Things To Do
in Candelaria
Candelaria is a quiet river town in Misiones Province, perched along the Paraná River with a relaxed pace and lush subtropical surroundings. It blends a rural, community-focused atmosphere with influences from Paraguayan and Argentine river culture. The area offers easy access to forested reserves and wetlands, making nature a constant presence just outside town limits.
Visitors are drawn to the friendly locals, simple plazas, and authentic regional flavors that reflect the river and countryside.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the historic center of Candelaria, admiring the charming colonial architecture and vibrant colors of the buildings. Visit the local church, Iglesia de San Francisco, and soak in its intricate details and serene atmosphere. Stop by a nearby café for a traditional Argentine breakfast of medialunas and café con leche.
After lunch, explore the Museo de Candelaria, where you can learn about the local history and culture through its fascinating exhibits. Take a walk along the main plaza, where you can interact with locals and maybe catch a cultural performance. As the sun begins to set, find a spot on a bench to relax and enjoy the picturesque surroundings.
For dinner, indulge in a meal at a local parrilla, where you can savor mouthwatering Argentine asado. Afterward, take a leisurely walk around the plaza, perhaps enjoying some live music from street performers. Wrap up your evening with a sweet treat from a nearby heladería, sampling the famous dulce de leche ice cream.
Begin your day with a guided tour to the nearby nature reserve, where you can witness the diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes of the region. Bring your binoculars to spot exotic birds and other native species as you hike through the lush trails. A picnic breakfast amidst nature will make for a refreshing start to your adventure.
In the afternoon, continue your exploration by visiting the local eco-center, where you can learn about conservation efforts and the importance of protecting the environment. Participate in an interactive workshop that teaches sustainable practices and local traditions. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at an eco-friendly restaurant that uses locally sourced ingredients.
Return to Candelaria in the evening, where you can unwind at a local café with a view of the sunset. Reflect on your day’s experiences over a glass of Malbec or a refreshing herbal tea. You may even catch a small local festival or market in the plaza, showcasing artisan crafts and local delicacies.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $2-3 |
| 🍽️Dinner for two at a mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel room (1 night) | $50-90 |
| 🚕Taxi ride within town | $3-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quaint, less-touristy feel with authentic local life
- Access to river life and nature at a relaxed pace
- Limited nightlife and fewer big-city amenities
- Distances to larger hubs can be long for day trips
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Quisiera una mesa para dos, por favor." - I would like a table for two, please.
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Buenas tardes" - Good afternoon
- "¿Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Candelaria
Visit one of these nice places.
Long, golden horizons at sunrise and sunset with the river’s calm reflections.
A picturesque church against a broad sky, great for architectural and sunset shots.
Cobbled square with benches, trees, and local life for candid photography.
Colorful market stalls and texture along the riverbank, ideal for street photography.
Food in Candelaria
Candelaria Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grilled pacú, a river fish, often served with mandioca and lime.
Must-Try!
Grilled pejerrey, a popular river fish, with simple seasoning.
A cheese-stuffed starch pancake typical of the region.
A cheesy, subtly salty bread made with mandioca flour.
A cornbread-style dish with cheese and onions, reflecting Paraguayan influence.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A local market where you can try fresh produce, empanadas, and traditional snacks.
Try empanadas, humita in the husk, and corn-based treats from roadside stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly hello (Hola, buenos días) and a handshake; use polite forms with elders.
If offered mate, accept with a light handshake or smile; don’t drink directly from a shared mate unless invited.
Casual conversations about family and local life are common; avoid controversial topics in the first chat.
Safety
Tipping in Candelaria
Ensure a smooth experience
Service is often included; if not, a 5-10% tip is appreciated in restaurants; rounding up for drivers is common.
Cash (Argentine pesos) is commonly accepted; many places also accept debit/credit cards, especially in towns; ATMs are available in larger towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days, high humidity and rain showers; quick afternoon storms are common; bring light clothing and sunscreen.
Mornings are mild, days gradually cool; pleasant for outdoor walks and river views.
Mild with cooler evenings; pack a light jacket; mornings can be foggy near the river.
Warm days with fresh greenery and blooming flora; good for hiking and outdoor activities.
Candelaria at Night
Hiking in Candelaria
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy-to-moderate hikes along riverbanks and protected wooded areas with wildlife viewing.
Short, flat trails through marshy areas offering birdwatching and nature photography.
Airports
How to reach Candelaria by plane.
Located near Puerto Iguazú, Argentina; connects to national hubs and some regional destinations; about 200-250 km from Candelaria.
Libertador General José de San Martín Airport, Posadas; serves national flights and connects to Buenos Aires and other major cities; roughly 250-300 km from Candelaria.
Located in Foz do Iguaçu, Brazil; international connections and regional flights; about 350-400 km from Candelaria.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Criollo and Mestizo populations with Paraguayan and Brazilian influences; Spanish is dominant, with Guarani and Portuguese spoken by some communities.
Guarani language and cultural influences are present in local traditions and crafts.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Argentina, with local clubs and informal matches in towns and schools.
Traditional horse-ranch sport with a ball; less common but part of regional heritage.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Candelaria.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options revolve around mandioca, corn, beans, yuca, plantains, and seasonal vegetables. Ask for sin carne and sin pescado and request dishes prepared without meat stock.