New Australia Travel Guide

Discover the natural beauty and rich culture of New Australia with our comprehensive travel guide, including must-visit places, activities, and local customs.


Introduction to New Australia

Nestled in the heart of Southern Paraneña, Paraguay, New Australia is a true hidden gem. The idyllic town was founded in 1893 by a group of Australian socialists, who were seeking independence from their homeland and a new way of life. Today, New Australia boasts a rich cultural heritage and breathtaking natural scenery, making it a popular destination for travelers seeking an authentic experience.

With this travel guide, discover the top places to visit, things to do, and local customs to observe in New Australia.

List of Places to Visit in New Australia

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

New Australia is steeped in history, and visitors will find many attractions that showcase the town’s cultural heritage. Some of the top museums and historical places to visit include:

  • The New Australia Museum: Located in the town center, this museum provides an in-depth look at the history of New Australia, from its founding to present day.
  • La Plata Cemetery: An important cultural landmark, this cemetery serves as the final resting place for many of the town’s earliest settlers.
  • The Archibald Meston Memorial: Dedicated to the memory of Archibald Meston, a journalist and social reformer who championed the rights of indigenous peoples in Australia and Paraguay.

Natural Attractions of New Australia: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Nature lovers will be amazed by the stunning scenery that New Australia has to offer. Visitors can explore the town’s forests, mountains, and waterfalls, and enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. Some of the top natural attractions to see include:

  • Parque Agroecológico de Piribebuy: A beautiful park with lush vegetation and plenty of trails for hiking and exploring.
  • Salto Suizo: This stunning waterfall is not to be missed, with cascading water and a beautiful panoramic view of the surrounding forests.
  • Cerro Tres Kandú: This mountain provides a challenging hike and incredible panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Hiking/Biking Routes of New Australia

New Australia is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with many hiking and biking trails to explore. Some of the top routes include:

  • Sendero Guasu: This 4km hiking trail takes visitors through lush forests and offers stunning views of the landscape.
  • Ruta de los Vikazús: A challenging 28km bike trail that takes riders through the mountains and along the shores of Lake Ypacaraí.
  • Sendero de la Cascada: A short, easy hike that leads visitors to the top of Salto Suizo.

Best Things to Do in New Australia: Activities and Tours

In addition to hiking and biking, New Australia offers a variety of other activities and tours for visitors to enjoy. Some of the best things to do include:

  • Horseback riding: Take a scenic ride on horseback through the forests and countryside surrounding New Australia.
  • Paragliding: Soar through the skies and enjoy breathtaking views of the landscape below.
  • Cultural tours: Learn more about the town’s history and culture by taking a tour of the historic sites and museums.

Week-Long Itinerary for New Australia

For visitors looking to maximize their time in New Australia, here’s a sample week-long itinerary:

  • Day 1: Explore the town center and visit the New Australia Museum.
  • Day 2: Hike the Sendero Guasu trail and enjoy a picnic lunch in the forest.
  • Day 3: Take a cultural tour of the Archibald Meston Memorial and La Plata Cemetery.
  • Day 4: Go horseback riding in the surrounding countryside.
  • Day 5: Visit the Parque Agroecológico de Piribebuy and enjoy a picnic lunch with local food.
  • Day 6: Go paragliding for an exhilarating experience and stunning views.
  • Day 7: Relax and take in the town’s charming atmosphere before departing.

Food and Drink Scene of New Australia

New Australia has a rich culinary tradition, with many locally-sourced ingredients and dishes. Some of the must-try dishes and beverages include:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Chipa: A traditional Paraguayan bread made with mandioca flour and cheese.
  • Asado: Grilled meats, typically beef or pork, served with chimichurri sauce.
  • Sopa Paraguaya: A savory cornbread often served with a variety of meats and stews.

Local Beverages

  • Caña: A locally-produced sugarcane liquor, often enjoyed as a shot or mixed in a cocktail.
  • Tereré: A cold herbal tea made with yerba mate, typically enjoyed with friends.

Where to Stay in New Australia: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

New Australia offers a variety of accommodations to suit all budgets and preferences. Here are a few top options:

  • Hotel Tirol: A charming hotel in the town center, with comfortable rooms and a restaurant serving local cuisine.
  • Hostel New Australia: A budget-friendly option with dormitory-style rooms and a shared kitchen.
  • Casa Suiza: A beautiful guesthouse with spacious rooms and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

What to Buy in New Australia: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

For those looking to take home a piece of New Australia, there are many locally-made products and souvenirs to choose from. Some top options include:

  • Artisanal pottery: Hand-crafted pottery using traditional techniques.
  • Paraguayan harps: Beautifully crafted instruments that are a cultural hallmark of the region.
  • Yerba mate: A traditional herbal tea, often sold in decorative gourds.

Local Culture and Customs of New Australia

New Australia is deeply rooted in its history and culture, and visitors should be respectful of local customs and traditions. Some key customs to observe include:

  • Greeting people with a handshake and maintaining eye contact.
  • Being punctual and respectful of others’ time.
  • Respecting local customs and dress codes at religious sites and cultural landmarks.

Best Time to Visit New Australia

The best time to visit New Australia is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. During this time, the weather is mild and pleasant, and outdoor activities are more enjoyable.

Do’s and Don’ts of New Australia

Here are a few key Do’s and Don’ts to keep in mind when visiting New Australia:

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.
  • Explore the surrounding nature and outdoor attractions.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect local customs or dress codes.
  • Disrupt others’ peace and quiet in public areas.
  • Engage in any illegal or illicit activities.

Safety and Health

Safety in New Australia

New Australia is generally safe for visitors, with low levels of crime. Nonetheless, visitors should take the usual precautions to protect themselves and their belongings, such as not carrying large amounts of cash and keeping valuables locked up.

Health in New Australia

No specific vaccinations are required to visit New Australia, but visitors should be up-to-date on routine vaccinations. Visitors should also be cautious about consuming tap water and should stick to bottled water.

Getting to New Australia: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near New Australia

The nearest airport to New Australia is the Silvio Pettirossi International Airport in Asunción, which is roughly 50 miles away. From there, visitors can hire a car or take a bus to New Australia.

Bus Stations Near New Australia

New Australia has a small bus station with daily connections to Asunción and other cities in the region.

Other Options

For visitors looking for a more unique transportation experience, there are also luxury train rides that run from Asunción to Encarnación, with stops in various towns along the way.

How to Get Around in New Australia

The town center of New Australia is easily navigable on foot, but for those looking to explore the surrounding areas, car rental is the best option. Taxis and buses are also available, but these can be less reliable and comfortable.

Where to Go Next from New Australia: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are many nearby destinations and excursions that visitors can take from New Australia. Some top options include:

  • San Bernardino: A popular resort town with beautiful natural scenery and a variety of activities and attractions.
  • Caacupé: A religious pilgrimage site with a stunning basilica and charming town center.
  • Ypacaraí: A small town on the banks of Lake Ypacaraí, with plenty of outdoor activities and scenic views.

Conclusion

New Australia may be off the beaten path, but it’s certainly worth the journey for visitors seeking a unique cultural and natural experience. From its stunning outdoor attractions to its rich history and culture, there’s something for everyone in this charming town.