A Holy Week tourism campaign is encouraging Paraguayans and foreigners to explore and relax in southern Paraguay. The programme is titled Esta Semana Santa descubrí el Sur (Discover the South this Holy Week). This Holy Week tourism campaign promotes a wide range of cultural, religious and natural attractions. All along the departments of Itapúa and Misiones.
The initiative brings together several institutions and local tourism actors. This in order to boost regional tourism during one of the country´s most important holiday periods. Authorities say the campaign aims to highlight the rich cultural heritage, traditions and landscapes that characterise southern Paraguay.
Promoting the Holy Week tourism campaign
The Holy Week tourism campaign is supported by the Yacyretá Binational Entity (EBY). Also, with institutional backing from the National Tourism Secretariat (SENATUR) and the tourism offices of the governments of both departments. The programme was officially presented in Encarnación. It counted with the participation of tourism authorities and representatives from regional institutions.
Among them was Carlos Bado, Tourism and Culture delegate of the EBY in Itapúa. He highlighted the importance of joint efforts between public institutions and local tourism sectors to strengthen the region´s tourism potential.
Tañarandy
One of the most anticipated events in the region is the celebration of Tañarandy. This event takes place every Good Friday in the city of San Ignacio Guazú, in the Misiones department. Tañarandy, which translates as “land of the irreducible”, became one of the country´s most recognised religious and cultural events. Thanks to the work of the late Paraguayan artist Koki Ruiz.
The celebration is known for its unique visual displays, including candle-lit processions, religious art installations and large-scale representations of biblical scenes. It attracts thousands of visitors each year. Over time, the event has grown into one of the most important Holy Week attractions in Paraguay, combining religious devotion with artistic expression.
Ayolas and the Yacyretá circuit
Another key destination in the Holy Week tourism campaign is Ayolas in the Misiones department. This destination continues to gain popularity among tourists due to the attractions managed by the EBY. Visitors can take guided tours of the Yacyretá Hydroelectric Dam, one of the largest hydroelectric plants in South America. Furthermore, they can explore the surrounding natural and environmental areas that form part of the Yacyretá tourism circuit.
These tours allow visitors to learn about the operation of the hydroelectric complex while enjoying views of the Paraná River and nearby ecological reserves.
Itapúa: Cultural heritage, beaches and gastronomy
In the department of Itapúa travellers can begin their journey in Coronel Bogado. This city is widely known as Paraguay´s “capital of chipa”. The traditional cheese bread is one of the most iconic foods consumed during Holy Week all along the country.
From there, visitors can continue towards the river beaches of Carmen del Paraná and Encarnación. These river beaches are among the most popular summer destinations in the country. The region also offers cultural and religious landmarks. Like the Sanctuary of the Virgin of Itacuá in Encarnación and the historic Jesuit mission sites of Jesús de Tavarangue and La Santísima Trinidad de Paraná.
These Jesuit missions are recognised as part of Paraguay´s colonial and religious heritage. In addition, UNESCO declared them as World Heritage sites in 1993. Every year, they are among the most visited historical sites in the country.
More expected visits
Tourism authorities and representatives from local businesses have expressed optimism about the upcoming holiday period. Previous editions of the Holy Week tourism campaign have attracted large numbers of visitors. Consequently, this generated significant economic activity for hotels, restaurants and tourism services across the region.
With a diverse agenda that combines religious traditions, cultural heritage and natural attractions, organisers hope the campaign will once again position southern Paraguay as one of the country’s most attractive destinations during the Easter holidays.
