10 Amazing Things to Do Year-Round in Capiatá Paraguay for Nature Markets and Local Culture

Key Takeaways:

• Capiatá blends Paraguayan heritage, outdoor beauty, and local food scenes in a vibrant yet underrated destination.

• The city offers cultural museums, botanical parks, weekend markets, and religious landmarks worth exploring.

• It’s perfect for visitors seeking authentic experiences away from crowded tourist routes.

Just outside Paraguay’s capital, Asunción, lies the city of Capiatá — a lively, culture-rich spot that many travelers skip, but locals cherish. With a history dating back to the 18th century, Capiatá is part of Paraguay’s “Golden Circuit,” a network of towns known for their colonial charm, craft traditions, and friendly communities. The city is well-connected but still maintains a laid-back rhythm, offering everything from bustling markets and spiritual sites to scenic parks and nature reserves. Whether you’re looking for an easy day trip from Asunción or want to dive deeper into Paraguayan life, Capiatá is packed with things to do in every season.

Table of Contents

1. Visit the Museo Mitológico Ramón Elías

2. Explore Parque Ecológico Kaañymby

3. Experience Weekend Vibes at Mercado de Abasto

4. See the Iconic Church of Capiatá

5. Walk the Trails at Laguna Cañada

6. Catch a Local Festival or Traditional Dance Show

7. Try Chipa and Tereré at a Street Stand

8. Tour the Local Ceramic Workshops

9. Watch a Football Match at Estadio Lic. Erico Galeano

10. Spend a Quiet Afternoon in Parque Municipal

1. Visit the Museo Mitológico Ramón Elías

If you want to understand Paraguayan folklore and mythology, start your journey at the Museo Mitológico Ramón Elías, one of the most unique museums in South America. It houses life-sized sculptures and dioramas of legendary creatures from indigenous Guaraní lore — like the terrifying Pombero or the mischievous Jasy Jateré.

This museum is a passion project that turns oral stories into visually immersive storytelling. You’ll walk through rooms filled with eerie lighting, native instruments, and traditional masks that feel like stepping into another realm. It’s spooky, educational, and unforgettable all at once. Open year-round, it’s a must-visit for both curious adults and kids with big imaginations.

2. Explore Parque Ecológico Kaañymby

One of Capiatá’s hidden green treasures is Parque Ecológico Kaañymby, a peaceful natural reserve perfect for hiking, wildlife spotting, and escaping city noise. The park features native flora, wooden bridges over small streams, and shaded trails that attract birdwatchers and nature lovers alike.

Local families often visit on weekends for walks or impromptu picnics under the trees. It’s a great place to recharge or get some light exercise without traveling far. Keep an eye out for butterflies, monkeys, and native birds as you stroll through the forest. Entrance is usually free or by donation, and it’s especially serene on weekday mornings.

3. Experience Weekend Vibes at Mercado de Abasto

Every weekend, the Mercado de Abasto fills up with the scent of grilled meats, piles of fresh fruit, local crafts, and street musicians playing Paraguayan harp tunes. It’s part market, part social event, where locals shop, eat, and catch up on community news.

Wander through rows of vendors selling everything from leather goods and lace to cassava, tropical fruits, and handmade chipa. The energy is upbeat and welcoming, and the food stalls serve up affordable, authentic meals. Try sopa paraguaya, mbejú, or a plate of asado with mandioca. For travelers wanting to taste and feel the heartbeat of Capiatá, this market delivers.

4. See the Iconic Church of Capiatá

The Iglesia Virgen de la Candelaria is one of Capiatá’s oldest and most beloved religious landmarks. Built in colonial style with bright white walls and twin bell towers, it sits proudly in the city center and is the site of many local celebrations and holy days.

Inside, you’ll find stained glass windows, carved altars, and the peaceful atmosphere typical of Paraguay’s rural churches. Visit during February, when the town holds a massive festival in honor of the Virgen de la Candelaria, complete with processions, fireworks, and food vendors. Even outside of holidays, the church plaza is a calm, photo-worthy place to sit and watch everyday life pass by.

5. Walk the Trails at Laguna Cañada

Laguna Cañada is a small but scenic lagoon tucked on the edge of Capiatá, known for its natural trails and peaceful views. It’s especially popular at sunrise and sunset when the sky reflects off the still water, surrounded by lush greenery.

Locals come here to walk, fish, or sit quietly by the banks. It’s an ideal spot for travelers who enjoy serene outdoor spaces that feel genuinely off-the-beaten-path. While not heavily developed for tourism, its raw, untouched feel adds to its charm. Bring bug spray, a camera, and maybe a picnic to make the most of the experience.

6. Catch a Local Festival or Traditional Dance Show

Capiatá’s cultural calendar is filled with lively events that celebrate Paraguayan identity, from folkloric dance performances to patriotic parades and food fairs. While many festivals revolve around religious holidays, you’ll also find events honoring local history, agriculture, and indigenous traditions.

Community plazas and church courtyards often transform into open-air stages, with dancers in embroidered costumes performing the polka or galopa to harp and guitar rhythms. These shows are full of energy, color, and heart — and many are free to attend. Ask locals or check city event boards for schedules. If your visit lines up with a cultural celebration, don’t miss the chance to experience the pride and passion of Capiatá’s people.

7. Try Chipa and Tereré at a Street Stand

No trip to Paraguay — and certainly not to Capiatá — is complete without trying chipa, a savory, cheesy cornmeal bread sold on nearly every corner. Pair it with tereré, the country’s cold herbal infusion sipped from a guampa (cup) with a bombilla (metal straw).

This combo is both a snack and a social ritual. Many vendors sell fresh, warm chipa early in the morning or late afternoon, and you’ll often see locals chatting in small groups while passing around a thermos of cold water and yerba. Join in or grab your own — it’s one of the most delicious and uniquely Paraguayan ways to connect with local life.

8. Tour the Local Ceramic Workshops

Capiatá and its surrounding towns are known for traditional ceramic and pottery-making, especially rustic jugs, vases, and bowls made from local clay. Visiting a taller de cerámica (ceramics workshop) gives you insight into centuries-old techniques passed down through generations.

Many of these small family-run studios welcome visitors to watch, buy, or even participate in the process. Pieces are hand-shaped, dried, and fired in outdoor kilns — and no two are alike. They make great souvenirs that actually support local artisans. Ask around or follow signs pointing to ceramic talleres — it’s a quiet but rewarding cultural experience.

9. Watch a Football Match at Estadio Lic. Erico Galeano

For sports fans, catching a match at the Estadio Lic. Erico Galeano — home to Club Deportivo Capiatá — is a great way to feel the city’s competitive spirit. While not a massive stadium, the atmosphere is full of local pride, chants, and intense gameplay.

Games are held regularly throughout the year and tickets are affordable. Even if you’re not a big fútbol fan, the excitement in the stands is contagious. Grab a cold soda, cheer with the crowd, and soak up the energy of Paraguay’s most beloved sport. It’s an unforgettable way to connect with Capiatá’s youth and community culture.

10. Spend a Quiet Afternoon in Parque Municipal

When you’re ready to wind down, head to Parque Municipal de Capiatá, a green oasis in the heart of the city. With walking paths, shade trees, and benches, it’s a favorite spot for quiet reading, casual picnics, or simply taking a break from sightseeing.

The park often features small art displays or civic activities and has plenty of space for kids to run around. It’s also near several cafés and local bakeries if you’re craving a snack. If you’re not in a rush, this is the perfect place to pause and reflect on your trip. Sometimes the best moments are the simplest ones.

What to Do If You Have Kids?

Capiatá is very family-friendly, offering parks, plazas, and open-air spaces where kids can play and explore freely. Start with Parque Ecológico Kaañymby or Parque Municipal, both of which have wide trails and nature to spark curiosity. For educational fun, the Museo Mitológico adds a touch of fantasy with its mythical creatures.

Kids will also enjoy weekend markets, especially when there’s live music or sweet treats like cocido or mbejú being served. Most restaurants and public spaces are very accommodating to families. Pack sunscreen, snacks, and let your little ones experience Paraguay’s charm at their own pace.

Where Can I Find Free Events in Capiatá Paraguay Taking Place This Weekend?

Want to know what’s happening in Capiatá this weekend without scouring dozens of local websites? Head to https://planmyweekend.ai — our free AI-powered tool that shows you real-time listings of concerts, cultural festivals, food fairs, markets, and more. Whether you’re a traveler or a local, this tool makes it easy to explore the best free things to do in your area without missing out. Stay spontaneous, discover hidden gems, and enjoy Capiatá like a local — for zero cost.

Final Thoughts on Planning a Trip to Capiatá

Capiatá may not appear on every travel guide’s top 10 list — and that’s exactly why it’s so special. It’s where Paraguayan heritage lives in street corners, local legends, handmade crafts, and everyday smiles. Whether you’re wandering through a eucalyptus forest, tasting fresh chipa, or watching a folkloric dance at sunset, Capiatá offers simple, soulful experiences that stay with you long after you leave. Affordable, authentic, and full of life — this city deserves a spot on your South America itinerary.