Things To Do
in Presidente Franco

Dramatic waterfalls with multiple viewing platforms; excellent for landscape and long-exposure shots, especially in the afternoon light.

Panoramic vantage of the tri-border meeting point where the Paraná and Iguaçu rivers converge — capture river traffic and city skylines of three countries.

Picturesque sunsets, local boat traffic and riverside life; good for candid street and landscape photography.

Vibrant scenes of vendors, colorful produce, chipa stalls and traditional craft — ideal for cultural and street photography.

A dense corn cake made with manioc/corn, cheese and onion; commonly found at family restaurants and markets.

Must-Try!

Cheesy cassava bread popular as a snack; available at bakeries and market stalls throughout the day.

Grilled surubí (river catfish) served at riverside restaurants and parrillas near the Paraná River.

Starchy cheese pancake made from cassava flour; a typical breakfast or snack item in local eateries.

Small market where vendors sell fresh produce, chipa, empanadas and juices — great for sampling affordable local snacks and breakfasts.

Street-style grills and small restaurants near the river offering fresh fish and grilled meats, often busy on weekends.

Handshakes are common in formal situations; friends may exchange a cheek kiss (one) or a hug. Use polite greetings like 'buenos días' and 'gracias'.

Casual dress is acceptable, but modest clothing is preferred in churches and formal settings. Avoid loud or confrontational behavior in public.

Family ties are strong; show respect to elders and be courteous in family-run businesses and homes.

Be mindful of border formalities and regulations; do not attempt to cross unofficially and carry ID/documents when near checkpoints.

Tipping is appreciated but not strictly required; restaurants sometimes add a 10% service charge. For good service, leave 5–10% or round up; tip taxi drivers small amounts or round fares. Guides and drivers usually expect modest tips.

The official currency is the Paraguayan guaraní (PYG); cash is preferred for markets and small vendors. Credit/debit cards are accepted at larger restaurants and shops; ATMs are available but carry cash for rural areas. In border areas, some businesses may accept Brazilian reais (BRL) or US dollars for convenience.

(December–February) Hot, humid and rainy; afternoon storms are common. Good for lush landscapes and powerful waterfall flows but bring rain gear and stay hydrated.

(March–May) Temperatures ease and humidity drops; pleasant weather for exploring and outdoor activities with fewer afternoon storms.

(June–August) Mild, cooler nights and drier conditions; comfortable for hiking and sightseeing though mornings can be cool. Waterfalls are still impressive but flow may be lower.

(September–November) Warming temperatures and increasing humidity; wildflowers and greenery return, with more frequent showers toward late spring.

Short to moderate trails around the waterfall complex with several viewpoints and boardwalks; suitable for most fitness levels.

Lowland walks along the river with opportunities for birdwatching and small nature detours; best in the cooler mornings.

Trails and viewpoints around the Itaipú reservoir and shoreline offering scenic vistas, wildlife spotting and tranquil walks; access often via organized tours or nearby towns.

Short drives to Brazil/Argentina open up extensive park trails (Iguazú/Parque Nacional do Iguaçu) with well-marked paths and guided options for longer hikes and waterfall viewpoints.

Small airport serving Ciudad del Este (about 20–30 minutes by car); limited domestic/regional flights. Useful if available for scheduled services.

Major regional airport with international and domestic connections; approximately 30–60 minutes drive depending on border procedures — convenient for international arrivals to visit the tri-border area.

Air connections on the Argentine side (limited); useful if planning an Argentina-based itinerary and convenient for visiting the Argentine national park.

Paraguay's main international airport in the capital (several hours by road); an option for broader flight choices though a long transfer.

The majority population with mixed indigenous and European heritage; Spanish is commonly spoken and Guaraní influences culture and language.

Due to proximity to Brazil, there is a noticeable Brazilian influence, commerce and bilingual interactions in Portuguese and Spanish.

Nearby regions host indigenous groups with distinct cultures; indigenous presence contributes to local crafts and traditions.

Merchants and small-business owners, including people involved in cross-border commerce and duty-free trade.

Vegetarian options are available but limited; focus on salads, corn-based dishes like sopa paraguaya or mbejú, and vegetable stews. Notify restaurants in advance; markets and bakeries offer chipa and other vegetarian snacks.

Vegan choices can be challenging in traditional restaurants; rely on fresh fruit, simple salads, rice and beans. Bring snacks and check ingredients (cheese is common in many local starches).

Cassava-based foods (chipa, mbejú) are naturally gluten-free, but many dishes use wheat; ask staff about preparation and cross-contamination in kitchens.

Carry allergy cards in Spanish/Portuguese and communicate restrictions clearly; smaller kitchens may not accommodate complex needs easily.