Asunción , Paraguay

Discovering wildlife of the Chaco

Active

(9 reviews)

Duration varies

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

The Great Chaco offers impressive wildlife, with good chance of seeing some of South America’s charismatic big mammals like jaguars, pumas and tapirs. It also hosts reptiles and birds in abundance, many of which are restricted to this ecoregion. You will enjoy a unique landscape with salt lakes that hold great concentrations of water birds and the dunes of Médanos del Chaco National Park (7 days tour) with its arid vegetation and the palm savannahs of the Humid Chaco.

This tour will give you a chance to see Chaco endemic birds like Quebracho Crested-Tinamou, Black-legged Seriema, and Black-bodied Woodpecker. Lowland Tapir, Puma, Giant Anteater and Chacoan Peccary are amongst the mammals we may encounter: the last of these was presumed extinct when it was described from fossils in 1930. It came as a surprise when it was rediscovered in 1972, to become the (then) third and largest peccary species known! Today, the Paraguayan Chaco holds the main population of this species.

Available options

Humid and Dry Chaco Short Tour

A 2-nights and 3-days tour, where you will discover the amazing wildlife and ecosystems of the Humid and Dry Chaco. Salty lakes, thornby shrubes and palm savannahs will be the main scenaries.<br/>Pickup included

4 nights - 5 days Chaco Tour

We will explore the main reserves of the Humid & Dry Chaco, where there is good chances to see big mammals such as the endangered Chacoan Peccary, Lowland Tapir, armadillos and Azara`s Night Monkey.<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Beverages with meals

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Meals as per itinerary (B = breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner)

Bottled water

Alcoholic Beverages

Lunch

Snacks

2 nights accomodation

Dinner

Breakfast

Transport by private vehicle (4WD)

Driver/guide fees

What you'll see

Two nights and three days tours:
• Day 1: We will leave very early (05:00 am) in direction to Laguna Capitán. Early birding at Benjamín Aceval, only 40 km of Asunción (1 hour approximately), where we will see many birds in ecosystems of Chaco Humid, including Plumbeous and Buff-necked Ibis, Black-collared Hawk, Golden-green and Pale-breasted Woodpeckers, Red-legged Seriema, Great-rufous Woodcreeper, Red-billed Scythebill, Purplish and Plush-crested Jays, Black-capped Donacobius, Scarlet-headed Blackbird and Crested Oropendola. Before midday we will continue our travel to Laguna Capitán, and in the afternoon watch birds and wildlife until nightfall.
• Day 2:We will spend the morning birding and wildlife watching at the salt lakes, arriving at Campo María, where we will spend the rest of the day. We will see some of the Chaco endemics: Cream-backed Woodpecker, Crested Gallito, Scimitar-billed Woodcreeper, Chaco Earthcreeper, Cinereous Tyrant, Black-capped Warbling-Finch and Many-colored Chaco-Finch. Many waterbirds and shorebirds will definitively increase our list during this day, with great possibilities to see White-faced Whistling Duck, Coscoroba Swan, up to thousands of Chilean Flamingos, Ringed and Brazilian Teal, Collared Plover, Black-necked Stilt, Lesser Yellowlegs, Buff-breasted Sandpiper, and many others.
• Day 3:Morning birding at Chaco Lodge or Filadelfia Reserve (depending on bird activity of the last day, and climate conditions). Filadelfia Reserve will give us a chance to see some species: Greater Rhea, White-bellied Nothura, Golden-green Woodpecker, Black-legged Seriema, Olive-crowned Crescentchest, Rufous-fronted and Little Thornbird, Greater-wagtail Tyrant, Masked Gnatcatcher, Blue-and-yellow Tanager, Golden-billed Saltator, Ultramarine Grosbeak, and others. After lunch, we return to Asunción.

What is included in the tour fees?
• all accommodations on a sharing basis at hotels, lodges or other establishments of a reasonable standard (or best available in the area);
• all meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) from day 1 to 3 (breakfast and lunch)
• drinking water and one soft drink/beer per meal;
• all ground transportation from first day to final day of tour;
• all costs of local guides;
• all excursions and activities mentioned in the itinerary unless specifically stated as optional in which case they will be charged for at cost with prior consent from participants;
• all entrance fees for reserves, parks, museums that are part of the itinerary;

What's not included

travel and medical insurance;

visa, passport and vaccination costs;

beverages over those stated as included;

optional excursions as defined by the itinerary or excursions not included in the itinerary;

Telephone calls, laundry and other items of a personal nature;

Gratuities to Tour leader and local guides;

Gratuities for hotel/restaurant staff, porters, drivers.

Available languages

Guide guide

DE PT EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

8 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meals: Please advise specific requirements

Walking: Moderate amount;

Weather: Subject to conditions

Important notes

• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
• If you will not be arriving at your destination within the specified reconfirmation period, please reconfirm with the local service provider prior to travel, or upon arrival at your destination. Please note that departure times and locations may vary slightly.

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