Encarnacion - Discovering Paraguay

Travelling to Encarnacion

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Encarnacion, a pretty good destination in Paraguay (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Encarnacion and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Encarnacion, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Paraguay, here's everything to know about Encarnacion for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Encarnacion

Encarnacion is a city located in the southern part of Paraguay, on the banks of the Paraná River. It is the capital of the Itapúa Department and has a population of approximately 130,000 people. The city is known for its beautiful beaches, historical landmarks, and vibrant festivals such as the Carnaval de Encarnacion, which takes place in February. Encarnacion has a warm and tropical climate with temperatures ranging from 20-35 degrees Celsius throughout the year. Some of the main attractions in the city include the Jesuit Missions of La Santísima Trinidad de Paraná and Jesús de Tavarangue, the Encarnacion Boardwalk, and the San José Beach.

What to visit in Encarnacion

Sure, here are some of the popular tourist attractions in Encarnacion, Paraguay: 1. Jesuit Missions of La Santisima Trinidad de Parana and Jesus de Tavarangue - These are two well-preserved ruins of Jesuit Missions that were established in the 18th century. They were declared as UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 1993.
2. Costanera de la Ciudad - It is the beautiful waterfront promenade that gives a scenic view of the Paraguay river. It is a perfect spot for jogging and strolling.
3. Plaza de Armas - It is the central plaza of Encarnacion with a beautiful fountain. It is surrounded by historic buildings and shops. This plaza creates an inviting atmosphere for tourists to relax and enjoy.
4. Iglesia de la Santisima Trinidad - It is a beautiful and historic church located in Encarnacion. The church is well-maintained and is a popular place of worship.
5. Playa San Jose - This beach is located close to the city center. It offers beautiful views of the Paraguay river and is a great place to relax and unwind. There are also activities such as volleyball, soccer, and kayak rentals.
6. Museo del Carnaval - It is a museum that showcases the traditional Paraguayan Carnival celebrations. The museum has an enormous collection of masks, costumes, and floats from different regions of Paraguay.
7. La Santisima Trinidad Waterfall - It is a beautiful waterfall that is located in a jungle near Encarnacion. It is a great spot for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts.
These are some of the popular tourist attractions in Encarnacion, Paraguay.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Paraguay, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Encarnacion.

When to go on holiday to Encarnacion

The best time to visit Encarnacion in Paraguay is during the dry season, which runs from May through September. During this time, the weather is typically sunny and warm with lower humidity and fewer chances of rain. Additionally, the city hosts its annual Carnival celebrations in February and March, which are a popular time to visit for those looking for a lively and festive atmosphere. However, be aware that the city can become quite crowded during this time and accommodations may be more expensive. Overall, May through September is the best time to visit Encarnacion for warm, dry weather and comfortable sightseeing conditions.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Encarnacion

Encarnacion is located in the southern region of Paraguay, bordering Argentina. There are several ways to get there: By air: The nearest airport is the Teniente Amin Ayub Gonzalez Airport, which is located in the city of Pilar, about 60 km from Encarnacion. From there, you can take a taxi or rent a car to get to Encarnacion.
By bus: There are several bus companies that offer daily services to Encarnacion from major cities in Paraguay and neighboring countries. The journey from Asuncion takes around 6-7 hours, while from Buenos Aires, Argentina it takes around 10 hours.
By car: If you are driving on your own, you can reach Encarnacion through the Route PY01 from Asuncion. It takes around 6 hours to reach Encarnacion by car from Asuncion.
By boat: You can also reach Encarnacion by boat from Posadas, Argentina. The journey takes around 1 hour and offers scenic views of the Parana River. I hope this information helps you plan your trip to Encarnacion!
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Encarnacion, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Encarnacion

Sure, here are some typical foods of Encarnación, Paraguay: 1. Chipa: A type of small bread made from cassava starch and cheese, shaped like a ring or knot. It's a staple food in Paraguay and is often eaten for breakfast or as a snack.
2. Sopa paraguaya: This is a kind of cornbread made with cornmeal, cheese, and onions. It's usually served as a side dish with grilled meats or stews.
3. Mbejú: Similar to Chipa, but made with manioc starch, cheese, and milk. It can be eaten as a snack or as a part of the main course.
4. Pacu Mbeju: A savory cake made from pacu fish, cheese, eggs, and manioc flour. It's a popular dish in the region and often served during special events.
5. Asado: This is a traditional barbecue-style grilled meat dish that features beef ribs or steak, sausage, and organ meats. It is often served with chimichurri sauce, grilled vegetables, and potatoes.
6. Terere: This is a traditional cold drink, similar to mate, made by steeping yerba mate leaves in cold water. It's often enjoyed in the heat of the day, and is believed to have several health benefits.
You can find general info about typical foods in Paraguay here.

Is Encarnacion an expensive destination for tourists?

Encarnacion is generally considered an affordable destination for tourists. Accommodation, food, and transportation costs are relatively low compared to other South American countries. However, prices can vary depending on the time of year and the level of luxury you are looking for. During peak tourist season, prices may be slightly higher. It's always a good idea to research and compare prices before your trip to get the best deals.

Where to find accomodation in Encarnacion

The best areas to find accommodation when visiting Encarnacion in Paraguay are the city center, the waterfront area along the Parana River, and the neighborhoods of San Isidro and Ita Enramada. The city center is where you will find many of the historic buildings and landmarks, as well as restaurants and shops. The waterfront area is great for enjoying outdoor activities and the scenic views of the river. San Isidro and Ita Enramada are quieter residential areas with a more relaxed atmosphere, still close to the city center and the river.
You can check hotel prices at Encarnacion here:
Booking.com

Is Encarnacion a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Encarnacion is generally considered safe for tourists. However, it is important to take the usual precautions that you would in any foreign city, such as being aware of your surroundings, using reputable transportation, and keeping an eye on your valuables. It is also recommended to avoid displaying expensive electronics or jewelry and to not carry large amounts of cash. As with any destination, it is always a good idea to do your research and be aware of any safety concerns before you go.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Paraguay here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Encarnacion.

What type of travelers will enjoy Encarnacion the most?

Encarnación, Paraguay is a great destination for families, couples, and travelers of all ages who are looking for a peaceful and relaxed atmosphere. It has a lot of attractions that would appeal to families, including a beautiful river walk, several parks, and kid-friendly activities such as sailing, fishing, and swimming. Couples can enjoy the romantic atmosphere, with numerous restaurants and bars, and the beautiful views of the river. Young people who are looking for fun can also find several nightlife options, including clubs, bars, and music venues. Overall, Encarnación is a great destination for anyone looking for a mix of relaxation, culture, and entertainment.

How to get around Encarnacion

In Encarnacion, you can use various modes of transportation to move around the city, such as taxis, buses, and minibusses (locally known as combis). Taxis are readily available in the city, and they are an efficient way to travel if you are not familiar with the routes. Buses are a common means of transportation, and they are an affordable way to navigate the city, with fares starting at Gs. 2,500 (around 0.35 USD). Combis are minivans that operate as shared taxis and have fixed routes within the city. However, they may not be as comfortable as other modes of transportation but offer a more local experience.

What to see around Encarnacion

Here are some nice places that you can visit in a day trip from Encarnacion: 1. Jesuit Missions of Trinidad: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is located about 30 km from Encarnacion and features ruins of a former Jesuit mission complex. It is one of the most significant cultural sites in the region and worth a visit if you are interested in history and architecture.
2. San Cosme y Damian Fort: This historical fort is located about 15 km from Encarnacion and was built by the Spanish in the 18th century to defend against Portuguese incursions. It offers stunning views of the Parana River and nearby countryside.
3. Yacyreta hydroelectric dam: This is one of the largest hydroelectric dams in South America and is located just 12 km from Encarnacion. You can take a guided tour and learn about the history and construction of the dam.
4. San Ignacio Mini: This is another UNESCO World Heritage Site, located about 130 km from Encarnacion. It is one of the most complete and well-preserved Jesuit missions in the region, with impressive architecture and beautiful surroundings.
5. Laguna Blanca National Park: This park is located about 140 km from Encarnacion and has stunning scenery, including a large lagoon surrounded by forests and mountains. It is a great place for hiking, birdwatching, and relaxing in nature.
For every travel information about Paraguay you can click here.

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