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.
- Public
- Extensive bus network covers all Asunción neighborhoods for PYG 2,400 ($0.30) but routes can be complex for visitors; no metro system
- Taxi
- Available via InDriver, Uber, and Bolt apps; street taxis cheaper but app-based safer and more transparent
- Rental
- Best option for exploring outside Asunción; major companies at airport; roads generally good on main routes
- Walking
- Historic center and Villa Morra walkable but heat, lack of footpaths in some areas, and safety concerns limit pedestrian exploration
Transport at a glance
Airport transfers
Getting from the airport to your accommodation.
- Taxi
- Bus 30-A: $0.30, 50 minutes to downtown
- Shuttle
- Taxi: $15-17, 20 minutes to city center (higher fare after 10 PM and Sundays)
- Bus
- Uber/Muv/Bolt: $12-20 depending on destination
Local transport
Getting around the city.
Bus
Extensive bus network in Asunción. Fare: PYG 2,400 ($0.30). Cash only. Buses can be crowded during rush hour. Major routes cover all neighborhoods. Service runs 5 AM - 10 PM.
Alternatives
metro, taxi, rideshare
Taxis & rideshare
What to expect from taxis and apps.
- Regular
- Base fare: PYG 7,000 ($0.90). Per km: PYG 2,000 ($0.25). Night surcharge (10 PM - 6 AM): 20% extra. Taxis metered but negotiate before starting trip. White taxis are official.
Intercity travel
Getting between cities and regions.
Bus
Excellent bus network connecting all major cities. Companies include NSA, Nuestra Señora de la Asunción, Rysa, and others. Asunción to Ciudad del Este: $12-15, 5 hours. Asunción to Encarnación: $10-13, 6 hours. Long-distance buses comfortable with reclining seats, A/C, and restrooms. Book in advance for holidays.
Flights
Limited domestic flights. TAM (Transportes Aéreos del Mercosur) operates some routes. Most destinations more easily reached by bus. Asunción to Concepción: approximately $80-120.
Transportation details
Full breakdown of how to get around.
Airports
Silvio Pettirossi International Airport
From centre: 16 km northeast of Asunción
Options: Bus 30-A: $0.30, 50 minutes to downtown; Taxi: $15-17, 20 minutes to city center (higher fare after 10 PM and Sundays); Uber/Muv/Bolt: $12-20 depending on destination; Private transfer: $20-40 pre-booked; Airport shuttle (hotel): varies by hotel
Guaraní International Airport
From centre: Located in Ciudad del Este, 330 km from Asunción
Options: Taxi to city center: $10-15; Bus to Asunción: $12-15, 5-6 hours
Useful apps
Download before you arrive.
InDriver
Most popular ride-hailing app in Paraguay; passengers propose a price and drivers accept. Safer and transparent pricing for city travel.
Uber
Available in Asunción with standard pricing; slightly more expensive than InDriver but familiar interface for international travelers.
Bolt
Growing ride-hailing service in Asunción offering competitive prices; good availability in Villa Morra and city center areas.
Transport tips
Travel smarter, not harder.
Use InDriver or Uber for all night-time taxi rides — never hail unmarked street cabs after dark
City buses are extremely cheap at PYG 2,400 per ride but cash only — carry small Guaraní notes
Long-distance buses (NSA, Rysa companies) are comfortable with air conditioning and reclining seats for inter-city travel
Renting a car is highly recommended for visiting Jesuit missions, Ybycuí Park, and Chaco destinations
Avoid driving outside Asunción at night due to poor road lighting, pedestrians, and animals on rural roads
Book intercity bus tickets in advance for holiday periods (January, Carnaval in February, Easter week)