Salto de la Cantera y Salto Pa'i (Ybytyruzú)
Waterfalls of the Ybytyruzú near Colonia Independencia: three drops, big rocks and petrified wood remains.
What it is
The Ybytyruzú Managed Resource Reserve holds a series of streams and notable waterfalls; besides the famous Salto Suizo, the Salto de la Cantera, Salto Pa'i and Salto Rojas stand out, along with other smaller cascades. The Tacuara and Guasu streams complete the scenery for nature lovers. Salto de la Cantera is a set of cascades: three drops between large rocks, with few geological faults and natural rain drainage through small tunnel-like channels. It is described as the main place in the country where archaeological remains of petrified wood can be found, and it is used for adventure activities and the study of native species. Salto Pa'i lies about 4 km to the southeast. Both are visited from the Colonia Independencia area, and getting there often means walking trails that cross private property, so it is wise to ask about the open access routes.
What to see and do
- Three water drops between large rocks
- Petrified wood near La Cantera
- Hiking to Salto Pa'i
- Combine with Salto Suizo and Cerro Akatí
Did you know…?
The petrified wood in the area is an uncommon find, which is why removing pieces is discouraged.
The Ybytyruzú holds the country's highest peak, Tres Kandú, and its tallest waterfall, Salto Suizo.
History
The area was declared a Managed Resource Area by executive decree on 17 May 1990, to protect the country's highest range.
Tips
- Waterfalls are best visited with a local guide or by notifying the Independencia municipality: some trails cross private land.
- Wear shoes with good grip, clothes you can get wet and sunscreen; do not go when the stream is swollen.
- Do not take rocks or fossils: petrified wood is everyone's heritage.
Access depends on the site. Check opening hours before you go.
Best time: Spring and autumn; avoid rainy days.
Activities
Festivals and events here
Nearby
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.
Independencia · Guairá
Salto Suizo
A waterfall of more than 60 meters deep in the Ybytyruzú forest, the highest in the country.
Colonia Independencia · Guairá
Cerro de la Cruz y su mirador
A hill with a cross and lookout in Independencia district, recommended for hiking and camping.
Colonia Independencia · Guairá
Salto San Pablo (Pozo Hondo)
A waterfall and pool in Independencia district, listed among Guairá's most visited falls.
Colonia Independencia · Guairá
Cerro Akatí, el «cerro canoso» del Ybytyruzú
A lookout at about 600 m in the Ybytyruzú range, with a trail to the Itá Letra inscriptions.
Villarrica (compañía Ytororó) · Guairá
Itá Letra, las «letras de la piedra» del Ybytyruzú
An archaeological site with pre-Columbian rock carvings at the eastern edge of Villarrica, discovered in the 1950s.
Researched and reviewed in September 2026 with 3 sources. A second reviewer checked dates, coordinates and lodging. Hours and prices may change.