This riverfront city in southern Paraguay has a modern beach promenade, Jesuit ruins, and the country's largest carnival celebration each February.
Encarnación sits along the Paraná River across from Argentina. You can swim at San José Beach, explore the stone ruins of 17th-century Jesuit missions, or join the carnival celebrations where dancers compete in elaborate costumes. As Paraguay's third-largest city, Encarnación has developed into a regional commercial center, with many Argentines crossing the border daily to shop in its markets.
Location and Border Crossing
Encarnación lies 370 km southeast of Asunción. The San Roque González de Santa Cruz Bridge connects the city to Posadas, Argentina, stretching 2.5 km across the Paraná River. You'll see steady traffic of shoppers from both countries crossing the bridge, with Argentines coming to buy electronics and clothing at lower prices in Paraguay.
Beaches and Waterfront Activities
Three beaches line the Costanera waterfront: Mbói Ka'e, Pacu Cuá, and San José. At San José Beach, you can swim in the river, join volleyball games, or eat at riverside restaurants. Walk along the waterfront promenade in the morning to see local fishermen and joggers, or in the evening when families gather for walks. Weekend activities include sports tournaments, live music, and dance performances.
Carnival Season
Every Saturday through January and February, competing clubs parade through the streets in the Carnaval Encarnaceno. Judges evaluate each group on five criteria: originality, design, dance, rhythm, and elegance. The parades take place in the sambódromo and along main streets, with participants wearing intricate costumes and performing choreographed routines.
UNESCO Jesuit Missions
The Jesuit Missions of Trinidad and Jesus lie 30 km from Encarnación. These 17th-century stone structures include churches, living quarters, and workshops where Spanish missionaries lived with indigenous Guaraní communities. Buses leave from Encarnación's terminal to Trinidad every two hours between 7:00 AM and 5:00 PM. While walking through the ruins, you'll see detailed stone carvings and architectural elements that have survived centuries of exposure to the elements.
Climate and When to Visit
Encarnación has the lowest average temperatures in Paraguay, with hot, humid summers and mild winters. During January, temperatures can reach above 40°C (104°F). Plan your visits to outdoor sites for early morning or late afternoon. The period from May to mid-September brings less rain and cooler temperatures, making it easier to walk around the city and explore the missions.
Getting Around
You can walk to most attractions in the compact city center. Buses connect Encarnación to Asunción (6-7 hours) and Ciudad del Este (4-5 hours), departing several times daily from the centrally located bus terminal. Local buses to the Jesuit Missions run from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with the journey taking about 45 minutes.
