Paraguay, the heart of South America, offers a unique blend of Guaraní indigenous culture and Spanish colonial heritage. From the vibrant capital of Asunción along the Paraguay River to the historic Jesuit Missions and the stunning natural beauty of the Chaco region, this landlocked nation provides an authentic South American experience away from typical tourist crowds.
Paraguay is generally safer than many South American countries for travelers who exercise standard precautions. Asunción requires awareness in specific areas including Mercado 4, the bus terminal, and downtown at night, while the upscale suburbs of Villa Morra and Carmelitas are very safe.
Current safety advisory
Moderate
Exercise normal precautions in most areas. Increased caution in downtown Asunción at night and near the border crossing at Ciudad del Este where petty crime and contraband activity are elevated.
Last updated: 2025-01
Official advisories
Guidance from national travel-advisory services.
Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution
Exercise increased caution in Paraguay due to crime. Some areas have increased risk.
Normal precautions
Take normal safety precautions; be vigilant against petty theft especially in crowded markets and public transport
Essential safety tips
Practical advice that applies everywhere.
Avoid displaying expensive jewelry or electronics in public
Use ATMs inside banks or shopping centers during daylight hours
Do not drive outside Asunción at night due to poor lighting and road hazards
Keep hotel doors locked and valuables in hotel safes
Sit in the back seat of taxis and always wear seatbelts
Do not resist if confronted during a robbery
Register with your country's embassy in Asuncion before travel; the US Embassy is located in Villa Morra district.
Avoid wearing expensive jewellery or displaying smartphones on the street, particularly around Mercado 4 and the bus terminal.
Use only official yellow taxis or app-based services (InDriver) and never hail unmarked cars, especially at night.
Be aware of express kidnapping scams near ATMs; withdraw cash in secure bank lobbies or hotel lobbies rather than street ATMs.
Common scams to avoid
Recognise and sidestep tourist-targeted scams.
Express kidnapping near ATMs
Criminals observe people withdrawing cash from street ATMs then follow and rob them. More common near Mercado 4 and bus terminal area.
How to avoid: Use ATMs inside banks, shopping malls, or hotel lobbies; withdraw cash during business hours rather than at night
Unlicensed taxi overcharging
Unmarked vehicles posing as taxis charge inflated rates or take longer routes. Most common at the airport and in tourist areas.
How to avoid: Use InDriver, Uber, or Bolt apps exclusively; official yellow taxis have meters but negotiate before starting
Fake police
Individuals posing as plainclothes police ask to inspect wallets or bags for 'counterfeit currency checks' — a ruse to steal cash.
How to avoid: Real police don't stop tourists to check wallets; ask for official ID and insist on going to a police station if stopped
Currency exchange fraud
Unofficial money changers on the street offer favorable rates but provide counterfeit Guaraní notes or shortchange tourists.
How to avoid: Always use licensed casas de cambio (exchange houses) in proper storefronts; never exchange money with street vendors
Health considerations
Staying healthy on your trip.
- Vaccinations
- Routine vaccines recommended (MMR, DPT, etc.). Hepatitis A and Typhoid recommended for most travelers. Yellow Fever required if arriving from endemic countries. Hepatitis B for those with specific risk factors. Rabies for adventure travelers. Consult doctor 4-6 weeks before travel.
- Water
- Not safe to drink. Use bottled water for drinking and brushing teeth. Ice in restaurants generally safe in tourist areas but use caution. Bottled water widely available and inexpensive (PYG 2,000-5,000 / $0.25-0.65 per liter).
- Food
- Facilities
Safety for specific travellers
Tailored advice for different groups.
Solo travellers
Solo travel in Paraguay is manageable with standard precautions. Stick to Villa Morra and Carmelitas in Asunción, use app-based transport at night, and connect with hostel staff for local safety advice. The country's small size and friendly people make solo travel generally pleasant.
Female travellers
Female travelers should exercise standard precautions. Machismo culture exists but harassment is generally verbal rather than physical. Travel with groups at night, use app-based taxis, avoid walking alone in downtown Asunción after dark, and dress modestly outside tourist areas.
Families
Paraguay is quite family-friendly with Paraguayans being very welcoming to children. Vaccinate against hepatitis A and typhoid before visiting, use bottled water throughout, apply insect repellent near water, and stay in established neighborhoods. Medical facilities are adequate in Asunción.
LGBTQ+ travellers
Same-sex relationships are legal in Paraguay but not legally recognized. Public attitudes are conservative, particularly outside Asunción. LGBTQ+ travelers should exercise discretion with public displays of affection. Asunción has a small but active LGBTQ+ community with several friendly venues in Villa Morra.
Emergency contacts
Numbers to know before you go.
- Police
- 911
- Medical
- 141
- Embassy
- Tourist Police