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Destination of the Day

Paraguay

Most travelers to and from South America don't visit Paraguay, which is exactly why you should. Cheap and relaxed, it's a country full of wild areas inhabited by strange and wonderful wildlife like giant anteaters and ocelots. Though the country has several cities—like the capital Asunción with its budding gastronomy scene and lively cultural centers—there are far more waterfalls, like Saltos del Monday or Salto Suiza, than there are cosmopolitan hubs. Read on for some of the top destinations to visit.

Asunción

With a history dating back to the 1530s, Paraguay's capital city is rife with historical sites, long-held communal practices, and museums documenting the mythology and art of the Indigenous Guarani people. With 65 percent of the current population under 30, though, Asunción is also a city full of new ideas: young people give educational talks and throw parties at cultural centers, boisterous crowds flock to soccer club stadiums to cheer on their favorite teams, and the gastronomy scene is evolving at a rapid pace. So take a few days and get to know this South American city.

Trinidad and Jesús Missions

These two former missions—part of the 30 Jesuit reducciones (settlements) in the Río de La Plata area of Paraguay, Argentina, and Brazil—are some of the globe's least visited UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries, the ruins are fairly well-preserved and only about 6 miles from each other. You can walk through the eerily calm structures on your own (and possibly without any other visitors in sight), as guides are not required.

Ciudad del Este

Famous for waterfalls, Ciudad del Este contains Saltos del Monday (Monday's Falls), a 130-foot-tall and 390-foot-wide waterfall with a surrounding adventure park. The city happens to be one of the largest free-trade zones in the world, too. Find electronics, alcohol, perfume, and housewares at great prices, plus Chinese food and bubble tea near Friendship Bridge. Ciudad del Este also acts as a gateway to Iguazú Falls, an easy day trip made by crossing the bridge to the Brazilian city of Foz do Iguaçu.

Vacation Like a Pro

Visit Paraguay in the winter, June through August, when warm temps mix with less rain and lower humidity for the driest season of the year. The best time of the year for birding, winter also hosts a number of patriotic and religious festivals making it an excellent time to experience the ethos of the country.

Christine Gilbert
Contributing Writer

Your Packing List

Shorts, T-shirts, jeans, a light coat, sweater, and sneakers should be sufficient for cool and warm weather.

Sunblock and a hat might be needed, too.

You'll definitely want an umbrella or raincoat if you're planning to travel to the south of the country.

If you're here for birding, don't forget a pair of binoculars!

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