Vadecarro · CC BY-SA 3.0Lago Yguazú y Circuito Vivencial del Mundo Guaraní
A trail through Guaraní gods, myths and medicine on the shores of a large lake ringed by Atlantic Forest.
What it is
The Yguazú reservoir is one of Paraguay's great bodies of water, with wooded shores, summer beaches and country houses for escaping the noise. On its shore, inside the Yguazú Nature Reserve, the Guaraní World Experiential Circuit (Circuito Vivencial del Mundo Guaraní) offers an 800-meter trail with six stations on Guaraní origins, deities, rituals and traditional medicine, featuring sculptures, mythological scenes and audiovisual displays. There's also a floating pier, a restaurant with lake views, a crafts shop, a specialized library and a campground.
What to see and do
- An 800-meter interpretive trail with six themed stations
- A floating pier with lake views
- Lunch at the panoramic restaurant
- Camping on the lakeshore
- Beaches and fishing in summer
Did you know…?
The Yguazú dam doesn't generate electricity: after years of studies, ANDE dropped the plan to install turbines.
In summer, its beaches and country houses draw swimmers and anglers.
History
The Yguazú dam was built by ANDE, the national power company, in 1977 to store water and regulate the flow feeding the Acaray power plant, about 90 km downstream; the resulting lake covers some 620 km². The Experiential Circuit has become an established cultural tourism attraction, and in September 2026 it welcomed schoolchildren from SENATUR's "Little Tourists" program.
Tips
- The Circuit is open Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00 to 17:00; arrange your visit in advance, especially for groups.
- Bring insect repellent and comfortable shoes for the trail.
- Some local roads in the area are unpaved: check their condition after rain.
Guaraní World Experiential Circuit: Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00–17:00 (SENATUR). Ask about fees.
Best time: Summer (December to March) for the beach and water activities; autumn and spring for the trail, with pleasant temperatures.
What to try
- Lake fish at country houses and roadside eateries along the shore
Activities
Where to stay
Festivals and events here
Yguazú Expo
The colony founded by Japanese families in 1961 celebrates its anniversary with shows, Nikkei culture and great food.
Heritage communitiesYguazú, Alto Paraná1MaySan José Obrero · Yguazú
Food fairs and festivals that showcase the culture of the Japanese colony alongside Paraguayan traditions.
Patron saintYguazú, Alto ParanáNearby
Yguazú · Alto Paraná
Yguazú (colonia japonesa)
A slice of Japan on Route PY02: settlers, vegetable farms, a Japanese carnival and hot-air balloons in August.
Hernandarias · Alto Paraná
Hernandarias
The city of energy: dams, a beach on the Itaipú reservoir and a Way of the Cross lit by candles.
Hernandarias · Alto Paraná
Tekotopa Centro Ambiental (Sendero del Jaguareté y Museo de Itaipu Tierra Guaraní)
Jaguars, tapirs and harpy eagles of the Atlantic Forest, plus Itaipú's great museum of nature and Guaraní culture.
Ciudad del Este · Alto Paraná
Ciudad del Este
The great shop window of the Triple Frontier: shopping, a cosmopolitan buzz and the gateway to Itaipú and the Monday Falls.
Hernandarias · Alto Paraná
Reserva Natural Tatí Yupí
Itaipú's forest closest to the dam: horse-drawn carts, bikes, a giant peroba tree and birds everywhere.
Ciudad del Este · Alto Paraná
Lago de la República
Ciudad del Este's green lung: laps around the lake, caimans, craft beer and the city's biggest festivals.
Researched and reviewed in September 2026 with 7 sources. A second reviewer checked dates, coordinates and lodging. Hours and prices may change.