Paraguay
South America · Americas
- Capital
- Asunción
- Currency
- Paraguayan Guaraní (PYG ₲)
- Language
- Spanish, Guaraní
- Timezone
- UTC-4 to UTC-3 (DST)
- Safety rating
- 6/10
- Best time to visit
- The cooler, drier months from May to September are most comfortable, avoiding the intense summer heat.
Overview
Often overlooked, landlocked Paraguay offers an authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience with its bilingual Guaraní culture, the Jesuit mission ruins of Trinidad, and the vast wildlife-rich Chaco wilderness. Laid-back Asunción and warm hospitality reward curious travelers.
Visa requirements
Most Western travelers, including EU and Canadian citizens, enter visa-free for up to 90 days; rules vary by nationality.
Safety information
Paraguay is relatively safe with mostly petty crime in cities; the tri-border area near Ciudad del Este warrants extra caution. Use normal precautions, watch belongings in markets, and avoid isolated areas at night.
Travel tips
Carry guaraníes in cash, as card acceptance is limited outside Asunción. Tereré, a cold yerba mate, is the social drink of choice in the heat. Knowing some Spanish is essential as English is rarely spoken.