The biggest carnival celebration in the region is held at Encarnacio in February. Featuring mainly Brazilian music and dance, it is the reason why Encarnacio is reputed as the ‘Carnival’ Capital of Paraguay.

The La Santisima Trinidad de Paraná, or the Holy Trinity of Paraná, is the name of a former Jesuit mission in Paraguay. An example of one of the Jesuit Reductions, miniature city-states that included natives with Christian ideologies, this site is now referred to as the ‘ruins of Trinidad’ and is one of the two UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The other, Jesus de Tavarangué, is also a must-visit.

The Menno Colonies in Hohenau, Obligado and Bella Vista offer an insight into the history of the Germans who came to Paraguay for religious reasons. 

A little outside Encarnacio is Manantial, a private reserve, which is ideal for horse riding, tracking and camping. Fishing in the Parana River is also a popular activity.

As well as the Pantheon Nacional, sites of interest in Asuncion include the early colonial Casa Viola, which was renovated to mark the 500th anniversary of the discovery of America; the intri...