Cerro Patiño (Ybytypané)
Itauguá's highest point, about 247 m, with forest tied to the Lake Ypacaraí ecosystem.
What it is
Cerro Patiño, formerly Ybytypané, rises on the Ybytypanemá plain in the northeast of the Central department, within the municipality of Itauguá. It reaches about 247 metres above sea level (another source says 246) and stretches for more than 2 km. Although the forest is degraded, it keeps fauna and flora closely tied to the Lake Ypacaraí ecosystem, which makes it important for the region's forest cover. It is considered suitable for camping, hiking and other outdoor activities.
What to see and do
- A forested rise linked to Lake Ypacaraí
- Opportunities for hiking and camping
- Views from the higher parts
Did you know…?
The old name, Ybytypané, survives in the town's local history.
History
Local history places Itauguá around the old Tapirakuái lagoon (today Lake Ypacaraí) and Cerro Ybytypané (today Cerro Patiño).
Tips
- Ask the Itauguá municipality how to get access and which areas are public.
- Bring water and closed shoes.
Check opening hours before you go.
Best time: Cool months, May to September.
Activities
Festivals and events here
National Ñandutí Festival
Folk music, dance and ñandutí lace in the town of weavers: two nights of competition for the Golden Ñandutí.
MusicItauguá, CentralFeatured7OctVirgen del Rosario · Itauguá
In the birthplace of ñandutí (Paraguay's delicate spiderweb lace): procession, arts festival, torín (Paraguayan-style bullfighting), asado a la estaca (meat roasted on stakes) and jineteada (bronc riding).
Patron saintItauguá, CentralFeaturedNearby
Itauguá · Central
Itauguá
The capital of ñandutí: handmade 'spiderweb' lace, sold right along Route PY02.
Itauguá · Central
Museo Parroquial San Rafael
A parish museum from 1964 in a colonial house, with Franciscan and Jesuit sacred art, Chaco War objects and a ñandutí room.
Areguá · Central
Monumento Natural Cerros Kõi y Chororĩ
Five- and six-sided sandstone columns: a geological rarity with few equals anywhere in the world.
Itauguá · Central
Iglesia de la Virgen del Rosario de Itauguá
A neoclassical church built between 1896 and 1908, in the heart of the ñandutí capital.
Areguá · Central
Areguá
Capital of pottery and strawberries, with historic mansions stepping down from the church to the lake.
Areguá, San Bernardino e Ypacaraí · Central y Cordillera
Lago Ypacaraí
The lake behind Paraguay's most famous guarania: sunsets, sailboats and historic towns along its shores.
Researched and reviewed in September 2026 with 4 sources. A second reviewer checked dates, coordinates and lodging. Hours and prices may change.