LOCAL ATTRACTIONS
Attractions in Paraguarí and Guairá Provinces
Explore the vibrant craft markets and artisan workshops in the Paraguarí and Guairá provinces, where the timeless traditions of Paraguay come to life. Witness skilled artisans creating stunning ñandutí lace, hand-painted ceramics and intricate wood carvings. These hands-on experiences provide a unique opportunity to engage with the region’s craftsmanship.
In addition, delve into the region's rich history through engaging museum tours. These cultural institutions showcase the heritage, art and stories of the past, offering a deeper understanding of the traditions that shape Paraguay today.
La Colmena Japanese Heritage Center
This center features exhibits, historical artifacts and guided tours commemorating Japanese settlers who arrived in the 1930s. Activities often coincide with cultural festivals or significant anniversaries in Japanese heritage.
Areguá Craft Market
On the route to Paraguarí, this market offers ceramics, woodcrafts, and Paraguayan handicrafts. The market is active year-round but peaks during holidays and local festivals.
The artisans of Yataity
Located in the Guairá Department, pour their heart and soul into preserving the tradition of handcrafting fabrics and embroidery. These skilled weavers continue to keep this ancestral craft alive with passion and dedication.
Villarrica City Center
Offers historical landmarks, charming plazas, a beautiful cathedral and local markets with artisanal crafts.
Guaraní Language and Folklore
Held at cultural centers in Villarrica and Paraguarí, these workshops provide opportunities to learn Guaraní phrases, traditional dances and Paraguayan music. Dates and availability vary; contact local centers for scheduling.
Villarrica’s Teatro Municipal
The municipal theater hosts theatrical performances, concerts, and cultural shows. Events occur year-round; check the theater’s schedule for specific dates.
Historical Tours
Sapucai Historical Railway Station
Features preserved locomotives and colonial-era architecture, offering insight into Paraguay 's railway history.
Ybycuí National Park’s Iron Foundry Museum
This museum, within the park, provides insights into 19th-century iron production. Open year-round; guided tours are available.
Food and Culinary Tours
Cooking Classes
Learn to make traditional Paraguayan dishes like sopa paraguaya, chipa and asado. Offered periodically; contact local tourism offices for details.
Fruit and Honey Tasting in La Colmena
Seasonal guided tours showcase local agricultural produce, including plums, grapes and honey.
Music
Paraguayan Harp and Traditional Music Performances
Enjoy live Paraguayan harp and polka performances at culturaGuaraní Language and Folklore Workshops:l centers, public squares and special events in Villarrica and nearby towns.
Museums
Museo Hideho Tanaka (La Colmena)
The museum, inaugurated in 2009, celebrates Dr. Hideho Tanaka’s remarkable photographic archive of earlier times. Among community artifacts, his Zeiss Ikon Super Ikonta C 531/2—the camera behind the collection—remains a highlight for visitors.
Museo Fermín López (Villarrica)
The Museum is a cultural treasure that provides deep insight into the history and culture of the region. Originally used as a school between 1842 and 1867 during the administration of Don Carlos Antonio López, it stands as one of Villarrica’s oldest buildings.
Museo Gaspar Rodríguez de Francia in Yaguarón
The Museum is a cultural treasure that provides deep insight into the history and culture of the region. Originally used as a school between 1842 and 1867 during the administration of Don Carlos Antonio López, it stands as one of Villarrica’s oldest buildings.
Museo Tava Yaguaru in Yaguarón
This is an archaeological museum, It showcases the rich indigenous heritage of the region, displaying artifacts from the pre-Columbian Guaraní culture, including pottery, tools, and jewelry, highlighting the area's historical importance.
Museo Ramón Bogarín Arámbulo in Yaguarón
The Museum is dedicated to the legacy of Ramón Bogarín Arámbulo, a notable rural educator, cultural promoter, linguist and journalist . The museum highlights his contributions to the preservation of Guaraní culture and education.
Museo de Hierro La Rosada in Ybycuí
Located in Ybycuí National Park, the museum showcases Paraguay 's 19th-century ironworks heritage, including its ties to the historic foundry Mina Kué.
