🇵🇾 Paraguay – Universal Travel Profile

Republic of Paraguay · Capital: Asunción

Currency: Paraguayan Guaraní (PYG) · Time Zone: UTC−4 (PYT), UTC−3 (PYST – summer) · Official Languages: Spanish and Guaraní · Plug: Types C & F · Voltage: 220 V (adapter often needed)

1. Entry Requirements & Documents

Passport / ID Card

A valid passport is required for entry. It must be valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay.

Visa

Citizens of the US, UK, EU, Canada, Australia, and many Latin American countries do not need a visa for tourism stays of up to 90 days (extendable once for a further 90 days). Nationals of China, India, and several African countries require a visa. Always check the latest rules with the Paraguayan Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Additional Documents

• International Driver’s License – recommended for car rentals.
• Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate – required if arriving from an endemic country (e.g., Brazil, DRC).
• Travel Health Insurance – strongly recommended (see section 2).
• Student ID – may provide discounts at museums and attractions.

Practical

Keep digital copies of your passport, visa, and other travel documents stored securely offline.

Official Links

• Paraguayan Ministry of Foreign Affairs
• Official Government Portal

2. Health, Vaccinations & Insurance

Mandatory Vaccinations

Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory if you are arriving from a country with yellow fever transmission.

Recommended Vaccinations

The following vaccinations are generally recommended for travel to Paraguay:

• Hepatitis A & B
• Typhoid
• Diphtheria, Tetanus, Polio (booster)
• Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR)
• Influenza (seasonal)
• COVID-19 (up-to-date)

Mosquito-Borne Diseases

Dengue, chikungunya, and Zika are prevalent, especially in urban and lowland areas. Use insect repellent and wear long sleeves.

Travel Health Insurance

Comprehensive travel health insurance with emergency evacuation coverage is strongly recommended. Private hospitals in Asunción offer good care; rural facilities are limited.

Official Links

• Paraguayan Ministry of Public Health
• CDC Paraguay Travel Health

3. Safety & Travel Advisories

Current Situation

The U.S. Department of State advises to exercise increased caution in Paraguay due to crime and civil unrest. Reconsider travel to the Department of Amambay (specifically the city of Pedro Juan Caballero) and the Department of Canindeyú due to drug trafficking and gang violence. Also be cautious in areas near the Brazil and Argentina borders due to criminal activity.

Crime

Petty crime (pickpocketing, bag snatching) is common in tourist areas, bus stations, and public transport, especially in Asunción and Ciudad del Este. Violent crime, including armed robbery and carjacking, occurs. Avoid walking alone at night and displaying valuables.

Regional Information

The Chaco region is remote with limited infrastructure; travel with a reputable guide. Demonstrations and roadblocks can occur, especially in rural areas.

Emergency Planning

Save emergency numbers (see section 4), the address of your embassy, and your accommodation. Share your itinerary.

Official Travel Advisories

• U.S. Travel Advisory – Paraguay
• UK Foreign Travel Advice – Paraguay
• German Foreign Office – Paraguay

4. Emergency & Important Numbers

Emergency Numbers (National)

• General Emergency (Police/Fire/Ambulance): 911
• Police: 912
• Fire Brigade: 913
• Ambulance (Medical Emergency): 141
• National Police (Asunción): +595 21 448-000
• Tourist Police (Asunción): +595 21 416-600
• Red Cross: +595 21 444-641

5. Embassies & Consulates

In case of emergency, passport loss, or consular assistance, contact the embassy or consulate of your home country. Asunción hosts over 30 embassies.

Examples (select countries)

• U.S. Embassy Asunción: py.usembassy.gov
• British Embassy Asunción: gov.uk
• German Embassy Asunción: asunción.diplo.de
• Embassy of Paraguay in your country – check the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Official Lists

• All embassies and consulates in Paraguay
• Paraguayan Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Consular Directory

6. Background on Country & Society

Paraguay (officially the Republic of Paraguay) is a landlocked country in central South America, bordered by Argentina, Brazil, and Bolivia. It is named after the Paraguay River and is known for its intense cultural blend of Spanish and Guaraní heritage. Paraguay is a presidential republic with an economy based on agriculture (soy, beef, cotton), hydroelectric power (Itaipu Dam), and livestock.

Paraguayan society is deeply influenced by the Guaraní culture, and both Spanish and Guaraní are official languages. The people are known for their hospitality and strong family values. The country has a rich tradition in music (polka, guarania), craft (ñandutí lace), and cuisine. Despite economic progress, Paraguay faces challenges such as inequality and corruption.

Official Information

• Government of Paraguay
• National Tourism Secretariat (SENATUR)

7. Climate, Weather & Clothing

Climate

Paraguay has a subtropical to temperate climate with distinct seasons:

• Summer (December–February): Hot and humid, with temperatures reaching 35–40°C (95–104°F).
• Winter (June–August): Cool and pleasant, with daytime temperatures around 18–22°C (64–72°F) and occasional cold snaps.
• Rainy season: November–March; heavy downpours are common.
• Dry season: April–October (less rainfall in the north).

Clothing Recommendations

• Lightweight, breathable fabrics for the heat and humidity.
• Rain jacket or umbrella during the rainy season.
• Warm layers for winter nights and air-conditioned spaces.
• Sturdy walking shoes for city exploration.
• Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses – UV is strong.
• Insect repellent for areas with mosquitoes.

8. Language & Communication

Official Languages

Spanish and Guaraní are both official languages. Guaraní is widely spoken by the majority of the population, particularly in rural areas, and is a source of national pride.

Useful Phrases

• Hola – Hello
• Por favor – Please
• Gracias – Thank you
• Disculpe – Excuse me
• ¿Dónde está…? – Where is…?
• ¿Habla inglés? – Do you speak English?
• Mba'éichapa (Guaraní) – Hello/How are you?

Mentality & Religion

Paraguayans are friendly, polite, and family-oriented. They tend to be more formal in initial meetings than some other Latin American countries. Roman Catholicism is the dominant religion. Taboo topics include the Stroessner dictatorship and political corruption; approach with sensitivity.

Internet & Connectivity

Wi-Fi is widely available in cities and tourist areas. Local SIM cards (e.g., Claro, Tigo, Personal) offer affordable data plans.

9. Voltage & Plug Types

• Voltage: 220 V (standard).
• Frequency: 50 Hz.
• Plug Types: Type C (two round pins) and Type F (two round pins with earth clips).
• Adapter needed? Yes, for travelers from North America (Type A/B) – a universal adapter is recommended. For travelers from Germany/Austria/Switzerland, Type C/F is compatible.
• Voltage converter? Only if your device does not support 220 V (most modern chargers are dual‑voltage).

10. Money & Finances

Currency

The official currency is the Paraguayan Guaraní (PYG). As of July 2026, the exchange rate is approximately 1 USD = 7,500 PYG, 1 EUR = 8,200 PYG (subject to fluctuation).

Payment Methods

• Cash is king, especially in smaller towns and markets. Carry small bills.
• Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops in Asunción and major cities.
• ATMs are available in urban areas; fees may apply. Use ATMs inside banks for safety.

Price Level & Tipping

Paraguay is inexpensive compared to Europe/US. Tipping: 10% is customary in restaurants if service is not included. Round up for taxis and small services.

11. Transport & Arrival

Airports

• Silvio Pettirossi International Airport (ASU) – Asunción (main international gateway).
• Guaraní International Airport (AGT) – Ciudad del Este (serves the eastern region).

Airlines

International carriers: LATAM, Avianca, Aerolíneas Argentinas, Copa Airlines, Boliviana de Aviación. Domestic: Aerosur (limited).

Airport Transfers (Asunción)

• Taxi: Pre-paid taxi service at the airport, about $20–30 USD to the city center.
• Bus: Public buses connect to the city, but can be crowded.
• Ride-hailing: Uber and Bolt operate in Asunción.

Public Transport

• Buses: Extensive and affordable network in Asunción and between cities.
• No metro or rail system.

Taxis & Ride-Hailing

• Taxis – use radio taxis or app-based services (Uber, Bolt, Muv).
• Fares: taxis start around PYG 10,000.

Official Transport Links

• LATAM
• Avianca
• Uber

12. Accommodation & Practical Information

Hotel Types

• Luxury: International chains and boutique hotels in Asunción and Ciudad del Este.
• Mid-range: Comfortable hotels with good amenities.
• Budget: Hostels and guesthouses from $10–20 USD per night.

Hostels & Apartments

Hostels are available in Asunción and tourist towns. Vacation rentals via Airbnb are widely available.

Safety & Opening Hours

• Choose accommodation with 24-hour reception and secure lockers.
• Shops: typically 8:00–19:00 Mon–Sat; shopping malls stay open until 21:00.
• Supermarkets: large chains (e.g., Supermercado Real, Superseis, Guaná) are open 7:00–22:00.
• Alcohol sales: restricted after 22:00 in some areas; smoking banned in enclosed public spaces.

13. Food, Drink & Cuisine

Paraguayan cuisine is a blend of Guaraní, Spanish, and immigrant influences, with a focus on corn, cassava, meat, and cheese.

Typical Dishes

• Sopa Paraguaya – a cornbread-like dish made with corn flour, cheese, and onions, baked in a clay pot.
• Chipa – a cheese-filled baked roll made with cassava flour, a popular snack and breakfast item.
• Asado – grilled beef, a staple of Paraguayan cuisine.
• Mbejú – a pancake made with cassava starch and cheese.
• Vori Vori – a soup with small corn and cheese dumplings, chicken, and vegetables.
• Mandioca (cassava) – a ubiquitous side dish, served with almost every meal.

Drinks

• Tereré – cold yerba mate tea, the national drink, often shared among friends.
• Mate – hot yerba mate, consumed especially in colder weather.
• Mosto – sugarcane juice, often fermented.
• Caña – sugarcane liquor, used in cocktails.
• Vino de naranja – orange wine, a local specialty.

Water Quality & Hygiene

Tap water is generally safe in Asunción and major cities, but many travelers prefer bottled water. In rural areas, drink bottled water. Be cautious with street food; choose stalls with high turnover.

14. Time Zone & Public Holidays

Time Zone

Paraguay uses two time zones:

• Standard time (PYT): UTC−4 (winter).
• Daylight saving time (PYST): UTC−3 (summer, typically from October to March).

Time difference to Central Europe (CET): −5 hours in winter, −6 hours in summer (when Europe is on DST).

Public Holidays (fixed)

• January 1 – New Year’s Day
• March 1 – Heroes’ Day (commemorating the Battle of Acosta Ñu)
• May 1 – Labour Day
• May 15 – Independence Day (celebrated with two days)
• June 12 – Chaco Armistice Day
• August 15 – Founding of Asunción
• September 29 – Battle of Boquerón
• December 8 – Virgin of Caacupé (Patroness of Paraguay)
• December 25 – Christmas

Many movable holidays: Carnival (Feb/March), Good Friday, Easter Sunday, and Corpus Christi. Check the official government calendar for exact dates.

15. Attractions & Highlights

Natural Wonders

• Iguazú Falls – accessible from the Brazilian and Argentine sides; the Paraguayan side offers a unique view.
• Ybycuí National Park – a protected area with waterfalls and hiking trails.
• Cerro Corá – national park with historical significance and scenic landscapes.
• Pantanal – Paraguay shares part of this vast wetland, with rich wildlife.
• Lake Ypacaraí – a popular lake near Asunción for water sports and relaxation.

Cultural & Historical Highlights

• Asunción – the capital, with colonial churches, the Panteón de los Héroes, and the Government Palace.
• Trinidad Jesuit Ruins – UNESCO World Heritage site, a well-preserved Jesuit mission from the 18th century.
• Ciudad del Este – a modern city on the Brazilian border, known for shopping and the nearby Itaipu Dam.
• Itaipu Dam – one of the largest hydroelectric dams in the world, offering tours.
• Museo del Barro – a museum in Asunción dedicated to indigenous and folk art.

Adventure & Excursions

• Jesuit mission trail – visiting the ruins of San Ignacio Guazú, Santa María, and others.
• Hiking and birdwatching in the Mbaracayú Forest Reserve.
• Boat trips on the Paraguay River.
• Eco-lodges in the Chaco region for wildlife spotting.

Official Tourism Pages

• SENATUR – National Tourism Secretariat
• Paraguay Travel – Official Tourism Portal

16. Nightlife & Events

Nightlife

• Asunción – the nightlife hub is around Villa Morra and Barrio Carmelitas, with bars, clubs, and live music venues.
• Ciudad del Este – casinos and nightclubs near the Brazilian border.
• Encarnación – offers a lively scene with bars and clubs along the river.
• Local music – traditional guarania and polka are often performed live.

Festivals & Cultural Events

• Carnival – celebrated with parades and music in February/March, especially in Encarnación.
• Semana Santa – Holy Week, with processions and religious ceremonies.
• Festival del Yerba Mate – celebrates the national drink (March/April).
• Festival de la Virgen de Caacupé – a religious pilgrimage and festival in December.
• Nanduti Festival – a folk art and craft fair in August.

Official Event Calendars

• Paraguay Travel – Events
• Ministry of Culture – Paraguay

17. Media & Further Links

Official & Government Portals

• Government of Paraguay
• Ministry of Foreign Affairs
• SENATUR – Tourism

News & Media

• ABC Color
• Última Hora
• La Nación
• Paraguay.com

Travel & Reference

• Google Maps – Paraguay
• Image Search – Paraguay
• YouTube – Paraguay Travel
• Google News – Paraguay