Bella Vista

Bella Vista, a town in the Itapúa Department of southern Paraguay, lies about 40 kilometres north-east of Encarnación along Route 6 and is known nationwide as the Capital de la Yerba Mate, the Capital of Yerba Mate. It was founded in 1917 as the third part of the German colony alongside Hohenau and Obligado and quickly developed into the heart of the Paraguayan yerba mate industry. It is home to the famous Selecta mate factory, one of the largest and oldest mate brands in Paraguay, whose products are sold throughout South America and Europe. With around 10 000 inhabitants Bella Vista is a small but economically important town. Economically it relies on yerba mate cultivation and processing, soybean farming, tourism and German cuisine. Notable sights include the Selecta factory with tours and tastings, the German parish church, the local history museum and the annual German festivals with traditional music and beer. Bella Vista is also an important starting point for tourists exploring the Yerba Mate Route.

Nearby cities

Encarnación

The 'Pearl of the South' is famous for its river promenade on the Paraná and the spectacular annual carnival.

Obligado

As the industrial capital of the region, Obligado is an important pillar of yerba mate production.

San Pedro del Paraná

One of the oldest cities in Itapúa, characterized by rolling hills, expansive lands, and traditional equestrian sports.

Tomás Romero Pereira

Popularly known as Maria Auxiliadora, this city is famous for its intensive carrot cultivation.

Hohenau

A place strongly influenced by German immigrants, forming part of the United Colonies in the south of the country.

Capitán Miranda

A multicultural municipality near Encarnación, known for its exceptionally productive horticulture.

Cambyretá

As a neighboring city of Encarnación, Cambyretá is popular for its beautiful riverbanks and quiet residential neighborhoods.

Coronel Bogado

The self-proclaimed capital of chipa, Paraguay's famous corn and cheese bread, attracting visitors with its traditional bakery goods.

Posadas

The capital of Misiones province, sitting on the Paraná River, with a blend of regional culture and modern life.

Oberá

Known as the city of immigrants, reflecting diverse cultural traditions in Misiones province.

History & landmarks

Trinidad

The best-preserved Jesuit reduction in Paraguay and a UNESCO World Heritage site of exceptional beauty.

Jesús de Tavarangue

An unfinished jewel of Jesuit architecture featuring unique Moorish influences and UNESCO status.

San Cosme y Damián

Unique for its Jesuit astronomical heritage and the impressive sand dunes in the Paraná River.

San Ignacio Miní

Well-preserved remains of a Jesuit mission, providing insight into 17th-century missionary life.

More places

Nuestra Señora de Loreto

A former Jesuit reduction site, significant for its historical influence on the indigenous population.

Nuestra Señora de Santa Ana

The ruins of a Jesuit reduction, reflecting the historical missionary efforts in the Misiones region.

San Rafael Hills

A rolling hill area in southern Paraguay, part of an important ecological corridor.

San Rafael Reserve

One of the most important forest reserves in Paraguay, hosting enormous biodiversity.

Santa María la Mayor

One of the Jesuit missions in the Misiones region, showcasing historical architecture and cultural preservation.

Yerba Mate Route

An agricultural and cultural route through the plantations in Misiones, where Argentina's national drink is grown.