Paraguay, who travels there? Well, not many tourists, but why not you? Paraguay is a country which doesn’t get much publicity, or tourists, but it is an up and coming alternative South American destination.
Paraguay is a landlocked country in the heart of South America. Argentina borders Paraguay to the south and southwest, Brazil to the east and northeast and Bolivia borders it to the northwest. It is a country of fascinating contrasts and boasts exotic natural reserves and massive man-made dams.
The capital and largest city in Paraguay is Asuncion, where much of the historical section, with its charming colonial buildings and plazas, are near the river and easily walkable. Between 1904 and 1954, Paraguay had thirty-one presidents.
Paraguay has a rich history, and has inspired many artists. One of the most prolific of these was acclaimed English novelist Graham Greene, who spent a lot of time in the country. Greene’s works, Travels with my Aunt and The Honorary Consul were written during his stays in Paraguay.
Each book has been made into a film: The Honorary Consul starred both Michael Caine and Richard Gere. In addition, the spectacular Iguassu Falls were the location for the film The Mission, starring Robert de Niro and Jeremy Irons.
Paraguay is one of the cheapest countries to visit in South America. However, this prize has a sorrowful cause. Poverty is rising, partly due to the global economic crisis. Climate change is also having a disastrous effect, affecting Paraguay’s agriculture.
Backpackers often flock to South America, but Paraguay has long been left off the beaten tourist track. But if you do decide to visit, Paraguay’s unique environment and fascinating culture are sure to leave lasting memories with the charity’s volunteers.
Climate and Best Time to Visit
In Paraguay, the summer months are from November to March and temperatures typically reach 30 Degrees Celsius. The winter is from June to September, although temperatures can still reach 25 Degrees Celsius, the temperature can drop at night close to zero so bring a super warm sleeping bag and warm clothes for night time.
Top Things to Do in Paraguay
Iguassu Falls
A visit the mighty Iguassu Falls in Foz is a must. Buy a ticket in advance from the bus terminal in Asuncion. To the south, the most popular place to visit is the Jesuit ruins. It is easy to book a tour here via the local tourist office in Calle Palma in the centre of Asuncion after arrival. Allow two days as there are two sides of the Falls to visit on the Argentinian and Brazilian sides. It really is a wonder of the world in a spectacular tropical setting. The Robert de Niro film The Mission was filmed here. Foz where there are more facilities and it’s cheaper. Allow £100 for a complete weekend, coach from Asuncion and entrances.
Encarnacion trip
Make a weekend trip to the South’s capital Encarnacion, a pleasant relaxed city on the border with Argentina. The main square is a pleasant place to relax and watch the world go by. There are some beaches along the river with a new boardwalk to walk along and a large natural reserve.
Allow £50 for a weekend for bus and budget hotel.
Eat some ‘Asaditos’
The classic affordable tasty street food of Paraguay. You will often see people gathering around stalls from 6 p.m. Ask for a special sauce called ‘chimichurri’ a mix of tomotoes, onions and pepper. Every street vendor has their specialty and are often open all night until 3 or 4 in the morning.
Aregua horse riding
If you are in Asuncion or on your way to Caacupe, Aregua makes a pleasant stop over. A small sleepy place it had quite a different feel to Asuncion. Hire a boat on to the lake, buy some colourful handicrafts and enjoy a nice meal in one of the many pizzerias in old fashioned houses. Horse riding £5, leaving 9:00 a.m. from Finca Cazuela
Paraguay Travel Tips
Local facilities
Large modern supermarket, cafés, internet can be found in all the local towns. Shopping centres, cafés, bars, restaurants, shops and banks are available in the centre of Asuncion and are all easy to reach by bus, which pass frequently to the capital from local towns.