The construction of a new pier and viewing platform in Humaitá, currently in the bidding process, is set to enhance the historical and cultural attractions of the Ñeembucú department. The initiative aims to establish Humaitá, a city on the Paraguay River in southern Paraguay, as a must-visit destination for tourists interested in Paraguayan history, heritage, and the natural beauty of the southern region.
During the War of the Triple Alliance, Humaitá served as the main Paraguayan stronghold from 1866 until its fall in August 1868. Up to 24,000 troops were housed there at one point. The city served as the de facto residence of the Paraguayan government until March 1868.
Humaitá pier project details
This construction of a new pier and viewing platform, part of a broader tourism development strategy spearheaded by the National Tourism Secretariat (Senatur), will be awarded through a national public tender. The tender, valued at Gs. 1.32 billion (approximately US$180,000), is opened on July 31, 2025.
Vice President Pedro Alliana expressed his enthusiasm for the project. “Humaitá, a symbol of heroism and natural beauty, will have a viewing platform and tourist pier financed by the Paraguayan government through Senatur. I am proud to announce this step to honour our history and boost the development of my beloved Ñeembucú,” he stated.
Boosting Humaitá’s Tourism
Humaitá, a district renowned for its rich history, culture, and natural beauty, played a significant role in the War of the Triple Alliance. Today, the city is attracting attention from national and local government, as well as civil society organisations, all keen to develop its potential.
Maricarmen Couchonnal, Director of Tourism Heritage at Senatur, highlighted the various initiatives underway, including an inter-institutional committee focused on restoring and promoting the city’s historical sites for sustainable tourism.
“Senatur has promoted many projects in Humaitá. This is one of them. We have followed all the necessary procedures to obtain permits from the National Culture Secretariat (SNC), the Ministry of the Environment and Sustainable Development (MADES), and the Municipality.”
Couchonnal added that Senatur has completed an assessment of the former López Headquarters Museum and secured support from the Yacyretá Binational Entity (EBY) for the development of an executive project and subsequent restoration.
Pier and viewing platform location
The pier and viewing platform will be constructed near the Humaitá Museum and Fortress, alongside other historical monuments. This location seeks to blend cultural heritage with the landscapes of the Paraguay River, creating an ideal setting for recreation and sustainable tourism.
This project aligns with the Tourism Accessibility axis of Paraguay’s Master Plan for Sustainable Tourism Development. Senatur already carried out preventative conservation work on the remnants of the San Carlos Borromeo church, known as the ruins of Humaitá, with the technical team in charge of the conservation of the Jesuit Missions of Itapúa. Couchonnal added that there are also plans for coastal protection and a long-term comprehensive management plan for the city.
Preserving Humaitá’s heritage
The project is a collaborative effort involving various institutions and organisations dedicated to preserving Humaitá’s heritage. The committee is working on the recovery of the San Carlos Borromeo church, the emblematic Batería Londres, Marshal López’s former headquarters (which will be converted into a museum), the old pier, as well as other historical and heritage sites in the district.
The project is expected to solidify Humaitá’s position as a tourist hub, enriching the visitor experience while also contributing to the region’s overall development.
