PARAGUAY

Welcome to Paraguay, the “Heart of South America”! This landlocked nation, rich in Guarani culture and vibrant Spanish heritage, offers a unique blend of historical depth and natural beauty. From the bustling capital to its diverse ecosystems like the Gran Chaco, prepare for an unforgettable adventure.

Region: South America

Capital: Asunción

Official Language: Spanish, Guaraní

Level of Travel Safety: Exercise a high degree of caution due to the threat of violent crime. Be vigilant, especially in certain border areas and specific departments.

A map of North and South America, with Paraguay highlighted in green.

Why Visit Paraguay?

Hidden Ruins & Ancient Missions: The UNESCO-listed Jesuit Missions of Trinidad and Jesús are breathtaking and tranquil.

Local Traditions & Warm Hospitality: Paraguayans are known for their friendliness, tereré rituals, and deep Guaraní roots.

Asunción’s Charm: The capital blends colonial buildings, riverside walks, and a lively arts scene.

A panoramic view of Iguazu Falls, showcasing the immense power of the waterfalls and the surrounding lush rainforest.

Nature Untouched: Explore wildlife-rich wetlands in the Pantanal and remote wilderness in the Chaco.

Affordable Adventures: Travel here is budget-friendly, making longer trips accessible.

Cultural Uniqueness: From harp music to chipa vendors, Paraguay offers an authentic Latin American experience untouched by mass tourism.

An aerial view of a large, ornate cathedral with two bell towers, bathed in the warm light of a sunset.

Essential Trip Information

Paraguay allows visa-free entry for tourists from most Western countries (including the U.S., EU, UK, Canada, Australia) for stays up to 90 days.

Check official requirements here: Paraguayan Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Passports must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your stay.

Immigration may ask for proof of onward travel and sufficient funds (US$50–100/day recommended).

  • Paraguay uses the Guaraní (₲). Exchange rate: ~US$1 = ₲7,500 (check before travel).

Best Ways to Handle Currency:

  • Before Your Trip: Exchange a small amount; ATMs in cities offer better rates.

  • During Your Trip: Use ATMs at Banco Continental or Itaú (low fees). Credit cards (Visa/Mastercard) work in cities, but carry cash for rural areas. Many places don’t accept cards.

  • What to Avoid: Street money changers and dynamic currency conversion (always pay in ₲).

Spanish and Guaraní are official languages.

English is rarely spoken outside hotels or tourist centers.

Helpful Phrases

  • “Gracias” (Thank you)

  • “¿Dónde está…?” (Where is…?)

  • “Agua sin gas, por favor” (Still water, please)

Paraguay is generally safe, but use caution at night, especially in urban areas.

Pickpocketing can occur in crowded markets and buses.

Keep valuables hidden and avoid walking alone after dark.

Emergency number: 911

No mandatory vaccines, but Yellow Fever vaccination is recommended if arriving from risk areas.

Tap water is not always safe—drink bottled or filtered water.

Travel insurance is recommended.

Pharmacies are widespread in cities and towns.

City buses are cheap but hard to navigate for non-Spanish speakers.

Taxis don’t use meters—agree on a price first or use Bolt or MUV (ride-hailing apps).

Intercity buses are the main way to travel long distances—comfortable and reliable.

Driving is possible but roads in rural areas may be rough and signage limited.

Paraguay is very affordable by regional standards.

Accommodation

  • Budget: Guesthouses, hostels (US$10–30/night)

  • Mid-range: Boutique hotels or chain hotels (US$40–70/night)

  • Luxury: 4–5 star hotels (US$80–150/night)

Food

  • Street food: Empanadas, chipa, or sopa paraguaya (US$1–3)

  • Local eateries: US$5–10/person

  • Upscale dining: US$25+/person

Drinks

  • Local beer: US$1.50–2.50

  • Cocktails: US$5–8

Transportation

  • Local buses: US$0.50–1.00/ride

  • Taxis: US$2–10 (negotiate fare or use ride-hailing apps)

  • Intercity buses: US$10–25 depending on destination

Money-Saving Tips

  • Eat at mercado-style food stalls for generous, cheap meals.

  • Use public transport or walk in central areas.

  • Free walking tours available in Asunción (tip-based).

Explore Paraguay

Paraguay’s capital and largest city, a vibrant hub of culture, history, and commerce. Located on the eastern bank of the Paraguay River, it offers a blend of colonial architecture and modern life, with lively markets and delicious local cuisine.

An engineering marvel and one of the world’s largest hydroelectric power plants. Situated on the Paraná River, marking the border with Brazil, visitors can take free tours to learn about its impressive scale and impact.

Majestic waterfalls offering a breathtaking natural spectacle. Located near Ciudad del Este, in the eastern part of Paraguay, these falls provide stunning views and opportunities for adventure activities.

A lively city known for its vibrant carnival and beautiful riverside beaches. Situated in southeastern Paraguay, along the Paraná River, it’s also a gateway to the nearby Jesuit Missions.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites showcasing the impressive ruins of 17th and 18th-century Jesuit reductions. These historical gems are found in the department of Itapúa, near Encarnación, in southern Paraguay.

A bustling commercial hub known for its massive shopping district and cross-border trade. Located in eastern Paraguay, on the Triple Frontier with Brazil and Argentina, it’s a dynamic city for bargain hunters.

A beautiful national park offering lush forests, refreshing waterfalls, and a historic iron foundry. Situated in the department of Paraguarí, in southern Paraguay, it’s a perfect spot for nature lovers and hikers.

A significant historical and natural site, where the last battle of the War of the Triple Alliance took place. Located in the Amambay Department, in northeastern Paraguay, it combines natural beauty with important historical memory.

Known as the “city of strawberries and ceramics,” this charming town is famous for its artisanal crafts and agricultural produce. It sits on the shores of Lake Ypacaraí, just east of Asunción.

A picturesque lake, a popular spot for recreation, watersports, and relaxation. Located east of Asunción, it’s surrounded by towns like Areguá and San Bernardino, offering scenic views and a tranquil escape.

Smart Travel

Key Advantages:

  • Lowest Prices
  • Fewer Crowds
  • Authentic Local Vibe
  • Pleasant Temperatures
  • Less Humidity

Main Drawbacks:

  • Cooler Temperatures, especially at night (can drop to 42ºF/5.5ºC)
  • Some areas, particularly the Chaco, can experience significant temperature drops
  • Limited outdoor activities (non-water based)

Key Regions:

  • Asunción: Enjoy comfortable daytime temperatures (around 76ºF/24ºC) for city exploration.
  • Chaco: Cooler days (around 64ºF/18ºC) make this vast wilderness more accessible.
  • Areguá: Perfect for visiting the annual strawberry expo from mid-July to mid-September.

Key Advantages:

  • Ideal Weather
  • Manageable Crowds
  • Reasonable Prices
  • Festivals & Events
  • Blooming Landscapes (Spring) & Milder Temperatures (Autumn)

Main Drawbacks:

  • Unpredictable Weather (can still have hot spells or sudden cool fronts)
  • Some areas may experience more rainfall, particularly in March and April.

Key Regions:

  • Southern Paraguay (Asunción, Encarnación): Pleasant temperatures, great for exploring historical sites.
  • Paraná Plateau: Enjoy the lush scenery before the peak heat sets in (or after it subsides).
  • Jesuit Missions: Excellent time to explore these historical sites in comfortable weather.
  • San Bernardino: Spring sees this resort town come alive with opening bars and activities.
  • Mid-Summer (December-February) – Very hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 95ºF/35ºC.
  • Christmas and New Year Holiday Period
  • Semana Santa (Holy Week before Easter Sunday) – A major holiday with many locals traveling.

Planning Your Trip

Greetings: A handshake or cheek kiss (among women) is common.

Punctuality: Paraguayans are relaxed about time—expect delays.

Tipping: 10% in restaurants (check if service is included).

Dress Code: Casual but modest (avoid beachwear in cities).

Mate (Tereré/Yerba Mate): Sharing is a social ritual—accept if offered.

Bargaining: Not common except in markets (e.g., Mercado 4 in Asunción).

Paraguay is one of South America’s most affordable destinations.

Accommodation: Hostels (US$20–40), hotels (US$50–120), luxury stays (US$150+).

Food: Street food or local diners (US$5–10), casual meals (US$10–20), upscale dining (US$40+).

Transport: Local bus fares (US$0.30–0.50), intercity buses (US$10–25), taxi rides in cities (US$3–8).

Activities: Museum entry (US$1–3), national parks or Jesuit ruins (US$5–10), day tours (US$25–60).

Daily Budget:

  • Budget: US$50–80 (hostels, buses, local meals).

  • Mid-range: US$120–180 (comfortable hotels, intercity travel, entry fees).

  • Luxury: US$250+ (boutique hotels, private guides, fine dining).

Free Wi-Fi: Available in cafes, malls, and some public squares (slow/unreliable).

SIM Cards: Claro or Tigo (US$5–10 for 1–3GB). Buy at airports or kiosks.

eSIMs: Supported by Tigo (download before arrival).

Recommended for medical coverage (private hospitals expect upfront payment).

Check coverage for adventure activities (Chaco treks, river trips).

Vaccines: Yellow fever recommended for rural areas.

From budget stays to luxury lodges, Paraguay has options for all travelers.

Hotels:

  • Luxury: Hotel del Paraguay (Asunción), Bourbon Conmebol (Luque).
  • Mid-range: Casa Alta Hotel (Areguá), Hotel Munich (Encarnación).
  • Budget: Black Cat Hostel (Asunción), La Española (Ciudad del Este).

Eco-Lodges & Estancias:

  • Chaco wilderness lodges (e.g., Los Tres Gigantes) for nature lovers.
  • Rural estancias offer cultural experiences (US$50–100/night with meals).

Airbnb/VRBO:

  • Good for groups, especially in Asunción (Palma Street area) or Areguá.

Tip: Book ahead during festivals (July–August) for better rates.

Paraguay’s public transport is affordable but not always efficient.

Buses:

  • Cheapest option (US$1–5 for intercity trips).
  • Long-distance buses (e.g., Asunción to Encarnación) are comfortable but slow.
  • City buses (US$0.50) in Asunción are crowded; have small bills ready.

Taxis & Ride-hailing:

  • Taxis are inexpensive (US$3–10 within cities), but always negotiate or insist on the meter.
  • Uber operates in Asunción and is safer/more reliable.

Car Rentals:

  • Recommended for flexibility, especially for Chaco or rural areas (US$30–60/day).
  • Road conditions vary—some highways are well-paved, but secondary roads may be rough.

Domestic Flights:

  • Limited routes (mainly Asunción to Ciudad del Este or Concepción).

Tip: For city travel, use Uber; for long distances, book direct buses.

Handy Tips

Paraguay’s official currency is the Guarani (₲), but the U.S. Dollar (US$) is also widely accepted, particularly in tourist areas.

  • Bills come in ₲2,000, ₲5,000, ₲10,000, ₲20,000, ₲50,000, ₲100,000, and ₲500,000 denominations.

  • Coins include ₲50, ₲100, ₲500, and ₲1,000.

Exchanging Currency:

  • Avoid exchanging money at the airport, as fees are high. Use ATMs or local banks for better rates.

Using Cards:

  • Credit/Debit Cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express) are accepted in major establishments, but carry small bills (₲10,000-₲50,000) for tips, small purchases, and in rural areas.

Tipping Etiquette:

  • Restaurants/Bars: 10–15% of the bill (check if gratuity is included).

  • Taxis: Round up the fare or 10%.

  • Hotel Staff: ₲5,000–₲10,000 per bag for porters; ₲10,000–₲20,000 per night for housekeeping.

  • Tour Guides: ₲20,000–₲50,000 per person for group tours.

Spanish is the official language of Paraguay and widely spoken. Guaraní is also an official language and is spoken by a significant portion of the population, especially in rural areas. English is rarely spoken outside major tourist areas.

Helpful phrases:

  • “¿Dónde está la estación de bus más cercana?” (Where is the nearest bus station?)
  • “¿Cuánto cuesta esto?” (How much is this?)
  • “¿Puedo obtener un recibo?” (Can I get a receipt?)

Pro Tip: Speaking a few words of Spanish or Guaraní is appreciated. The locals are friendly and welcoming.

Paraguay is generally safe, but be cautious in crowded places and avoid unfamiliar areas late at night.

Emergency Contacts:

  • 911: All emergencies (police, medical, fire).
  • 116: Paraguayan Red Cross (medical emergencies).
  • Your Embassy: Keep embassy details handy in case of emergencies.

Paraguay uses 220V/50Hz with Type C (two round pins) and Type I (three flat pins) plugs. International visitors will need an adapter; converters are rarely necessary for modern electronics.

Tap water is not always safe to drink in rural areas, but it is safe in urban regions like Asunción. It’s recommended to drink bottled water for safety.

Restaurants will serve bottled water by default—ask for “agua sin gas” (still water) or “agua con gas” (sparkling water).

  • 1 Jan: New Year’s Day

  • 1 Mar: Heroes Day

  • 14–15 Mar: National Day (Carapeguá Day)

  • 1 May: Labour Day

  • 15 Aug: Independence Day

  • 8 Dec: Virgin of Caacupe Day

  • 25 Dec: Christmas Day

Note: Many businesses and public offices may close on holidays.

Stores: Typically 08:00–18:00 (some shops close early on Sundays).

Pharmacies: Often open until 21:00 or 22:00, with some 24/7 locations in larger cities.

Markets: Open in the morning (e.g., Mercado 4 in Asunción).

Sopa Paraguaya: Despite the name, this is not soup—think cheesy cornbread with onions, perfect with grilled meat.

Chipa: Chewy, cheese-stuffed bread made with manioc flour—classic road snack.

Mbejú: Another manioc-based pancake, crispy outside, soft and cheesy inside.

Asado Paraguayo: Local barbecue, often with beef ribs, sausages, and chicken grilled over wood coals.

Bori Bori: Hearty chicken soup with cheese-filled dumplings—comfort food with Guaraní roots.

Pira Caldo: Fish soup with vegetables, rich and warming.

Pastel Mandi’o: Fried cassava pockets filled with minced meat and spices.

Empanadas Paraguayas: Fried or baked pastries stuffed with beef, egg, and olives.

Kosereva: Bitter orange preserve cooked in molasses—intensely sweet and tangy.

Dulce de Guayaba: Guava jam or paste, perfect on toast or with cheese.

Alcoholic:

  • Pilsen: Light, refreshing lager—Paraguay’s national beer.

  • Brahma Paraguay: Brazilian-born but brewed locally—popular mainstream option.

  • Patagonia Cerveza: Premium beer line increasingly available in bars.

  • Fortín: Paraguayan wine label producing local reds and whites.

  • Caña Paraguaya: Distilled sugarcane liquor—strong and fiery.

  • Guaraní Liqueur: Herbal, sweet liqueur made with local plants and fruits.

Non-Alcoholic:

  • Tereré: Paraguay’s national drink—cold yerba mate tea, sipped through a metal straw from a guampa.

  • Mate Cocido: Hot version of yerba mate, often sweetened and served with milk.

  • Pomelo Juice: Popular fresh grapefruit juice, often homemade.

  • Cocido Quemado: Brewed yerba mate caramelized with burnt sugar or milk.

  • Tropi: Widely consumed brand of tropical fruit juices.

  • Agua de Coco: Chilled coconut water served fresh at roadside stands.

Ruins of Jesús: UNESCO World Heritage site, Jesuit missions in the east of Paraguay.

Cultural Center of the Republic: Explore Paraguayan music, art, and cultural exhibitions.

Ñemby: Known for its traditional festivals and local crafts.

Ciudad del Este: Shopping paradise near the Brazilian border with unique local goods.

Asunción: The capital has vibrant markets and museums such as the Museum of Fine Arts and Eusebio Ayala Museum.

Paraguayan Folk Music: The harp and guitar are integral to the country’s musical heritage.

Indigenous Culture: The Guaraní influence is still seen in language, food, and customs.

Eusebio Ayala Museum: A historic museum detailing Paraguay’s colonial past.

Visit the Church of the Virgin of Caacupe: A revered religious site for many Paraguayans.

Paraguayan Pottery: Local artisans make beautifully crafted pottery, sold at markets like Mercado 4.

Itaipú Dam: Visit the world’s second-largest hydroelectric dam (one of the world’s engineering marvels).

Ñeembucú River: A great spot for fishing and boat tours.

Museo del Barro: A museum showcasing Paraguayan indigenous art and culture.

Loma San Jerónimo: A vibrant, historical neighborhood in Asunción with colonial-style homes and street art.

National Pantheon of the Heroes: A must-visit for history buffs, dedicated to Paraguay’s national heroes.

Pineapple Festival: A celebration in Villarrica for pineapple lovers (December).

Asunción’s Central Market: Offers a glimpse into Paraguayan life, local crafts, and food.

San Bernardino: A lakeside town with water sports, beaches, and great food.

Ybycuí National Park: A beautiful nature reserve known for its waterfalls and hiking trails.

Jardín Botánico: A lush botanical garden in Asunción offering a peaceful escape.

Morgan Warehouse (Asunción): Industrial-chic bar with cocktails and DJs.

Kilkenny Irish Pub: Cozy pub for beer lovers and expats.

Rockero Popurri Nocturno: Live indie bands and alt vibes in the capital.

La Cachamba: Popular venue in Encarnación with live cumbia and tropical music.

Pilsen Bar (Asunción): Trendy spot showcasing local beer and fusion bites.

Drácena Cultural Bar: Artsy venue with poetry nights and gallery shows.

Bar San Roque: Historic tavern with local dishes and drinks.

Hendrix Bar: Music-focused bar for classic rock lovers.

Tereré Nights: Chill outdoor gatherings with tereré, guitar, and friends under the stars.

Paseo Carmelitas: Chic nightlife district with rooftop bars and lounges.