Experience Little-Visited Paraguay
Begin your 15 day journey in Paraguay’s capital, Asunción, exploring its historic centre and the surrounding towns where 18th century Catholic churches and artisan craft villages reveal the country’s strong cultural roots. This opening chapter offers insight into daily life, faith and traditions that continue to shape Paraguay today.
Travel west into the vast wilderness of the Chaco, a remote region defined by wide horizons and distinctive wildlife. Here, you’ll visit Mennonite communities whose way of life reflects resilience, self sufficiency and deep ties to the land. The journey then turns east towards the Ybytyruzú Mountains, where rolling scenery and rural landscapes provide a striking contrast.
Continue south into the countryside for a stay at a traditional estancia, offering a chance to experience another side of Paraguayan culture through local hospitality and rural traditions. Your journey concludes in Encarnación, home to the evocative ruins of 17th century Jesuit missions, where history and atmosphere come together. Rich in heritage, scenery and authenticity, this itinerary offers a rewarding exploration of a country still little visited by international travellers.
Visit several regions in Paraguay
Accommodation detailed in itinerary
See details in itinerary below
12 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 1 dinner
What you'll experience
- Experience the wildlife and Mennonite culture of the Chaco: Explore a remote region of wide open landscapes, learning about the traditions and daily life of Mennonite communities alongside native wildlife.
- Explore the Jesuit ruins of Encarnación: Visit atmospheric mission sites that offer insight into Paraguay’s colonial history and religious heritage.
- Enjoy the scenery and walking trails of the Ybytyruzú Mountains: Discover forested hills, viewpoints and gentle trails that reveal a quieter, greener side of the country.
- Experience rural life on an estancia: Spend time in the countryside enjoying local hospitality, traditional activities and a slower pace of life.
What's Included
- International flights
- 12 nights’ accommodation
- 15 meals; 12 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 1 dinner
- City tour and surrounding towns tour in Asuncion
- Guided visits to Jesuit Missions and the Chaco
- UTV tour in Vista Alegre Natural Resort
- Excursions as per package at Estancia Tacuaty
- Private transfers as per itinerary
Prices from £4,099pp
Excludes:
- Excursions not included at Estancia Tacuaty – speak to your travel specialist to arrange these prior to travel.
- Meals not indicated in your itinerary.
- Local departure taxes payable locally.
- Items of a personal nature such as laundry and drinks etc.
- Tips for guides and drivers (discretionary).
- Camera or video fees at any sites.
Quick Itinerary
Purely Paraguay 15-day Itinerary
Days 1-4 UK - Asuncion
On Day 1, you will depart the UK on your overnight international flight to Asuncion, where you will spend the next three nights. The following day you will have a city tour visiting the colonial downtown area with its many historic buildings, the oldest locomotive in South America, and a traditional craft market. The afternoon is then free to explore at your leisure.
The following day, head out of the city towards Ypacarai Lake to visit small handicraft villages and historical towns where you will visit an 18th-century. Franciscan temple and the Basilica of Caacupé, as well as the picturesque summer resort of San Bernardino situated on the shores of the lake.
Days 5-7 The Chaco
The Chaco is a vast wilderness, largely uninhabited and home to some unique wildlife. With seemingly endless plains, salty lagoons and savannahs the Chaco is a haven for wildlife and nature lovers.
On your first full day in the area you’ll journey into the wilds of the Chaco to Campo Maria, a large saltwater lagoon and a hotspot for migrating birds, especially flamingo. Your last day will be spent in Filadelfia town discovering all about the history of the Mennonite colonies and indigenous communities in the region at the museum and interpretation centre. You will then return to Asuncion for the night.
Days 8-9 Vista Alegre Natural Resort
Depart Asuncion for Colonia Independencia. Located in the Ybytyruzú Mountain range this town was founded in 1920 by German settlers, and to this day, still has a distinctly German feel to it, producing local artisanal wines. Staying just outside of the town at the Vista Alegre Natural Resort you’ll be surrounded by nature. The afternoon and following day will be spent exploring the beautiful landscapes of the forests, hills, streams, and waterfalls on walking trails and UTV excursions.
Day 10 Estancia, Santiago
Travel south to an estancia near the town of Santiago where you’ll have the afternoon to embark on one of the excursions offered by the ranch, explore one of the many walking trails, learn about traditional life, go horse-riding, or simply relax and soak up the surroundings.
Days 11-12 Encarnacion
Depart the estancia and journey to Encarnacion, located on the banks of the Paraná River, this is Paraguay’s most southerly city and is known as 'the pearl of the south'. On your first afternoon, you’ll have a city tour to visit the Plaza de Armas, the Stairs of San Pedro, the Sanctuary of the Virgin of Itacuá, and the waterfront, a hub for locals enjoying water sports and pretty sunsets.
On your second day visit a yerba mate factory. Yerba mate is a typical Paraguayan plant used to make the national drink, known as “the tea of the Jesuits”. Here you will learn all about the process of making yerba mate, from plantation to production. You will explore the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Trinidad del Paraná and Jesús de Tavarangué. These Jesuit ruins are some of the best examples in the country, although not completed by the time the Jesuits were ejected from the country, they are impressive and atmospheric sites, nonetheless.
Days 13-15 Asuncion - UK
Journey back up to Asuncion, where the rest of your time is free to relax.
The following day, you will be transferred to the airport where you will catch your flight back home, arriving back in the UK on Day 15.
Speak to a dedicated Latin America Travel Specialist today
All our Paraguay itineraries can be tailored to your unique requirements. Enquire about our Purely Paraguay holiday and let us plan your perfect Latin American adventure.
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