dry days and green landscapes ☀️
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Encanto Rural – A cozy 3‑star countryside hotel in Bella Vista
Hidden deep in Paraguay’s Itapúa region, the Eye of the Sea is a calm, glassy lagoon surrounded by thick greenery and stillness. It’s small, circular, and so clear that you can spot fish swimming near the surface as trees reflect off the water like a mirror. Locals say the lagoon shifts colors depending on the light, giving it an almost magical vibe.
It’s not a place for wild crowds or adrenaline sports. Instead, it’s where people come to slow down, read a book under the trees, or just breathe in the silence. You can follow a short loop around the lagoon and stumble on quiet lookout spots, perfect for snapping a few photos or just sitting in peace.
If you want to reset your rhythm and escape Paraguay’s busier towns, this place is a true hidden gem. It’s beautiful, relaxing, and feels almost untouched.
2. Koi and Chorori Hills
- 📍 Location: Areguá, Central Department
- 🏆 Best For: 🌄 Hikers, 📷 Photographers, 🌿 Nature lovers
- 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking the rocky trails, snapping photos of polygonal sandstone, exploring Cerro Koi
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to September for cooler hiking weather 🍃
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Ruta Del Sol – Simple and well-rated hotel near downtown Areguá
Paraguay’s Koi and Chorori Hills feel like something out of a sci-fi movie. The striking polygonal sandstone formations are some of the most unique in South America. The area is small but packed with geological intrigue, especially for nature nerds or amateur geologists.
Hiking the trails here is straightforward, and the views from the top reveal Areguá’s peaceful surroundings. Even if you’re not an experienced hiker, the short trek is manageable and rewarding. Bring water, wear decent shoes, and go early to beat the midday heat.
Cerro Koi is protected under UNESCO’s Natural Monument designation, which adds a layer of importance to your visit. It’s a quiet escape that’s still close to civilization. If you like your nature with a dose of weird rock geometry, this is definitely your spot.
3. La Santisima Trinidad De Parana
- 📍 Location: Encarnación, Itapúa Department
- 🏆 Best For: 🏛️ History buffs, 🕊️ Cultural explorers, 📷 Sunset chasers
- 📸 Top Experiences: Touring the mission ruins, visiting at sunset, exploring the carved details
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to August for pleasant weather and fewer crowds 🌤️
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Posada Maria Trinidad – Charming, family-run guesthouse
Wandering through the ruins of La Santísima Trinidad de Paraná feels like walking inside a forgotten city. Built by Jesuit missionaries in the early 1700s, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of Paraguay’s most important historical landmarks. The layout includes a massive stone church, open plazas, carved altars, and intricate archways that hint at how advanced the settlement once was.
You can explore at your own pace, but guided tours bring the place to life with stories about daily life, cultural exchange, and how the Guaraní people contributed to the site’s creation. There’s also a small visitor center that provides context through maps and artifacts.
Sunsets here are next level. The sandstone glows orange, and the whole place feels extra cinematic. If you’re into history, photography, or just want something peaceful and unique, this site offers a surprisingly deep travel experience in southern Paraguay.
4. Lake Ypacaraí
- 📍 Location: Central Department, near San Bernardino
- 🏆 Best For: 🚣 Relaxation, 🎶 cultural vibes, 🛶 lakeside escapes
- 📸 Top Experiences: Boating across the lake, shopping in Areguá’s artisan markets, lakeside dining in San Bernardino
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: December to February during summer festivals and warm weather ☀️
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Oasis–Dream Holidays – A charming lakeside boutique with pool, garden, and French-inspired breakfast
Lake Ypacaraí is where Paraguayans go to unwind. Nestled just outside Asunción, this iconic lake is surrounded by lively towns like San Bernardino, known for its music, nightlife, and laid-back beaches. Whether you’re visiting for a festival or just want to chill by the shore, the area feels like a vacation without trying too hard.
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If you’re not using Going.com, you’re probably overpaying for flights. I’ve scored roundtrips to Europe for under $300 - and I never would’ve found them on Google Flights.
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Hop on a small boat and let the breeze do the talking while you take in mountain views and swan across the water. If you’re into art or crafts, make sure to stop by Areguá, a nearby town famous for its pottery and vibrant local markets. It’s a great place to grab souvenirs and get a taste of daily life in Paraguay.
Evenings at the lake are golden hour perfection. Locals strum guitars by the water and food stalls serve chipa and sopa paraguaya. It’s a place that feels relaxed, grounded, and full of character.
5. Lake Ypoá
- 📍 Location: Ñeembucú and Paraguarí Departments
- 🏆 Best For: 🐦 Birdwatching, 🌿 eco-adventures, 🚣 peaceful nature escapes
- 📸 Top Experiences: Wildlife watching by canoe, exploring wetlands by boat, visiting nearby rural villages
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to August for dry season birdwatching and easier navigation 🦆
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Alta Gracia Parque Hotel – Peaceful lodge near Carapeguá with garden views and outdoor pool
Lake Ypoá is a slow-paced, wild kind of beautiful. Unlike touristy lakes, this protected area draws travelers looking for real nature and real quiet. The wetlands stretch wide with reeds, lagoons, and mirror-like water where birds are everywhere. It’s a top destination for birdwatchers who want to spot herons, ibises, and dozens of species that don’t show up elsewhere.
Most people explore by canoe or small motorboat. Local guides are your best bet for spotting wildlife, and their stories add depth to the trip. You’ll often pass fishermen in dugout canoes, silently moving through the still water. Life here moves slow, in the best way possible.
Small communities around the lake live in harmony with nature. If you’re interested in local culture, some tours offer stops at villages where people still make traditional crafts or cook over open fires. It’s peaceful, immersive, and totally worth the journey.
6. Monday Waterfall
- 📍 Location: Presidente Franco, Alto Paraná
- 🏆 Best For: 🌊 Waterfall lovers, 📸 photographers, 🥾 nature explorers
- 📸 Top Experiences: View the triple-drop falls, walk the jungle trails, visit the eco-museum
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: October to March during the rainy season for peak flow 🌧️
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Las Ventanas Suites – Comfortable and modern stay in Ciudad del Este near natural parks
Monday Waterfall is Paraguay’s underrated gem, crashing down in three powerful drops just outside Ciudad del Este. It’s the kind of place that lets you feel close to nature without needing to hike for hours. The viewing platforms are easy to reach and give you epic angles of the 150-foot cascade surrounded by subtropical forest.
The park has a network of trails for light hiking and nature spotting. You might see toucans, butterflies, or even a capybara if you’re lucky. Families often come here on weekends, but it’s never too crowded. There’s also a small eco-museum near the entrance that gives context to the flora, fauna, and geology of the region.
You can bring snacks or grab something from the café nearby. Whether you’re a photographer or just someone who loves waterfalls, this stop makes a great half-day trip from the city.
7. Ñacunday Falls
- 📍 Location: Ñacunday National Park, Alto Paraná
- 🏆 Best For: 🌿 Wildlife watchers, 🌊 waterfall chasers, 🚶♂️ casual hikers
- 📸 Top Experiences: Hike the forest trail, see the 40-meter falls, spot tropical birds
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: November to February for lush surroundings and cooler hikes 🌤️
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Rio Hotel by Bourbon – Stylish 4-star stay with rooftop terrace and quick access to nature spots
Ñacunday Falls offers a quiet, untamed vibe that’s perfect if you want to explore off the beaten path. It’s smaller than Monday Waterfall, but the surrounding jungle and remote setting make the experience feel more adventurous. A forest trail takes you directly to the base of the 40-meter falls, where mist cools the air and the noise fills the clearing.
Birdwatchers love this park. Toucans, parakeets, and hawks are common, and the chance of spotting monkeys adds a bit of wild excitement. The walk isn’t hard, but it does feel immersive.
The site is managed with light infrastructure, so bring your own snacks and plenty of water. Guided tours are available for deeper insights into the ecosystem. Ñacunday is peaceful, photogenic, and lets you connect with nature in a way that’s both low-key and memorable.
8. Salto Cristal
- 📍 Location: La Colmena, Paraguarí Department
- 🏆 Best For: 🌿 Nature lovers, 💦 waterfall chasers, 📸 landscape photographers
- 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking to the falls, swimming in natural pools, enjoying a forest picnic
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to September during the dry season for clear trails 🌤️
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel La Quinta – Simple, green retreat with easy access to the falls
Tucked inside the forests of Paraguarí, Salto Cristal is one of Paraguay’s most scenic waterfalls. It’s smaller than Monday or Ñacunday, but the setting is pure magic. Think cool forest air, the sound of birds, and the splash of water hitting smooth rock.
You’ll follow a steep trail through thick greenery to get there, so wear good shoes and prepare for some effort. Once you reach the falls, you’ll be rewarded with crystal-clear water cascading into a rocky pool. It’s a great spot for a swim if the currents are calm.
This isn’t a place with shops or fancy restaurants. Bring your own snacks and water, and treat it like a nature escape. The simplicity of the place is part of what makes it so special. If you’re craving raw nature and quiet beauty, Salto Cristal is worth the trip.
9. San Bernardino
- 📍 Location: San Bernardino, Cordillera Department
- 🏆 Best For: 🏖️ Lakeside relaxation, 🎉 summer festivals, 🍽️ foodies
- 📸 Top Experiences: Sunset walks by the lake, live music events, dining at lakeside cafes
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: December to February during summer festivals and lake season ☀️
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Tava Glamping – Chic eco-friendly domes with lake views and a peaceful vibe
San Bernardino is Paraguay’s favorite summer escape. Located on the shores of Lake Ypacaraí, it’s where locals head to soak up the sun, go boating, and unwind with friends. The town blends chill beach vibes with colonial charm, making it feel both lively and laid-back.
During summer months, it’s buzzing with outdoor concerts, food trucks, and craft markets. You’ll find families by the beach and couples watching the sky turn orange at sunset. Even in quieter seasons, the town keeps its relaxing appeal with cafes, boutique shops, and scenic strolls.
German roots run deep here, so don’t be surprised to find bratwurst alongside chipa in restaurants. If you’re planning a trip that mixes culture, food, and lakefront views, San Bernardino has all the ingredients. It’s the kind of place where your weekend might casually turn into a week.
10. The Dam Of Itaipú (Alto Paraná)
- 📍 Location: Hernandarias, Alto Paraná
- 🏆 Best For: ⚡ Engineering fans, 🌉 landmark chasers, 🧠 curious minds
- 📸 Top Experiences: Day tour of the dam, visiting the visitor center, night-time light show
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to September for cooler days and clear skies 🌤️
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Nobile Grand Hotel – Clean, modern hotel in Hernandarias near the visitor entrance
The Itaipú Dam isn’t just a power source, it’s also one of the largest hydroelectric plants in the world and a symbol of what collaboration between nations can build. It sits on the border of Paraguay and Brazil, and guided tours offer a deep dive into how it works and what it powers.
Visitors can explore the massive turbines, walk through exhibits, and watch a documentary that explains how the project came to life. The panoramic viewpoint offers a stunning look at the size of the dam and the flow of the Paraná River.
At night, a light show adds a cinematic glow to the structure. The dam also supports environmental projects, like reforestation and wildlife rescue. Whether you’re into science, engineering, or just want to see something massive and impressive, this is a standout stop near Ciudad del Este.
- Read next: Top Places to Visit in Brazil
11. The Lopez Palace (Asunción)
- 📍 Location: Asunción, Central District
- 🏆 Best For: 🏛️ Architecture fans, 📸 city explorers, 🇵🇾 history buffs
- 📸 Top Experiences: Taking a guided tour, photographing the palace at night, exploring the surrounding plaza
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to August for pleasant walking weather 🌞
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Palmas del Sol – Affordable hotel near downtown with easy access to key landmarks
The López Palace is the official workplace of Paraguay’s president and a highlight of any walking tour in Asunción. Built in the 19th century with neoclassical design, it features pink walls, grand balconies, and decorative columns that pop in the afternoon light.
You can’t go inside unless it’s a special public holiday, but the exterior alone is worth the visit. Locals often gather in the nearby plaza, where you’ll find shaded benches and views of the Paraguay River in the distance. Street vendors sometimes sell snacks, adding a casual charm to the scene.
At night, the palace lights up beautifully. It’s a good photo spot and a chill place to rest if you’re walking through the city center. Visiting here helps connect the dots between Paraguay’s past and present in a way that feels accessible and grounded.
12. Ybycuí National Park
- 📍 Location: Ybycuí, Paraguarí Department
- 🏆 Best For: 🥾 Hikers, 💧 waterfall seekers, 🦜 wildlife lovers
- 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking forest trails, swimming in natural pools, visiting the old iron foundry
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to August for cooler temperatures and active wildlife 🌿
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Portal del Sol – Relaxed 3-star stay near Ybycuí with pool and garden views
Ybycuí National Park is a lush slice of Atlantic Forest, packed with trails, waterfalls, and wildlife. It’s one of Paraguay’s most biodiverse areas and a favorite for weekend hikes or refreshing dips in natural pools hidden along the trails.
The park is easy to explore with well-marked routes for all levels. Some lead to small waterfalls, while others take you deep into jungle-like areas where you might see monkeys or colorful birds. There’s also the old iron foundry, a small historical site inside the park that gives you a glimpse into Paraguay’s industrial past.
Visitors can bring food for a picnic or eat at basic nearby restaurants. If you’re looking for a nature fix without going too remote, Ybycuí is a great choice. It offers a mix of calm scenery, light adventure, and a chance to connect with Paraguay’s greener side.
