Asunción CityParaguay travel guide

Routes · 2 days

A Getaway to Lake Ypacaraí

Two slow-paced days around the lake made famous by Paraguay's most beloved guarania song. First, Areguá, with its hilltop church, old summer houses, pottery workshops, and the sandstone columns of the Kõi and Chororĩ hills. Then, a loop around the lake through Ypacaraí to San Bernardino, the 1881 German colony, and a scenic finish in Altos, the country's 'terrace,' before heading back.

Couples, friends, and families looking to unwind close to Asunción without a lot of driving.Year-round. July to September brings the Strawberry Expo in Areguá; December to February is the summer season in San Bernardino.Your own car (under an hour from Asunción). There are also buses to Areguá and San Bernardino from the bus terminal and downtown.
1

Areguá: pottery, strawberries, and Cerro Kõi

≈ 34 km

Arrive in Areguá mid-morning and climb up to the hilltop church for a view over the lake. Wander down through streets of old houses and workshops: everyday pottery, planters, and one-of-a-kind pieces. Two minutes away, the Cerro Kõi trail, with five- and six-sided sandstone columns (Monday to Friday). A slow afternoon by the shore and sunset over Lake Ypacaraí. About 35 km from Asunción.

Areguá
Monumento Natural Cerros Kõi y Chororĩ
Lago Ypacaraí

Overnight: Areguá: La Candelaria Hotel Boutique (in the historic quarter) or Posada Mi Refugio (budget).

2

Ypacaraí, San Bernardino, and the Altos viewpoint

≈ 88 km

Circle the lake to the town of Ypacaraí, home of the Lake Festival. Continue to San Bernardino: a stroll along the waterfront, the 1888 Hotel del Lago, and lunch with a view of the water. In the afternoon, head up to Altos, a Franciscan town with German heritage known for its timbó-wood carvings and sweeping views of the Cordillera range. Return to Asunción at sunset. About 90 km.

Ypacaraí
San Bernardino
Altos

Overnight: Return to Asunción; or one more night in San Bernardino: Hotel del Lago, Hotel Los Alpes, La Posta, or Cabañas Los Árboles.

Tips

  • If you're traveling on a weekend, swap Cerro Kõi for a walk on Areguá's hill instead: the natural monument is only open Monday to Friday (check before you go).
  • Paraguay's environmental authority (MADES) has declared the lake unsafe for swimming for the 2025–2026 season: enjoy it from the waterfront and check official notices before any contact with the water.
  • In summer, San Bernardino fills up on weekends: book your accommodation ahead of time.
  • For a cultural afternoon, the Lake Ypacaraí Festival takes place in September or October, depending on the year.