Tinfunque National Park

Tinfunqué National Park is a protected area in central Presidente Hayes department, covering approximately 280,000 hectares of the Chaco's unique flooded savanna and thorn forest ecosystems. It is one of Paraguay's largest national parks and a critical refuge for Chaco wildlife, including the Chacoan peccary (tagua), giant armadillo, maned wolf, and jaguar. The park's seasonal wetlands attract huge concentrations of waterbirds. It is remote and undeveloped, with no visitor facilities. The best time to visit is the dry season (May–September).

By Plane

The nearest airport is Silvio Pettirossi International Airport (ASU) in Asunción, about 250 km southeast.

By Train

No passenger rail.

By Car / Road

Tinfunqué is accessible via the Transchaco Highway (Route PY09) and a long unpaved track heading south from Pozo Colorado. A 4WD with high clearance is absolutely essential. A guide or GPS is strongly recommended. The drive from Asunción takes 5–7 hr.

There are no internal roads or trails. Access is by 4WD on rough tracks, or on foot with a guide.

• Chaco wetland – Vast flooded plains (esteros) during the wet season, dotted with palms.

• Wildlife – Chacoan peccary, giant anteater, armadillos, capybara, and jaguar.

• Birdlife – Jabiru stork, wood stork, roseate spoonbill, and many waterfowl species.

• Guided wildlife expedition – Multi-day off-road trips from Asunción or Filadelfia. Book through a specialist tour operator.

• Photography – The Chaco landscape and its wildlife offer exceptional photo opportunities.

Self-catering only.

Bring ample water.

• Camping – Primitive camping only. No facilities. A self-contained 4WD is the best base.

No facilities. Bring all supplies.

• Pozo Colorado (100 km southeast) – Last fuel and supplies before the park.
• Filadelfia (250 km northwest) – Mennonite colony and gateway to the Chaco.
• Defensores del Chaco National Park (300 km northwest) – Another remote Chaco protected area.