Things To Do
in Itá

Itá, Paraguay is a tranquil riverside town west of Asunción, celebrated for its broad water views and relaxed pace. Nestled along the Itá River and near the Itaí reservoir, it offers a gateway to outdoor recreation and local Paraguayan culture. The town blends rural charm with simple cultural amenities, from family-owned eateries to small markets.

Visitors should expect warm hospitality, gentle landscapes, and easy access to a slower, more authentic side of Paraguay.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Itá
morning
:

Arrive in Itá and check into your local accommodation, immersing yourself in the tranquil Paraguayan atmosphere. Grab a traditional breakfast at a nearby café, savoring local delicacies like chipa and tereré. Spend some time strolling through the peaceful streets and enjoy the welcoming vibes of this charming town.

afternoon
:

Visit the historical Church of Itá, a beautiful architectural gem that reflects the town's rich cultural heritage. After absorbing the history, stop at local artisan shops to pick up unique crafts and handmade souvenirs. Engage with the friendly locals to learn more about their traditions and stories.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant, enjoying traditional Paraguayan dishes. Experience the lively ambiance as locals gather to enjoy music and conversation, sharing their love for food and community. Conclude your day with a peaceful walk under the stars, taking in the tranquil night of Itá.

day 2
Exploring the Natural Wonders
morning
:

Start the day with a guided tour to the nearby Ypacaraí Lake, where you can appreciate stunning views and enjoy birdwatching. Take some time to paddle a kayak or relax along the shores, soaking in the serenity of nature. Breathe in the fresh air and witness the vibrant wildlife that calls this area home.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a picnic lunch by the lake, surrounded by stunning landscapes and local biodiversity. After lunch, partake in a hike through the nearby hills, discovering hidden trails that lead to breathtaking viewpoints. Capture memorable photos of the stunning scenery and unique flora.

evening
:

Return to Itá for a casual dinner at a local eatery, sampling more traditional foods. Join a nearby cultural event or music festival, where you can listen to local musicians and dancers. Immerse yourself in the community’s vibrant culture and enjoy the warmth of Paraguayan hospitality.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$8-12
🧃Bottled water (1.5L)$0.80-1.50
🚕Taxi 1 km$1-2
🏠1-bedroom apartment in town center (monthly)$250-400
🍺Beer at bar (0.5L)$1-2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Relaxed, friendly atmosphere with lake and river views
  • Affordable prices and easy access to nature
  • Good base for exploring rural Paraguayan culture
  • Low-key nightlife with local charm
  • Limited nightlife and tourist infrastructure compared to bigger cities
  • Language barrier outside main towns for non-Spanish speakers
  • Less diverse dining and shopping options than Asunción
  • Summer heat and humidity can be intense
  • "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?
  • "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
  • "¿Puede ayudarme?" - Can you help me?

Places to Visit in Itá

Visit one of these nice places.

Ita Reservoir viewpoints

Wide-water horizons at dusk with soft light, ideal for reflections and long exposure shots.

Riverside boardwalks and markets

Colorful local life along the riverfront, with market scenes, boats, and people going about daily routines.

Plaza central and church

A compact, lively central area with colonial-style architecture and easy street photography.

Sunset shoreline

Calm waters and long shadows as the sun dips behind the far shore, great for silhouettes.

Culinary Guide

Food in Itá

Paraguayan cuisine here emphasizes meat, corn-based dishes, and hearty sides. Common ingredients include mandioca, corn, beans, and plenty of asado-style preparations; you’ll find simple, flavorful dishes at local eateries and market stalls.

Itá Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Chipa

A cheese-filled corn pastry that makes for a popular breakfast or snack.

Must-Try!

Sopa Paraguaya

A savory cornbread-like dish with cheese and onions, often served as a side.

Chipa Guasu

A corn-based casserole with cheese and herbs, usually served as a hearty side dish.

Mbejú

A thin, fried starch cake that pairs well with stews or as a snack.

Asado parrilla

Grilled meats prepared Paraguayan-style, commonly available at local grills.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Local de Itá

A small municipal market where you can sample fresh produce, cheese, chipa, and local snacks from vendors.

Rincones de la ribera

Riverside stalls offering grilled skewers and quick bites with views of the Itaí reservoir.

Climate Guide

Weather

The region has a subtropical climate with hot, humid summers and mild winters. Rainfall is more frequent in the summer months, while the rest of the year tends to be drier with comfortable daytime temperatures. Humidity can be high year-round, especially near the water.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A polite handshake is common; a warm smile is appreciated. Address adults with respectful forms and titles.

Language

Spanish is widely spoken; Guaraní has cultural importance. Using basic Spanish phrases is helpful and appreciated.

Public behavior

Maintain calm, polite conversation; avoid loud debates in public spaces. Respect for elders and family is valued.

Safety Guide

Safety

Overall safety is good in daytime, but exercise common-sense precautions: keep an eye on belongings in crowded areas, use reputable transport, and avoid isolated spots after dark. Be cautious near water and ensure you have reliable directions when traveling outside the town center. Road conditions can vary, so plan longer trips with extra time.

Tipping in Itá

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

In restaurants, a small tip (5-10%) is appreciated if service isn’t included. In cafes and markets, rounding up the bill is common.

Payment methods

Cash is widely accepted; cards are increasingly used in larger establishments. ATMs are available in town; small vendors may prefer cash.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot and humid with frequent afternoon showers. Stay hydrated, wear light clothing, and seek shade during peak sun hours.

Autumn

Warm days with cooler nights; pleasant for outdoor exploring and market visits.

Winter

Mild to cool temperatures; mornings and evenings can feel chilly, especially near the water.

Spring

Flowers and greenery return; comfortable temperatures but occasional rain; good for outdoor activities and photography.

Nightlife Guide

Itá at Night

Itá offers a low-key nightlife scene with family-friendly bars, small parrillas, and riverside cafes. Weekend evenings on the plaza or along the waterfront provide live music, casual dancing, and socializing, but major club scenes are typically found in Asunción or larger nearby towns.

Hiking in Itá

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Ita River shoreline walk

Accessible, easy trails along the river with opportunities for wildlife observation and sunset photography.

Parque natural regional trails (nearby regions)

Day trips to forested areas and gentle trails suitable for casual hikers and families; consider longer drives for more established parks like Ybycuí National Park for longer hikes.

Airports

How to reach Itá by plane.

Silvio Pettirossi International Airport (Asunción)

The main international and domestic airport serving Itá; about a 25–60 minute drive depending on traffic. Taxis and shuttle services are common arrivals options.

Getting Around

Walkability

The town center is compact and walkable, with most sights near the riverfront and plaza. Outside the core, you’ll rely on bicycles, taxis, or short car rides; sidewalks can be uneven in places, so watch your step.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local residents

Mostly Paraguayan families and small-business owners, with Guaraní cultural influence and Spanish-speaking households.

Rural communities

Nearby farms and outlying villages contribute to a traditional, agriculturally focused demographic.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Fútbol (soccer)

The dominant sport across Paraguay; expect local matches to be community events with family attendance.

Basketball

A popular recreational sport in schools and clubs, with local courts in the town and nearby towns.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is generally light in Itá, with occasional congestion near the riverfront during weekends and market days. For longer trips to Asunción, roads are usually passable but can get busy during morning and evening rush hours. Public transit is limited; many travelers rely on taxis or car rentals.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Itá.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian options exist in many eateries via salads, beans, corn-based dishes, and grilled vegetables; ask for plant-based preparations or simpler sides if needed.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Itá has basic healthcare facilities and clinics for routine care; for more advanced services, residents typically travel to Asunción where larger hospitals and specialists are available. Carry essential medications and keep emergency contacts handy.

Discover Paraguay

Read more in our Paraguay 2025 Travel Guide.

Paraguay Travel Guide