Lake Ypacaraí

Lake Ypacaraí is a shallow body of water located in eastern Paraguay, situated between the departments of Central and Cordillera. It covers an area of approximately 60 square kilometers and has an average depth of only three meters, making it highly sensitive to environmental changes. Historically, the lake became internationally famous through the song "Recuerdos de Ypacaraí," composed by Demetrio Ortiz in 1948, which captures the romantic essence of the region. The lake is surrounded by several important cities, including San Bernardino, which was founded as a German colony in 1881 and remains a major summer resort. Ecologically, the basin plays a vital role in the regional climate, although it has faced significant pollution challenges in recent decades due to urban and industrial runoff. Efforts are ongoing to restore the water quality and preserve the natural biodiversity of the surrounding wetlands and forests. The lake remains a central cultural and recreational hub for the inhabitants of the nearby capital, Asunción.

Nearby cities

Capiatá

One of the most populous cities in the metropolitan region, characterized by dense settlement and historical churches.

Lambaré

Located directly south of the capital, the city offers the Cerro Lambaré, the top of which provides a magnificent view.

Fernando de la Mora

A bustling commercial and residential city, named after one of the founding fathers of Paraguayan independence.

Limpio

One of the oldest cities in the country, traditionally characterized by its karanday weaving for hats.

Ñemby

A rapidly growing municipality southeast of the capital, where agriculture is gradually giving way to industry.

Mariano Roque Alonso

The city is best known as the location for the large annual international agricultural and industrial fair.

Itauguá

Internationally known as the home of ñandutí, the characteristic spiderweb-like embroidery.

Villa Elisa

A quiet urban enclave in the metropolitan area shaped by Danish immigration in the late 19th century.

Ypané

Known as the 'Historical City' because ancient battles and historical events took place here.

San Antonio

Located on the banks of the Paraguay River, this industrial city offers several important inland ports for the country.

Areguá

The picturesque city on the shores of Lake Ypacaraí is known nationwide for its pottery and strawberry cultivation.

Areguá

The capital of handicrafts and strawberries, famous for its colonial architecture and fine pottery.

Ypacaraí

The birthplace of the legendary song 'Recuerdos de Ypacaraí' attracts many musicians and tourists because of its great lake.

Guarambaré

Surrounded by sugarcane plantations, this city is historically famous for its sugar factories.

Altos

One of the oldest cities in Paraguay, perched on a hill offering sweeping views over Lake Ypacaraí.

History & landmarks

Itá

The capital of ceramics, famous for its black clay hens and the caimans of the San Blas lagoon.

Atyrá

Atyrá is considered the cleanest city in Paraguay, a model of community spirit and ecological awareness.

Nature

Paraguay River

The Paraguay River is the most important river in the country and divides it into two distinct regions.