Visit September-October for migratory bird arrivals and jaguarundi cub sightings, or April-May for bat cave activity peaks.

Local guides from Parque Nacional Ybycuí offer sunrise hikes; avoid unmarked trails due to unstable sandstone formations.

Buses run frequently to Ybycuí (1hr), but rent a 4x4 for accessing Estancia Santa María’s backcountry routes.

Seek out <i>chipa so’o</i>—manioc buns stuffed with spiced meat, sold at roadside <i>chipalerías</i> before 8 AM.

Most rural areas operate cash-only; exchange USD at Asunción—smaller towns lack ATMs dispensing large Guaraní notes.

Never touch <i>tupã mimbipa</i> (carved saint figures) without permission; some are considered living spiritual entities.

Carry yellow fever vaccination proof for national parks. Treat all water—even locals boil due to frequent <i>karachã</i> algae blooms.

Cooperativa Manduvirá on Calle Fulgencio Yegros guarantees direct artisan payments, unlike tourist shops.

Some <i>jeroky</i> dances allow visitor participation—look for events advertised with three crossed palm leaves.

Generally safe, but avoid isolated areas after dark. Dress conservatively—rural communities value modest attire.