Paraguay is one of South America’s lesser-visited gems, making it a perfect destination for budget travelers. It’s not as popular as its neighbors Argentina and Brazil, so costs tend to be lower. Plus, you get the chance to explore authentic culture without the crowds. Whether you’re interested in cities, nature, or history, Paraguay has something for everyone. Here’s how you can experience it all without breaking the bank.
Accommodation
Accommodation is likely one of the largest expenses when traveling, but Paraguay offers plenty of affordable options. While there aren’t as many hostels as in other countries, you can still find budget stays throughout the country.
Hostels
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In major cities like Asunción and Encarnación, hostels are your best bet for affordable lodging. Dorm beds usually range from $7 to $12 USD per night. Some places even offer free breakfast, especially in Asunción. Hostels are also good for meeting other travelers, so you can share tips and possibly split some expenses.
Hotels and Guesthouses
If you prefer more privacy, opt for guesthouses or budget hotels. Local guesthouses called “hospedajes” are common in smaller towns, and some have double rooms starting at $15 to $20 USD per night. They’re basic, but clean. In bigger towns or cities, you might even find some deals online through booking sites.
Couchsurfing
To save even more on accommodation, try Couchsurfing. While the network is smaller compared to other countries, Paraguay has a friendly Couchsurfing community. Staying with locals is an amazing way to experience the local culture, learn some Spanish (or Guarani), and save money!
Food
Eating out in Paraguay won’t hurt your wallet. You can easily stick to a budget without skipping out on the good stuff. Here’s where and what to eat.
Local Restaurants and Street Food
Street vendors and local markets are your go-to for cheap eats. A solid meal of empanadas or a lomito (a beef sandwich) can cost around $1 to $2 USD. Paraguayan food is simple but filling. Look for local eateries known as “comedor” or “cocina económica,” where you can get a full meal — think meat, rice, and salad — for $3 to $5 USD.
Market Meals
Local markets are a goldmine for budget travelers. Fresh fruits, vegetables, and snacks are abundant, and they’re inexpensive. Markets in cities like Asunción and smaller towns alike are a great spot to grab something quick and save on meals. Some stalls also sell ready-made meals like sopa paraguaya (cornbread with cheese) for less than $2 USD.
Self-Catering
If you’re staying in an accommodation with a kitchen, consider shopping at the supermarket and cooking a few meals yourself. Groceries are affordable, and this can save you even more in the long run. Look for staples like pasta, bread, vegetables, and meat. Preparing breakfast or lunch yourself means you can splurge a little at dinner without feeling guilty.
Transportation
Getting around Paraguay is quite budget-friendly, with various options depending on where you’re headed.
Local Buses
Buses, also known as “colectivos,” are the most common way to travel within cities and towns. A bus ticket in Asunción costs less than $0.50 USD. It’s an easy and cheap way to move around, although schedules can sometimes be flexible (meaning the bus might show up late). If you’re patient, buses will take you almost anywhere for very little money.
Intercity Buses
For travel between cities or to rural areas, long-distance buses are your best bet. The service is usually comfortable, and it won’t empty your wallet. A bus from Asunción to Encarnación costs roughly $10 to $12 USD and takes around six hours. Buses run frequently among other major cities like Ciudad del Este and Filadelfia. Always shop around for tickets as some companies offer discounts depending on the day.
Hitchhiking
If you’re feeling adventurous, hitchhiking in Paraguay is relatively common, especially in rural areas. Paraguayans are friendly and often willing to give rides to travelers. Just be sure to ask politely and stay safe by avoiding isolated areas or hitchhiking at night.
Attractions
A great thing about Paraguay is that many of its attractions are either free or extremely cheap. You can enjoy a blend of urban, historical, and natural sights without spending much.
Free or Low-Cost Attractions
The capital city, Asunción, has many free or inexpensive museums, including the Museo del Barro and the Museo de las Memorias. Stroll around the historical center to check out landmark buildings like the Palacio de los López and the National Pantheon of Heroes, all for free. Parks such as Parque Ñu Guasu are also ideal for a relaxing afternoon without spending a dime.
Jesuit Missions
In southern Paraguay, you’ll find the UNESCO-listed Jesuit Missions of La Santísima Trinidad de Paraná and Jesús de Tavarangüé. Both sites offer a glimpse into Paraguay’s colonial past, and an entry ticket costs around $5 USD. You can easily spend a few hours exploring ruins that date back to the 17th century.
Itaipú Dam
Located near Ciudad del Este, Itaipú Dam is one of the largest hydroelectric dams in the world. There’s a free tour of the site which includes a short film about its construction and a bus ride to see it up close. If you’re in the area, make sure to stop by the nearby Salto Monday waterfalls, where an entry fee is about $3 USD.
Nature Parks
For nature lovers, Paraguay has some beautiful parks and reserves, many of which require little to no entrance fees. Ybycuí National Park, located a few hours from Asunción, is home to stunning waterfalls and costs just $1 to $2 USD to enter. The Ñacunday National Park is another great choice, especially if you want to see a massive waterfall that rivals Iguazu.
Budget-Friendly Destinations
Wondering where to go for a budget-friendly trip? Here are a few spots in Paraguay that won’t drain your wallet.
Asunción
Paraguay’s capital is surprisingly affordable. With cheap eats, low-cost museums, and free parks, you can easily spend a few days exploring the city on a tight budget. Make sure to visit Mercado Cuatro for some local vibes and inexpensive souvenirs.
Encarnación
Encarnación is known for its beautiful riverside beaches, which are free to enter. It’s a popular destination for locals, and you can enjoy the warm weather without spending much. Encarnación is also the gateway to the Jesuit Missions, so it’s a great base for exploring the area’s historical sites.
Ciudad del Este
Ciudad del Este isn’t just for shopping. Apart from its famous black markets, it’s also close to nature reserves and the Itaipú Dam. The town itself is chaotic but interesting to experience firsthand. Plus, it’s the budget alternative for visiting nearby Iguaza Falls on the Brazil side.
Saving Even More Money
If you’re tight on cash and want to stretch your budget further, here are some additional quick tips:
Use Local Currency
The Guarani is Paraguay’s currency. Paying in local currency helps you avoid bad exchange rates, especially if you’re coming from Argentina or Brazil where border towns might quote prices in neighboring currencies. Withdraw from ATMs when needed or exchange USD at a local bank.
Travel During “Low Season”
The low season tends to be during the winter months of June to August. You’ll find cheaper accommodation and fewer crowds. If you’re looking for truly local experiences at an even lower cost, Paraguay during these months offers cooler weather and great bargains.
Share Transport
If you’re heading to a site outside the main cities, consider teaming up with other travelers to split transportation costs. Places like national parks and faraway villages might require chartering a private car or taxi, and that can become affordable if you share the ride with others.
Negotiate
Bargaining is common in markets and for transportation, especially taxis in urban areas. Don’t be afraid to haggle for a better price when possible — just do so respectfully.
Conclusion
Paraguay is a fantastic place for budget travelers. The country’s low cost of living, combined with its friendly locals and unique attractions, makes it an affordable destination. Whether you’re relaxing in Asunción, exploring the Jesuit ruins, or enjoying local street food, traveling Paraguay on a budget is fully doable. With a little planning, you’ll come home with amazing stories and still have money left in your pocket.
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