Things to Do in Asuncion

About Asuncion

Where the Paraguay River bends through the heart of South America, Asunción pulses with a rhythm all its own—a capital city that has quietly preserved its colonial soul while embracing a distinctly Paraguayan identity shaped by Guaraní heritage and Spanish influence. This is a place where yerba mate culture runs deeper than coffee, where streets hum with both Guaraní and Spanish in equal measure, and where the modern world hasn't erased centuries of tradition. Asunción offers travelers something increasingly rare: an authentic South American experience untouched by mass tourism.

Travel Tips

• Currency and Cash: Always carry Paraguayan Guaraníes in cash, as many smaller businesses, taxis, and even some restaurants don't accept credit cards, and ATMs can be scarce outside the city center.

• Transport: Use the Uber-like app "MUV" or official radio taxis rather than hailing cabs on the street, as metered taxis are uncommon and you'll need to negotiate fares beforehand to avoid overcharging.

• Siesta Time: Plan your activities around the traditional siesta—many shops and businesses close between 12:00 PM and 3:00 PM, especially on weekends, so schedule museum visits and shopping for morning or late afternoon.

• Language: Learn basic Spanish phrases before arriving, as English is rarely spoken outside major hotels; even simple phrases like "¿Cuánto cuesta?" (How much?) will significantly improve your experience navigating markets and local establishments.

When to Visit

When to Visit Asunción, Paraguay

The optimal time to visit Asunción is during the mild autumn and spring months of April-May and September-October, when temperatures hover comfortably between 20-27°C (68-81°F) with lower humidity and minimal rainfall, making city exploration and riverfront walks along the Paraguay River genuinely pleasant. December through February brings oppressive summer heat with temperatures soaring to 35-40°C (95-104°F) and humidity levels exceeding 80%, though this coincides with Asunción's vibrant Carnaval celebrations in February and the major San Juan festivities on June 24th (which actually falls in winter but involves traditional fire-jumping rituals). June through August constitutes winter, offering relief with cooler 15-23°C (59-73°F) temperatures perfect for exploring outdoor markets like Mercado 4 and historic sites, though occasional cold fronts can drop temperatures unexpectedly and bring dreary, overcast skies for days. Budget travelers should note that December-February sees higher accommodation prices despite the uncomfortable heat, while May and September offer excellent value with pleasant weather and fewer tourists, though you'll miss major festivals like Independence Day on May 14-15 (which features military parades and folk celebrations worth experiencing despite larger crowds). Rainfall is distributed fairly evenly year-round with 100-150mm monthly, but January and March tend toward heavier downpours that can flood low-lying areas of the city, while July-August brings the driest conditions for uninterrupted sightseeing.