Paraguay is a hidden gem in South America, offering rich culture and stunning landscapes. It doesn’t get as much tourism as its neighbors, which means you can experience its authenticity up close. Still, there are things you should know before you visit. Below, I’ll cover essential travel tips to help you get around, save money, and blend in with the locals.
Transportation in Paraguay
Buses are the Best Way to Get Around
Buses are the primary mode of transport for locals and travelers alike in Paraguay. They’re affordable and cover most of the country, including cities, towns, and rural areas. Be prepared for some bumpy roads in rural zones.
City buses in Asunción (the capital) are crowded, but they’re cheap. Always have small coins ready because bus drivers often won’t give change. Long-distance buses usually have reclining seats, but “luxury” buses offer more comfort.
Taxis and Ride-Sharing
For getting around the city, taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are available, mainly in Asunción. Make sure to negotiate your fare before getting in a taxi, as they usually don’t use meters. For short trips, Uber can be more convenient since the prices are upfront.
Renting a Car
Renting a car is an option if you want to explore remote areas. Road conditions can be rough outside cities, and many roads aren’t paved, so renting a 4×4 is a good idea. Make sure your insurance covers all types of damages, as you might face some surprises on the road.
Safety Tips
General Safety
Paraguay is generally safe, but like anywhere, you should use common sense. Petty theft can happen, especially in crowded areas like markets and buses. Keep valuables close to you, and avoid showing off expensive items like cameras or flashy jewelry.
At night, it’s better to stick to well-lit areas in cities, and if you’re in Asunción, avoid walking alone late at night in unfamiliar neighborhoods.
Avoid Border Areas
While most of Paraguay is safe, it’s best to steer clear from the border areas with Brazil and Argentina, where smuggling and drug trafficking sometimes occur. Ciudad del Este, a major border town, can be chaotic, especially near the shopping zones. Stay cautious if you visit.
Cultural Customs and Social Etiquette
Greetings Matter
In Paraguay, greetings are important. A firm handshake and a friendly “hola” or “buen día” are the norm when meeting someone. If you are introduced to someone in a more intimate setting, like at a friend’s house, you might get a cheek kiss instead (on both sides).
Siesta Time is Real
Between noon and around 3 p.m., many businesses close down for “siesta.” Plan your day accordingly because even supermarkets may shut down during these hours. Government offices often close around midday, too.
Money-Saving Tips
Use Local Currency
Paraguay uses the Paraguayan Guarani (PYG). While many businesses in cities accept US Dollars, you’ll want to get local currency for daily expenses. Exchange money at official exchange places or get cash from ATMs. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and spread out what you have across different bags for safety.
Eat Like a Local
Food in Paraguay is cheap, especially if you stick to local dishes. Try the “sopa paraguaya” (cornbread-like dish) or a warm “chipa” (a cheesy bread snack). Local food stalls or “comedor” markets are typically affordable and give you a taste of authentic Paraguayan flavors. Also, try their “tereré”—a cold version of yerba mate tea, traditionally sipped with friends.
Accommodations: Go for Family-Run Hotels
If you’re on a budget, steer away from top-tier hotels and opt for family-run guesthouses, known as “posadas.” These are affordable and immerse you in Paraguayan culture. Also, they are often the best for insider travel tips from locals!
Things to Avoid in Paraguay
Don’t Drink Tap Water
The tap water in Paraguay is not safe to drink. Stick to bottled water, which is widely available and inexpensive. Most locals drink bottled or filtered water, so do the same. Bring a reusable bottle with a filter if you want to avoid buying plastic bottles all the time.
Avoid Driving at Night
Roads aren’t well lit, and animals sometimes wander onto the highway, which can make nighttime driving risky. Public transport also tends to stop running early in many smaller towns, so plan your travel accordingly.
Don’t Assume Everyone Speaks Spanish
While most people speak Spanish, Guarani is also widely spoken, especially in rural areas. Many Paraguayans are bilingual and might open up more if you throw in some basic Guarani phrases like “mba’éichapa” (how are you?). Learning a few words in Guarani shows respect for their indigenous heritage and helps in day-to-day interactions.
How to Blend in with the Locals
Dress Modestly
Paraguayans dress conservatively, so you should try to follow suit. Shorts are common in hot weather, but they should be knee-length. In general, avoid overly revealing or flashy clothing if you want to blend in.
Join in on the Tereré Tradition
Tereré, the cold herb tea that Paraguayans sip communal-style, is part of the social glue that holds communities together. Don’t be shy if someone offers it to you—it’s a sign of friendship. Passing the cup around and chatting is a big part of Paraguayan culture, especially during gatherings in parks or public spaces.
Be Punctual, but Expect Delays
Paraguayans may not be as time-obsessed as other cultures. When meeting up with locals, don’t be too worried if they’re a few minutes late. That said, out of politeness, you should try to be punctual yourself to show respect.
Language Tips
Basic Spanish Will Go a Long Way
While Guarani is spoken in rural areas, Spanish is the most common language in cities. Most Paraguayans don’t speak English outside of touristy zones, so learning basic Spanish phrases can really help. Phrases like “¿Cuánto cuesta?” (How much does it cost?) and “¿Dónde está?” (Where is…?) are handy.
Guarani Greetings to Learn
Guarani has a different structure than Spanish, so learning a few phrases will show extra effort. Start simple with greetings like “mba’éichapa” (how are you), which is commonly used. Also, “iporã” means “good,” which is useful in many situations.
Conclusion: Have an Open Mind
Paraguay is not the most visited country in South America, but that’s exactly what makes it so charming. You’ll experience genuine hospitality and a unique culture if you go with an open mind and respect for local customs. Use these tips to have a memorable and hassle-free trip.
Leave a reply