Paraguari: Nature, Trails and History

Paraguari brings together nature experiences and a rich cultural history. In the Department of Paraguarí, protected landscapes meet distinctive trails and historic sites. Forests, streams and waterfalls define Ybycuí National Park; at Mbatoví Ecoreserve, the focus is on suspension bridges, zip lines and rappelling. There are also traces of iron smelting, a church dating from 1761 and cultural sites of remembrance. Depending on whether you prefer nature, active experiences or history, the department offers different starting points for planning your trip.

Nature and History in Ybycuí National Park

Ybycuí National Park protects extensive subtropical forests, clear streams and numerous waterfalls. If you want to experience nature there for more than just a day trip, you can camp. Check the practical details with the park administration before your trip. This keeps your planning focused on the practicalities of your stay, while the landscape itself is what makes the park special.

History is also part of this natural setting: the historic area of Ybycuí National Park includes a museum about iron smelting in that period. Together, the landscape and museum offer different perspectives on the park—its protected nature and the history of iron smelting. The waterfalls and streams provide a different focus from the museum, so a visit can connect nature with regional history.

Trails and Activities at Mbatoví Ecoreserve

At Mbatoví Ecoreserve, the circular trail follows the 2,000-meter-long Yvaropy Trail and crosses four suspension bridges. It also features zip lines 40 meters above the forest, as well as a rope descent—a rappel—down a natural rock face in the mountain range. These features describe different sections of the circuit: the route through the reserve, the elevated view over the forest and the descent down the rock face.

Another offering at the ecoreserve is the Tapé Saingó circuit. It includes activities at canopy level, using specialized instructors and internationally certified equipment. Its focus on the treetops sets it apart from the specific stations along the Yvaropy Trail. Those interested in activities above the forest floor will find another aspect of the nature experience at Mbatoví here.

Cultural Heritage in the Department

The church in Pirayú dates from 1761. The historic Campamento de Cerro León is also located near Pirayú. There, Marshal Francisco Solano López assembled and trained more than 30,000 soldiers. The church and the camp offer different historical perspectives: one is defined by its exact date of origin, the other by its role in the country’s history.

In Paraguarí, the former railway station was restored and converted into a cultural center with a library and museum rooms. In La Colmena, Expo Frutas is considered one of Paraguay’s most important festivals. The Doctor Hideho Tanaka Museum preserves the history and memory of La Colmena’s first Japanese settlers. These cultural themes range from a repurposed railway station to a festival and the memory of the town’s settlement history.

Other Nearby Places

Cascada Madama is located on a stream a few kilometers from Pirayú’s city center. Along with the waterfalls in Ybycuí National Park, Cascada Madama adds to the department’s natural attractions.

Discover more destinations: Paraguari, Ybycuí, Department of San Pedro, Amambay, Boquerón, Lambare, Misiones Department, Concepción.

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