Encarnación

Paraguay, South America

Encarnación, often hailed as the "Pearl of the South", boasts stunning beaches along the Paraná River, vibrant nightlife, and cultural festivals. The famed Costanera, a riverfront promenade, offers breathtaking sunset views, while the Jesuit Ruins nearby showcase fascinating colonial history. Famous for its Carnival, Encarnación entices visitors with diverse attractions including water sports, local cuisine, and friendly locals, making it an idyllic getaway for both relaxation and exploration.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

City

Vibe

Relaxing

Airport

Posadas

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

12 Best Things to Do in Encarnación

1

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Jesuit Ruins

Explore the UNESCO-listed ruins of Jesuit missions.

No booking required
2

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Relax at San José Beach

Enjoy sunbathing and swimming at this popular beach.

No booking required
3

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Costanera

Stroll along the scenic waterfront promenade.

No booking required
4

Est. 4 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Visit the Encarnación Carnival

Experience vibrant parades and traditional music.

Booking required
5

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Taste Local Cuisine at Food Markets

Savor traditional Paraguayan dishes at local markets.

No booking required
6

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Parque Nacional Ybycuí

Discover stunning waterfalls and wildlife in nature.

No booking required
7

Est. 2.5 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Tour the local wineries

Sample delicious Paraguayan wines at local vineyards.

No booking required
8

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Plaza de Armas

Relax in the central square surrounded by history.

No booking required
9

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Experience the Night Market

Shop for local crafts and enjoy street food.

No booking required
10

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Museo de la Ciudad

Learn about Encarnación's history and culture.

No booking required
11

Est. 5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Isla Apipé

Enjoy a day trip to this beautiful river island.

No booking required
12

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Hike in the Itá Ibaté

Discover breathtaking views and nature trails.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Medium

LGBTQ+ safety score

-8 (#127 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

Guarani

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Spanish

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Sopa Paraguaya

V

Cornbread with cheese and onions (National dish)

Chipa

V

Cheese bread made with manioc flour

Bori Bori

Chicken and cornmeal soup

Mbeju

V

Cheesy flatbread made with manioc starch

Pira Caldo

Fish soup with vegetables and herbs

Phrases to learn

English

Spanish

Hello

Hola

(Oh-lah)

Yes/No

Si / No

(See / No)

Thank you

Gracias

(Grah-thee-ahs)

Excuse me

Perdón

(Per-dohn)

How much?

¿Cuánto?

(Kwan-toh)