Cerro Kõi

About this place

Cerro Kõi is a small hill near the town of Areguá in Paraguay's Central Department, part of the Ybytypanemá range. Though it reaches only 200 m above sea level, it is known for its unusual rock, which cracks into columns and many-sided forms that look almost carved. It was declared a natural heritage site in 1993 because of the shape of its stones. It is often said that such formations exist in only three places in the world, including South Africa and Canada, but this is a local claim we cannot confirm. Areguá, close by, is a town looking out over Lake Ypacaraí. A short path climbs through trees to red rock walls, showing bundles of thin columns at different angles like folded sheets of paper. On top stand lone rock masses clad in plants. From there a wide view stretches over green forest to Lake Ypacaraí, a line of water on the horizon on clear days. It is about 3 km in a straight line from central Areguá and 24 km from Asunción, so it adds easily to a half-day trip to the town. The path is rough in parts, so wear suitable shoes. Do not break the rocks or take any away, as they are protected. Ask locally about entry, start in the morning during hot months, and bring water and insect repellent.