Badlands National Park: Into The Land Of Sunrise, Sunset, And Stars | Stargazing At Badlands National Park

Sep 30, 2024

Last Updated on: Nov 24, 2025

Travel Blog

Guest speakers from Dark Ranger Telescope and NASA attended the “Astrofest Festival” at Badlands National Park this year (July 5 to 7, 2024). In this celebration of the night sky and astronomy, the guest speakers discussed various aspects of space. The 2024 fest included the following activities.

  • Scale model of the solar system in the afternoon
  • An early evening solar viewing program
  • Guest speaker session
These are objects that have been important to our culture since we could probably talk. So, we think it’s important to maintain that connection and bring back that connection to these things that used to be so important to us for thousands of years.
Ed Welsh, the education specialist at Badlands National Park 

The yearly Astrofest Festival at the park indeed has a role in making the park a favorite for star gazing and exploring the night sky.

Also, the remote location of the park and minimal light pollution here make it a wonderful site in South Dakota for watching the celestial bodies in action. 

Further, this park is a wonderful place to soak in the beauty of sunrise and sunset, making it the land of light and stones!

Night Sky Viewings/ Stargazing At Badlands National Park

Everyone talks about the geology, wildlife, and fossils of Badlands National Park. However, if you are an introvert and always seek an immersive experience like me, night sky viewing will be your favorite activity at the park. 

In fact, I feel that watching the night sky is the chef’s kiss in the park tour. The stargazing activity takes place near the park’s Cedar Pass area, which is close to the visitor center. 

Further, the rangers inform you about the celestial bodies you will see. You just need to keep your eyes glued to the telescope to explore celestial bodies, such as the Milky Way, star clusters, planets, satellites, and nebulae. 

The table below gives a quick excerpt of the stargazing and night sky viewing experience at Badlands National Park. 

Stargazing And Night Sky Viewings At Badlands National Park 
LocationCedar Pass Amphitheater
SpecialtyMore than 7500 stars are exposed to each visitor. They especially enjoy the clarity of the Milky Way. 
Add-onsFly-overs by the International Space Station and many satellites
Telescopes Provided By Celestron and Badlands Natural History Association
Best Season for StargazingSpring, Summer, and Fall

In summer, the Night Sky Viewing Program starts after the evening star gazing session every day. The park rangers conduct this program. Further, its timing keeps changing based on the sunset hours. 

Best Places For Stargazing At Badlands National Park 

Badlands National Park has earned a name in astrotourism thanks to its pristine nature. With fewer pull-outs and roads, the north unit of the park especially has many amazing stargazing destinations. Let’s explore them!

The Space Tourism Guide features the Badlands National Park and the Badlands National Park Observatory as some of the best places for stargazing in South Dakota. 
Badlands Observatory became accessible to visitors in May 2021. It is a privately owned facility in the Badlands National Park. Also, it works for astronomical education and research. 
  1. Cedar Pass Campground Amphitheater

Between Memorial Day and Labor Day, the Cedar Pass Campground Amphitheater has a Night Sky Viewing event every day. This experience is about gathering more information by stargazing in a structured setup. 

You must visit the Ben Reifel Visitor Center every day to learn about the program.    

  1. Badlands Loop Road

Like many other parts of the Badlands National Park, the Badlands Loop Road also allows you to find your spot for stargazing. However, two of the best spots along the loop are:

  • Burns Basin Overlook
  • Yellow Munds Overlook

These locations are especially great for taking photographs and indulging in tranquility. 

  1. Sage Creek Rim Road

The Sage Creek Rim Road is one of the least crowded spaces in the park. You will also get to see very few cars passing through the area. 

The Sage Creek Basin Overlook and Hay Butte Overlook are some of the best spots for stargazing on Sage Creek Rim Road. However, as very few people visit this area, you can find a stargazing spot of your own. 

  1. Big Badlands Overlook
Big Badlands Overlook

Big Badlands Overlook may appear last on my list of places to stargaze in Badlands National Park. However, it is the first overlook for someone accessing the park from the Northeast Entrance or the Sioux Falls. 

Take a short walk and reach the best stargazing point in the Big Badlands Overlook. From here, enjoy a 360-degree view. 

  1. The Backcountry 

The open backcountry of the Badlands National Park is a wonderland for camping and stargazing. So, just set your camp and enjoy stargazing for the entire night. 

Watching Sunrise And Sunset At Badlands National Park

Sunrise And Sunset At Badlands National Park

The magic hours of Sunrise and Sunset paint the Badlands National Park with the most vibrant shade of red. The table below shows the best points for watching the sunrise and sunset and the accessibility points.

ActivityBest Spots In The ParkAccessibility Points with Boardwalks and for Visitors with Wheelchairs 
SunriseDoor TrailNorbeck Pass AreaDillon Pass AreaBig Badlands OverlookPanorama PointCastle Trail WestBig Badlands OverlookDoor Trail Panorama Point
SunsetPinnacles OverlookCastle Trail EastNorbeck Pass AreaBigfoot Pass Picnic AreaConata Basin OverlookPinnacles Overlook Conata Basin OverlookBigfoot Pass Picnic Area 

As the Sun rises, its warm golden and red lights spread over the pinnacles that face the east. Further, the drama of light and shadow makes every frame mesmerizing. So, many photographers flock to Badlands National Park’s sunrise and sunset points for the best captures. 

Stargazing At Badlands National Park: Plan Your Trip Well 

There are two easy ways to reach the remoteness of the Badlands National Park. 

  1. Reach the Rapid City Regional Airport and ride for an hour to Badlands National Park. 
  1. Further, you can reach the Sioux Falls Regional Airport and take a road trip to Badlands National Park. This trip through South Dakota will take you around 4 hours.

If you want to have the best stargazing experience at Badlands, you need to stay there overnight. You can reserve a room at the Cedar Pass Lodge in advance or stay at the Sage Creek Campground or Cedar Pass Campground. 

However, if you are an adventurous soul and want the most immersive experience, put a camp in the backcountry or the north and south units of the park. Don’t forget to collect your permit for backcountry camping in the Badlands National Park. 

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Meet Sibashree Bhattacharya, a travel enthusiast who has a decade-long experience in transcending virtual barriers with her words! Her deep love for travel is apparent from her travel escapades to the mountain, often taking her readers on a journey, her words acting as Portkey! Fun fact: Sibashree loves to dive deep into the history of the places she is about to visit, making her travels even more wholesome. If you were wondering how her articles are not short of time travel, this answers it!

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READ MORE Hyderabad

10 Most Famous Restaurants In Hyderabad For A Wholesome Experience

BY  Abdul Aziz Nov 29, 2022

Hyderabad is a city in the south-central Indian state of Telangana. The largest and most populated city, it serves as the main urban hub and famous restaurants for the whole of the south-central heartland of India. Hyderabad has developed into a major worldwide center for business and trade as well as information technology (IT).  The city is renowned for its monuments, which include the fort of Golconda and the masterpiece Charminar. It is famous for its rich cultural diversity, historical legacy, and, of course, its delectable cuisine, including biryani. Moreover, TasteAtlas has ranked Hyderabad 50th for its diverse food options. Also, the inclusive culture of the city is reflected in its food. So, when Biryani and Nihari are pure joy for non-vegetarians, the city never fails to offer the best options for vegetarians.   Exploring the street food of the city is an experience in itself. However, if you are looking for fine dining and elaborate lunch options for you and your family, these are the best restaurants in Hyderabad.  10 Famous Restaurants In Hyderabad For Your Family  You can explore the wide variety of the taste of Hyderabad in the following top 10 famous restaurants in Hyderabad.  The rich food culture of the city gets a modern twist and some contemporary flavors at these highly-cherished places.  1. Exotica Banjara Hills Address:  5th Floor, 12th Square, Building, Hyderabad Contact Number: 095505 15500 Pocket Pinch: INR 2500 for Two People One of Hyderabad's best famous restaurants is popular with the name of Exotica. Exotica, a well-known eatery that serves Mughlai, North Indian, Chinese food, and others offering outside seating, lives up to its name.  A complete bar counter with live sports screenings, supporting valet parking, a buffet, and many other luxury amenities available at the location. Known for its Kulfi, and delicious flavourful chicken malai tikka, Kheer, and Chicken Manchow Soup. The jucy Mutton Biryani, with  Pina Coladas, is without a doubt one of the top restaurants in Hyderabad. Its staff is amicable, and the setting on the rooftop provides it with an added benefit. Anybody with a distinct cuisine philosophy can come here and have a fantastic feast. Exotica should therefore be on your list while you are visiting Hyderabad.  Location: Banjara Hills 2. Jalpaan https://www.instagram.com/p/C-IGvHOpxwM/?hl=en Address: Jalpaan Oyster complex, Malabar Gold Show Room, Begumpet Contact Number: 083741 11102 Pocket Pinch: INR 600-800 Jalpaan, a popular vegetarian restaurant in Hyderabad, is elegantly decorated and has a cheerful staff. Butter Naan, Chaat, Potli Biryani, Gulab Jamun, and Paneer Tikka are some of its appetizing dishes that are well-known and never fail to tempt diners.  It is without a doubt one of Hyderabad's best famous restaurants and is renowned for giving its vegetarian menu a royal twist. You can also book some pocket-friendly hotels in Hyderabad located in the area.  Location: Begumpet  3. Flechazo https://www.instagram.com/p/Cyht4U5r75y/?hl=en Address: Floor, D. No.8, 5th, 2-120/86/9/3, Road No. 2, opp. Park Hyatt, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad Contact No: 073375 53270 Pocket Pinch: INR 800-1000 A very famous multicuisine restaurant that brings to you flavors from all across the globe. Flechazo, one of the city's newest eateries, specializes in Mediterranean, Asian, and North Indian cuisine.  The famous restaurants' interiors, decor, and hospitality are frequently praised by customers.   One of Hyderabad's greatest restaurants for families, it has free valet parking and wifi and is kid-friendly. Hyderabad is also a superb venue for New Year's celebrations.  Location: Jubilee Hills 4. Amogham- The Lake View Restaurant https://www.instagram.com/p/C5DyUSbB3Ur/?hl=en Address: NTR Marg Adjacent to Lumbini Park, NTR Marg, opposite Tankbund, Khairtabad, Hyderabad Contact Number: 093552 34567 Pocket Pinch: INR 1600 for Two People Amogham Restaurant is renowned for its rich scent and indulgent use of spices. The service, atmosphere, and ambiance are all worth experiencing because they never fail to make a lasting impression. Given that you are in the southern region of the country, the Biryanis and Mughlai cuisine is known to be fairly authentic. The menus have been carefully crafted to ensure that each dish embodies the flavor and charm of traditional Indian cuisine.  Location: Khairatabad, Central Hyderabad  5. Daily Treats Address: Raheja IT Park, Mindspace, HUDA Techno Enclave, HITEC City, Hyderabad Contact Number: 040 6767 6767 Pocket Pinch: INR 2500 for Two Daily Treats is one of the finest famous restaurants in the city for a fine-dining experience thanks to its magnificent décor, comfortable seating, and kind and helpful staff. It never fails to impress the foodie in you with its variety of delicacies from North Indian to European cuisines and vegan as well as gluten-free options.  The out-of-this-world flavor of its meals and the elegance with which they are served on a platter make it one of the best vegetarian restaurants in Hyderabad. Location: The Westin Hyderabad, Madhapur, Hyderabad  6. Altitude Lounge Bar Hyderabad Marriott Hotel & Convention Centre https://www.instagram.com/p/CeOBi5aMdrG/?hl=en&img_index=1 Address: 8th Floor, Hyderabad Marriott Hotel & Convention Centre, Tank Bund Road, Bhagyalaxmi Nagar, Central, Hyderabad Contact Number:  096664 12009 Pocket Pinch: INR 3000 for Two People This eatery draws in both families and couples with its soft lighting and cozy atmosphere. Apart from the divine food, one of the main factors contributing to its appeal is the affordable prices. The vibe is welcoming and relaxing.  It is one of the greatest famous restaurants in Hyderabad, offering rooftop and, lake & skyline views along with exceptional service, scrumptious dishes, cocktails, and a pleasant environment.  Location: Hyderabad Marriott Hotel & Convention Centre  7. The Fisherman’s Wharf https://www.instagram.com/p/C-piLwaoFDr/?hl=en Address: 304, Nehru Outer Ring Road, Financial District, Gachibowli, Hyderabad, Nanakramguda Contact Number: 091003 32244 Pocket Pinch: INR 1800 for Two Due to its Goan theme, Hyderabad's The Fisherman's Wharf restaurant and pub are wildly famous. The lavish furnishings, colorful walls, and open rooftop almost make you believe that you are on a beach, far from the bustling streets.  The seafood platter they serve is remarkable. Fisherman's Wharf is an excellent dine-out option for a group outing or corporate meal.  Location: 304, Puppalaguda, Gachibowli, Hyderabad  8. Mist-The Poolside Kitchen Address: Golkonda Resorts & Spa, The Golconda Resort, Gandipet, Hyderabad Contact Number: 099514 97555 Pocket Pinch: INR 4000 for Two People A casual restaurant offering beverages and Mediterranean and Pan-Asian food next to a swimming pool. Your ideal romantic candle night dinner place.  Both locals and tourists frequent the restaurant, and its reasonable rates significantly increase business. The well-known delicacies offered here never fail to win hearts and please the tastebuds.  Location: The Golkonda Resort, Sagar Mahal Complex, Hyderabad  9. Jewel Of Nizam https://www.instagram.com/p/CsTSFBwr7b6/?hl=en Address: D No. 10/1/124, The Golkonda Hotel, Saifabad Rd, Masab Tank, Hyderabad Contact Number: 040 6611 0101 Pocket Pinch: INR 5000 for Two People A restaurant that sounds (and appears to be) straight out of a dream is a premium dining establishment called Jewel of Nizam, The Minar. The cobalt blue crystal glasses and seats lend a splash of color, while the exquisite ivory decor and delicate chandeliers give the space a pleasant, sophisticated appearance and feel.  The tower's spectacular views are the icing on the cake as you feast and raise a toast to Hyderabadi life.  Location: Golkonda Resort, Gandipet.  10. Mazzo https://www.instagram.com/p/DCVylVzuVSY/ Address: SLN terminus, Gachibowli, Marriott Executive Apartments, Level ST (Super Terrace, Survey No. 133, SLN Terminus Rd, Gachibowli, Kondapur Contact Number: 091000 80131 Pocket Pinch: INR 3000 for Two People A fantastic location to enjoy the nightlife, taking in the mesmerizing view along with mouthwatering food. It is a popular foodie hotspot, so making reservations in advance is always a smart decision.  It makes for a special supper with family and friends because of the relaxed atmosphere and excellent service, located near some of the best Hyderabad famous restaurants to stay in. Location: SLN Terminus, 10th floor, Jayabheri Enclave, Gachibowli, Hyderabad Conclusion: You must acknowledge that there is a lot to explore in the city after reading the blog. Where would you go first in a city with such a wide variety of mouthwatering food among these famous restaurants list and share your experiences through the comment section? Frequently Asked Questions On Best Restaurants In Hyderabad (FAQs:) 1. What are the most popular restaurants in Hyderabad that one can’t afford to miss? Ans: Flechazo, Conçu, Olive Bistro, and AB's Absolute Barbecue are the leading eateries in Jubilee Hills that serve quality food. These are a few of the well-liked eateries where visitors enjoy dining. You can also visit Mist, Mazzo, and Jewel of Nizam to have a sumptuous experience that will leave you craving for more.  2. What kind of cuisines do the top restaurants in Hyderabad offer? Ans: Hyderabad is a food lover's paradise, especially for those who enjoy spicy food! While Biryani is Hyderabad's most well-known dish, one can also discover a wide range of other cuisines in Hyderabad's restaurants, including North Indian, Mediterranean, Italian, Continental, and a lot more.  3. What are some good hotels to stay in for a while on your trip to Hyderabad? Ans: There are numerous hotels in Hyderabad that are budget friendly and centrally located. Trident Hyderabad, Taj Falaknuma Palace, Hyatt Place, Marriott Executive Apartments, and Courtyard by Marriott, to name a few. Additional: Which Is The Largest Freshwater Lake In India? India’s New Airline, Akasa Airs, Is Set To Pets In Cabin And Cargo Best Places For Highest Bungee Jumping In India – Adventure Guide 40 Killed In Floods And Landslides In North India – More Heavy Rain Is To Come

READ MORE travel hookups

Travel Hookups: The Dangers Of Hooking Up When You Travel

BY  Barsha Oct 22, 2025

I know what’s going on inside that pretty head of yours. You are probably thinking how many hookups I've had during my travels - especially since I am here to talk about travel hookups!  TBH, a few times for sure - not too many times, but definitely a few times. I mean, I had no idea about how the hookup culture worked during vacations - until I tried it out a few times. And now? Well, while the adrenaline is certainly thrilling, it does come with some major risks.  And while I’m nobody to stop you, it’s important that I help you out with my comprehensive list of dangers associated with travel hookups. Once you are aware, you will be safe while having ‘fun’ on vacation. Stay tuned. What Are The Dangers Of Hooking Up When You Travel? Romantic relationships on the road can be a great way to experience a foreign culture intimately, but at the same time, navigating the dating scene abroad can be a minefield.  Hooking up while traveling is an experience many actively strive for; as of 2025, 58 percent of travelers have embarked on a vacation romance, according to a recent TripAdvisor survey. Hookup culture not only accepts but actively encourages casual sex, including activities like one-night stands, without necessarily including bonding or emotional intimacy.  The term “hookup” has a broad scope because it can indicate any form of sexual activity between partners, including kissing. One can expect the dangers of hookup culture to be amplified when the partners in question have gone all the way at least once, especially regarding the following point.  In this context, let’s look at the primary dangers of travel hookups: Misaligned expectations  The risks of overindulging in alcohol The dangers of hooking up are relative  About good old-fashioned regret  The big issue of safety. 1. Misaligned Expectations: The question of whether it’s acceptable or even desirable to hook up with someone while traveling is very complicated. It first depends on the object of the hookup: a local or a fellow traveler? It seems far less complex when the person is also traveling and in a similar situation to you.  Given the significant financial gap and ensuing power imbalance between tourists and locals in destinations like third-world countries, there’s no shortage of potential problems. The traveler might see it as a fling, and the local – as real love, finally. Streams of messages over different online apps will follow the interaction, which can get awkward and, ultimately, one person could decide to block the other and move on.  2. The Risks Of Overindulging In Alcohol: It’s a fine line between lowering inhibitions and becoming too intoxicated to make smart decisions about what you do or don’t want to engage in. Overindulging in alcohol makes you more vulnerable to assault and theft, not to mention risking alcohol poisoning and ruining your entire vacation. 3. Relative Dangers Of Hooking Up: That only begins to scratch the surface of the dangers faced by women. Trust your intuition if a situation feels wrong or unsafe. Don’t assume you’re safer leaving a bar in a foreign country with someone you just met than you would be back home.  The sometimes misleading sense of security you feel while on vacation can make you vulnerable. Other vacationers won’t necessarily have your best interests at heart. Safe sex is about more than wearing a condom; it’s about not ending up on the news as a cautionary tale.  4. About Good Old-Fashioned Regret:  An online survey of 1,468 college students found that more than 27% felt embarrassed about a recent hookup, just under a quarter reported emotional difficulties, a fifth felt a loss of respect, and a tenth shared they had problems with their long-term partner.  78% of women and 72% of men who had casual sex reported experiencing regret thereafter, according to a Canadian survey of 200 undergraduate students.  5. The BIG Issue Of Safety: Obviously, this is perhaps the most important issue associated with travel hookups. When you reside somewhere unfamiliar, you become more open and vulnerable to any kind of sexual assault.  Both drug use and alcohol are common parts of travel, and both can sufficiently increase risks when you are traveling. Why? Well, it can impair your judgement, increasing risks in the process. As per travel data on Satista, sexual violence in international trips is typically perpetrated by strangers or even recent acquaintances.  Of course, this is correct, considering you won’t have your usual security network of family and friends who can interfere or even help in case of something dangerous. Moreover, in a foreign land, you might not be familiar with social cues or even local emergency support.  How To Minimize Risks Associated With Travel Hookups? Now that I’ve highlighted the major risks associated with travel hookups, I have a few tricks up my sleeve to minimize the dangers associated with travel hookups: Always meet in Public! If you are meeting someone from a dating or hookup app for the first time, and that too while you are traveling, then it's best to meet them in a public spot. And best to avoid drinking - what if they spike your drink? But if you still want to be a little tipsy, drink a little, depending on your tolerance, and then go meet someone new.  Always confide in someone about your plans. So what are they miles away from you? My best friend lives on another continent, but I always message her - she knows what to do if she doesn’t hear from me every few hours. Also, I always share my live location with her - just to be extra safe.  While you can do a thousand other things, it is best to trust your gut. If something feels off, then trust your instincts and leave. You don’t need to hook up with someone who doesn’t make you feel comfortable at the onset. And if you are meeting in public, then leaving is always an easy option. Lastly, never disclose personal information. This basically means don’t tell your tour ‘date’ which hotel you are residing in, what your plans are for the next few days, and stuff like that. This is because once you do leave, considering something feels off, they might just follow you and make it unsafe for you.  The Dos Of Hooking Up When Traveling: It’s not about avoiding hookups while traveling, but approaching them the right way. To make sure you don’t regret the experience, don’t lower your standards. Always be selective and don’t hook up with people in your tour group or who are staying at your hotel – it will prevent the awkwardness of running into them after a disappointing experience.  Follow the golden rule: come and leave with friends and look out for each other and, ideally, other travelers. Being an active bystander will make sure no one looks back on situations abroad with regret. 

READ MORE Paraguay food

Top 10 Most Popular Paraguay Food That You Must Try

BY  Abdul Aziz May 1, 2024

Many of the countries in South America are popular for their exquisite and varied cuisine. However, the practices of Paraguay food are not known to many. The Paraguayan Cuisine has been influenced by the local indigenous tribe’s culinary traditions and practices brought by immigrants from Spain, Italy, and Portugal. Being a foodie myself, I love traveling around the world to have a taste of every new variety of food that the world has to offer. Visiting remote areas, meeting with new people, and trying out their traditional dishes is what I have always loved! I was also in your shoes when I first landed in Paraguay, a bit startled and confused. Although, as I began to explore, my first meal at a fancy restaurant in Asuncion changed my entire perception of the state.  Tid-Bits About Paraguay Food Classic Paraguay food includes some of the most exclusive dishes that are bound to beat any of the Peruvian or Argentine preparations. Traditional culinary elements in Paraguay food recipes consist of meat, maize, vegetables, manioc, cheese, fish, milk, and even fruits.  ‘Asado’ is a local term used for barbecue, which is referred to as both a cooking practice and a social event. In Paraguay, barbecuing is the most important mode of cooking their traditional Paraguayan food dishes.  Here in this article, I will elucidate the best dishes and popular foods in Paraguay that you must try in Paraguay this year. The Paraguay famous foods excite your taste buds and have an experience like never before.  1. Kivevé You will be stuck in a dilemma whether to count this as a main course or a dessert. Kieve is the most popular and loved Paraguay food. It is a vegetarian dish that is cooked out of andai (a type of juicy pumpkin), cornmeal, Paraguayan cheese, milk, and sugar. Kieve is a typical food in Paraguay. It has a very creamy and light texture and is orangish in color. This rich-flavored delicacy is served lukewarm and is often consumed as a side dish or even main meal, at breakfasts, and as an evening snack. 2. Chipa Considered a staple Paraguay food, Chipa is a simple bread roll that was invented by the local indigenous people in the 18th century. It is a bun that is made out of manioc or cassava flour, lard, and anise, and beaten eggs and cheese. There are different versions of Chipa available, varying over the regional influences. The bread has a very crunchy crust due to the addition of lard. The crumb is soft and has a unique flavor. It is prepared and consumed by every household in the state.  3. Bori Bori Bori-Bori (Vori-Vori) is a nutritious and flavorful thick soup that is prepared out of vegetables such as carrots, celery, onions. It is filled with meat (chicken or beef) and dumplings of cornmeal plus cheese. The prime flavoring ingredients in this soup are bay leaves, cloves, and parsley. The addition of saffron to this hearty broth makes it even more flavorful and rich golden in color. It must be served piping hot, garnished with some parsley and Paraguayan cheese on the side. It is especially popular during the winters.  4. Sopa Paraguaya This specialty is not what it sounds like. Even though SOPA translates to soup in the local language, it is not at all in the vicinity of any soupy preparations. It is the national dish of Paraguay, which resembles a cakey thick bread.  It is crafted out of cornflour, cheese, milk, and eggs. The flavor is inculcated through the use of onions and pork fat. It is usually baked and is often termed solid soup. It has a soft and crumbly texture and is served on special occasions as a side dish.  5. Mbeju Mbeju, when translated to the local Guarani language, means cake. It is a very simple and staple Paraguay food. It is a kind of starchy pancake that is prepared with cassava flour, salt, oil, milk, eggs, crumbled cheese, and even pork fat. The dough is kneaded well and rolled out thickly like a pancake. It is then fried in hot oil. It is usually consumed during breakfast, sometimes dinner, alongside a bitter herbal tea or coffee.  6. Soyo This is another popular Paraguay food, which is a thick unpassed soup. It is made with beef grounded in a mortar, rice, and vegetables, including green peppers, onions, and tomatoes. Soyo is another good example of Paraguay’s famous food.  The dish is flavored with garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. The name is derived from the native Guarani phrase so’o josopy, meaning crushed meat. A whole bowl of soyo can be considered as a complete meal and has a high calorific value. Also Read: Unmissable Attractions In Surabaya 7. Tereré Since the climate in Paraguay tends to grow hotter every summer, Terere acts as a relief to many. It is a cold-brewed herbal tea that is bitter in taste and is commonly known as yerba mate.  Terere is one of the essential elements of export, and the natives can be seen carrying around a thermos flask, guampa (a spherical mug), and bombilla (a silver straw) everywhere they go. It is a very healthy and refreshing drink and has high caffeine content. 8. Dulce de Mamon Here comes our most awaited syrupy sweet dessert in the list of top Paraguay food you must try! Dulce de Mamon is one of the oldest and most traditional preparations of Paraguay, which has only two major ingredients. It is cooked by boiling small cut wedges of papaya in sugar syrup. The mixture is simmered for almost 2 hours in order for the papaya to achieve a soft texture. You can even add some cloves, lemon zest, and a little orange juice to enhance the flavors.  Also Read: 3 Intriguing Reasons To Cruise In Alaska 9. Pira Caldo Another most favored Paraguay food includes Pira Caldo. It is basically a light fish stew made with freshwater catches such as surubi, mandi’y, and tare’y. I have never in my life tasted such meaty textured fishes with a tinge of saltiness in them. Initially, vegetables such as onions, tomatoes, leeks, celery, bell peppers, and carrots are fried in pork or beef fat and are cooked with other spices. It is then combined with milk and soft white cheese to improve the thickness and flavor. 10. Bife Koygua Bife Koygua, or hidden steak as it is known, is another popular Paraguay food that is a must-try.  It is a heavy preparation in which the beef steaks are covered with onions and tomatoes. Hence the name. According to the local language, bife means beef, and koygua means shy or hidden. The recipe calls for the steak to be pounded first with spices, then fried with onions and topped with tomatoes. Towards the end, an egg or two is added at the top, and the dish is garnished with parsley. Puchero Paraguayo Recipe The Paraguayan version of a traditional meat stew is called Puchero paraguayo. This stew has its origins in Spain and is now prepared in several countries throughout South America and the Philippines. The name of the stew, Puchero, comes from the Spanish word meaning "stewpot". Course: Main Course Cuisine: Latin American, Paraguayan Servings: 4 people Author: Nita Ragoonanan Ingredients 1½ lb beef (skirt or flank steak, cut into pieces) 3 cloves garlic, cut in half 1 onion, chopped 1 green bell pepper, diced 2 carrots 10 oz. pumpkin, cubed 2 potatoes, cubed ½ cup rice 6 tablespoons olive oil Salt Pepper Equipment Pressure cooker Instructions To start, get a large pot and fill it with 10 cups (2.5L) of water. Add in some onions, carrots, and bell peppers, and bring it to a boil. Let it simmer for 15 minutes and season it with salt and pepper to your liking. Set it aside. Next, heat some olive oil in a pressure cooker and add in some garlic and meat. Saute over high heat while stirring constantly until the meat is browned. Pour in the reserved broth and vegetables and close the pressure cooker. Cook for 45 minutes on medium-low heat. While waiting, rinse the rice. After 45 minutes, open the pressure cooker and add in the rice, potatoes, and pumpkin. Close the pressure cooker again and continue cooking for 15 minutes. Frequently Asked Questions!!! (FAQs): Q1. What Is The Traditional Dessert In Paraguay? Ans: Mazamorra also known as Kaguyjy is one of the most popular traditional deserts in Paraguay. it is made of corn and sugar, mixed with honey or milk. Ka'i Ladrillo is a candy made of peanuts and molasses. Q2. What Is Paraguay's National Dish? Ans: Sopa Paraguaya is the national dish of Paraguay. it is similar to cornbread and made up of corn flour, pig fat, or butter, with cheese and milk. it is very spongy and is rich in calories and protein. Q3. What Is The National Drink Of Paraguay? Ans: Yerba mate tea is prepared with cold water. different variations of terre can be found in Brazil and Argentina. Its birthplace is Paraguay. Final Thoughts These are some of the most exotic preparations from Paraguay that made their way into my Top 10 list. Thanks to those Guarani friends that I had over there who guided me through to the best of their culinary traditions. And if you are hesitating about visiting this place, trust me, the experience is worthwhile. It is not only about their food but also their culture, traditions, and heritage. This beautiful country deserves all the appreciation in the world. You May Also Like:  Top 7 Places To Visit For An Asian Solo Traveler Top 7 Nantucket Beaches For Tourists In Massachusetts 10 Things To Do In Bogota – You Must Know Before Going