Ciudad del Este is a bustling city located in the eastern region of Paraguay, near the borders of Brazil and Argentina. There are several reasons why one may want to visit this city. In this article we list 10 unforgettable experiences in Ciudad del Este. Enjoy!
- Shopping: Ciudad del Este is known for being a major shopping destination in the region, with numerous shopping centers and markets selling a wide variety of goods at competitive prices. Visitors can find everything from electronics and clothing to household items and souvenirs.
- Cultural Diversity: The city is a melting pot of cultures and nationalities, with large populations of Lebanese, Chinese, and Korean immigrants. This diversity is reflected in the local cuisine, architecture, and community events.
- Natural Beauty: The city is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, including the Itaipu Dam, one of the largest hydroelectric power plants in the world, and the Itaipu Lake, which offers stunning views and recreational activities.
- Adventure Activities: The region offers several adventure activities, such as hiking, rafting, and zip-lining, which are popular among tourists seeking an adrenaline rush.
- Proximity to Other Destinations: Ciudad del Este is located close to several other popular tourist destinations in the region, such as the Iguazu Falls, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, and the city of Foz do Iguaçu in Brazil.
Overall, Ciudad del Este is an excellent destination for visitors interested in shopping, cultural experiences, natural beauty, adventure activities, and exploring other nearby destinations in the region.
History of Ciudad del Este
Ciudad del Este is a relatively new city, founded in 1957 by Brazilian entrepreneur, Domingo Juliani, who saw an opportunity to establish a trading post near the border of Brazil and Paraguay. The city was initially called Puerto Flor de Lis and was a small settlement with a few shops and businesses.
In the 1960s and 1970s, the city experienced rapid growth, as it became a major hub for cross-border trade between Paraguay, Brazil, and Argentina. The construction of the Friendship Bridge over the Paraná River in 1965, connecting Ciudad del Este to Foz do Iguaçu in Brazil, further accelerated the city’s growth.
During the 1980s and 1990s, Ciudad del Este became known as a center for contraband and money laundering activities, as well as a hub for illicit trade in weapons, drugs, and other illegal goods. The city gained a reputation for lawlessness and corruption, leading to increased scrutiny and crackdowns by Paraguayan and international authorities.
In recent years, the city has made efforts to improve its image and attract legitimate business and tourism. The local government has invested in infrastructure and public services, and the city has become a popular destination for shopping and tourism in the region.
Today, Ciudad del Este is a bustling and diverse city, with a population of over 300,000 people and a thriving economy driven by cross-border trade, manufacturing, and tourism. Despite its turbulent history, the city has emerged as an important center for commerce and culture in Paraguay and the broader region.
Top 10 things to do in Ciudad del Este
Visit the Itaipu Dam
Take a guided tour of the world’s second-largest hydroelectric power plant, located just outside of the city. The tour offers a fascinating insight into the engineering marvel that provides electricity to Paraguay and Brazil.
Shop at the Ciudad del Este Market
Explore one of the largest markets in South America, where you can find everything from clothing and electronics to handicrafts and souvenirs.
See the Buddhist Temple
Visit the beautiful Buddhist temple, built by the city’s Chinese community, and take in the stunning architecture and serene atmosphere.
Explore the Acaray Park
Relax and enjoy the green spaces at the Acaray Park, which offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and views of the surrounding area.
Take a day trip to the Iguazu Falls
Visit one of the most stunning natural wonders of the world, located just a few hours from the city. Check out our reviews about Igauzu Falls here:
Visit the Three Borders Landmark
Stand at the point where Paraguay, Brazil, and Argentina meet, and take in the views of the surrounding rivers and landscapes.
Go on an adventure tour
Take a zip-line tour or go white-water rafting on the Parana River for a thrilling adventure experience.
Visit the San Blas Cathedral
Visit the beautiful Catholic cathedral, which dates back to the early days of the city’s founding.
Explore the Republic Lake
Take a boat tour of the beautiful lake, located just a few kilometers from the city, and enjoy the views of the surrounding mountains and forests.
Enjoy Paraguayan cuisine
Try the local food, such as sopa paraguaya, chipa guazu, and bori bori, which are delicious traditional dishes of the Paraguayan cuisine.
How to get to Ciudad del Este
Ciudad del Este is easily accessible by air, land, and water.
By air
The Silvio Pettirossi International Airport in Asunción, Paraguay is the closest major airport to Ciudad del Este. From there, you can take a domestic flight or a bus to reach the city. Alternatively, you can also fly into Foz do Iguaçu International Airport in Brazil. Or Cataratas del Iguazú International Airport in Argentina. And then cross the border into Paraguay by bus or taxi.
By land
Ciudad del Este is connected to other major cities in Paraguay and neighboring countries by a network of bus services. The main bus terminal in Ciudad del Este is located near the downtown area. And buses run regularly to and from Asunción and other cities in Paraguay. As well as to Foz do Iguaçu and other destinations in Brazil and Argentina.
By water
You can also reach Ciudad del Este by boat from other cities along the Paraná River. Such as Asunción, Encarnación, and Posadas in Argentina. However, this is a less common mode of transportation and may not be as frequent as other options.
Enjoy our discounts in Ciudad del Este
Useful information about Ciudad del Este
Where to find Ciudad del Este?
Ciudad del Este is a city located in eastern Paraguay, near the border with Brazil and Argentina. It is the second-largest city in the country, after Asunción, and is the capital of the Alto Paraná Department. The city is situated on the Paraná River. It is connected to Foz do Iguaçu in Brazil by the Friendship Bridge.
Is Ciudad del Este safe?
Ciudad del Este has a reputation for being a somewhat unsafe city. Due to its proximity to Brazil and the presence of organized crime. However, like many cities, safety largely depends on the neighborhood and the time of day. It is important to exercise caution and take necessary precautions when traveling in Ciudad del Este. Some tips for staying safe include avoiding walking alone at night. Being aware of your surroundings, and not carrying large amounts of cash or valuable items. Additionally, it is recommended to use reputable transportation services and to stay in well-lit areas.
When is the best time to visit Ciudad del Este?
The best time to visit Ciudad del Este is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. During this time, the weather is pleasant. And there is less rainfall, making it an ideal time to explore the city’s many outdoor attractions. Such as the Itaipu Dam and the Acaray Park. The temperatures during this period are also milder. With average highs in the mid-20s °C (70-80°F) and lows in the low to mid-teens °C (50-60°F). However, it is worth noting that Ciudad del Este can be visited year-round. As it has a warm and humid climate with temperatures averaging around 30°C (86°F) throughout the year.
Best experiences in Ciudad del Este
Ciudad del Este, Paraguay offers a variety of unique experiences for visitors. From shopping at bustling markets to exploring stunning natural wonders and cultural landmarks. A must-do experience is taking a guided tour of the Itaipu Dam. One of the largest hydroelectric power plants in the world. While also visiting the beautiful Buddhist temple, built by the Chinese community. Additionally, exploring the green spaces of Acaray Park, and enjoying local cuisine are just a few of the many experiences to be had in this diverse and dynamic city.
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