Emboscada

Emboscada is a town and district in Cordillera department, founded in 1740 by governor Rafael de la Moneda under the name "San Agustín de la Emboscada." The name — Spanish for "ambush" — refers to an ambush carried out against the Carios people by the Guaicurú before the Spanish conquest. Its first settlers were "libertos," freed slaves brought from Brazil in the 18th century, and today a large share of Emboscada's population identifies as being of African descent — a distinctive heritage among Cordillera's towns. Paraguay's most significant penitentiary was built here in 1816. Emboscada is also known locally as the "Stone City" for its mining activity, and its artisans are known for hatmaking, weaving fans and hats from karandá'y palm fibre. The climate is subtropical; best visited May–September.

By Plane

Silvio Pettirossi International Airport (ASU) is about 60 km west.

By Car / Road

Emboscada is accessible via secondary roads off Route PY02, about 39 km from Asunción. Road conditions vary.

Private vehicle is necessary for exploring the district.

• Hilly landscape – The Cordillera foothills with rural views.

• Historic penitentiary site – Paraguay's most significant colonial-era penitentiary was built here in 1816.

• Nature walks – Quiet countryside roads suitable for walking.

• Craft shopping – Karandá'y-palm hats and fans made by local artisans.

Local shops.

Karandá'y-palm hats and fans; basic supplies.

• Altos (25 km south) – Hill town.
• Caacupé (35 km west) – Pilgrimage basilica.
• Arroyos y Esteros (30 km north) – Wetland area.