Paraguayan sugarcane is a valued and traditional alcoholic beverage, characterized by its strong flavor and potent aroma. Its reputation has grown over the years, and today it is exported to several European countries such as France, Belgium, Germany, and Italy. Recognizing the commercial potential of this type of rum, the Paraguayan Ministry of Tourism, together with the renowned company El Fortín S.A., launched a program called "Paraguayan Sugarcane Route." The goal of this initiative is to promote the drink nationally and internationally, boost tourism in the city of Piribebuy - the company's headquarters and a historic Paraguayan city - and generate factors that foster socio-economic growth in the region.
This experience was inspired by a similar project in Mexico, where "The Tequila Route" has been developed for several years with great success. Officials from the Paraguayan Secretary of Tourism were sent to Mexico to assess, learn, create a tourism development agreement, and implement a similar project in Guarani lands.
The proposed circuit is located in Piribebuy, where the company El Fortín S.A. is based. Here, the entire process of Paraguayan sugarcane is elaborated, as well as the plantation of sugarcane, which is the raw material for production.
The tour begins at a museum called "Pedro Pablo Caballero," where objects from the colonial era of great historical value for the nation are displayed. Visitors can also see historical pieces from the Chaco War and the Triple Alliance War, which represent an invaluable heritage for the city.
Next, a brief visit is made to the Church Sanctuary of the Holy Name of Jesus, a significant symbol of the Franciscan presence in the region. This historic building served as a fort during attacks by Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay during the Triple Alliance War.
Afterwards, visitors can observe sugarcane cultivation, where different techniques, types, and care methods are explained. There is also an opportunity to learn about and taste other products derived from sweet sugarcane, such as must, various cakes, and sweets. The area covers about 1,500 hectares, yielding around 140 tons per hectare. It also features a small museum displaying the first tools used by the founding family for production.
Finally, visitors arrive at the industrial plant area, where a large storage facility is available. Here, the chemical processes of sugarcane distillation are explained, and a bar allows visitors to purchase different varieties of Paraguayan sugarcane products. The process of aging in barrels of incense and oak is demonstrated, along with the method of barrel recovery through burning. El Fortín S.A. employs 700 workers and produces one million liters of sugarcane per month.
This route runs along a short stretch of the Paraguarí-Peribebuy road. The "Paraguayan Sugarcane Route" is an appealing tourist attraction that offers insights into the history of a drink that is gaining strength in the international market. It also provides an opportunity to explore a region with beautiful natural surroundings, including clear streams, springs, mountain ranges, and forests. Piribebuy, known as the "heroic city," offers a destination rich in history and cultural heritage, while also promoting Paraguayan sugarcane as a key player in tourism development and economic growth.
