Paraguay: When to Go

Because of Paraguay's intense summer heat, visits in the winter months (May to September) are preferable as the weather is pleasantly variable. July is the coldest month with temperatures averaging just over 20°C (68°F).

Paraguay's celebration of Carnaval in February is a good time to go - the liveliest celebrations are in Asunción. The religious center of Caacupé is the most important site for Día de la Virgen (Immaculate Conception Day) in December.

Weather

Since elevations do not exceed 600m (1968ft) in Paraguay, temperatures are almost uniformly hot in summer - the east of the country has the added bonus of humidity. Average highs hover around 35°C (95°F), with daily temperatures ranging between 25°C and 43°C (77°F to 109°F).

The mercury has been known to drop to freezing in winter due to southern polar air - average lows sit around 6°C (42°F). That said, the average high in July, the coldest month, is a balmy 22°C (71°F).

Rainfall is moderate throughout the year with the winter months usually being a bit drier. Conditions are wetter in the east where rainfall averages an abundant 2000mm (79in) a year, declining to about 1500mm (59in) near Asunción. In southern Paraguay, rainfall is distributed fairly evenly throughout the year.