Best Places to See While on a Look-See Trip to Paraguay (Plus, Itineraries)

Undertaking a Look-See trip before to Paraguay is crucial for understanding the local culture, climate, and lifestyle. It provides an opportunity to explore different cities and towns, speak with locals and expats, and ultimately make an informed decision about where to settle.

Recommended Itineraries

For a 10-day trip, consider visiting Asunción, Areguá, San Bernardino, and Encarnación. This route offers a mix of urban and rural environments. For a 20-day trip, include destinations like Ciudad del Este, Filadelfia, and the Eco-Reserves of the Chaco region. This extended itinerary provides a comprehensive overview of Paraguay's diversity.

Asunción

Asunción, the capital city, is home to approximately 525,000 people. It offers a vibrant city life with a relatively low cost of living, making it attractive to expats and digital nomads. Situated on the banks of the Paraguay River, the city provides easy access to nature alongside urban amenities.

Travel Tip: Visit the historic López Palace and enjoy a traditional Paraguayan meal at the popular restaurant Lido Bar.

Areguá

Areguá, located about 30 km from Asunción, is known for its ceramics and tranquil atmosphere. With a population of around 70,000, it offers a relaxed pace of life while being close to the capital. The town's artisanal culture and scenic hills make it a favorite among expats seeking a peaceful environment.

Travel Tip: Explore the Koi and Chorori Hills for stunning views and visit the Cerámica Negra workshop to see traditional pottery making.

San Bernardino

San Bernardino, situated about 50 km from Asunción, is a resort town known for its beautiful lake and recreational activities. It has a population of around 20,000 and is popular among expats for its outdoor lifestyle and community feel. The is reasonable, and it's an excellent choice for those who enjoy water sports and nature.

Travel Tip: Relax at the San Bernardino Yacht Club and enjoy a meal at the lakeside restaurant El Timón.

Encarnación

Encarnación, located on the Paraná River, is the third-largest city in Paraguay with a population of around 125,000. Known for its beautiful carnival celebrations, it offers a vibrant cultural scene and a moderate cost of living. The city's riverside location provides opportunities for water activities and scenic views.

Travel Tip: Visit the ruins of Jesuit missions, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and enjoy local cuisine at the Mercado Municipal.

Ciudad del Este

Ciudad del Este, the second-largest city in Paraguay, is a bustling commercial hub with a population of around 320,000. It offers a dynamic urban environment with a low cost of living. The city is near the Iguazu Falls, making it an attractive choice for nature lovers who also want urban conveniences.

Travel Tip: Explore the Monday Falls (Saltos del Monday) and shop at the popular Monalisa shopping complex.

Filadelfia

Filadelfia, located in the Chaco region, is a small town of around 15,000 people known for its Mennonite community. It offers a unique cultural experience and a low cost of living. The town is surrounded by vast prairies and is ideal for those seeking a rural and peaceful lifestyle.

Travel Tip: Visit the Mennonite Museum to learn about the community's history and enjoy traditional German cuisine at the local restaurants.

Eco-Reserves of the Chaco

The Chaco region is home to several eco-reserves, including Defensores del Chaco National Park and Mbaracayú Reserve. Towns like Fortín Toledo and Puerto Casado offer a rustic lifestyle for those interested in living close to nature. The region is sparsely populated and known for its biodiversity.

Travel Tip: Explore the wildlife and natural beauty of Defensores del Chaco National Park and stay at one of the eco-lodges in the area.