Paraguarí

Paraguarí is the capital of Paraguay's Paraguarí Department, a compact town about 65 kilometres southeast of Asunción along Ruta 1. Set among the rolling hills of the Cordillera de los Altos, it serves as a gateway to ecotourism destinations and as an administrative and market centre for the surrounding agricultural area.

Its history reaches back to an 18th-century mission settlement; the town was formally organized in 1775 and is remembered for its role in the independence period, including the Battle of Paraguarí in January 1811. The old railway station and the artillery museum recall that military and railway heritage, while the Cathedral of Santo Tomás Apóstol anchors the historic centre.

Visitors explore nearby natural landmarks such as Cerro Peró, Cerro Hũ and the private Eco Reserva Mbatoví, which offer viewpoints, hiking, rappelling and zip lines. The Santo Tomás grottoes are known for pre-Columbian inscriptions, and the town also provides access to broader departmental sights including Lake Ypoá and the Acahay hills.

As a smaller regional hub, Paraguarí offers a practical base for nature-based travel, with local hotels, hospedajes and cabins concentrated near the centre and along the main road. It is also used as a day-trip destination from Asunción by travellers wanting historic architecture, quiet streets and outdoor recreation.

While its economy remains rooted in agriculture and public administration, the town's proximity to Asunción, growing ecotourism offer and role as the department's administrative seat give it steady relevance for regional business and leisure travel.