Weekend in Caaguazu

The main Catholic church in town, built in the 1920s with a simple facade and wooden bell tower. The interior has painted ceilings and local religious art.

Tip: Visit during the San Blas festival (first week of February) when the church is decorated with flowers and there's a street fair outside. Normal services are around 6pm most days.

A small local history museum housed in a restored colonial building. Exhibits include indigenous artifacts, colonial-era tools, and photographs of the city's development.

Tip: Ask the caretaker to show you the back room with the original brick kiln — it's easy to miss but the most interesting part. Donations appreciated but not required.

The central market with stalls selling fresh produce, meat, cheese, and handicrafts. A good place to try chipa guazú (corn cake) or buy local honey and yerba mate.

Tip: Best time is Saturday mornings when farmers from surrounding areas bring in fresh oranges, mandioca, and sugarcane. The small stalls at the back sell handmade clay pots for around 5,000 guaraníes.

A large public park with walking paths, shaded areas, and a small lake. Good for a quiet afternoon stroll or picnic.

Tip: Go early morning (before 9am) to see local birdlife, including woodpeckers and tanagers. Weekdays are much quieter than weekends.

A low hill on the outskirts of town with a path up to a viewpoint. It offers a panoramic view of Caaguazú and the surrounding farmland. A painted metal cross marks the summit.

Tip: Bring water and go just before sunset for the best light. The path is steep and unpaved in places so wear sturdy shoes. Locals sometimes gather there on Saturday evenings for mate and conversation.