Things To Do
in Benjamín Aceval

Benjamín Aceval is a small, rural town in western Paraguay set in flat, open plains of the Gran Chaco. It offers a laid-back pace and authentic local life, with agriculture and cattle ranching shaping daily rhythms. The town serves as a welcoming gateway to regional nature, mercados, and Paraguayan hospitality.

Visitors should expect simple comforts, warm conversations, and scenic sunsets over expansive skies.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring the Heart of Benjamín Aceval
morning
:

Start your day with a refreshing breakfast at a local café, enjoying traditional Paraguayan pastries. Afterward, take a stroll through the vibrant city park, where you can admire local flora and engage with friendly locals. Embrace the morning sunlight as you capture photos of the beautiful landscapes.

afternoon
:

For lunch, savor authentic Paraguayan dishes at a popular restaurant, indulging in dishes like sopa paraguaya and empanadas. Post-lunch, visit the Municipality Museum to delve into the rich cultural history of Benjamín Aceval. Engage with the staff, who often share fascinating stories about the town's past.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head to a local eatery for dinner, where you can enjoy a lively atmosphere and delicious grilled meats. Join the locals in a square, where various cultural events may be ongoing, providing a glimpse of Paraguayan music and dance. Wind down the day by relaxing at your accommodation, reflecting on the day’s adventures.

day 2
Visit to Local Markets
morning
:

Begin your day by visiting the bustling local market, where vendors sell a variety of fresh produce and artisan goods. The morning atmosphere is filled with vibrant colors and enticing aromas, making it a feast for the senses. Engage with the vendors to learn about traditional Paraguayan ingredients and cooking techniques.

afternoon
:

After lunch at a nearby café, explore nearby artisan shops that showcase local crafts and handmade goods, perfect for souvenir hunting. As you wander the streets, take time to interact with artists, who are often more than happy to share the stories behind their creations. This afternoon is a chance to appreciate the local craftsmanship and creativity.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a traditional parrilla, where you can experience the joy of Paraguayan barbecue. The community often gathers here, making it a great place to make friends and enjoy local hospitality. Conclude your evening by participating in a local dance class or simply enjoying the sounds of music in the air.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$8-12
💧Bottle of water (1.5L)$0.50-1.50
🚕Taxi ride (short trip)$3-6
🏨Midrange hotel room (per night)$40-70
🎟Museum/attraction entry$2-6

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Calm pace of life and friendly locals
  • Genuine access to rural Paraguayan culture and cuisine
  • Low-cost travel with authentic experiences
  • Nice opportunities for nature and photography
  • Limited nightlife and few large amenities
  • Occasional language barriers outside major towns
  • Long drives to larger cities for major healthcare or international flights
  • Public transportation can be infrequent
  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "Buenos días" - Good morning
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Hablo inglés" - I speak English
  • "¿Puede ayudarme?" - Can you help me?

Places to Visit in Benjamín Aceval

Visit one of these nice places.

Río Paraguayo Riverside

Wide river views with expansive skies; ideal for sunsets and calm water reflections.

Mercado Municipal Facade

Colorful market architecture and everyday life—perfect for candid street photography and local textures.

Open Gran Chaco Plains

Wide, flat landscapes that showcase the region’s vastness and golden-hour light.

Culinary Guide

Food in Benjamín Aceval

Paraguayan cuisine in Benjamín Aceval centers on hearty, home-style dishes that rely on corn, cheese, cassava, beef, and fresh produce. Expect comforting staples, approachable flavors, and generous portions, with guaraná and mate as common beverages.

Benjamín Aceval Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Chipa guasu

Savory corn cake baked with cheese and onions; a staple at family meals and bakeries.

Must-Try!

Sopa paraguaya

Cornmeal-based savory bread pudding with cheese and onions; a comforting pan of goodness.

Chipa

Cheese bread made from cassava flour; a portable snack found in markets and bakeries.

Bori-bori

Cornmeal dumplings in flavorful broth often featuring vegetables and meat; a traditional soup.

Asado paraguayo

Grilled beef or pork, often served with mandioca (cassava) and fresh salad; popular at family gatherings.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal de Benjamín Aceval

Local market offering fresh produce, cheeses, bread, and snacks; great for tasting empanadas and chipa from street vendors.

Climate Guide

Weather

The region has a warm, subtropical climate typical of the Gran Chaco, with hot summers, a distinct rainy season, and mild winters. Rainfall is heavier from October to April, while May through September tends to be drier and cooler. Humidity can be high in the wet season, contributing to warm evenings and lush vegetation.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

greetings and courtesy

Greet with a handshake or light verbal salutation; maintain polite tone and eye contact. Use 'usted' for formal address with strangers, and often exchange small talk about family and health.

Punctuality and conversation

Punctuality is flexible in social settings; long conversations over meals are common—enjoy the sobremesa (time after meals) chatting with locals.

Dress and modesty

Dress modestly when visiting rural areas or markets; comfortable clothing is typical for day-to-day activities.

Safety Guide

Safety

General safety is good in town, but petty theft can occur in crowded markets. Keep valuables secure, use reputable taxis, and avoid isolated rural roads at night. Travel with adequate health insurance and keep emergency numbers handy; drink only bottled water or properly treated water.

Tipping in Benjamín Aceval

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In restaurants, 10-15% can be offered if service is not included. Casual bar staff may appreciate small tips; taxis typically do not expect tips but rounding up fare is common.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted in towns; many places also accept debit/credit cards, especially larger businesses and hotels. ATMs are available in the town center.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot and humid with frequent afternoon showers; carry water, wear light clothing, and use sun protection. Seek shade during peak heat and plan outdoor activities for early mornings or late afternoons.

Autumn

Warm days with cooler evenings; pleasant for outdoor exploration and photography; occasional rain showers.

Winter

Milder daytime temperatures but can be cool at night; layering is key; humidity may be lower, making outdoor activities comfortable.

Spring

Warm days with blooming flora; good for nature walks and birdwatching; expect variable rain.

Nightlife Guide

Benjamín Aceval at Night

Benjamín Aceval’s nightlife is relaxed and intimate: small bars and cafes where locals gather after work, often with live music on weekends. Expect friendly conversations, simple drinks, and a family-friendly atmosphere rather than large clubs. Some venues may feature traditional Paraguayan folk music or acoustic sets, creating a cozy, town-centered vibe.

Hiking in Benjamín Aceval

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Río Paraguayo Riverside Trail

Easy walking path along the riverbank with chances to spot waterbirds and enjoy sunset views.

Chaco Flatlands Loop

Moderate loop through open scrubland; bring water and sun protection; good for birdwatching.

Laguna Itá Nature Walk

Seasonal wetland area with reeds and wildlife; best in the dry season when trails are clearer.

Airports

How to reach Benjamín Aceval by plane.

Silvio Pettirossi International Airport (ASU)

Main international gateway to Paraguay, located near Asunción; orders and connections to international destinations; a longer travel distance from Aceval.

Resistencia International Airport (RES)

Airport serving Resistencia, Argentina; convenient for cross-border trips to western Paraguay and the Gran Chaco region.

Clorinda International Airport (CLA)

Small international airport in Clorinda, Argentina; useful for regional flights and cross-border travel.

Getting Around

Walkability

The town center is compact and walkable; most amenities, markets, and eateries are within a short stroll. For surrounding rural areas and nature spots, a short drive or taxi is often more practical.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Mestizo

The majority population, with mixed Indigenous and European ancestry.

Indigenous communities

Smaller local groups with distinct cultural practices and languages.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Futbol (Soccer)

The main sport nationwide, with local teams and informal matches throughout the week.

Pato

Traditional horse-riding ball game enjoyed in rural areas and some festivals.

Transportation

Traffic

Roads within the town are light to moderate, with private cars and buses as primary transport. On market days, streets can be busier; intercity buses connect to larger towns, while taxis or rideshares cover short trips.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Benjamín Aceval.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Options include sopa paraguaya and chipa guasu; communicate clearly to avoid meat broths and lard. Fresh salads and cassava dishes are common vegetarian-friendly choices; in restaurants, ask for vegetable sides and avoid heavy meat sauces.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic healthcare is available in the town via local clinics; for more advanced services, patients typically travel to larger towns or Asunción. It’s wise to have travel health insurance and carry essential medications.

Discover Paraguay

Read more in our Paraguay 2025 Travel Guide.

Paraguay Travel Guide