Ypacarai Lake (Paraguay)

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This beautiful lake has been widely known because of the song “Memories of Ypacarai”, written by Demetrio Ortiz. This is one of the two Paraguayan main lakes. It is located 28 km (17.3 miles) from Asuncion, and it is surrounded by three cities: Aregua, San Bernardino and Ypacarai. Around this lake appealing activities take place. During Summer time, the lake is visited by local and travelers that enjoy its beaches and the great landscape.

Geography
Ypacarai Lake area is about 90 Km2, (55.9 sq mi) and its length is 24 km (14.9 mi) from north to south and 6 km (3.7 mi) from east to west. The average deep of the water is about 3 meters (10 feet).

The landscape is beautiful, and invites us to enjoy hills covered with forests, as well as the cities of San Bernardino, Ypacarai and Aregua.

The lake outflows in Salado River, that goes itself in Paraguay River. And the lake receives water from various brooks, as Yagua Resau, Yuquyry, Puente Estrella y Pirayu.


Weather
The weather is mainly warm. Sunny days are frequent. Temperature might vary between a range of 20°C a 38°C (68-100 F) during summer and 3°C to 25°C (37-77 F) during winter.


History
In early days, this lake name was Tapycua. There are several versions that could explain the meaning of its name. Some affirm that Ypacarai means Holy Lake, because of the legend that tells that Luis de Bolaños blessed the place around 1600. Orthes tell that Ypacarai is a confusion of other words in guarani, and the outcome is similar to what happened with the word kangaroo, original from Australia.


Transportation

One can see this lake visiting one of the surrounding cities. From Asuncion Bus Terminal buses depart to San Bernardino and Ypacarai. To go to Aregua, one can take the bus from Avenida San Martín o Aviadores del Chaco, in Asuncion.


Art and Culture
Aregua

This is a very interesting place. For instance, there are permanent art craft exhibitions, and the antique architecture and city structure are worth seeing.

La cuenca: The Artisans Center, offers a faire where local artists show their work.

Estacion A: This is a culture center, where visitors and tourists can obtain to information.

Guggiari Center: Art center with sculpture exhibition. It is located at the very entrance of the city.

Ypacarai

La Casa de la Cultura: This is a historical museum, where some exhibitions are also presented. This museum opens specially during September, when an important festival takes place.

Festival del Lago: Every year, in Ypacarai city, since 1971 this festival is celebrated. This is a popular party that encourages folk expression and Paraguayan Art. This event goes on in September. One can enjoy concerts, dance and theater. According to the City Chamber, this festival “tries to rescue and reinforce the artistic heritage of Paraguayan culture”

San Bernardino

Casa Hassler: is a cultural center, open the whole year. Artists can show their work here at no cost. Here there are permanent and temporal exhibitions. Besides, there is a History Museum, a Public Library, acting and dance lessons.


Tourism
Ypacarai is a relatively shallow lake. Boats and small ships can navigate it without inconvenient. The lake is surrounded by cities with necessary facilities for tourists and visitors. Beaches are open to public, and they are very popular during summer, especially in San Bernardino.


San Bernardino
It is located 48 km (29.8 mi) away from Asunción. This city has beaches, cultural centers, pubs, and interesting restaurants. San Bernardino is also called “Summer City”, since it has facilities and attractions for visitors.


Aregua
It is 31 km (19.2 mi) from Asunción. This is a beautiful city, with a bohemian charming touch. Writers’ choice and important characters favorite place. This city also has a public beach. In Aregua one can also visit the Artisans fair, where the locals offer pottery and clay figures.


Gastronomy
Cities that surround the lake offer great variety of gastronomic styles. There are plenty of places that offer fast food and traditional flavors. Fruit salads, pastries, chipas and empanadas are some options.


How to get there
Ypacarai: 34 km (21 mi) from Asunción taking Ruta 2. Aregua: A 31 km (19.2 mi) from Asuncion. One can take an exit from Ruta 2 in Capiata City, or Leaving from Luque city. San Bernardino: A 48 km (29.8 mi) from Asunción. From Ruta 2, take the exit to the city.