One of Paraguay’s most attractive proposals is the Ruta de los Saltos (Waterfalls Route), which offers destinations for nature tourism. Promoted by Paraguay’s National Secretariat of Tourism (SENATUR) and the Ministry of Environment (MADES), the initiative connects waterfalls across several departments.
These places offer travellers the chance to explore forests, hills, protected parks, and rural communities. Rather than following a fixed itinerary, visitors can design their own route, combining hiking, scenic viewpoints, local gastronomy, and cultural experiences. From the south to the preserved northern reserves, these waterfalls showcase Paraguay’s growing ecotourism potential.
Salto Suizo, Colonia Independencia – Guairá
Located in Colonia Independencia, approximately 180 kilometres southeast of Asunción, Salto Suizo forms part of a well-organised tourist complex surrounded by green hills and native forest. The waterfall’s flow changes throughout the year, creating different visual landscapes depending on rainfall and seasonality. Visitors can explore marked trails, resting areas, and natural viewpoints. Also, the popular Cerro de la Cruz, which offers panoramic views over the valley.
- The site is open from 07:30 to 19:00, making it suitable for full-day visits and outdoor activities.
- Contact:+595 981 113833 (WhatsApp only)
Salto Tembey, Yatytay – Itapúa
In southern Paraguay, Salto Tembey stands out as one of Itapúa’s best-known natural attractions. Set among forested areas and open countryside, and about 500 kilometres from the Capital, the waterfall offers a calm atmosphere ideal for walking, photography, and relaxation. As a result, during the summer months, it becomes a frequent destination for weekend travellers seeking cooler temperatures and contact with nature.
- The site operates from 07:00 to 17:00, attracting both local visitors and tourists exploring the rural landscape of the region.
- Contact:+595 986 856190
Saltos Mina and Guaraní, Ybycuí National Park – Paraguarí
Inside the historic Ybycuí National Park, the Saltos Mina and Guaraní, situated about 150 kilometres from Asunción, form part of a scenic circuit that blends waterfalls with protected forest and heritage sites. Well-marked trails guide visitors through dense vegetation, streams, and former industrial ruins that reflect the area’s past. The combination of biodiversity, cultural value, and accessible hiking routes makes this destination one of the most complete nature experiences in central Paraguay.
- Contact: +595 983 422060
Salto Cristal, La Colmena – Paraguarí
Situated 153 kilometres from Asunción, Salto Cristal in La Colmena is named after the clarity of its waters as they flow over rocky formations and lush vegetation. Easy access and well-maintained paths make it especially popular during warmer months, attracting families and day-trippers from nearby cities. Its natural pools and surrounding hills provide a refreshing retreat and a strong visual appeal for nature enthusiasts.
- Contact: +595 981 363084
Saltos Monday, Presidente Franco – Alto Paraná
Among Paraguay’s most iconic waterfalls, the Saltos Monday impress with their scale and powerful water flow. Located in Presidente Franco near Ciudad del Este and approximately 300 kilometres from Asunción, the site is part of the Parque Aventura Monday, offering structured viewpoints, walking paths, and visitor facilities. Open from 08:00 to 17:00, the waterfalls are a major draw for domestic and international tourists, contributing significantly to the region’s tourism economy and visibility.
- Reservations: parqueaventuramonday.com
- Contact:+595 974 552512
Salto Ñacunday, Ñacunday National Park – Alto Paraná
For travellers seeking quieter and more preserved environments, Salto Ñacunday, at approximately 380 kilometres from Asunción, offers a striking contrast to busier tourist centres. Located within a national park, the area features extensive native forest and limited infrastructure, enhancing the sense of immersion in nature. Visitors access the waterfall through natural trails and viewpoints, enjoying wide landscapes and minimal human intervention.
- The park is open from 08:00 to 17:00.
- Contact:+595 983 614851
Salto San Juan, Chacurru – Amambay
In northern Paraguay, 450 kilometres from the Capital, Salto San Juan, in the locality of Chacurru provides a rural escape surrounded by vegetation and open land. The waterfall is frequently visited by local communities and travellers during summer, offering a relaxed environment for day trips and picnics.
- Open from 08:00 to 19:00, it combines accessibility with a strong connection to the region’s natural and cultural identity.
- Contact: +595 983 776060
Salto Karapá, Mbaracayú Forest Reserve – Canindeyú
Located inside the Mbaracayú Forest Reserve, about 300 kilometres from Asunción, one of Paraguay’s most important conservation areas, Salto Karapá offers a highly preserved ecosystem of subtropical forest. The limited development enhances its environmental value, making it ideal for eco-tourism and wildlife observation. Visitors experience a deeper connection with biodiversity while exploring one of the country’s most protected natural landscapes.
- Contact:+595 971 282850 (WhatsApp only)
A national route linking nature and culture
The Ruta de los Saltos is part of SENATUR’s national guide, ”Summer All Year Long” (Verano Todo el Año). The programme encourages year-round tourism and sustainable regional development. By combining natural beauty with local traditions, the route positions Paraguay as an emerging destination for responsible travel and outdoor exploration in South America.
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