Is Paraguay Safe for Travelers in 2025? An Honest Safety Guide from a Regular Visitor - Xplrverse

My Experience with Safety in Paraguay

The first time I visited Paraguay in 2018, I was admittedly nervous. My taxi driver from Silvio Pettirossi International Airport in Asunción seemed to take an unusual route, and my mind immediately jumped to worst-case scenarios. I even texted my location to a friend back home. Twenty minutes later, I was safely at my hotel, feeling slightly embarrassed about my paranoia, and the driver was explaining the detour was simply to avoid road construction. This moment perfectly captures the paradox of safety in Paraguay – our perceptions often don’t match reality.

Having now spent a combined 8 months in Paraguay over multiple trips, I’ve developed a nuanced understanding of safety here. In 2025, Paraguay remains one of South America’s lesser-known destinations, which sometimes leads to misconceptions about safety. Let me share what I’ve learned through experience, mistakes (yes, I’ve made several), and countless conversations with locals and fellow travelers.

Paraguay Safety Overview: The Big Picture

Paraguay sits in the heart of South America, sharing borders with Brazil, Argentina, and Bolivia. While it doesn’t have the tourism profile of its neighbors, it’s gradually appearing on more travelers’ radars for its authentic culture, affordability, and warm hospitality.

Let’s address the most pressing concern upfront: Yes, Paraguay is generally safe for travelers in 2025, but like anywhere in the world, it requires common sense and awareness. The country has made significant strides in security over the past five years, particularly in tourist areas.

“Paraguay is one of those rare places where I felt safer than the international reputation suggests. The key is distinguishing between real risks and perceived ones.” – My journal entry, February 2024

Crime Statistics and Recent Trends

Paraguay’s safety profile has improved steadily since 2020. According to the Overseas Security Advisory Council, violent crime targeting tourists is uncommon, though opportunistic theft still occurs in urban areas.

Crime Type	Risk Level	Common Locations
Violent Crime	Low-Medium	Certain neighborhoods in Asunción, Ciudad del Este
Petty Theft	Medium	Bus terminals, markets, crowded areas
Scams	Medium	Border crossings, taxi services, currency exchange
Kidnapping	Very Low	Extremely rare for tourists

What these statistics don’t capture is the significant difference between tourist areas and non-tourist areas. In my experience, Asunción’s historic center and popular towns like Encarnación feel quite secure, even at night.

Safety in Major Paraguayan Cities

Asunción: The Capital’s Safety Profile

Asunción, Paraguay’s capital, is where most visitors begin their journey. In 2025, the city continues its positive safety trajectory, with increased police presence in tourist areas and better lighting in public spaces.

Safe Areas:

Centro Histórico: The historic center is well-patrolled and safe during daylight hours. At night, stick to well-lit main streets.
Villa Morra and Carmelitas: These upscale neighborhoods are home to shopping centers, restaurants, and hotels with good security.
Manorá: Another affluent area with shopping malls and dining options that’s generally safe.

Areas to Exercise Caution:

La Chacarita: This riverside neighborhood has high poverty rates and higher crime. Avoid, especially after dark.
Terminal de Ómnibus: Like any bus station worldwide, be vigilant about your belongings.
Mercado 4: While fascinating to visit during the day with a local guide, this market area can be risky after dark.

During my last visit in November 2024, I walked alone at night in Villa Morra and felt completely at ease. However, I did have my phone snatched near the bus terminal in 2022 when I was carelessly checking directions with my brand-new iPhone in plain view – a rookie mistake I won’t repeat!

Ciudad del Este: Border Town Considerations

Ciudad del Este, at the triple border with Brazil and Argentina, has historically had a reputation for being unsafe. While it’s improved significantly, it still requires extra vigilance.

This busy commercial hub is known for shopping, especially electronics. The chaotic atmosphere can be overwhelming, and it’s a hotspot for pickpockets. I only visit during daylight hours and take these precautions:

Use only official money changers (look for “casa de cambio” signs)
Keep minimal cash visible
Avoid flashy jewelry or electronics
Use registered taxis or ride-sharing services
Be extra vigilant in the Microcentro shopping district

Encarnación: The Beach City

Encarnación, with its lovely beaches along the Paraná River, is one of Paraguay’s safest cities for travelers. I’ve always felt secure here, even walking along the Costanera (riverfront) in the evening. The city’s tourist infrastructure has improved markedly for 2025, with better lighting and regular police patrols.

Transportation Safety in Paraguay

Getting around Paraguay safely requires some local knowledge. Here’s what I’ve learned through trial and error:

Taxi and Rideshare Safety

In Asunción, I primarily use the MUV app (Paraguay’s version of Uber) as it provides driver information and set pricing. Traditional taxis are generally safe but negotiate the fare before getting in.

Money-saving insider tip: Save up to 30% on transportation by using the MUV app’s “MUV Together” option, which lets you share rides with others going in the same direction. I regularly find rides from the airport to downtown Asunción for under 80,000 Guaraníes (about $10 USD) this way – much cheaper than the 120,000 Guaraníes for regular taxis.

Bus Travel: The Paraguayan Way

Paraguay’s colorful long-distance buses (called “ómnibus”) are my preferred way to travel between cities. They’re affordable, if not always punctual. In 2025, many companies have upgraded their fleets with air conditioning and security cameras.

I once made the mistake of leaving my backpack unattended during a rest stop – nothing was stolen, but a kind Paraguayan woman scolded me with “¡Cuidado con tus cosas, amigo!” (Watch your things, friend!). She was absolutely right, and I’ve been more careful since.

Rental Cars and Road Safety

Road conditions vary dramatically in Paraguay. While main highways are generally good, secondary roads can be challenging, especially during the rainy season (October-April). If renting a car:

Opt for a vehicle with higher clearance
Purchase comprehensive insurance
Download offline maps
Be prepared for occasional police checkpoints

Night driving outside major cities is not recommended due to poor lighting, wandering livestock, and occasional robberies on isolated roads.

Health and Environmental Safety

Weather and Natural Hazards

Paraguay’s subtropical climate means intense heat (especially December-February) and occasional flooding. Heat exhaustion is a real risk – I learned this the hard way during my first summer visit when I ended up in an Asunción clinic after a day of sightseeing without proper hydration.

Water and Food Safety

In 2025, tap water remains unsafe to drink in most of Paraguay. I either buy bottled water or use my portable water filter. For food safety:

Street food is delicious but choose vendors with high turnover
Look for “chipa” (cheese bread) sold fresh – it’s safe and delicious
Be cautious with raw vegetables and unpeeled fruits

One of my favorite Paraguayan phrases is “Ña néike” (let’s go/hurry up in Guaraní). You’ll hear locals use this frequently, and saying it with a smile is a great way to connect.

Healthcare Access

Paraguay’s healthcare system has two tiers: public and private. As a traveler, you’ll want to access private facilities, which offer better care but require payment or insurance.

In Asunción, Hospital Americano and Hospital Universitario San Antonio have English-speaking staff. Outside the capital, options are more limited.

Cultural Safety: Respecting Local Norms

Understanding Paraguayan culture helps avoid misunderstandings that could potentially lead to unsafe situations.

Language Considerations

Paraguay is officially bilingual (Spanish and Guaraní), but in practice, most people speak “Jopará” – a mix of both languages. While many in the tourism industry speak some English, learning basic Spanish phrases goes a long way.

When I first arrived and pronounced Asunción as “A-SUN-see-on” (the English way), locals gently corrected me to “ah-sun-see-OHN.” These small efforts to respect the language were always appreciated.

Social Norms and Etiquette

Paraguayans are generally conservative and deeply value politeness. A few cultural notes:

Greet people with a handshake or cheek kiss (one kiss in Paraguay, not two)
Accept offers of terere (cold yerba mate) as a friendly gesture
Dress modestly, especially when visiting rural areas
Politics can be a sensitive subject – listen more than you speak

I once accidentally declined a terere offering, not understanding its cultural significance. The slight look of offense on my host’s face taught me quickly about this important social custom!

Digital Safety and Money Matters

Internet and Data Security

Wi-Fi is widely available in urban areas but public networks aren’t always secure. I use a VPN when connecting to public Wi-Fi. Mobile data is affordable and reliable in cities but patchy in rural areas.

Money-saving insider tip: Instead of expensive international roaming, buy a local SIM card from Tigo or Personal at the airport. For about 60,000 Guaraníes (approximately $8 USD), you can get 10GB of data that lasts a month – enough for maps, translation apps, and staying connected.

Money and ATM Safety

The Paraguayan Guaraní (₲) has a lot of zeros – 1 USD is roughly 7,300 Guaraníes in 2025. This can be confusing at first!

Use ATMs inside banks or shopping malls during daylight hours
Inform your bank about travel plans to prevent cards from being blocked
Carry small bills for taxis and markets

Money-saving insider tip: When exchanging money, skip the airport kiosks and head to the “cambios” on Calle Palma in Asunción. They offer rates up to 10% better with no commission fees. I saved nearly $50 on my last trip just by exchanging money there instead of at my hotel.

Solo Travel and Women’s Safety

As a solo traveler in Paraguay, I’ve generally felt secure, but there are additional considerations, especially for women travelers.

Women Traveling in Paraguay

Female friends who’ve visited Paraguay share that they experience occasional catcalling (“piropos”) but rarely feel threatened. Solo female travelers should take standard precautions:

Be firm but polite when declining unwanted attention
Dress somewhat conservatively, especially outside tourist areas
Use registered transportation, especially at night
Connect with other travelers or locals through social apps like Meetup

My friend Sofia recounted how wearing a wedding ring (whether married or not) reduced unwanted attention during her time in Paraguay.

LGBTQ+ Safety Considerations

Paraguay remains socially conservative regarding LGBTQ+ issues. Same-sex relationships are legal but not widely accepted in rural areas. In Asunción, there’s growing acceptance and several LGBTQ+-friendly establishments, particularly in the Villa Morra neighborhood.

Public displays of affection between same-sex couples may attract attention and potentially negative reactions outside cosmopolitan areas. Discretion is advised in most settings.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Safety

Rural Paraguay and the Chaco

The Chaco region, covering 60% of Paraguay’s territory but only 3% of its population, presents unique safety challenges. This remote area is not dangerous in terms of crime but requires preparation for its harsh environment.

My 2023 trip to the Chaco taught me several lessons:

Travel with a guide and proper vehicle (4×4 is essential)
Bring extra water, fuel, and emergency supplies
Inform someone of your itinerary
Get comprehensive travel insurance covering emergency evacuation

The reward for this preparation is experiencing one of South America’s most unique ecosystems with very few other travelers.

Eco-Tourism and Safety

Paraguay’s national parks and reserves are generally safe but often lack infrastructure. For the best experience:

Use registered guides when visiting parks like Ybycuí or Cerro Corá
Pack out all trash (waste facilities are limited)
Bring insect repellent and sun protection

Sustainability tip that saves money: Many eco-lodges offer discounts of 20-30% during shoulder seasons (May and September). Not only will you save money, but you’ll reduce the environmental impact of visiting during peak tourist periods when resources are strained. I paid just 250,000 Guaraníes ($35 USD) per night at a wonderful eco-lodge near the Mbaracayú Reserve in September, compared to the regular rate of 400,000 Guaraníes.

Emergency Preparedness

Important Contact Information

Save these emergency numbers before traveling to Paraguay:

Emergency Services: 911
Tourist Police (Asunción): +595 21 446-608
U.S. Embassy: +595 21 213-715
UK Embassy: +595 21 614-588
Medical Emergency: 141

Travel Insurance Essentials

Comprehensive travel insurance is non-negotiable for Paraguay. Ensure your policy covers:

Medical evacuation (crucial for remote areas)
Hospital stays in private facilities
Theft of personal items
Trip cancellation

I use World Nomads for their coverage of adventure activities and medical evacuation, but there are many good options available.

Conclusion: Staying Safe While Enjoying Paraguay

After multiple visits spanning years, I can confidently say that Paraguay is generally safe for travelers who exercise reasonable caution. The hospitality of Paraguayans – who often go out of their way to help visitors – creates an environment where most travelers feel welcomed and secure.

Like anywhere, there are risks, but they shouldn’t deter you from experiencing this beautiful country. The biggest danger in Paraguay might just be missing out on authentic experiences by being overly cautious!

5-Step Action Plan for Safe Travel in Paraguay

Pre-departure preparation: Secure comprehensive travel insurance, download offline maps, learn basic Spanish phrases, and register with your embassy.
Arrival strategy: Use official transportation from the airport, keep valuables secure, and get a local SIM card for reliable communications.
Daily safety routine: Carry minimal cash, use hotel safes, stay aware of your surroundings, and keep digital copies of important documents.
Cultural integration: Respect local customs, dress appropriately, accept social offerings like terere, and build connections with locals for genuine insights.
Emergency readiness: Save local emergency numbers, know the location of quality medical facilities, and have a communication plan with someone back home.

By following these steps while maintaining an open mind and heart, you’ll experience the real Paraguay – a country where the genuine warmth of its people far outweighs any safety concerns.

As they say in Guaraní, “Ou porã” – may you arrive well on your journey to this underappreciated South American gem.

Frequently Asked Questions About Safety in Paraguay

Is Asunción safe at night?

Central Asunción is generally safe at night in well-lit, populated areas like Villa Morra and parts of the Centro Histórico. However, avoid isolated streets, La Chacarita neighborhood, and areas around the bus terminal after dark. Using registered taxis or rideshare apps like MUV is recommended for night transportation.

Do I need special vaccinations for Paraguay?

Yellow fever vaccination is recommended for Paraguay, particularly if visiting rural areas. Routine vaccines should be up-to-date, including tetanus, hepatitis A, and typhoid. In 2025, there are no specific COVID requirements, but checking with your physician and the CDC travel advisories before travel is advised.

Is tap water safe to drink in Paraguay?

No, tap water is generally not safe to drink throughout Paraguay. Stick to bottled water or use water purification methods. Most hotels and restaurants serve purified water, but always confirm to be sure.

Are credit cards widely accepted in Paraguay?

Credit cards are accepted in major hotels, restaurants, and shopping centers in cities, but cash is preferred or required in smaller establishments and rural areas. Always carry sufficient Guaraníes, especially when traveling outside Asunción. Visa and Mastercard are more widely accepted than American Express.

How safe is the border region with Brazil?

The Paraguay-Brazil border, especially around Ciudad del Este, requires extra vigilance due to higher rates of petty crime and smuggling. Visit during daylight hours, use official border crossings, and be particularly careful with belongings. The triple border area (Paraguay-Brazil-Argentina) has improved security in recent years but still warrants caution.

Is it safe to use public transportation in Paraguay?

Public buses within cities are generally safe but can be crowded, making them targets for pickpockets. Long-distance buses between major cities are reliable and relatively safe, though overnight buses warrant extra precautions with valuables. Premium bus services like NSA or Nuestra Señora de la Asunción offer greater comfort and security.

How should women dress in Paraguay to avoid unwanted attention?

Paraguay is relatively conservative, especially outside tourist areas. Women travelers report less unwanted attention when dressing modestly – avoiding very short shorts/skirts and revealing tops. In Asunción’s upscale areas and tourist zones, Western-style clothing is common and acceptable, but more conservative dress is appropriate for rural areas and religious sites.

What should I do if I need medical help in Paraguay?

For medical emergencies, private hospitals in major cities provide the best care. In Asunción, Hospital Americano and Sanatorio Italiano have English-speaking staff. Always have travel insurance information readily available. For minor issues, pharmacies (“farmacias”) can often provide basic medications without prescriptions. The emergency number for ambulance service is 141.