Asunción , Paraguay

Day tour “Pai Pukú”

Active

6h - 8h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

On this tour we visit the city of Villa Hayes and the Pa’i Puku school.
This school is a comprehensive training center, which gives the children from the Chaco the opportunity to learn and live here because the distances in the Chaco are great, so that they cannot come and go every day.
In addition to traditional training, they also receive training in various professional fields. The center also has an orchard and some livestock for their livelihood.

Available options

Day tour “Pai Pukú”

Pickup included

What's included

All Fees and Taxes

Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

05.30 / 06.00 am Pick up at a hotel or a private address in Villa Morra (or in Las Carmelitas). Departure north on the Transchaco route.
7.30 / 8.00am Stop in the Villa Hayes to take a walk along the coast of the Paraguay River.

9:00 am The journey continues north. We make a few stops along the route to admire the wildlife of this region, especially the many species of birds that stay here all winter.

12:00 pm Arrival in Paí Pukú village, where we learn more about the history and commitment of this beautiful place. The María Medianera Comprehensive Training Center, better known as the Pai Puku School in Chaco, is unique in its kind. Since June 1965 it has been on km 156 of the Transchaco route in the Benjamin Aceval district in the department Pdte Hayes in operation. It offers full education to low-income students. Of the 550 students and 60 teachers, almost 90 percent live there thanks to their self-administration during the school year. Their mission is to contribute to strengthening educational work, human and Christian support. It covers an area of six hectares and its large complex is made of materials from Chaco, such as karanday and palm trees. The center was “baptized” by the residents as the “Pai Puku School” in honor of its founder, the Belgian priest Pedro Shaw.

For its part, the “Pai Puku Foundation” was born out of the idea of ??a group of local farmers and friends of Shaw who had joined together with the main goal of supporting the initiatives and activities of the school. It includes polyprofessional education for children and teenagers from the Paraguayan Chaco, although some students come from the eastern region, but only because their parents work at Estancias in the Chaco. However, all students come from low-income families. A specialty of this educational center is its self-administration, in which the students themselves are protagonists. They also work and produce beautiful furniture on an industrial scale. They have four organic gardens run by very young people, in addition to cutting and sewing activities, housekeeping, rural health promotion, hairdressing, typing, computers, electricity, beekeeping and plumbing. At 3:00 pm we retake the journey back to Asunción.

What's not included

Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN ES

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

With prior agreement. By the main access of Calle Quesada.

About Asunción

Asunción, the capital and largest city of Paraguay, is a vibrant mix of colonial charm and modern development. Located on the banks of the Paraguay River, it's known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and warm, welcoming atmosphere. The city offers a unique blend of indigenous, Spanish, and modern influences.

Top Attractions

Palacio de López

The official residence and workplace of the President of Paraguay, this neoclassical palace is a symbol of the nation's history and politics.

Historical 1-2 hours Free (guided tours may require a small fee)

Casa de la Independencia

This museum is housed in the building where Paraguay declared its independence from Spain in 1811.

Historical 1 hour Free

Panteón Nacional de los Héroes

A mausoleum honoring national heroes and historical figures, featuring beautiful stained-glass windows and marble statues.

Historical 30 minutes Free

Costanera de Asunción

A scenic waterfront promenade along the Paraguay River, perfect for walking, cycling, and enjoying the river views.

Nature 2-3 hours Free

Museo del Barro

A museum dedicated to Paraguayan art and history, featuring a collection of pre-Columbian artifacts and contemporary art.

Museum 1-2 hours Moderate (around 20,000 PYG or 3 USD)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Sopa Paraguaya

A savory bread-like dish made with cornmeal, cheese, and onions, similar to a thick cornbread.

Main dish Contains dairy and gluten

Chipa

A cheesy bread roll made with cassava flour, cheese, and eggs, often eaten as a snack or breakfast item.

Snack Contains dairy and eggs

Asado

A traditional Paraguayan barbecue featuring a variety of grilled meats, including beef, pork, and chicken.

Main dish Contains meat

Tereré

A cold herbal infusion made with yerba mate and flavored with various herbs and fruits, traditionally drunk from a gourd with a metal straw.

Drink Caffeine-free, herbal

Popular Activities

Hiking Boating Cycling Tereré drinking Riverfront walks Spa treatments Museum visits Historical site tours

Best Time to Visit

April to September (Dry season)

This is the best time to visit Asunción due to the pleasant weather and lower humidity. It's ideal for exploring the city's attractions and outdoor activities.

15°C to 28°C 59°F to 82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish, Guaraní
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Paraguayan Guaraní (PYG)

Time Zone

GMT-4

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Asunción is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and pickpocketing can occur, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation. Be cautious at night, particularly in less touristy areas.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use official taxis or ride-hailing apps
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night

Getting there

By air

Silvio Pettirossi International Airport • 15 km from city center

By bus

Terminal de Ómnibus de Asunción

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is the primary mode of public transportation in Asunción. Buses are affordable and frequent.

Taxis

Available • Apps: EasyTaxi, Cabify

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Asunción Costanera Villa Morra

Day trips

Areguá

30 km from Asunción • Half day to full day

A picturesque town known for its colonial architecture, natural beauty, and craft markets.

Luque

15 km from Asunción • Half day

A town with historical significance and a rich cultural heritage.

Ypacaraí Lake

40 km from Asunción • Full day

A beautiful lake surrounded by natural scenery, perfect for outdoor activities and relaxation.

Festivals

Festival de Asunción • August Festival de la Primavera • September

Pro tips

Learn a few basic phrases in Spanish or Guaraní to enhance your interactions with locals
Carry small denominations of cash, as some vendors may not have change for larger bills
Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night, and always use ATMs located in well-lit, secure areas
Respect local customs and traditions, and be mindful of your impact on the environment and local culture
Try tereré, the traditional Paraguayan herbal infusion, for a unique cultural experience