Paraguay Travel Risk Overview

Introduction

Paraguay is a landlocked country in central South America bordered by Argentina, Brazil, and Bolivia. It is known for its agricultural economy, hydroelectric power production, river systems, and relatively low-profile tourism sector. Key cities include Asunción, Ciudad del Este, Encarnación, and Pedro Juan Caballero.

In 2026, Paraguay presents a low to moderate travel risk environment, with generally stable conditions in major urban and business areas. Main risks include petty crime, smuggling-linked border crime in some zones, road safety issues, and seasonal flooding.

Country Overview

• Capital: Asunción

• Key Cities: Asunción, Ciudad del Este, Encarnación, Pedro Juan Caballero

• Population: ~7.5 million

• Language: Spanish and Guaraní

• Currency: Paraguayan Guaraní (PYG)

• Region: South America

Paraguay has one of the largest hydroelectric outputs per capita in the world.

Travel & Entry

Passports

A valid passport is required for entry.

Visas

• Many nationalities receive visa-free or simplified tourist entry

• Requirements vary by nationality

• Entry procedures are generally straightforward

Entry Considerations

• Main gateway: Silvio Pettirossi International Airport (Asunción)

• Land borders with Argentina, Brazil, and Bolivia heavily used

• Border procedures can be busy in commercial zones

• Immigration generally manageable

Local Travel

Road Travel

• Road quality mixed: stronger near major cities, weaker in rural areas

• Driving standards vary

• Long overland routes common

• Rain can affect rural roads significantly

Public Transport

• Buses widely used but basic

• Taxis and ride-hailing available in Asunción

• Intercity coaches connect major towns

• Private transport often preferred for efficiency

Air Travel

• Limited domestic aviation demand

• International access mainly via Asunción

• Many travellers connect through neighboring countries

Travel Risk Overview

Crime

Paraguay is a low to moderate crime-risk destination.

• Theft and opportunistic robbery can occur in cities

• Higher caution advised in parts of Ciudad del Este and some border zones

• Violent crime against tourists is not widespread but possible

• Standard precautions recommended

Security Environment

Paraguay is generally stable.

Key points:

• No internal armed conflict

• Stable national governance environment

• Security issues are more criminal than political

• Border trade zones can carry elevated illicit activity risks

Civil Unrest

• Demonstrations may occur in Asunción

• Usually political or economic issue related

• Can cause traffic disruption but are typically localized

Infrastructure & Health

Infrastructure is developing:

• Reasonable healthcare in Asunción

• More limited medical services outside main cities

• Utilities stronger in urban centres

• Rural logistics can be slower

Key considerations:

• Hot climate and summer storms

• Flooding risk near river systems

• Road safety weaker outside core corridors

• Medical evacuation may be needed for complex cases

Key Considerations

• Use extra caution in border commercial zones

• Prefer reputable transport providers

• Avoid unnecessary night travel in unfamiliar areas

• Carry cash in smaller towns

• Monitor weather during rainy seasons

Is Paraguay Safe to Travel?

Paraguay is considered a manageable and generally stable destination with moderate practical risks.

Strengths include:

• Stable political environment

• Lower tourism crowding

• Affordable travel costs

• Strong business links with neighbors

Primary risks include:

• Urban theft and petty crime

• Border-zone criminality in some areas

• Road safety and infrastructure gaps

• Seasonal flooding disruptions

Overall, Paraguay is assessed as a low to moderate-risk travel destination, suitable for business and leisure with sensible precautions.

Access to Real-Time Information

This overview reflects baseline conditions. Real-time monitoring is recommended for:

• Border crossing wait times

• Rainfall and flooding alerts

• City security updates

• Road condition advisories

• Demonstration or strike disruptions