Paraguay

1. What are the top attractions to visit in Paraguay?
The Jesuit Missions of La Santísima Trinidad de Paraná and Jesús de Tavarangüe, UNESCO World Heritage sites, showcase 17th-century architecture near Encarnación ($5 entry). Asunción’s historic center features the Panteón Nacional de los Héroes and the Casa de la Independencia Museum ($2 entry). The Itaipú Dam, one of the world’s largest hydroelectric dams, offers tours near Ciudad del Este ($10). The Chaco region, a vast wilderness, is ideal for wildlife spotting—see jaguars and tapirs in Defensores del Chaco National Park ($50–$100 tours). The Ybycuí National Park has waterfalls and hiking trails ($5 entry). Visit the Monday Falls (Saltos del Monday) near Ciudad del Este for stunning views ($3 entry). In the east, the Mbaracayú Forest Reserve offers eco-tours ($30–$50). The Ñacunday Falls in the southeast are a hidden gem ($2 entry).

2. Is Paraguay safe for tourists?
As of March 2025, Paraguay is generally safe for tourists, but caution is advised. Petty theft, like pickpocketing, is common in Asunción and Ciudad del Este—keep valuables secure in markets or buses. Violent crime is rare but increasing in border areas near Brazil, especially around Pedro Juan Caballero due to drug trafficking—avoid these zones. Tap water is safe in cities but not in rural areas; use bottled water in the Chaco. Dengue fever is a risk during the rainy season (October–April)—use repellent. Medical facilities are adequate in Asunción but limited elsewhere; travel insurance is recommended. Protests in Asunción can disrupt traffic—monitor local news. Roads in the Chaco are often unpaved and flood-prone during rains—travel with a 4x4 vehicle.

3. Do I need a visa to visit Paraguay?
U.S., EU, Canadian, Australian, and most Latin American citizens can enter visa-free for up to 90 days with a passport valid for 6 months. A yellow fever vaccination certificate may be required if coming from an affected country. Proof of onward travel and sufficient funds might be requested at entry. Extensions can be applied for at the Dirección General de Migraciones in Asunción ($30–$50). Some nationalities, like India or China, need a visa—apply through a Paraguayan consulate ($50–$100). Border crossings with Brazil (Ciudad del Este to Foz do Iguaçu) or Argentina (Encarnación to Posadas) are straightforward but require official checkpoints—use the San Roque González de Santa Cruz Bridge ($1 toll). Entry rules can change, so confirm before travel.

4. What is the best time to visit Paraguay?
Paraguay’s subtropical climate makes the dry season (May–September) the best time to visit, with temperatures of 15°C–25°C (59°F–77°F) and lower humidity, ideal for exploring Asunción or the Chaco. The rainy season (October–April) brings heat (30°C–38°C/86°F–100°F) and heavy showers, especially in the east, which can make rural roads impassable. The Jesuit Missions are best visited in the dry season for easier access. The Ñanduti Festival in Itauguá (July) and the Trans-Chaco Rally (September) are cultural highlights during the dry months. Summer (December–February) is festive with Carnival in Encarnación, but it’s hot and humid. Avoid the Chaco during peak rains (January–March) due to flooding and extreme heat.

5. How do I get to Paraguay and get around?
Fly into Silvio Pettirossi International Airport (ASU) in Asunción. Direct flights from the U.S. are limited—connect via São Paulo or Buenos Aires (8–12 hours, $500–$1,200 round trip) with LATAM or GOL. From Europe, connect via Madrid or São Paulo (14–18 hours, $800–$1,500). Domestic flights to Encarnación or Ciudad del Este with Paranair cost $50–$100 (1 hour). Long-distance buses like NSA connect Asunción to Encarnación (5 hours, $10–$15) or Ciudad del Este (5 hours, $12–$18). Taxis in Asunción cost $3–$6 per ride; Uber is available. For the Chaco, rent a 4x4 vehicle ($80–$120/day) due to rough terrain. Border crossings to Brazil or Argentina are common—buses from Encarnación to Posadas take 30 minutes ($2). Rural roads can be challenging—plan extra time.

6. What are traditional Paraguayan foods to try?
Sopa paraguaya, a cornbread with cheese and onions, is a national dish, often paired with asado (grilled beef, $5–$10). Chipa, a cheesy bread made with manioc flour, is a popular snack ($1–$2). Try mbejú, a starchy pancake, with mate (herbal tea). Bori-bori, a chicken soup with corn dumplings, is a hearty option in cooler months. In the Chaco, taste surubí (catfish) grilled or in stews ($6–$8). For breakfast, enjoy cocido, a burnt yerba mate tea with milk and sugar, with chipa. Tereré, a cold yerba mate drink, is a social staple—locals often share it. For dessert, try kaguyjy, a sweet made from molasses and peanuts. In Asunción, dine at local comedores like Bolsi for authentic flavors ($8–$15/meal).

7. What cultural experiences should I explore in Paraguay?
Visit the Ñanduti Festival in Itauguá (July) to see intricate lace-making and traditional dances ($5 entry). In Asunción, attend a harp performance—Paraguay’s national instrument—at a cultural center like Juan de Salazar ($3–$5). Explore the Jesuit Missions near Encarnación with a guided tour to learn about their history ($10–$15). Join the Carnival in Encarnación (February) for vibrant parades and music ($10–$20 tickets). In the Chaco, visit a Mennonite community in Filadelfia to learn about their traditions ($20 tours). Attend the Trans-Chaco Rally (September), a famous off-road race in the Chaco ($15 entry). In Villarrica, experience the Guaraní culture through storytelling and music at local festivals ($5–$10). Shop for ñanduti lace or ao po’i embroidery in Areguá’s artisan markets.

8. What outdoor activities can I do in Paraguay?
Hike in Ybycuí National Park to see waterfalls and spot capuchin monkeys ($5 entry, $10 for guides). Kayak on the Paraguay River near Asunción for scenic views ($20–$30 rental). Birdwatch in the Mbaracayú Forest Reserve—home to over 400 species, including the bare-throated bellbird ($30–$50 tours). Explore the Chaco’s Defensores del Chaco National Park for rugged landscapes and wildlife like jaguars ($50–$100 with a guide). Fish for dorado in the Paraná River near Encarnación ($40–$60 tours). Visit the Ñacunday Falls for a refreshing swim in the natural pool ($2 entry). Horseback ride in the Chaco with local guides to experience the cowboy culture ($30–$50). Camp in Cerro Cora National Park, a historical site with trails and battlefields ($5 entry).

9. What should I know about Paraguayan culture before visiting?
Paraguayans are warm and hospitable—greet with a handshake and “Hola.” Spanish and Guaraní are official languages; English is limited outside tourist areas. Dress casually but modestly, especially in rural areas (15°C–38°C/59°F–100°F). Lunch is the main meal, often with soup or asado. Tipping 10% is standard in restaurants. Soccer is a passion—expect discussions about Cerro Porteño or Olimpia. Tereré drinking is a social ritual—accepting an invitation to share is polite. Public affection is modest. Respect Guaraní traditions, especially in indigenous communities. Paraguayans are punctual for formal events but relaxed socially. Avoid discussing the War of the Triple Alliance (1864–1870); it’s a sensitive topic. Bargaining is common in markets but not in stores.

10. What are the best accommodation options in Paraguay?
In Asunción, the Sheraton Asunción Hotel offers luxury ($100–$200/night), while Hostal El Farol is budget-friendly ($20–$40/night). In Encarnación, the Hotel De La Trinidad near the Jesuit Missions provides comfort ($60–$100/night), or try Hostal SV ($25–$50/night). Ciudad del Este has the Gran Nobile Hotel ($80–$150/night) or Hostal Las Orquideas ($30–$60/night). In the Chaco, the Hotel Florida in Filadelfia is a simple option ($40–$70/night). For eco-lodges, Pro Cosara in the Mbaracayú Reserve offers rustic stays ($50–$100/night, meals included). In Villarrica, the Hotel Ybytyruzu has lake views ($50–$90/night). In Ybycuí, basic guesthouses near the national park cost $20–$40/night. Book early for Carnival in Encarnación, as hotels fill up fast.