Located in the south of Paraguay, roughly 365 kilometres from Asunción, Encarnación is commonly known as the “city of the Paraguayan summer”. During the summer months, activities and movement increase significantly. With the upcoming Carnival and the city’s beaches, visitors from all over can enjoy the river breeze, as well as the warmth and open arms of the locals.
Encarnación is the capital of the Itapúa department, home to the Jesuit Missions. As a result, many visitors use the city as a base to explore these historic sites. Itapúa was also the host of the World Rally Championship 2025, an event set to return later this 2026. Paraguay’s National Tourism Secretariat (Senatur) is working intensively to establish Encarnación as a destination to visit all year round.
For this reason, The Asunción Times spoke with Lara Chamorro, departmental head of Senatur.
Summer in Encarnación
“Of course, the city holds its identity as the city of summer. With high-quality, certified beaches, an active Costanera and a permanent cultural agenda, this identity is constantly reinforced. Together with private entities offering activities, diverse gastronomy and a strong hotel industry, Encarnación has a privileged environment for the summer,” Chamorro explains.
She adds: “All these elements make summer in Encarnación an integral experience, not limited to a single event,” referring to the traditional Carnival that takes place during the season. This year, the Carnival starts on 17 January 2026, with the novelty of an additional date, bringing the total to five nights.
“Furthemore, the city is close to other districts with many attractions. Therefore, what we are looking to do is break away from the idea of summer as the only high-activity season. Many people stay here while visiting different places in Itapúa, such as the Jesuit Missions, Carmen del Paraná, Obligado, Coronel Bogado and other towns”.
A change of paradigm
Ten years ago, there was little discussion about making Encarnación a year-round destination. However, after the pandemic, this perspective has changed. Senatur is now working intensively to consolidate this shift.
“I think the experience has, in fact, changed. Now is more diverse and prolonged. Tourists and visitors find activities throughout the day across the city and the department,” Chamorro argues.
“Besides, there is greater awareness of sustainability, accessibility and service quality. People who return after many years find a completely different city. For example, we work together with the Municipality to train local tourism workers, providing them with the tools to offer a better experience.”
One of the key factors in breaking the seasonality of tourism has been the World Rally Championship (WRC). “The months between May and August are usually weak in terms of tourism activity, affecting restaurants and hotels. With the WRC at the end of August, it felt like having two summers in one year. Now we prepare for it, just as we prepare for our traditional high season. This effort involves both the public and private sectors,” Chamorro explains.
100 years of the Carnival
With an additional date this year, the Carnival is expected to have an even greater impact on the local economy. More hotel rooms are filled; restaurants see increased demand and more shows are offered.
“Every tourist leaves something behind; therefore, there is always a benefit. At Senatur, we always promote and support the Carnival, from declaring it of national touristic interest to organising nationwide launches. We have an upcoming launch in Asunción,” Chamorro states.
For the past two years, Carnival dancers have accompanied Senatur at national and international events. “At the International Tourism Festival in Buenos Aires, the Carnival is part of the Senatur stand and one of its main attractions,” she adds.
Senatur works in coordination with the Municipality and other local, departmental and national institutions. “The Carnival is our icon, especially this year, as it celebrates its 100th anniversary. However, it is no longer the only attraction Encarnación has to offer. We are proud of the variety the city offers today,” Chamorro explains.
What the city has to offer
Encarnación has three beaches: San José, Mbói Ka’e and Pacú Cuá.
“San José is for those who enjoy noise and movement. Being the most famous and popular beach, it is frequented by families and young people. There are concerts and open-air cinemas. Mbói Ka’e is calmer, with fewer people. Pacú Cuá allows visitors to truly appreciate the strength of the Paraná River. Each beach has its own unique character,” Chamorro explains.
“For those interested in cultural and historical sites, there are many options. Even if you are not Catholic, you should visit the Virgin of Itacuá Sanctuary. Walking there, one feels the presence of history, the Paraná river and nature. Nearby is the Alberto Delvalle Museum, dedicated to the musician.”
She also highlights the Alive Memory Museum, located in the iconic San José mill. “This museum brings together artefacts and objects used throughout the city’s history. Also, it tells the story of the cyclone that struck Encarnación. At the Japanese Association, the Nikkei Museum showcases the cultural exchange present in the city. For those interested in military history, the Victory Museum in the city centre focuses on the Chaco War,” Chamorro adds.
A city for the whole year
“We are not just the city of summer. We are a city to be discovered throughout the year,” Chamorro concludes. As the high season approaches, Encarnación prepares for its busiest months. This time, however, with a renewed focus: consolidating its position as a city worth visiting all year long.
