PARQUE NACIONAL DE YBYCUÍ

This national park is one of the most visited in Paraguay. Access is fairly easy from the capital, 150 km away. With an area of 5,000 hectares, it was created in 1973 and offers varied landscapes, with hills and vegetation characteristic of the Atlantic Forest of High Paraná. Orchids and bromeliads can be admired, and it is easy to spot coatis or armadillos. The main attraction of the park is its waterfalls, especially Salto Mina and Salto Guaraní. Salto Mina is also called Salto Cristal by locals, but should not be confused with the "real" Salto Cristal, much higher up, located towards La Colmena. It is a bucolic place, with several waterfalls and pools, where you can refresh yourself. Quiet during the week, it's very crowded on weekends. A short (indicated) steep walk takes you to a watchtower, which offers a beautiful view of the tropical selve. As for the Salto Guarani, it is located on the Arroyo Mina, 900 metres from the camping area, along a path popular with butterflies. Also in the park is the old foundry La Rosada (or Minas Cue). It is the first ferrous metal foundry in South America. Put into service in 1856, under Carlos Antonio López, it was destroyed by allied troops in 1869. It produced tools, horseshoes, precision parts for the naval industry and especially weapons during the war. A museum explains how it works.