The department of Ñeembucú experiences a strong surge in tourism during the end-of-year and New Year period. Around 30,000 visitors arrived, generating an estimated economic impact of Gs. 4.5 billion. The result strengthened the region’s position as one of Paraguay’s fastest-growing domestic and inbound destinations.
Discovering Ñeembucú: Nature, history, and river Life
Ñeembucú is located in southern Paraguay, bordering Argentina and shaped by vast wetlands, rivers, and floodplains. The Paraguay and Paraná rivers define much of its landscape. As a result, the region offers rich biodiversity and tranquil scenery that appeals to nature lovers.
The departmental capital, Pilar, preserves colonial architecture, museums, and riverfront promenades. Meanwhile, surrounding towns provide access to fishing areas, birdwatching sites, and rural tourism experiences. Visitors also enjoy traditional Paraguayan cuisine, local festivals, and community markets.
Furthermore, the department is known for its calm atmosphere and high safety levels. Beaches along the riverbanks become social gathering points during the summer months. Therefore, Ñeembucú attracts travellers seeking relaxation, authenticity, and contact with nature.
Record visitor numbers drive the local economy
Tourists explore natural attractions, historical landmarks, fishing areas, gastronomy, and cultural events throughout December 2025 and early January 2026. In addition, beaches and open-air shows attract families and young travellers seeking quieter alternatives to larger resorts. As a result, hospitality venues remain busy across the department.
Verónica Salinas, Tourism Secretary of the Ñeembucú Governor’s Office, confirms the scale of the growth. “This is significant growth that demonstrates the department’s sustained positioning as a tourist destination.” Notably, visitor numbers surpass those recorded during the 2024/2025 holiday season.
The economic impact reaches approximately Gs. 4.5 billion. On average, each visitor spends around 150,000 guaraníes (approximately US$22). Consequently, restaurants, shops, transport providers, and tourism services benefit directly from the increased demand.
Growing domestic and international arrivals
Domestic tourism remains a key driver of the surge. Visitors arrive from Asunción, Luque, Mariano Roque Alonso, Ypané, Areguá, Coronel Oviedo, Villarrica, Ciudad del Este, Encarnación, and San Ignacio. Therefore, Ñeembucú continues to attract travellers from across the country.
At the same time, international arrivals show a steady increase. Tourists come from Argentina, Brazil, the United States, Japan, Spain, the Netherlands, Belgium, Canada, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Taiwan, France, and the Dominican Republic. This diversity reflects the department’s growing visibility beyond national borders.
Accommodation expansion supports sustainable growth
More than 70 new alternative accommodation options opened during the season. Together, they expand local capacity to over 1,000 beds. These include hotels, guesthouses, cabins, and private homes.
Importantly, this growth creates new income opportunities for local families. In parallel, the Departmental Tourism Secretariat confirms that Ñeembucú is increasingly included in travel agency packages. This integration helps strengthen long-term tourism development.
Events and safety strengthen tourist confidence
Shows and events organised by the departmental government, the Yacyretá Binational Entity (EBY), and local municipalities enrich the seasonal calendar. These activities complement sport fishing, beach tourism, and cultural programming. As a result, visitors find a balanced mix of leisure and entertainment.
In addition, tranquillity and safety remain key factors influencing travel decisions. More travellers now choose Ñeembucú as a destination to discover, explore, and enjoy. Ultimately, the department continues to build momentum as one of Paraguay’s emerging tourism hotspots.
