The day before my flight out of Paraguay, I decided to take one last short trip into nature. My destination was Cerro Akatí, one of the few more prominent hills in a country otherwise known mainly for its flat terrain.
I set off by car from accommodation near the village of Melgarejo, from where an access road also leads toward the summit. Of course, Ibo accompanied me on this adventure as well.
Access road and parking
An unpaved road leads to Cerro Akatí that is passable by a passenger car in dry conditions. In my case, however, the weather complicated matters. It had rained heavily the day before the trip and the final stretch of the route was quite muddy.
Continuing further by car would have been more a matter of luck than of sense, so I decided to park and complete the rest of the route on foot.
Hike to the summit
From where I left the car it was about 2 kilometres to the summit. The route follows the road and the climb is at times fairly steep. Dense tropical forest lines both sides, practically blocking the views. Until the very last moment you can hardly see anything of the surroundings.
After rain you should expect mud and slippery surfaces, but technically it is not a difficult ascent.
Viewpoint on the summit of Cerro Akatí
The reward for the ascent is the views right from the summit. There is a transmitter and a lookout with a panoramic view over the valley and surrounding hills.
Entry to the actual lookout is charged. You pay approximately 60 000 PYG to the local attendant and payment is only possible in cash.
Since most of Paraguay is almost completely flat, the view from above over the rolling terrain feels unusual.
Trip with a dog
The route can comfortably be done with a dog. However, you should expect that during rainy days you will not return from the trip with a clean dog (or car). On warm days don’t forget to bring water – for yourself and for your dog. Also be prepared for potential encounters with local dogs.
Conclusion
Cerro Akatí is an ideal suggestion for a short trip if you are in the vicinity of Melgarejo or are looking for an easy hike with nice views. Although it is not a tall hill in general, it offers interesting views for Paraguay. As a farewell to Paraguay the day before my flight, it was exactly the right trip.