Entry Requirements
Visa requirements for Paraguay depend on which passport you hold. Check the Traveller visa tool to see whether your passport needs a visa and, if so, how long you can stay.
Check if you need a visa for ParaguayEmergency Numbers
- Police
- 911
- Ambulance
- 141
- Fire
- 132
Currency
- Name
- Paraguayan Guaraní
- Code
- PYG
- Symbol
- ₲
ATMs in Asunción and major towns. USD accepted at some hotels. Cash preferred in markets and smaller restaurants. Carry small bills — change is often scarce.
Power Outlets
- Outlet types
- Type A, Type B, Type C
- Voltage
- 220V
- Frequency
- 50Hz
Time Zone
PYT (UTC−4) — PYST (UTC−3) in summer
Best Time to Visit
May–September is cooler and drier — the most comfortable time to explore. March–April is hot and humid. October–February is hot (35–40°C) and can be rainy. The Pantanal is best for wildlife October–March (wet season fills it).
Tipping Customs
| Venue | Typical | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Restaurants | 10% | Check if already included — not always expected in local restaurants |
| Taxis | Round up | Agree fare before departure |
| Hotels | PYG 10,000–20,000 for porters | — |
| Tour guides | $5–10 USD per day | — |
Dress Code
- Casual throughout
- Modest dress in churches and missions
- Long sleeves and trousers recommended for the Pantanal and jungle (insects)
Social Etiquette
- Paraguay is the only country in the Americas where an indigenous language (Guaraní) is co-official with Spanish — both are widely spoken
- Tereré (cold mate with herbs) is the national drink — more widely consumed than hot mate. Accept if offered
- Paraguayans are warm but reserved — build rapport before diving into business
- Greet with a kiss on the cheek among friends and acquaintances
- The Jesuit Missions (Santísima Trinidad and Jesús de Tavarangue) are UNESCO sites — treat with respect
Local Laws
Laws change. Verify current rules with your country's official travel advisory before departure.
- Drug trafficking carries severe sentences
- LGBTQ+ activity is not criminalised but social attitudes are conservative — exercise discretion
- Hunting wildlife is illegal; the Pantanal has strict conservation protections
- Photography of border crossings and military installations is prohibited
Common Phrases
| English | Local | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Hello | Hola / Mba'éichapa? (Guaraní) | OH-lah / m-BAH-ee-chah-PAH |
| Thank you (Guaraní) | Aguyje | ah-goo-YEH |
| Please (Spanish) | Por favor | por fah-VOR |
| Tereré (cold mate) | Tereré | teh-reh-REH — the national drink, cold herbal infusion |
| How much? (Spanish) | ¿Cuánto es? | KWAHN-toh es |
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