Blervis · CC0Cerro Tres Kandú
The roof of Paraguay: 842 meters and a demanding trail through Atlantic Forest and rock.
What it is
At 842 meters above sea level, Tres Kandú is the highest point in the country and the tallest summit of the Ybytyruzú range. It's no giant, but you'll feel the climb: 3 kilometers of marked trail from the base, with rocky stretches and steep sections secured with ropes, taking 2 to 3 hours. At the top the forest opens onto a horizon of ridges and valleys spanning Guairá and Caazapá. You can camp on the summit or at the base to watch sunset and sunrise over the Ybytyruzú.
What to see and do
- A 3 km ascent to the summit (2 to 3 hours)
- Rocky stretches with fixed ropes on the steepest sections
- Camping on the summit or at the base
- Panoramic views over the Ybytyruzú range
- Breakfast at the base on weekends, booked in advance
Did you know…?
At just 842 meters it's the roof of Paraguay, a country of plains, wetlands and low hills.
The Ybytyruzú holds springs, bamboo groves, semi-deciduous forest and more than ten permanent and seasonal streams.
Since reopening in 2025, the base has added 24-hour video surveillance, bathrooms with showers and Wi-Fi.
On the summit are the remains of old, now-abandoned radio installations belonging to the Army and ANDE, the national power company.
History
The hill is part of the Ybytyruzú Managed Resources Reserve, one of the main conservation areas in eastern Paraguay, on the border between Guairá and Caazapá. According to SENATUR, these hills were once the territory of the Aché people. It is run by a local business that maintains the trails and facilities; in 2025 it closed from March to August to make the trail safer and reopened with improvements.
Tips
- Booking is required: in August 2025 the number given was (0983) 649 703; they ask for your name, date, group size and activity (check before you go).
- 2025 rates: ₲ 40,000 per person for a day climb; ₲ 50,000 for 2-day camping, gloves included.
- Open Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays; on weekdays only by arrangement with the staff. Guides are available.
- Bring at least 2 liters of water, hiking boots and a flashlight; don't climb in rain or storms.
Friday to Sunday and public holidays, by advance booking; admission ₲ 40,000 per person (2025, check before you go).
Best time: April to September, with cool, drier weather, is the best time to climb. In summer (December to February) start very early to beat the heat and avoid stormy days: wet rock is dangerous.
Activities
Where to stay
Festivals and events here
Nearby
Independencia · Guairá
Salto Suizo (Parque Ecológico Salto Suizo)
A waterfall of more than 60 meters deep in the Ybytyruzú forest, with ziplining, rappelling and nights in wine barrels.
Independencia (casco urbano: Melgarejo) · Guairá
Colonia Independencia
A German-founded colony at the foot of the Ybytyruzú: waterfalls, hills, grapes, ice-cold draft beer and Chopp Fest.
Paso Yobái · Guairá
Paso Yobái
Capital of gold and yerba mate: a yerba-growing colony transformed by a 1990s gold rush.
Villarrica · Guairá
Villarrica del Espíritu Santo
The 'wandering city' that moved seven times: capital of Guairá, cradle of poets and home of the Guairá Carnival.
San Juan Nepomuceno · Caazapá
San Juan Nepomuceno
Caazapá's most populous town: shops, the Ykua Kurusu spring and a gateway to the Atlantic Forest.
Mbocayaty · Guairá
Mbocayaty del Guairá
Home of encaje ju lace, with an 1857 church, a municipal museum and Expo Guairá every October.
Researched and reviewed in September 2026 with 6 sources. A second reviewer checked dates, coordinates and lodging. Hours and prices may change.