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

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

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.

afternoon
:

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.

evening
:

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.

day 2
Nature and Wildlife Exploration
morning
:

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.

afternoon
:

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.

evening
:

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.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️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.

Main Plaza and Parish Church

Classic shots of daily life, colonial-style façade and local gatherings; charming at golden hour when locals gather and lighting is warm.

Riverside and Riverbank Views

Panoramic photos of water, boats and riverside activity; especially atmospheric at sunrise and sunset with reflective water and birdlife.

Open Pampas and Cattle Ranches

Expansive landscapes with grazing cattle, traditional estancias and rural roads — ideal for wide-angle shots and capturing rural culture.

Morning Market

Colorful portraits and food photography at the market with vendors, fresh produce and local snacks.

Wetlands and Birdwatching Spots

Rich birdlife and wetland landscapes provide opportunities for wildlife photography; bring a telephoto lens and patience.

Culinary Guide

Food in Borja

Borja’s cuisine reflects traditional Paraguayan home cooking: maize- and cassava-based dishes, grilled meats, cheese breads and simple, hearty flavors. Meals are often comforting and filling, with strong local influence from Guaraní ingredients and techniques. Food is typically prepared fresh and served in modest family-run eateries or at market stalls.

Borja Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Sopa Paraguaya

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!

Chipa

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.

Asado and Parrilla

Grilled beef and sausages cooked over wood or charcoal at local parrillas and family barbecues; often the centerpiece of communal meals and weekend gatherings.

Mbejú

A traditional cassava and cheese pancake, common in rural breakfasts and available at small cafés and market vendors.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Morning Feria / Mercado

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.

Street Grills and Asado Stands

Informal grill stands by the roadside or near social hubs serve skewers, grilled sausages and small plates — great for a casual late-afternoon bite.

Climate Guide

Weather

Borja experiences a humid subtropical climate — hot, humid summers with frequent afternoon storms and mild, drier winters. Rainfall is seasonal with the wettest months during the austral summer and more stable, cooler conditions in winter. Day-to-day temperatures can range widely between hot daytime highs and cooler nights in the winter months.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

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.

Respect for Elders and Community

Show deference to elders and community figures; small-town life values personal relationships and courtesy.

Church and Religious Customs

Many residents are religious; dress modestly and behave respectfully when visiting churches or attending religious events.

Photography Courtesy

Ask permission before photographing people, especially in private or intimate settings — most locals are friendly but appreciate being asked.

Safety Guide

Safety

Borja is generally safe compared with urban centers, but standard precautions are advisable: keep valuables out of sight, avoid poorly lit areas at night, and be cautious when swimming or boating (rivers can have strong currents and changing water levels). Health-wise, protect against mosquitoes, drink bottled water if unsure of sources, and carry basic first-aid supplies. Have travel insurance and emergency contact details for regional health facilities.

Tipping in Borja

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

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.

Payment Methods

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...

Summer (December–February)

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.

Autumn (March–May)

Temperatures start to moderate and humidity decreases; a pleasant time for outdoor activities with fewer storms and comfortable days.

Winter (June–August)

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.

Spring (September–November)

Warming temperatures and blooming vegetation; a good window for birdwatching and nature walks before the peak summer rains arrive.

Nightlife Guide

Borja at Night

Nightlife in Borja is quiet and community-oriented: evenings are typically spent at small bars, family restaurants or social gatherings. Occasional live music, local festivals or fútbol matches draw the crowd, but there are no large clubs; nightlife is relaxed and centered on conversation, food and local traditions.

Hiking in Borja

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Riverside Trail (Sendero del Río)

A gentle trail along the riverbank suitable for birdwatching, short walks and sunset viewing; easy terrain and good for families.

Wetland Boardwalk and Observation Points

Short loops through marshy areas with observation platforms for waterbirds and amphibians; bring insect repellent and waterproof footwear during the wet season.

Estancia Trails

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.

Silvio Pettirossi International Airport (ASU) — Asunción

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.

Guaraní International Airport (IGR) — near Ciudad del Este

A secondary international airport serving the eastern border region; useful for some connections but generally farther from Borja than Asunción.

Regional Airstrips / Domestic Services

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.

Getting Around

Walkability

The central area of Borja is highly walkable — short distances, low traffic and a compact layout make walking convenient. Outside the center, roads may be unpaved and long distances between points of interest mean a car or local transport is useful for exploring the surrounding countryside.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Mestizo (Paraguayan majority)

Most residents are mestizo (mixed Spanish and indigenous ancestry), speaking both Spanish and Guaraní and maintaining rural cultural traditions.

Indigenous Communities

Nearby areas may include indigenous communities with distinct languages and traditions — cultural interaction is common and respectful curiosity is appreciated.

Rural Farming and Ranching Families

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.

Football (Soccer)

The most popular sport — local matches and televised national games are social events that bring the community together.

Equestrian Sports and Rodeo

Horseback riding, traditional cattle-handling and rodeo-style events are culturally important in rural areas and often feature at local festivals.

Basketball / Amateur Sports

Informal neighborhood games, local leagues and school sports are common recreational activities for young people.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Borja is light with mostly local vehicles, motorcycles and agricultural equipment on the roads. Many streets are unpaved and can become challenging in heavy rain; expect slower travel and occasional detours. Public transportation is served by regional buses and shared taxis; schedules may be infrequent, so plan ahead or arrange private transport when necessary.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Borja.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

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

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.

Gluten-Free

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.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Borja is basic: expect a local clinic or health post for minor issues and first aid. For specialized care, diagnostics or emergencies, patients are typically referred to larger hospitals in regional cities or to Asunción. Travelers should bring necessary prescription medicines, basic supplies and have comprehensive travel or health insurance that covers medical evacuation if needed.

Discover Paraguay

Read more in our Paraguay 2025 Travel Guide.

Paraguay Travel Guide