Things To Do
in Acahay
Acahay is a small rural town in central Paraguay known for its calm pace and agricultural surroundings. The town has friendly locals, a tight-knit community, and simple, traditional shops and markets. The landscape features rolling farmland, palm-lined streets, and nearby waterways that invite short walks and scenic drives.
It makes a comfortable base for exploring inland Paraguay with day trips to Asunción or nearby nature spots.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Acahay and settle into your accommodation. Take a leisurely stroll around the town to absorb the local atmosphere and appreciate the charming architecture. Enjoy a traditional Paraguayan breakfast at a local café.
Visit the local market to shop for handicrafts and taste some street food. Engage with local artisans to learn about their crafts, and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Acahay. Spend time exploring the main square and take photographs of the surrounding scenery.
Dine at a cozy restaurant that specializes in Paraguayan cuisine. Try traditional dishes such as sopa paraguaya and grilled meats while enjoying the warm ambiance. End the evening with a walk under the stars, listening to the sounds of the town settling down for the night.
Start your day with a visit to the local museum to learn about Acahay's history and cultural significance. Explore exhibits that showcase indigenous art and colonial artifacts. A guided tour will give you deeper insights into the town’s heritage.
Head to a nearby artisan workshop to witness the craft of pottery-making firsthand. Participate in a pottery class where you can create your own piece as a memento. Afterward, enjoy lunch at a quaint eatery that serves homemade dishes.
Attend a local dance performance that features traditional Paraguayan folklore. Experience the vibrant rhythms and colorful costumes, allowing you to connect with the local culture. Conclude your night with a discussion with the performers about the significance of their art.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| 🚌Local transit ticket (one-way) | $0.5-1 |
| 🧃Bottle of water (1.5L) | $0.5-1 |
| 🛏️Basic hotel room per night | $25-50 |
| 🍺Local beer | $2-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Tranquil small-town atmosphere with friendly locals
- Affordable prices and simple, hearty Paraguayan cuisine
- Limited nightlife and tourist infrastructure
- Fewer direct international flight options; require a connection to Asunción
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Mba'éichapa nde?" - How are you? (Guarani)
- "Ama guereko nde rehe hína?" - Are you from here? (Guarani)
Places to Visit in Acahay
Visit one of these nice places.
Central square with a colonial church and early-morning light reflecting on the fountain.
Long, straight roads with golden skies and expansive crop fields for wide-angle shots.
A small pedestrian bridge offering reflections and candid shots of daily life.
Historic church with white walls and flowering trees, ideal for portraits and quiet scenes.
Food in Acahay
Acahay Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fluffy, savory corn bread with cheese and onions; a staple at family tables and markets.
Must-Try!
Cheese-stuffed bread baked fresh in ovens; commonly eaten for breakfast or as a snack.
Paraguayan barbecue featuring beef and pork, typically served with mandioca and salads.
Starch-based pancake with cheese; widely available at markets and street stalls.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A modest market where locals buy produce, cheese, and freshly baked breads; look for chipa and empanadas from stalls.
Portable chipa vendors around town; ideal for a quick, authentic snack.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common; greet locals with Spanish phrases such as Buenos días or Buenas tardes, followed by a polite nod or smile.
Spanish is widely spoken; Guarani is common in rural areas; learning a few phrases helps during interactions.
Family meals are important; wait for everyone to be served before eating; sobremesa is a common, lingering conversation after meals.
Safety
Tipping in Acahay
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping around 5-10% in restaurants if service is not included; small tips for taxi drivers and guides are appreciated.
Cash is widely used (in Guarani and local currency); some places accept credit cards, especially in larger towns; ATMs are common in town centers.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon showers; stay hydrated, wear lightweight clothing, and carry a light rain layer.
Mild to cool temperatures with comfortable daytime heat and cooler evenings; great for outdoor exploration with layers.
Acahay at Night
Hiking in Acahay
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle trails meandering through farmland with river views; suitable for beginners.
Scenic viewpoints offering panoramic shots of the Cordillera countryside.
Airports
How to reach Acahay by plane.
The main international gateway serving Asunción; reachable by car or bus from Acahay.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many residents live in small farms or ranches surrounding the town, keeping traditional farming practices alive.
Some young people move to Asunción or other cities for work or study; a portion remain in the region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Paraguay; you’ll often see local matches and community leagues.
A traditional Paraguayan polo-like game played with a ball on horseback; regional demonstrations may occur in rural events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Acahay.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can find cheese-based dishes, fresh salads, and corn-based meals; ask for options like sopa paraguaya, mbeju, and fresh vegetables.