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When travelers think of Paraguay, cities like Asunción and Encarnación first come to mind, but just outside the capital lies Fernando de la Mora—a vibrant, growing city often overlooked by tourists.
This post covers Fernando de la Mora, when to visit, getting around, where to stay, safety, and attractions. We’ll also delve into considerations for those seeking to remain long-term, like living costs and healthcare.
Overview
While it may not boast the same historic architecture or beaches as other destinations, Fernando de la Mora offers a charming blend of local culture, modern conveniences, and a genuine Paraguayan experience.
This city is split into two districts, Fernando de la Mora Zona Norte and Zona Sur, each with a unique atmosphere. Zona Norte offers a lively urban feel, with bustling markets, restaurants, and an increasingly cosmopolitan scene. On the other hand, Zona Sur retains a quieter, more residential air, making it perfect for those seeking a peaceful getaway without sacrificing access to essential services and entertainment.
Fernando de la Mora shines for its thriving local culture. Visit one of the many family-run eateries and sample traditional Paraguayan dishes like sopa paraguaya and chipa. The local markets are also a treasure trove of fresh produce, handmade crafts, and opportunities to engage with friendly locals.
Fernando de la Mora provides a refreshing alternative to typical tourist hotspots. It invites you to slow down, engage with the locals, and experience Paraguay in a way many travelers never get the chance to.
Fernando de la Mora
- Department: Central
- Population: 196,000
- Official language(s): Spanish and Guarani
- Currency: Guarani/guaranies (₲ or Gs.)
- Climate: Cfa (humid subtropical)
- Safe to visit: Yes
- Cost of living: Low
When to Visit
The best time to visit Fernando de la Mora is between May and September when the weather is cooler and drier. During this period, temperatures are milder, ranging from around 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), making it ideal for exploring the city and nearby attractions without the intense heat and humidity of the summer months.
In contrast, the summer season from December to February can be pretty hot, with temperatures often reaching above 35°C (95°F) and higher humidity levels. That can make outdoor activities less comfortable, though it’s still manageable if you prepare for the heat.
Getting Around
Silvio Pettirossi International Airport (ASU) is Fernando de la Mora’s and Paraguay’s main airport. Paranair is Paraguay’s national airline company. It offers domestic and continental flights to Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay, Bolivia, and Chile. Alternatively, LATAM Airlines is the largest airline in Latin America, serving Latin America, North America, the Caribbean, Oceania, Asia, and Europe.
Rental car options include Alamo, Enterprise, Hertz, National, and Localiza. Consider getting an International Driver’s Permit (IDP) to drive in Paraguay. It translates your home license, making it understandable to local authorities. That can be helpful in Paraguay, where English is not widely spoken.
There’s a central bus terminal in Asuncion at Avenida Doctor Fernando de la Mora. However, the NSA bus company has pick-up and drop-off points in Fernando de la Mora. You will need a transit pass to take local buses.
Uber, Bolt, and taxis are available in Fernando de la Mora.
Where to Stay
The best neighborhoods in Fernando de la Mora include Zona Norte, which offers a more vibrant, urban experience with easy access to restaurants and shopping, and Zona Sur, which offers a quieter, residential atmosphere ideal for a peaceful stay.
Fernando de la Mora offers various accommodation options, including affordable hotels.
Airbnb is present in Fernando de la Mora. For long-term stays, you can book one to three months through the platform and then deal with the host privately. Many homeowners and travelers prefer private arrangements to avoid Airbnb’s high fees. You can also search Vrbo for vacation rentals and private homes.
Things to Do
The top things to do in Fernando de la Mora include:
Shopping: Visit Paseo 1811 and Fuente Shopping for goods and restaurants.
Mercado de Abasto: Experience local culture by exploring this lively market full of fresh produce, handicrafts, and traditional Paraguayan snacks.
Garage Bar & Bowling: Hang out with friends, meet locals, and bowl.
Discover more things to do, attractions, and tours in Fernando de la Mora and surrounding areas.
Shopping and Gyms
The best shopping malls in Fernando de la Mora are Paseo 1811 and Fuente Shopping.
Fernando de la Mora’s best gyms include Fran, Go Fit, and Muscle Factory.
The best supermarkets in Fernando de la Mora are Guaraní Central and Salemma Super Center.
Safety and Crime
Fernando de la Mora is safe to visit. Zona Norte is typically more active and has a more substantial police presence, while Zona Sur is quieter and residential. However, visitors should still practice general travel safety precautions throughout the city.
Consult your government’s travel advisories for more details.
Cost of Living
Fernando de la Mora’s living costs are low, with accommodation, food, and transportation well below the prices of other major cities.
Dallas, Texas, is a good representation of the average cost of living in the U.S.; it is neither extremely expensive like New York or San Francisco nor particularly cheap like Mississippi or Arkansas.
Fernando de la Mora’s living costs are roughly 76% lower than Dallas’s.
- Rent prices in Fernando de la Mora are 76% lower than in Dallas, TX.
- Restaurant prices in Fernando de la Mora are 72% lower than in Dallas, TX.
- Groceries prices in Fernando de la Mora are 73% lower than in Dallas, TX.
Healthcare
Paraguay’s healthcare system includes public and private hospitals. Public hospitals suffer from supply shortages, overcrowding, and long wait times. Private hospitals charge a premium and provide better care, equipment, and services.
Fernando de la Mora has one hospital: Hospital de Especialidades IPS. However, hospitals are available in adjacent cities, including Asuncion and San Lorenzo. Pharmacies include independents and chains, including Farmacenter, Punto Farma, and Farmacia Catedral.
Health insurance providers are available nationally and locally. They operate in Spanish, so you might consider getting insurance from a company that operates globally, like SafetyWing and WorldTrips. That will make policy and claim management much easier should a medical concern or incident arise.
Real Estate
Visit InfoCasas, REMAX Paraguay, and Century21 Paraguay for Paraguayan real estate and rentals.
Nearby Cities
- Luque
- Capiatá
- Lambaré
- San Lorenzo
- Asunción
Updated: October 17, 2024