Things to Do in Asuncion in February

February Weather in Asuncion

32°C (91°F) High Temp

22°C (72°F) Low Temp

147 mm (5.8 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is February Right for You?

Advantages

Peak mango season means incredible fresh fruit and tereré variations - roadside vendors sell perfectly ripe mangoes for 3,000-5,000 guaraníes (about $0.40-0.67) each
Ideal temperature for walking tours of Casco Histórico - mornings (8-11am) average 24°C (75°F) before the day heats up, perfect for exploring colonial architecture without exhaustion
Carnival preparations create vibrant street energy throughout the month, with costume workshops, music rehearsals, and impromptu celebrations in barrios like Recoleta and San Roque
Rio Paraguay water levels are optimal for sunset boat tours - 30-40cm (12-16 inches) higher than dry season, making pier access easier and scenery more lush

Considerations

Afternoon thunderstorms hit suddenly between 2-5pm on 60% of days - they're intense with heavy rain and can flood streets for 1-2 hours, disrupting outdoor plans
Humidity makes outdoor activities feel 5-7°C (9-13°F) hotter than actual temperature - what feels like 35°C (95°F) at 2pm can be exhausting for walking tours
Peak summer means higher accommodation rates - budget hotels increase 25-40% compared to shoulder season, and booking less than 3 weeks ahead leaves limited options

Best Activities in February

Early Morning Mercado Cuatro Food Tours

February's mango and watermelon season makes this the year's best time for market tours. Start at 7am before the heat builds - vendors are most animated, produce is freshest, and you'll taste seasonal specialties like mbaipy with fresh corn and sopa paraguaya made with peak-season cheese. The covered sections provide relief when afternoon storms roll in.

Booking Tip: Book walking food tours 5-7 days ahead, typically cost 80,000-120,000 guaraníes ($11-16). Look for tours that start by 8am latest and include covered market sections. See current tour options in the booking section below.

Rio Paraguay Sunset Cruises

February's higher water levels and dramatic storm clouds create spectacular sunset viewing conditions. The river is 30-40cm (12-16 inches) higher than dry season, making boarding easier and vegetation more lush. Departures at 6pm catch golden hour before typical evening storms, with views of Palacio de los López and modern skyline.

Booking Tip: River tours cost 60,000-100,000 guaraníes ($8-14) for 90-minute cruises. Book same-day at Puerto de Asunción or 2-3 days ahead during weekends. Choose covered boats for storm protection. See current options in booking section below.

Colonial Architecture Walking Routes

February mornings (8-10am) offer perfect conditions for exploring Casco Histórico's colonial buildings. Temperature averages 24°C (75°F), humidity is lowest of the day, and angled morning light creates ideal photography conditions for Panteón Nacional and Casa de la Independencia. Complete tours before afternoon heat peaks.

Booking Tip: Self-guided tours are free with downloadable maps from municipal tourism office. Guided tours cost 50,000-80,000 guaraníes ($7-11) for 2-3 hours. Book for 8am start times to beat heat and crowds. Current guided tour availability in booking section below.

Costanera Norte Evening Strolls

February evenings along the riverfront promenade offer relief from daytime heat with river breezes and local social life. Families gather for tereré circles, street food vendors serve seasonal treats, and the skyline views are enhanced by dramatic storm clouds. Peak activity happens 6-9pm when temperatures drop to comfortable 26°C (79°F).

Booking Tip: Free activity - just show up any evening. Street food costs 5,000-15,000 guaraníes ($0.70-2) per item. Rent bikes at Costanera for 20,000-30,000 guaraníes ($3-4) per hour. No advance booking needed for individual visits.

Traditional Craft Workshop Experiences

February's rainy afternoons make this ideal for indoor cultural activities. Learn ñandutí lacemaking, pottery, or traditional weaving in air-conditioned workshops. Many artisans offer extended sessions during slow tourist season, providing deeper cultural immersion when outdoor activities are limited by weather.

Booking Tip: Workshops cost 100,000-200,000 guaraníes ($14-28) for 2-4 hour sessions. Book 3-5 days ahead as group sizes are limited to 6-8 people. Look for workshops in Itauguá or central Asunción neighborhoods. Current workshop availability in booking section below.

February Events & Festivals

Throughout February

Carnaval Encarnaceno Preparations

Throughout February, neighborhoods host costume-making workshops and music rehearsals for Paraguay's biggest carnival celebration. While main events happen in Encarnación, Asunción neighborhoods like San Roque and Recoleta hold weekly practice sessions and smaller street parties with traditional polka and guarania music.

Mid to Late February

Festival de Verano Municipal

City-sponsored summer festival featuring local bands, food vendors, and artisan markets in various parks. Events rotate between Parque Ñu Guasu and downtown plazas, typically Thursday-Saturday evenings to take advantage of cooler temperatures and weekend crowds.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight waterproof jacket or poncho - afternoon storms produce heavy rain for 20-30 minutes and can flood streets temporarily

Breathable cotton or linen clothing - avoid polyester fabrics in 70% humidity as they trap moisture and become uncomfortable quickly

SPF 50+ sunscreen and wide-brim hat - UV index reaches 8 even on cloudy days, and reflection off Rio Paraguay intensifies exposure

Comfortable walking shoes with good grip - wet cobblestones in Casco Histórico become slippery during and after rain showers

Small backpack or waterproof bag - protects electronics and documents during sudden downpours while exploring markets or outdoor sites

Insect repellent with DEET - higher humidity increases mosquito activity, especially near the river and in parks during evening hours

Quick-dry shorts or pants - one backup pair essential since afternoon rains can soak clothing and high humidity slows drying time

Portable phone charger/power bank - air conditioning and fans drain batteries faster, and you'll rely on maps and translation apps frequently

Cash in small bills (10,000-50,000 guaraní notes) - many vendors and transport don't accept large bills or cards, especially during market visits

Insider Knowledge

Time major sightseeing for 8am-noon window - locals know to complete outdoor errands before afternoon heat peaks and storms typically begin around 2pm

Skip expensive hotel breakfasts and head to Mercado de Abasto by 7am for fresh tropical fruit, empanadas (3,000-5,000 guaraníes each), and excellent coffee for under $3 total

Use the 'Más' bus card system launched in 2024 - costs 15,000 guaraníes to purchase but saves 30% on all city bus fares compared to cash payments to drivers

February's mango glut means tereré (cold mate) vendors add fresh fruit juice - ask for 'tereré con mango' at any plaza for an authentic seasonal experience locals love

Avoid These Mistakes

Planning outdoor activities for 2-5pm when afternoon thunderstorms are most likely - many tourists lose half their sightseeing day waiting out sudden heavy rains

Wearing synthetic fabrics in 70% humidity - cotton and linen are essential as polyester becomes unbearably sticky within minutes of walking outside

Assuming all attractions stay open during storms - many outdoor sites like Jardín Botánico close temporarily during heavy rain for safety reasons