Paraguay is about host the prestigious South American Bird Fair for the first time, a significant event for bird observation and nature tourism on the continent. The 15th edition of the fair is scheduled to take place from 17 to 20 September 2026 at the Puerto de Asunción Cultural Centre, located at the intersection of Avenida República and Colón.
Themed “A culture inspired by nature,” the event will convene a diverse group of specialists, researchers, photographers, conservationists, tour operators, and enthusiasts from numerous countries. Participants will discuss a range of topics related to science, conservation, photography, and bird-related tourism, also known as avitourism.
Showcasing national biodiversity
The selection of Paraguay as the host nation provides an opportunity to highlight the country’s rich natural potential. Paraguay is home to a wide variety of ecosystems, including the Pantanal wetlands, the Chaco savannas, and the subtropical forests of the Eastern Region. This ecological diversity supports a significant avian population.
Currently, there are records of more than 730 bird species within Paraguayan territory. This positions the country as a destination with considerable opportunities for birdwatching and nature-focused travel, which remains relatively underexplored by international visitors.
A gathering of international experts
The prestigious South American Bird Fair will feature an extensive academic programme, bringing together specialists from across the Americas and other parts of the world. Among the confirmed international speakers are William Menq and Guto Carvalho from Brazil, Rob Clay from Great Britain, and Floyd Hayes from the United States. Also attending are Jhonathan Miranda from Venezuela, Fernando Angulo from Peru, and Freddy Madrigal from Costa Rica.
The list of speakers also includes Vanessa Palacios and Alberto Madroño from Spain; Horacio Matarasso and other representatives from Argentina; Ignacio Villagrán Quijada and Carito Yáñez from Chile; María Ruíz from Uruguay; Xavier Amigo from Ecuador, and Carlos Mario Wagner-Wagner from Colombia. Paraguayan expertise will be represented by Arne Lesterhuis, Jaryi Sara Benítez, and Nelson Pérez, among others.
A comprehensive programme of activities
The fair’s agenda is structured around four main components: academic, commercial, educational and cultural, and operational. The academic segment will feature keynote lectures and symposia, providing a platform for sharing the latest research and conservation insights. Commercially, the event will host a range of specialised stands.
In addition, the schedule includes workshops, activities for children, and nature photography exhibitions. Participants will also have the opportunity to join early morning field trips and take part in pre- and post-fair tours. These excursions will cover various locations across the country, allowing attendees to experience Paraguay’s diverse birdlife and ecosystems firsthand.
Strong institutional support
This edition of the fair is organised by the South American Bird Fair committee and the Club de Observadores de la Naturaleza del Paraguay (CON-Py). The event has received official backing from the Government of Paraguay through the National Secretariat of Tourism (Senatur) and the National Secretariat of Culture. Further support is provided by the binational entities Itaipú and Yacyretá, and the German Embassy in Asunción.
Hosting the fair aims to promote Paraguay’s national biodiversity and strengthen its position as a prime destination for birdwatching. The event also seeks to encourage conservation efforts and foster a stronger connection between nature, culture, and tourism.
Want to know more? Read The Asunción Times‘ series Birds of Paraguay, with the support of the Club de Observadores de Aves del Paraguay.
