Things to Do in Asuncion in March

March Weather in Asuncion

32°C (89°F) High Temp

21°C (70°F) Low Temp

132 mm (5.2 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is March Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect shoulder season weather with comfortable 21-32°C (70-89°F) temperatures and manageable humidity before the intense summer heat hits
Lowest accommodation prices of the year - hotel rates drop 30-40% compared to peak winter months as tourists haven't discovered March yet
Prime festival season with Carnaval de Encarnación spillover events and traditional Paraguayan music festivals throughout the city
Ideal conditions for exploring the historic Casco Viejo on foot - warm enough for comfortable walking but not the punishing heat of April-September

Considerations

Afternoon thunderstorms hit 10 days per month, typically lasting 45-60 minutes and disrupting outdoor plans between 3-5pm
High humidity at 70% makes it feel hotter than actual temperature, especially for visitors from dry climates
Some riverfront activities may be limited due to Paraguay River water levels fluctuating from late summer rains

Best Activities in March

Historic Asunción Walking Tours

March's moderate temperatures make this the ideal month for exploring Casco Histórico's colonial architecture and cobblestone streets. Morning tours (8-11am) avoid afternoon storms and offer perfect lighting for photography. The 70% humidity is manageable in early hours, and you'll have iconic sites like Casa de la Independencia practically to yourself.

Booking Tip: Book walking tours 5-7 days ahead through certified guides. Typical tours cost 150,000-250,000 PYG and last 3-4 hours. Look for guides certified by SENATUR. See current tour options in the booking section below.

Paraguay River Sunset Cruises

March evenings offer spectacular sunsets over the Paraguay River with comfortable 24-26°C (75-79°F) temperatures. The rainy season creates dramatic cloud formations perfect for photography. River levels are stable, and you'll avoid the brutal summer heat that makes deck time unbearable in later months.

Booking Tip: Evening river cruises typically cost 200,000-350,000 PYG per person. Book 10-14 days ahead as March is popular with locals celebrating end of summer. Look for operators with covered areas in case of late storms. Check current options in the booking widget below.

Mercado 4 and Local Market Exploration

March brings seasonal fruits like mamón and fresh vegetables from the recent harvest. The market is most comfortable in early morning hours (6-9am) before heat and humidity peak. You'll find the best prices on traditional crafts as vendors clear inventory before Easter season pricing.

Booking Tip: Guided market tours cost 100,000-180,000 PYG and include tastings. Book morning slots (7-10am) to avoid afternoon storms. Look for guides who speak your language and know vendor relationships. See current market tour options below.

Day Trips to Itauguá Ñandutí Workshops

March is prime time for visiting traditional lace-making workshops in nearby Itauguá, just 30 km (18.6 miles) from Asunción. Cooler morning temperatures make the 45-minute drive comfortable, and artisans are preparing inventory for upcoming festivals. The humidity actually helps preserve the delicate threads during demonstrations.

Booking Tip: Day trips including transport and workshop visits typically cost 250,000-400,000 PYG. Book through licensed tour operators 1-2 weeks ahead. Morning departures (8am) return by 3pm to avoid afternoon storms. Current day trip options available in booking section below.

Traditional Paraguayan Cooking Classes

March features seasonal ingredients like fresh corn for traditional chipa and locro. Indoor cooking classes are perfect during the 10 rainy days, and many schools offer special March menus featuring Carnaval-inspired dishes. The moderate temperatures make kitchen work more comfortable than summer months.

Booking Tip: Cooking classes range 180,000-300,000 PYG for 4-5 hour experiences including meal. Book 1 week ahead as March is popular with food enthusiasts. Look for classes in air-conditioned spaces with local chef instructors. See current cooking class options below.

Botanical Garden and Zoo Nature Walks

The 110-hectare botanical garden is spectacular in March with flowering jacarandas and manageable walking conditions. Early morning visits (7-9am) offer the best wildlife viewing and comfortable temperatures before the day heats up. The zoo's native animals are most active during March's moderate climate.

Booking Tip: Entry fees are typically 15,000-25,000 PYG. Guided nature walks cost 80,000-120,000 PYG additional. Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid midday heat and potential storms. No advance booking required for general admission.

March Events & Festivals

Mid March

Festival de la Canción Paraguaya

Annual celebration of traditional Paraguayan folk music held in various venues across Asunción. Features performances by renowned artists playing harp, guitar, and traditional ensembles. Evening concerts take advantage of March's comfortable temperatures.

Late March

Feria de San José Artisan Markets

Special artisan markets appear throughout the city celebrating Saint Joseph's Day with traditional crafts, foods, and live music. Perfect for experiencing local culture and purchasing authentic Paraguayan handicrafts at pre-Easter season prices.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight rain jacket or compact umbrella - afternoon storms last 45-60 minutes but are intense

Breathable cotton or linen clothing in light colors - avoid polyester which becomes uncomfortable in 70% humidity

SPF 50+ sunscreen and wide-brimmed hat - UV index reaches 8 even on cloudy days

Comfortable walking shoes with good grip - cobblestone streets become slippery when wet

Light sweater or jacket for evening river cruises when temperature drops to 21°C (70°F)

Quick-dry pants/shorts for unexpected rain showers during outdoor activities

Insect repellent containing DEET - mosquitoes are active during humid evenings

Portable fan or cooling towel - humidity makes it feel 3-5°C warmer than actual temperature

Waterproof phone case or dry bag for electronics during storm season

Electrolyte supplements or rehydration salts for hot, humid walking days

Insider Knowledge

Book accommodations in Carmelitas or Villa Morra neighborhoods - they have better drainage during March storms and are walkable to major attractions

Avoid scheduling outdoor activities between 3-5pm when 60% of March thunderstorms occur - plan indoor museum visits or shopping during these hours instead

Exchange money at cambios in downtown rather than hotels - March rates are more favorable as tourism is low and competition is high

Take advantage of March's low tourist season by negotiating prices at artisan markets - vendors are more flexible before Easter season demand increases

Avoid These Mistakes

Planning full outdoor itineraries without indoor backup options - March storms are unpredictable and can last over an hour

Wearing synthetic fabrics that trap moisture - cotton and linen are essential in Paraguay's 70% humidity levels

Booking accommodations without air conditioning thinking March is 'cool' - humidity makes it feel much warmer than temperature suggests