Entry Requirements & Visas
New for 2026: Simplified Visa-Free Access
Paraguay continues to offer visa-free entry for citizens of over 100 countries, allowing stays up to 90 days with no major changes expected in 2026. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date to avoid issues at borders.
Passport Requirements
Your passport must be valid for at least six months after your planned departure from Paraguay, and it should have at least two blank pages for entry and exit stamps.
Children under 18 traveling without parents need a notarized consent letter from guardians, translated into Spanish if necessary.
Always carry a photocopy of your passport while exploring, as originals can be left in safe hotel storage.
Visa-Free Countries
Citizens of the US, Canada, EU countries, UK, Australia, and most South American nations can enter visa-free for up to 90 days in a 180-day period.
This policy promotes tourism, but overstaying can result in fines or deportation, so track your dates carefully using a travel app.
For extensions beyond 90 days, apply early at the Dirección General de Migraciones in Asunción.
Visa Applications
If you require a visa (e.g., citizens of certain Asian or African countries), apply at a Paraguayan consulate with documents including a valid passport, proof of onward travel, financial statements showing at least $50/day, and yellow fever vaccination certificate if coming from endemic areas.
The process typically takes 10-30 days and costs around $160, with single-entry visas valid for 90 days.
Business or student visas may need additional invitations from Paraguayan entities and can be processed faster through expedited services.
Border Crossings
Land borders with Brazil (e.g., Foz do Iguaçu to Ciudad del Este) and Argentina (e.g., Posadas to Encarnación) require exit/entry stamps; expect 30-60 minutes for processing, including vehicle inspections if driving.
Airports like Silvio Pettirossi International in Asunción have efficient immigration, but arrive early for international flights to handle any customs checks on declarations over $10,000.
Bus crossings are common and affordable, but have exact change for fees and beware of unofficial "guides" soliciting tips.
Travel Insurance
While not mandatory, comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended, covering medical evacuations (due to limited rural facilities), trip delays, and adventure activities like boat trips on the Paraguay River.
Policies should include coverage for dengue or yellow fever risks, starting at $2-5/day from international providers.
Carry proof of insurance at borders, as officials may request it, and opt for plans with 24/7 Spanish-speaking support.
Extensions Possible
Visa-free stays can be extended up to 30 additional days for a fee of about 100,000 PYG ($13), applied at the Migraciones office with proof of funds and a reason like tourism extension.
Process in person during business hours, and approval isn't guaranteed, so apply at least two weeks before expiration to avoid penalties.
Multiple extensions are rare, and repeated requests may lead to scrutiny on future entries.
Money, Budget & Costs
Smart Money Management
Paraguay uses the Paraguayan Guaraní (PYG). For the best exchange rates and lowest fees, use Wise to send money or convert currency - they offer real exchange rates with transparent fees, saving you money compared to traditional banks.
Daily Budget Breakdown
Money-Saving Pro Tips
Book Flights Early
Find the best deals to Asunción by comparing prices on Trip.com, Expedia, or CheapTickets.
Booking 2-3 months in advance can save you 30-50% on airfare, especially from South American hubs like São Paulo or Buenos Aires.
Consider regional carriers like LATAM for connecting flights that often include baggage allowances not found on budget airlines.
Eat Like a Local
Dine at mercado stalls for affordable meals under ₲20,000, skipping touristy spots to save up to 50% on food costs.
Local markets like Mercado 4 in Asunción offer fresh produce, tereré ingredients, and ready-made sopa paraguaya at great prices.
Opt for set lunch menus (menú del día) at comedores for full meals around ₲15,000, including soup and dessert.
Public Transport Passes
Get a local bus card (tarjeta) for unlimited urban rides at ₲5,000 per trip, cutting daily costs significantly in cities like Encarnación.
Intercity buses via companies like Expreso Paraguay are economical at ₲50,000-100,000 for long hauls, with frequent departures.
Avoid peak hours to skip surcharges and use apps like Moovit for real-time schedules and routes.
Free Attractions
Visit public parks like Parque Ñu Guasú, street markets in Ciudad del Este, and riverside walks in San Bernardino, which are cost-free and offer authentic experiences.
Many historical sites like the Palacio de los López have free entry on national holidays, and self-guided walks in Asunción's historic center are ideal.
Join free cultural events via local Facebook groups to immerse without spending on paid tours.
Card vs Cash
Cards are accepted in urban hotels and malls, but carry cash for markets, rural areas, and small vendors where ATMs may be scarce.
Withdraw from Banco Continental ATMs for better rates than exchange bureaus, and notify your bank of travel to avoid card blocks.
Use contactless payments where possible to minimize fees, and exchange USD at casas de cambio for rates up to 10% better than airports.
Site Passes
Use combo tickets for Jesuit Missions sites at ₲50,000 for multiple ruins, perfect for cultural trips in the south.
It pays for itself after visiting 2-3 locations, and includes audio guides in English for added value.
National park entries like Ybycuí are low-cost at ₲20,000, but group passes reduce per-person fees further.
Smart Packing for Paraguay
Essential Items for Any Season
Clothing Essentials
Pack lightweight, breathable cotton clothes for the hot, humid climate, including quick-dry shirts and long pants for sun protection during day trips to the Chaco region.
Include modest attire for visiting churches in Asunción and a light sweater for cooler evenings near the rivers.
Opt for neutral colors to blend in and avoid drawing attention in rural areas, with versatile pieces for both city and nature outings.
Electronics
Bring a universal adapter (Type A/C), portable power bank for long bus rides, offline maps via apps like Maps.me, and a waterproof phone case for rainy season.
Download Spanish language apps like Duolingo for basic Guaraní phrases, and a VPN for secure Wi-Fi in hotels.
Pack a compact camera for capturing Itaipú Dam or wildlife, and ensure devices are charged as rural outlets may be unreliable.
Health & Safety
Carry travel insurance documents, a basic first-aid kit with antimalarials if heading to the north, prescriptions, and high-SPF sunscreen for intense UV exposure.
Include DEET insect repellent for mosquitoes carrying dengue, hand sanitizer, and water purification tablets for remote areas.
Pack a yellow fever vaccination card if required from your origin country, and rehydration salts for humid heat.
Travel Gear
Pack a durable daypack for hiking in Mbaracayú Reserve, reusable water bottle with filter, quick-dry towel for river swims, and small-denomination PYG cash.
Bring laminated copies of passport, visa, and itinerary, plus a money belt or neck pouch for security in crowded markets.
Include a lightweight rain poncho and dry bags to protect gear during sudden tropical downpours common year-round.
Footwear Strategy
Opt for sturdy, closed-toe hiking sandals or boots for trails in the Gran Chaco and comfortable walking shoes for urban exploration in Encarnación.
Waterproof options are crucial for wet season crossings and boat tours on the Paraná River.
Pack lightweight flip-flops for hostels and beaches at Ypacaraí Lake, ensuring all pairs are broken in to prevent blisters on long walks.
Personal Care
Include biodegradable toiletries, high-SPF lip balm, and a compact umbrella or hat for sun and rain protection in variable weather.
Travel-sized items like moisturizer for dry AC buses and wet wipes for dusty roads help keep packing light for multi-destination itineraries.
Don't forget electrolyte packets for hydration in the heat, and eco-friendly sunscreen to protect local waterways during lake visits.
When to Visit Paraguay
Spring (September-November)
Mild weather with temperatures of 20-28°C makes it ideal for exploring Asunción's markets and the Jesuit ruins without extreme heat.
Fewer crowds allow for peaceful hikes in the Paraná region, and blooming jacaranda trees add scenic beauty to city drives.
Perfect for cultural festivals like the Asunción Carnival preparations, with moderate rainfall keeping landscapes lush.
Summer (December-February)
Peak hot season with 30-35°C highs, great for beach relaxation at Lake Ypacaraí and water activities on the rivers.
Expect vibrant festivals like San Juan with bonfires and music, though humidity can be high—ideal for those who love tropical vibes.
Higher tourist numbers in Ciudad del Este, but it's prime time for Itaipú Dam tours with longer daylight hours.
Autumn (March-May)
Comfortable 22-30°C weather suits outdoor adventures like birdwatching in the Pantanal wetlands and visits to Ñandutí lace markets.
Harvest season brings fresh produce festivals in rural areas, with decreasing rains making roads more accessible for overland travel.
Lower prices on accommodations as crowds thin, perfect for extended stays in Encarnación's colonial sites.
Winter (June-August)
Dry and mild at 15-25°C, budget-friendly for cultural immersion in Asunción's theaters and exploring the cooler Chaco region.
Ideal for hiking without sweat, with events like the Encarnación Carnival in February spilling into early year vibes, though true winter is calm.
Avoid if seeking beaches, but great for avoiding bugs and enjoying cozy tereré sessions in local plazas.
Important Travel Information
- Currency: Paraguayan Guaraní (PYG). Exchange USD easily; cards accepted in cities but cash rules in rural spots. ATMs widespread but fees apply.
- Language: Spanish and Guaraní are official. English limited outside tourist areas—learn basics like "gracias" and "buenos días."
- Time Zone: Paraguay Time (PYT), UTC-4 (switches to -3 in summer October-March)
- Electricity: 220V, 50Hz. Type A/C plugs (flat two-pin and three-pin)
- Emergency Number: 911 for police, medical, or fire assistance
- Tipping: Not mandatory but appreciated; 10% at restaurants, ₲5,000-10,000 for taxis or guides
- Water: Tap water unsafe—drink bottled or purified. Avoid ice in rural areas
- Pharmacies: Widely available as "farmacias." Look for red cross signs; many open late