San Bernardino
,San Bernardino is a picturesque town located in the Itapúa Department of Paraguay. It is well-known for its beautiful lake, Lake Ypacaraí, which attracts visitors looking to enjoy water activities and relax by its shores. The town has a charming colonial architecture and a peaceful atmosphere, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
San Bernardino also offers a variety of restaurants, hotels, and shops to cater to visitors' needs.
- "mba'eichapa" - how are you
- "aguije" - thank you
- "nderehecha'arai" - I don't understand
- "iporã" - it's good/it's nice
- "ko'ẽ porã" - good morning
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $60
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $25
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Adventure Awaits in San Bernardino
morning
:Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café. Take a stroll along the scenic Lake Ypacaraí to enjoy the morning breeze.
afternoon
:Explore the vibrant markets of San Bernardino where you can find unique handmade crafts. Enjoy a traditional Paraguayan lunch at a nearby restaurant.
evening
:Relax at the lakeside with a peaceful sunset view. Wind down with some live music or local entertainment to cap off your day.
Nature Exploration Day
morning
:Head to the stunning Rhuen complex to immerse yourself in the natural beauty. Enjoy bird watching or take a guided nature walk through the beautiful trails.
afternoon
:Have a picnic lunch surrounded by nature or at a local eatery. Try your hand at fishing or kayaking on Lake Ypacaraí.
evening
:Return to your accommodation and enjoy the serene landscape. Consider visiting a local bar for refreshing drinks to unwind.
Highlights
Good
- Beautiful natural surroundings and landscapes.
- Rich cultural heritage and local traditions.
- Affordable cost of living compared to urban areas.
- Close-knit community with friendly residents.
- Opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and fishing.
Bad
- Limited access to modern amenities and services.
- Challenges in transportation and infrastructure.
- Potential issues with safety and crime rates.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors.
- Seasonal weather conditions that may affect living standards.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Hiking in Cerro Akati
Explore the beautiful natural surroundings and enjoy panoramic views of the region.
Visiting the Saltos Yguazú Waterfalls
Experience the stunning waterfalls and natural beauty of the area.
Bird Watching in Tati Yupi Biological Reserve
Discover the diverse bird species and immerse yourself in the rich wildlife of the region.
Adventures
Uncover the best of San Bernardino with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Cerro Akati
Cerro Akati offers stunning panoramic views of San Bernardino and Lake Ypacarai, making it one of the best locations for photos in the area.
Punta Pora
Punta Pora provides a picturesque spot for capturing the beauty of Lake Ypacarai and the surrounding landscape, making it an ideal location for photo opportunities in San Bernardino.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Sopa Paraguaya
A hearty cornbread and cheese casserole, a must-try at local restaurants like Siete Corazones.
Must-Try!
Chipa Guasu
A traditional Paraguayan dish made from corn, cheese, and onions, available at most local eateries and street food vendors.
Mbeju
A delicious cheesecake-like bread made from cassava flour, commonly found at food stalls in Plaza de la Paz.
Unique Experiences
Get to know San Bernardino better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Mercado Municipal San Lorenzo
This bustling market is a treasure trove of fresh produce, local snacks, and street food like empanadas and grilled meats.
Plaza de la Paz
This square hosts a variety of street food vendors offering traditional Paraguayan snacks like sopa paraguaya, mbeju, and chipa.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greeting etiquette
In San Bernardino, Paraguay, it is important to greet others with a handshake and maintain eye contact as a sign of respect.
Respect for elders
Showing respect for elders is a cultural norm in San Bernardino, Paraguay. It is customary to address older individuals with formal titles and show deference in conversations.
Dress modestly
When visiting San Bernardino, Paraguay, it is important to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or participating in community events, to show respect for local customs and traditions.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of San Bernardino with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
Tipping is not a common practice in San Bernardino, Paraguay. It is not expected at restaurants, hotels, or other service establishments.
Payment
Cash is widely used for payment in San Bernardino, Paraguay. Credit cards may be accepted at some larger establishments, but it's always best to have cash on hand, especially when visiting smaller businesses or local markets.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into San Bernardino.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (September - November)
Best time to visit for pleasant weather, blooming flowers, and moderate temperatures.
Summer (December - February)
Expect hot and humid weather, with occasional thunderstorms and an increase in outdoor activities and events.
Autumn (March - May)
Enjoy the colorful foliage and cooler temperatures, but be prepared for some rain.
Winter (June - August)
Cooler weather, few tourists, and a chance to experience local winter festivals and events.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Cerro de la Cruz
A popular hiking spot with a panoramic view of the San Bernardino area, offering trails of varying difficulty levels and beautiful natural scenery.
Parque Nacional Ybycuí
Located a bit farther but worth the trip, this national park boasts several hiking trails surrounded by diverse flora and fauna.
Ypacaraí Lake Trail
A scenic trail along the shores of Lake Ypacaraí, perfect for a leisurely hike with opportunities for bird-watching and photography.
Cerro Bopicuá
A moderately challenging hike that leads to the summit of Cerro Bopicuá, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into San Bernardino through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach San Bernardino by plane.
Silvio Pettirossi International Airport (ASU)
Located in Asunción, about 130 km from San Bernardino, this is the main international airport in Paraguay.
Guarani International Airport (AGT)
Located in Ciudad del Este, approximately 210 km from San Bernardino, it serves the eastern region of Paraguay.
Carlos A. López Airport (PIL)
Located in Pedro Juan Caballero, about 220 km from San Bernardino, it serves both domestic and limited international flights.
Catahy International Airport (CGB)
Located in Campo Grande, Brazil, about 300 km from San Bernardino, this airport offers various international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mestizo
Predominantly of mixed European and Indigenous ancestry, this group forms a significant part of the local population.
Indigenous Peoples
Includes various Indigenous groups who have historical ties to the land and maintain cultural traditions.
European Descendants
Primarily descendants of European immigrants, especially from Spain and Italy, who settled in the region.
Afro-Paraguayans
A smaller demographic group with African ancestry, contributing to the cultural diversity of the area.
Asian Communities
Includes people of Asian descent, mainly from countries like Japan and Korea, who have settled in Paraguay.
The Soul of San Bernardino
Discover the essence of San Bernardino through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer
The most popular sport in San Bernardino and throughout Paraguay. Communities come together to support local clubs and the national team.
Basketball
Gaining popularity, especially among the youth. Local tournaments often take place in schools and community centers.
Volleyball
A popular sport on the beaches of San Bernardino, with both recreational and competitive play.
Tennis
Played by many in San Bernardino, with several clubs and courts available to the public.
Cycling
A favored activity due to the scenic routes around San Bernardino, attracting many recreational cyclists.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan
While Paraguayan cuisine traditionally includes meat, many restaurants in San Bernardino now offer vegetarian and vegan options such as chipa guasu and grilled vegetable platters.
Gluten-free
Travelers with gluten restrictions can find suitable options at restaurants like Tierra Colorada Gastro Pub, offering gluten-free versions of traditional Paraguayan dishes.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of San Bernardino with these cultural adventures.