Things To Do
in Caraguatay

Caraguatay is a serene town located in the Central Department of Paraguay, known for its lush greenery and rich cultural heritage. It offers a glimpse into traditional Paraguayan life, where the pace is slower, and community ties are strong. The town is surrounded by picturesque landscapes and is an excellent base for exploring nearby natural attractions.

With its friendly locals and vibrant traditions, Caraguatay presents a unique experience for travelers seeking authenticity.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Local Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local market to experience traditional Paraguayan breakfast options like 'chipa' (cheese bread) and 'tereré' (cold herbal tea).

afternoon
:

Take a guided walking tour of the town to learn about its history and visit the local church, which showcases beautiful colonial architecture.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant offering traditional dishes while enjoying live folk music, immersing yourself in the cultural vibes of the region.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

After breakfast, head out to the nearby Ybycuí National Park for a morning of hiking and enjoying the natural beauty of waterfalls and diverse flora.

afternoon
:

Have a picnic lunch in the park, then explore its various trails and lookout points for stunning views.

evening
:

Return to town for a casual dinner at a local eatery, followed by a stroll through the town square to soak in the evening atmosphere.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$7-15
Coffee$1-3
🚌Bus fare$0.50
🏨Budget hotel (per night)$20-40
🍺Local beer$2-4

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Authentic cultural experience with friendly locals.
  • Access to beautiful natural landscapes and parks.
  • Affordable cost of living and dining.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transportation may be less frequent.
  • Language barrier if you do not speak Spanish.
  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Adiós" - Goodbye

Places to Visit in Caraguatay

Visit one of these nice places.

Ybycuí National Park

This park features stunning waterfalls and lush greenery, providing beautiful backdrops for nature photography.

Caraguatay Church

The colonial architecture and vibrant surroundings make this locale an excellent subject for architectural photography.

Town Square

The lively atmosphere, local vendors, and scenic views create perfect opportunities for candid street photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Caraguatay

Caraguatay offers a delightful culinary experience with a variety of traditional Paraguayan dishes that reflect the region's rich culture and agricultural heritage.

Caraguatay Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Sopa Paraguaya

A savory cornbread made with cheese and onions, often served as a side dish.

Must-Try!

Chipa

A staple snack made from manioc flour and cheese, perfect for any time of day.

Asado

Paraguayan barbecue featuring various types of grilled meat, often enjoyed during gatherings.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Local Market

A vibrant spot to find fresh produce, local cheeses, and street food like empanadas and chipa.

Climate Guide

Weather

Caraguatay has a subtropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. Summers are hot and humid, while winters are mild and dry. Rainfall is most common from October to March, with the average annual temperature around 23°C (73°F). The best time to visit is during the cooler months from May to September.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake is common when meeting someone, and it's polite to greet everyone in a group.

Respect for Traditions

Show appreciation for local customs and traditions, especially during festivals and gatherings.

Dress Modestly

While casual attire is acceptable, dressing modestly is appreciated, especially in religious sites.

Safety Guide

Safety

Caraguatay is generally considered safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night and be aware of your surroundings in busy areas. Keep your valuables secure and use reputable transportation services.

Tipping in Caraguatay

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to leave a 10% tip at restaurants and for guides, although it's not mandatory.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, but credit cards are accepted in many establishments; however, it's advisable to carry some cash.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (December - February)

Expect hot and humid weather with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). Ideal for outdoor activities but stay hydrated.

Autumn (March - May)

Milder temperatures and less humidity make it a great time for hiking and exploring the outdoors.

Winter (June - August)

Cooler temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F), ideal for comfortable sightseeing.

Spring (September - November)

Pleasant weather with blooming flora, perfect for photography and outdoor adventures.

Nightlife Guide

Caraguatay at Night

The nightlife in Caraguatay is relatively low-key, with a few local bars and eateries offering live music and dancing on weekends. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, where locals enjoy gathering for drinks and socializing. There are occasional cultural events and festivities that bring the community together, providing a great opportunity for visitors to experience local traditions.

Hiking in Caraguatay

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cerro Koi

A popular hiking spot that offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and a variety of trails for different skill levels.

Ybycuí National Park Trails

Multiple trails within the park ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes, featuring waterfalls and rich biodiversity.

Airports

How to reach Caraguatay by plane.

Silvio Pettirossi International Airport

Located in Asunción, approximately 80 km from Caraguatay, this is the main airport serving international and domestic flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Caraguatay is quite walkable with pedestrian-friendly streets, especially around the town center where most shops and eateries are located. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and walking is a pleasant way to explore the local culture and scenery.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Paraguayan Mestizos

The majority of the population, a blend of indigenous and European ancestry, representing the cultural heritage of the region.

Indigenous Communities

Smaller groups who maintain traditional lifestyles and languages, contributing to the cultural diversity of Paraguay.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

The most popular sport in Paraguay, with local teams and community leagues actively engaging residents.

Rugby

Rugby is gaining popularity, particularly among the youth, with several clubs promoting the sport.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Caraguatay is relatively light, with most travel done by car or on foot. Public transport options include buses that connect to nearby towns, but schedules may be less frequent. Biking is also a viable option for navigating the town.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Caraguatay.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While traditional Paraguayan cuisine is meat-heavy, many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes such as salads and vegetable soups.

Gluten-Free Options

Dishes like chipa and sopa paraguaya are naturally gluten-free, making them safe choices for those with gluten intolerance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Caraguatay are limited, with a few small clinics and hospitals available. For serious medical conditions, it is advisable to travel to larger cities like Asunción, where more comprehensive healthcare services are available. Travelers are encouraged to have travel insurance that covers medical needs.

Discover Paraguay

Read more in our Paraguay 2025 Travel Guide.

Paraguay Travel Guide