Cordillera: Pilgrimage Church, Crafts and Hills

In Caacupé, the Basílica Menor de Nuestra Señora de los Milagros makes a striking impression: the Santuario Nacional is one of Paraguay’s largest churches and houses the image of the country’s patron saint. Caacupé is the capital of the Department of Cordillera and is considered Paraguay’s most important center of the Catholic faith. Tupãsy Ykua, a historic spring with crystal-clear water closely associated with popular devotion, offers another facet of religious culture.

Places with a history

In San Bernardino, Casa Hassler preserves significant collections relating to the city’s origins as a cultural and historical site. For information about the department, the Centro de Experiencias Turísticas in San Bernardino provides detailed information on attractions, routes, leisure activities and services. The Museo Nacional Vapor Cué in Caraguatay offers a different historical focus: its exhibits include artillery, the remains of warships and two recovered ships, each accompanied by explanatory infographics. These different places offer visitors a range of ways to explore history and plan their visits, each with its own distinct focus.

Crafts, art and flavor

In Altos, wood carving from Timbó is a cultural hallmark. Motifs include colorful animal figures, masks and mythological beings; the practice began during the festivities of San Pedro and San Pablo. In Tobatí, visitors can view and purchase handmade pieces by local artisans at Villa Artesanal. The works combine traditional techniques with contemporary creativity. Also in Tobatí, TOBA, an art shop and studio, organizes workshops and community activities to promote the learning and passing on of traditional art. At Parque Natural Ysypo, visitors will find figures of elephants, giraffes, monkeys, rhinoceroses and other animals, handcrafted from Ysypo. Eusebio Ayala, in turn, is known throughout the country as the birthplace of the famous Chipá Barrero, one of the best-known specialties of Paraguayan cuisine.

Hills, views and outdoor activities

The extensive hills and uneven terrain of Tobatí are well suited to adventure tourism, including hiking and rappelling. At the local Cerro, rappelling and caving at Mbopi Kuá are among the eco-tourism activities on offer. Mirador de Tobatí offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and the city. Stairs and ramps provide access for the climb. In Atyrá, the rocky slopes and picturesque landscapes are ideal for hikes and outdoor walks. Both Atyrá and Altos offer opportunities to climb hills and enjoy panoramic views. The outdoor activities described differ accordingly: Tobatí combines hiking with rappelling and caving, while walks are also mentioned for Atyrá; Altos and Atyrá round out the options with hills and views.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Atyra, San Bernardino, Altos, Caacupé, Piribebuy, Tobati, Arroyos Y Esteros, Nueva Colombia District, Itacurubí de la Cordillera, Caraguatay.

For the main travel overview: Paraguay.