The Coolest Places, People, and Nature Highlights for Your Trip
Ever wondered what exciting things you can experience in Paraguay? It’s not your typical tourist destination – and that’s exactly what makes it so special. This country offers way more than you’d expect: genuine hospitality, vibrant cities, stunning nature, and people who are truly open and curious to connect. In 2025, Paraguay is ready to surprise you – with improved infrastructure, lively places, and a relaxed, welcoming vibe that makes it easy to feel at home.
Asunción and Surroundings – The Lively Heart of Paraguay
Asunción is more than just the capital – it’s the cultural center of Paraguay. The people here are open, relaxed, and proud of their city, which offers a great mix of old charm and modern life.
Top things to see in Asunción:
- Costanera de Asunción: A great spot by the riverside – perfect for watching the sunset and meeting locals.
- Palacio de los López: The stunning government palace, especially beautiful when lit up at night – a must for your photo collection.
- Casa de la Independencia: Step into Paraguayan history at this small but meaningful museum.
- Museo del Barro: A treat for art lovers – a mix of traditional and contemporary works that reflect the country’s cultural soul.
- Botanical Garden: A peaceful green escape in the city – perfect for a little break.
- Cerro Lambaré: For great views and a bit of nature close to town.
Around Asunción, you’ll find peaceful towns with friendly people who are happy to show you their crafts or invite you to local festivals – like in Luque or the artist village of Areguá. The lakeside town of San Bernardino also attracts many locals and visitors during the summer – offering a cheerful and relaxed holiday atmosphere.
Encarnación – Sunshine, Beaches, and Carnival Vibes
If you’re into sun, beaches, and fun, Encarnación is the place for you. Located on the Paraná River, this city has wide sandy beaches and a modern riverside promenade, perfect for chilling out. In summer, the city comes alive with locals and tourists enjoying Paraguay’s biggest carnival celebration.
The people in Encarnación are cheerful, open, and always up for a chat. There’s a laid-back, almost Caribbean vibe here – a great place to forget everyday stress and just enjoy life.
Ciudad del Este and the Saltos del Monday – Nature and a Bustling Shopping City
Ciudad del Este is best known as a shopping hotspot, right at the border with Brazil and Argentina. But there’s more here than just stores: the nearby Iguazú Falls are world-famous, and Paraguay’s own Saltos del Monday offer an impressive natural experience right outside the city.
Locals here are energetic, direct, and very welcoming. The city is always buzzing, but the waterfalls provide a calm escape where you can really connect with nature.
The Chaco – Vast Landscapes and True Adventure
The Chaco is Paraguay’s wild side – a vast, dry region with bushland, open plains, and plenty of unique wildlife. This is the place for pure nature, adventure, and that true South American frontier feeling.
People in the Chaco are tough, friendly, and very down-to-earth. Many make their living through cattle ranching, since the land here is ideal for raising large herds. You’ll also find small villages where indigenous communities live and keep their traditions alive.
What to do in the Chaco: Go on safaris in national parks, birdwatching tours, off-road adventures – or just enjoy the deep peace and freedom of untouched nature. The Chaco isn’t made for mass tourism – here, you’ll meet real explorers and people with a strong bond to the land.
Paraguay’s Best Inland Nature Highlights – Waterfalls, Lakes, and More
Away from the cities, some of Paraguay’s most beautiful natural spots are waiting for you:
- Saltos del Monday (Ciudad del Este) – The most spectacular waterfall in Paraguay, easy to reach and set in lush greenery.
- Saltos del Guairá – Large falls near the Brazilian border – perfect for adventurous travelers.
- Saltos de Ybycuí – A scenic waterfall in Ybycuí National Park, great for hiking and nature fans.
- Saltos de San Lorenzo – A lovely waterfall for relaxing and picnicking.
- Saltos del Tigre – Hidden in the Chaco – ideal for off-the-beaten-path explorers.
- Laguna Blanca – A crystal-clear lake for relaxing and birdwatching.
- Lago Ypoá – A large lake with boating and fishing opportunities.
- Cerro Corá National Park – A natural reserve with hills, rivers, and small waterfalls.
- Mbaracayú National Park – A tropical forest perfect for eco-tourists.
- Cerro Peró – A scenic hill in the Chaco with great views.
- Choré – A peaceful nature retreat.
- Laguna Capitán Meza – A calm lake with small beaches and great fishing spots.
The people in these rural areas are usually humble, kind, and happy to welcome visitors who respect the local peace and natural beauty.
Conclusion– Paraguay on the Rise in 2025
Whether you’re into vibrant cities, peaceful lakes, wild nature, or off-the-beaten-path adventures – Paraguay truly has something for everyone. What makes it stand out is the warm, welcoming spirit of its people and the genuine atmosphere you’ll find wherever you go.
With improved infrastructure, exciting new destinations, and a growing sense of optimism, 2025 is the perfect time to explore this underrated gem in the heart of South America. So why wait? Come and discover the Paraguay that’s waiting to surprise you.