Plizio Visual Lab

Cerro Memby

Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Mountain
—°1
Cerro Memby (Paraguay)

Weather…

Cerro Memby is a distinctive geological formation located in the Amambay Department, near the town of Yby Yaú. Its name in the Guaraní language means 'Child Hill,' referring to its characteristic shape and the smaller elevations surrounding it. The mountain is part of the Amambay range and is notable for its nearly vertical rock faces and rounded summit, making it a key landmark for travelers along Route 5. Geographically, the formation is composed of ancient sandstone, shaped by erosion over millions of years. The vegetation on the slopes is a mix of Cerrado scrubland and subtropical forest, where numerous birds of prey nest. Cerro Memby is considered one of Paraguay's most photogenic sites and is often used as a symbol of the rugged beauty of the northeastern region. Nearby, there are archaeological sites containing ancient petroglyphs, indicating the long history of human presence in the area.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C272626242019182023252527
Rain mm17818311813312180504383159190174

📋 Practical info

🧭
Getting there
This mountain, visible from afar, rises strikingly from the flatlands and is usually accessible via unpaved turnoffs from the main cross-country roads. The tracks leading to the actual base of the mountain frequently cross through rural areas and wide pastures.
📅
Best season
The moderate transitional months offer the most pleasant temperatures for an ascent without enduring oppressive heat. During the rainy season, the unpaved access roads can quickly become a serious challenge for conventional vehicles due to the soft, muddy ground.
⛰️
Terrain & paths
While the surrounding area is largely flat, the slopes of the mountain feature steep, often forested or rocky sections. The hiking trails are steep and irregular in many places, so that at times hands must be used to maintain balance during the ascent.
🎒
What to bring
Due to the rough terrain on the mountain, ankle-high hiking boots are very important to provide the necessary stability. Sun protection for the flat approach area and insect repellent for the forested slopes should absolutely not be missing from your daypack.
🅿️
Parking
The car is usually left at the edge of the surrounding pastures or at local farmsteads before the trail becomes steeper. It is generally advisable to briefly ask local residents beforehand if parking in the chosen spot is perfectly fine for a few hours.
⚠️
Safety
Since the mountain is often exposed to wind and weather on the plain, you should absolutely not ascend if thunderstorms are approaching. The risk of falling rocks in the steeper gullies also requires anticipatory walking and appropriate, continuous caution.
⏱️
Time needed
For the initial approach and the actual ascent to the main viewpoints, a total of roughly three to five hours should be scheduled. This allows sufficient leeway to safely and relaxedly master the descent in the terrain, which can be partially loose.

Geography

Coordinates
-22.88330, -56.38330

Facts

  • Name derived from Guaraní (meaning Child Hill).
  • Located adjacent to the major Route 5 highway.
  • Part of the Cordillera de Amambay mountain range.
  • Geologically composed of ancient red sandstone.
  • Popular destination for climbers and photographers.
  • Area contains significant pre-Columbian rock art.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Cerro Memby (1)

Cerro Memby📍 landmark

A distinctive, cone-shaped hill that rises lonely from the surrounding Paraguayan plains.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

How demanding is the ascent of Cerro Memby?
It is a moderate hike. Good physical condition and sturdy footwear are recommended for the climb.
Are there restrooms on the mountain?
No, there are no restrooms. Please plan accordingly and take your trash with you.
What is the best season for a visit?
The cooler months between May and August are handy to avoid the heat while hiking.
Can you park at Cerro Memby?
There are limited, unmonitored parking options at the base of the mountain.
How long does the ascent take on average?
The ascent takes about 1.5 to 2 hours depending on your pace and breaks.
Cerro Memby: where is it located?
Cerro Memby is located in Paraguay.
Cerro Memby: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Cerro Memby: why is it worth visiting?
Cerro Memby is a distinctive geological formation located in the Amambay Department, near the town of Yby Yaú.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
South America
Explore with Plizio Discover more places in South America
More places in Paraguay →

Nearby cities

Nature

More places