As the festive season approaches, Paraguay’s National Tourism Secretariat (Senatur) has unveiled a captivating array of destinations perfect for the extended Christmas break. With Christmas Day on 25 December followed by the public holiday on 26 December, travellers can enjoy a long Christmas holiday filled with stunning natural wonders, rich historical sites, and great cultural experiences. From lush waterfalls to UNESCO-listed Jesuit ruins, Paraguay offers diverse options for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and bargain hunters alike.
Natural wonders in Alto Paraná
One of the standout recommendations is the breathtaking Saltos del Monday in Alto Paraná department, near Presidente Franco. These impressive falls, often dubbed Paraguay’s “mini-Iguazú”, plunge over 40 metres amidst dense subtropical vegetation, providing a serene escape surrounded by nature’s beauty.
Adjacent to the falls lies the Parque Aventura Monday, an eco-adventure park spanning seven hectares along the Monday River. Visitors can enjoy thrilling activities such as rappelling, trekking, and guided trails, all while taking in panoramic views of the cascades. It is an ideal spot for families and adventure seekers looking to immerse themselves in Paraguay’s Atlantic Forest ecosystem.
Exploring the Paraguayan Chaco
For those drawn to untamed landscapes and cultural depth, the Paraguayan Chaco stands out as a unique destination. This vast semi-arid region blends extraordinary biodiversity with the heritage of indigenous communities and Mennonite settlers.
In Filadelfia, the heart of Boquerón department, the Gran Chaco Americano Interpretation Centre offers an insightful museum experience. Exhibits trace the evolution of the area’s flora, fauna, and the traditions of its native peoples, providing a deeper understanding of this expansive ecoregion.
Further enriching the Chaco experience is the Ruta Chaco Boreal, an interactive route featuring historical sites from the Chaco War era. With technology-enhanced displays, including QR codes and digital apps, visitors can explore fortresses and museums that blend heritage with modern storytelling.
UNESCO heritage in Itapúa
The Itapúa department has two extraordinary UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Jesuit Mission of La Santísima Trinidad de Paraná and the Jesuit Mission of Jesús de Tavarangue. These 18th-century reductions exemplify the Jesuits’ ambitious social and architectural projects among the Guaraní people.
At Trinidad, guided tours highlight the grand church ruins, adorned with intricate stone carvings of angels and floral motifs, often enhanced by captivating light and sound shows. Nearby, Jesús de Tavarangue features remarkable 3D video mapping projections that bring its unfinished yet majestic structures to life, showcasing a rare fusion of European Baroque and indigenous influences.
Shopping tourism opportunities
The long weekend also presents a prime chance for shopping tourism. Paraguay’s border cities are renowned for affordable imported goods, drawing visitors from across the region.
Ciudad del Este remains a top draw, with its bustling malls offering electronics, clothing, and luxury items at competitive prices. Similarly, Encarnación, along with destinations like Ñeembucú, Salto del Guairá, and Pedro Juan Caballero, provide a wide selection of products in commercial hubs.
Making the most of the long Christmas holiday
The 26 December holiday offers the perfect opportunity to explore Paraguay’s diverse offerings. Whether seeking adventure in nature, delving into history and culture, or indulging in retail therapy, the country promises memorable experiences. As Senatur emphasises, Paraguay stands out as a special and competitive destination – seize this long weekend to uncover its many treasures.
