Living in Paraguay means learning to live with the heat. From December to March, summer defines daily life across the country. Temperatures rise, humidity intensifies, and routines adapt to the climate. For newcomers, this season can feel overwhelming at first.
However, with preparation and local knowledge, summer quickly becomes manageable and even enjoyable. Paraguayan summer, more than a season, is a shared experience that shapes schedules, habits, and social life. Understanding what to expect helps newcomers adjust faster and avoid common mistakes.
What to expect during the hottest months
Paraguayan summers are defined by extreme heat, and high humidity. The heat index (sensación térmica) often feels far higher than forecasts suggest. As a result, sweating becomes constant and unavoidable for everyone. This is entirely normal and widely accepted.
Tereré culture is another defining feature of summer life. People carry thermos flasks and guampas everywhere, sharing ice-cold yerba mate infused with herbs. Tereré is both social and practical, helping locals stay hydrated throughout the day. Accepting a shared sip is considered friendly and polite.
Sudden storms are also common. Known locally as tormentas eléctricas, they arrive quickly with intense lightning, strong winds, and heavy rain. These storms can briefly cool the air but may also disrupt electricity and transport.
Mosquito season is another unavoidable reality. Where there is heat and humidity, mosquitoes thrive across urban and rural areas. Preparing in advance is essential, as dengue fever outbreaks are common during the rainy months. Using repellent, eliminating standing water, and following health alerts can significantly reduce risk.
Everyday survival tips from locals
Hydration is essential during the Paraguayan summer. Drinking water continuously is non-negotiable, and tereré plays a central role. Herbs such as mint, lemon verbena (cedrón), or burrito add freshness and digestive benefits. If a local offers you tereré, accepting it is a gesture of social connection.
Timing daily activities wisely makes a noticeable difference. Between 11:00 and 16:00, outdoor movement can feel exhausting. Many people rest or slow down during these hours. Planning errands early in the morning or late afternoon helps conserve energy.
Clothing choices also matter. Lightweight fabrics such as cotton and linen provide relief, while dark colours trap heat outdoors. Sunscreen is equally important, as UV levels remain high even on cloudy days. Reapplying regularly is recommended by the Ministry of Health.
Preparing for summer storms is another useful habit. Power outages can occur after heavy rain or strong winds. Keeping flashlights available and devices charged helps avoid inconvenience. Storing cold water in the fridge is also a simple but effective tip.
Do’s and don’ts for the Paraguayan summer
Drink tereré daily and increase your overall fluid intake. Plan outdoor activities during cooler hours. Keep your home ventilated and use fans or air conditioning responsibly. Enjoy seasonal, refreshing foods such as mangoes and chilled drinks.
Do not underestimate the sun. Even short exposure can cause burns. Avoid leaving food or rubbish outdoors, as insects arrive quickly. Never touch fallen branches or power lines after storms. Do not assume air conditioning is available everywhere, as many spaces rely solely on fans.
Embracing the season
Paraguayan summer is intense, vibrant, and full of life. Although sometimes the heat comes with challenges, summer also brings refreshing tereré circles, long evenings, and a slower pace shaped by nature. For newcomers, the key is adapting rather than resisting.
By slowing down, staying hydrated, protecting your skin, and embracing local customs, the heat becomes less of an obstacle and more of a shared experience. Over time, many newcomers find that surviving their first Paraguayan summer is also how they truly begin to feel at home.
