Things To Do
in Borja
Borja is a small, rural town in Paraguay characterized by low-rise buildings, wide unpaved streets and a close-knit community where agriculture and cattle ranching shape daily life. The town is a good base for exploring nearby rivers, wetlands and lowland savannas, offering quiet nature experiences and traditional Paraguayan hospitality. Visitors will encounter a mix of Paraguayan Spanish and Guaraní in everyday conversation, simple local markets and a slow pace that highlights local customs.
While services are basic compared with larger cities, Borja rewards travelers looking for authentic rural culture and outdoor activities.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, enjoying traditional Paraguayan dishes like chipa and tereré. Afterward, wander through the charming streets of Borja's historic center, admiring colonial architecture and vibrant murals that tell the story of the town. Make sure to visit the local market, where you can interact with friendly vendors and pick up unique handmade crafts.
In the afternoon, delve deeper into Borja's rich history by visiting the Museo Histórico, where you’ll find artifacts and exhibitions that showcase the town's cultural heritage. Stroll through the picturesque Plaza de los Héroes, a perfect spot for relaxing under the shade of trees while observing the daily life of locals. Enjoy a light lunch at a nearby eatery, sampling local specialties like sopa paraguaya, a cheesy cornbread.
As the sun sets, head to a local restaurant known for its traditional Paraguayan barbecue, where you can savor delicious grilled meats. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the riverside promenade, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere and the sound of flowing water. End the night with a visit to a small local bar, where you can enjoy live music and dance to traditional Paraguayan tunes.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation before embarking on a trip to the nearby Mbaracayú Forest. Join a guided tour to explore the lush landscapes, where you can spot diverse bird species and unique wildlife in their natural habitat. The early morning is the best time to witness the vibrant colors of nature as the sun rises over the forest canopy.
After a morning of exploration, enjoy a packed lunch amidst the beauty of the forest, surrounded by the sounds of chirping birds and rustling leaves. Continue your adventure with a hike along well-marked trails, leading you to stunning viewpoints where you can take breathtaking photographs. Keep an eye out for the endemic species that call this region home, adding to the thrill of your wildlife experience.
Return to Borja in the evening, where you can unwind at a local café with a refreshing drink. Reflect on your day while enjoying a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for sharing stories with fellow travelers. Savor a light dinner featuring local ingredients, taking advantage of the quiet ambiance to relax after an adventurous day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-8 |
| ☕Coffee and chipa (market snack) | $1-2 |
| 🏨Basic guesthouse / hospedaje (per night) | $15-35 |
| 🚕Local taxi or short ride | $1-5 |
| ⛽Liter of gasoline | $0.8-1.2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic rural Paraguayan culture and hospitality
- Access to rivers, wetlands and birdwatching without crowds
- Low cost of living and inexpensive local food
- Relaxed pace and opportunities for immersive experiences
- Limited tourist infrastructure and modest accommodation options
- Restricted card acceptance and few ATMs — cash is needed
- Fewer dining variety and nightlife options compared with larger cities
- Seasonal weather (heavy rains) can affect travel on unpaved roads
- "Hola / Buenos días" - Hello / Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Puede ayudarme?" - Can you help me?
- "Buen viaje" - Have a good trip
Places to Visit in Borja
Visit one of these nice places.
Classic shots of daily life, colonial-style façade and local gatherings; charming at golden hour when locals gather and lighting is warm.
Panoramic photos of water, boats and riverside activity; especially atmospheric at sunrise and sunset with reflective water and birdlife.
Expansive landscapes with grazing cattle, traditional estancias and rural roads — ideal for wide-angle shots and capturing rural culture.
Colorful portraits and food photography at the market with vendors, fresh produce and local snacks.
Rich birdlife and wetland landscapes provide opportunities for wildlife photography; bring a telephoto lens and patience.
Food in Borja
Borja Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A dense corn and cheese bread (more like a savory cornbread) made with cornmeal, cheese, milk and onions; widely available at local eateries and family kitchens.
Must-Try!
Cheese rolls made from manioc (cassava) starch and Paraguayan cheese, sold hot at morning markets and street stalls — a classic snack to try with coffee.
Grilled beef and sausages cooked over wood or charcoal at local parrillas and family barbecues; often the centerpiece of communal meals and weekend gatherings.
A traditional cassava and cheese pancake, common in rural breakfasts and available at small cafés and market vendors.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The small morning market near the plaza sells fresh produce, chipa, baked goods and coffee; a good place to sample local snacks and observe daily life.
Informal grill stands by the roadside or near social hubs serve skewers, grilled sausages and small plates — great for a casual late-afternoon bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite, warm greetings are important — a handshake and eye contact for first meetings, and a kiss on the cheek is common among friends and family. Use “Buenos días/tardes/noches” and simple Spanish phrases to show respect.
Show deference to elders and community figures; small-town life values personal relationships and courtesy.
Many residents are religious; dress modestly and behave respectfully when visiting churches or attending religious events.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in private or intimate settings — most locals are friendly but appreciate being asked.
Safety
Tipping in Borja
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is modest and not obligatory in small towns; leaving small change or rounding up the bill for good service is appreciated. For guided tours or exceptional service a small tip is welcomed.
Cash (Paraguayan guaraní) is king in Borja — many shops and eateries accept only cash. Cards and electronic payments are increasingly used in larger towns, but ATMs and card acceptance may be limited locally, so carry sufficient cash for daily needs.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, humid and often the wettest part of the year with frequent afternoon storms; days can be very warm so plan activities for mornings and evenings and bring sun protection and lightweight rain gear.
Temperatures start to moderate and humidity decreases; a pleasant time for outdoor activities with fewer storms and comfortable days.
Cooler, drier and calmer weather — nights can be noticeably cool by local standards; comfortable for daytime exploration but bring a light jacket for the evenings.
Warming temperatures and blooming vegetation; a good window for birdwatching and nature walks before the peak summer rains arrive.
Borja at Night
Hiking in Borja
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A gentle trail along the riverbank suitable for birdwatching, short walks and sunset viewing; easy terrain and good for families.
Short loops through marshy areas with observation platforms for waterbirds and amphibians; bring insect repellent and waterproof footwear during the wet season.
Private ranch trails offering longer walks or horseback routes across open fields and alongside cattle pastures — arrange visits through local estancias for guided hikes.
Airports
How to reach Borja by plane.
The main international gateway to Paraguay; used as the primary arrival point for long-distance international travel with bus or car connections onward to regional towns.
A secondary international airport serving the eastern border region; useful for some connections but generally farther from Borja than Asunción.
Several smaller airstrips and regional airports exist in departmental capitals for domestic flights and charter services; these can be useful for faster travel to remote areas but schedules are limited.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Most residents are mestizo (mixed Spanish and indigenous ancestry), speaking both Spanish and Guaraní and maintaining rural cultural traditions.
Nearby areas may include indigenous communities with distinct languages and traditions — cultural interaction is common and respectful curiosity is appreciated.
A significant portion of the population works in agriculture, cattle ranching and related trades, shaping local life and rhythms.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport — local matches and televised national games are social events that bring the community together.
Horseback riding, traditional cattle-handling and rodeo-style events are culturally important in rural areas and often feature at local festivals.
Informal neighborhood games, local leagues and school sports are common recreational activities for young people.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Borja.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are limited but possible: request mbejú, sopa paraguaya (confirm egg/dairy content), salads and vegetable sides. In small towns ingredients may be flexible if you explain preferences; bring snacks if you have strict needs.
Vegan choices are more challenging because many traditional items include cheese, milk or eggs; bring basics and be prepared to ask cooks to adapt dishes where possible.
Many Paraguayan staples use manioc/cassava (naturally gluten-free) such as chipa and mbejú, but cross-contamination can occur. Clarify with vendors and carry gluten-free snacks if necessary.