Things To Do
in Hohenau
Hohenau is a small, welcoming town in southern Paraguay set along the Paraná River. It blends farmland, orchards, and a quiet, laid-back atmosphere with hints of its German-heritage influence. The community enjoys strong local produce and easy access to Encarnación and the broader Itapúa region.
Visitors come for river views, farm-to-table produce, and a relaxed pace away from larger cities.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Settle into your charming estancia-style guesthouse in Hohenau as the tropic sun rises over verdant fields. Meet your local guide for an introduction to the region’s history, culture, and must-see sights. Enjoy a fresh cup of Paraguayan coffee on the veranda while listening to birdsong.
Stroll through Hohenau’s quaint town center and visit the municipal museum to learn about German Mennonite settlers. Sample traditional mbeju and chipá at a family-run bakery. Chat with artisans crafting lace and woodwork, immersing yourself in local crafts traditions.
Dine at a rustic parrilla, savoring grilled mandioca and local cuts of beef. Join a folklore evening with live polka and guarania music in the town plaza. Feel the warmth of community as neighbors gather to share stories under string lights.
Wake early to the bustling Hohenau farmers’ market, where stalls overflow with tropical fruits, fresh herbs, and colorful vegetables. Engage with vendors as they explain traditional farming methods passed down through generations. Taste ripe pineapples and guava straight from the farm.
Visit a nearby organic tea cooperative renowned for its Yerba Mate and herbal blends. Tour the drying and packing facilities, then learn how to prepare a perfect tereré. Sip on icy herbal infusions under the shade of citrus trees.
Return to town for a cooking workshop featuring Paraguayan classics like sopa paraguaya and pira caldo. Share stories with the host family as you knead dough and stir bubbling pots. End the night with a shared meal in a candlelit courtyard.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $1-3 |
| 🚕Taxi (short ride) | $3-5 |
| 🥛Milk (1 liter) | $1-2 |
| 🏠Monthly rent (1 bedroom, city center) | $200-350 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed pace and friendly locals
- Access to the Paraná River and nearby Itapúa nature
- Good local produce, markets, and traditional foods
- Short trips to Encarnación and regional attractions
- Limited nightlife and fewer big-city services
- English rarely spoken in rural areas; Spanish or Guarani helpful
- Smaller medical facilities compared to major cities
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Una mesa para dos, por favor" - A table for two, please
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The check, please
- "Salud" - Cheers / Bless you (salud) technically used for health
- "¡Buen día!" - Have a good day!
- "Perdón" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "¿Aceptan tarjetas?" - Do you take cards?
Places to Visit in Hohenau
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide river views with golden-hour light, ideal for silhouettes of fishermen and boats slipping by.
Quiet central square with colonial-era architecture and locals going about daily life; great for candid street photography.
From the town’s history, you’ll find framed façades and signage that evoke German-heritage influences.
Food in Hohenau
Hohenau Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Savory corn bread with cheese, onions, and sometimes herbs; a comforting staple served warm.
Must-Try!
Cheese bread baked to a golden crust; a common grab-and-go snack or breakfast item.
Cassava flour flatbread or pancake often served with cheese; popular as a snack or light meal.
Paraguayan-style barbecue—grilled beef or pork, typically shared at family meals or parrillas.
Refreshing, herbal tea enjoyed socially; tereré is the cold version typically shared among friends and family.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local market offering fresh fruit, dairy, bread, cheeses, and regional snacks—great for a quick breakfast or picnic supplies.
Casual options along the waterfront with simple meals, grilled items, and snacks—ideal for a casual lunch.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A brief handshake or cheek kiss among close acquaintances is common; polite, friendly conversation is valued.
Casual, modest clothing is appropriate in most settings; in churches and formal venues, modest attire is appreciated.
People are generally relaxed about time; a friendly, unhurried approach to conversations is typical.
Safety
Tipping in Hohenau
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and bars, a small tip (about 5-10%) is appreciated if service is good; many places include service in the bill, especially larger establishments.
Cash in local currency (guaraní) is common, with many places also accepting credit/debit cards; some smaller venues may be cash-only. ATMs are available in town and nearby Encarnación.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon showers; stay hydrated, use sun protection, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Milder temperatures and decreasing rain; comfortable for outdoor exploration and river walks.
Cool to mild with cooler nights; pack a light jacket for evenings and mornings.
Warm days with the potential for late-season storms; good for outdoor markets, cycling, and photography.
Hohenau at Night
Hiking in Hohenau
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic riverside route that can be combined with birdwatching and sunset photography.
Gentle rural trails through farmland patches and nearby woodlands, suitable for easy day hikes.
Airports
How to reach Hohenau by plane.
Small regional airport serving domestic flights; convenient for quick connections to major hubs nearby.
Regional airport with domestic flights; potential gateway if crossing into Argentina.
Major international gateway; farther away but useful for broader connections to Brazil, Paraguay, and beyond.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of Mestizo communities with rural and urban livelihoods; traditional farming is common in the region.
Historical German-influenced residents contribute distinctive cultural touches and architecture.
Residents who travel to neighboring Argentina and Brazil for work or trade.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The dominant sport; local leagues, informal matches, and community gatherings frequently center around a ball.
Common in schools and community centers; informal pick-up games are easy to find.
A popular activity along the Paraná; many locals fish for leisure and sport.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Hohenau.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist in many eateries (salads, grilled vegetables, mbejú, sopa paraguaya). When ordering, ask for vegetarian preparations and confirm cheese or egg ingredients if needed.