Paraguay
South America • PRY
Last updated: May 18, 2026
Paraguay is a hidden gem in the heart of South America, offering an authentic and uncrowded travel experience. Known for its rich Guarani heritage, colonial history, and stunning natural landscapes, it provides a unique cultural immersion far from mainstream tourism.
Visa Requirements
Citizens of many Western nations, including the USA, Canada, and the EU, can enter Paraguay for tourism purposes visa-free for up to 90 days.
Typically Required Documents
- Passport valid for at least six months beyond the date of entry
- Proof of onward or return travel
- Evidence of sufficient funds to cover the stay
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate if arriving from a high-risk country
Popular Attractions
The Jesuit Missions of La Santísima Trinidad de Paraná and Jesús de Tavarangue are UNESCO World Heritage sites showcasing magnificent 17th-century architecture.
Itaipu Dam is one of the world's largest hydroelectric power plants and offers impressive engineering tours along the border with Brazil.
Areguá is a charming colonial town on the shores of Lake Ypacaraí, famous for its vibrant artisan pottery and local handicraft markets.
Defensores del Chaco National Park offers a raw, wilderness experience for adventurous travelers interested in exploring the vast and unique Gran Chaco ecosystem.
The Panteón Nacional de los Héroes in Asunción serves as a majestic architectural monument dedicated to the national heroes of Paraguay.
Local Customs & Etiquette
Tereré is a cultural institution in Paraguay; accepting a cup of this iced yerba mate infusion is a common way to build social rapport.
Greetings usually involve a single kiss on the cheek, even among people who have just met.
Paraguayans place high value on family and social connections, so small talk about family or personal interests is common.
Punctuality is often relaxed in social settings, so don't be surprised if events or meetings start slightly later than planned.
It is customary to address people with formal titles or respectful honorifics until a closer rapport is established.
Tipping is appreciated in restaurants, usually around 10 percent of the total bill if a service charge is not already included.
Safety Tips
Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and keep your valuables in a secure, inconspicuous place while exploring cities.
Stick to well-lit and populated areas, especially when walking in Asunción at night.
Only use reputable, radio-dispatched taxi services or ride-sharing apps rather than hailing cabs from the street.
Keep your passport and important travel documents in a hotel safe and carry a digital or paper copy with you instead.
Be cautious in remote areas of the Chaco and ensure you have reliable transportation and supplies before embarking on long road trips.
Avoid flashing expensive jewelry, cameras, or smartphones in public places to minimize the risk of opportunistic theft.
AI-generated content. Visa requirements vary by nationality — verify with the official embassy before travel.
Yellow Fever
Source: CDC
Not required when traveling directly from non-risk countries.
View sourceYellow Fever
Source: CDC
A valid yellow fever vaccination certificate is required.
View sourceYellow Fever
Source: CDC
Vaccine is not required. However, travelers arriving from Bolivia, Brazil, Peru, or Venezuela, including those with layovers exceeding 24 hours in these countries, must present proof of vaccination.
View sourceCore Vaccines
Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis)
Source: CDC
Ensure up-to-date Tdap vaccination, especially if traveling with children.
View sourceRoutine Vaccines
Source: CDC
Make sure you are up to date on routine vaccines before every trip.
View sourceMMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
Source: CDC
Routine vaccination recommended for all travelers.
View sourceTdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis)
Source: CDC
Ensure routine vaccination is up to date for all travelers.
View sourceMMR (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella)
Source: CDC
Ensure routine vaccination is up to date for all travelers.
View sourceHepatitis B vaccine
Source: CDC
Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to Paraguay.
Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may consider vaccination before traveling.
View sourceRabies pre-exposure vaccination
Source: CDC
Consider if engaging in activities that increase risk for exposure to potentially rabid animals.
Rabies is common in dogs and wildlife in Paraguay; pre-exposure vaccination is advisable for high-risk activities.
View sourceTyphoid vaccine
Source: CDC
Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.
Typhoid fever is prevalent; vaccination helps prevent infection.
View sourceHepatitis A vaccine
Source: CDC
Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year or older going to Paraguay.
Infants aged 6 to 11 months should also be vaccinated; this dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.
View sourceMeasles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR) vaccine
Source: CDC
All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles at least two weeks prior to departure.
Measles cases are rising worldwide; vaccination is essential for protection.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended for most travelers due to potential exposure through food or water.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, Tdap, etc.)
Source: CDC
Ensure that routine vaccinations are up to date before traveling.
View sourceFor Most Travelers
Travel insurance
Source: CDC
It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical evacuation.
View sourceRabies vaccination
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers engaging in activities with potential animal exposure.
View sourceInsect Bite Prevention
Source: CDC
Insect repellent and precautions are necessary due to Zika virus and dengue fever risk.
View sourceTetanus-diphtheria-pertussis (Tdap)
Source: CDC
Make sure you are up to date with Tdap, especially if traveling to rural areas.
View sourceCOVID-19 precautions
Source: CDC
Follow COVID-19 guidelines for safe travel.
Stay updated on vaccine requirements and safety measures.
View sourceMeningococcal vaccine
Source: CDC
Recommended for certain travelers, especially if visiting the meningitis belt.
View sourceRabies
Source: CDC
Consider pre-exposure rabies vaccination for travelers involved in outdoor activities or who may come in contact with animals.
High-risk activities may include caving or work with animals.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended for all travelers due to potential exposure through contaminated food or water.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers who may have close contact with local populations or need medical treatment.
View sourceTyphoid
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers to areas with food and water safety concerns.
View sourceFood and water safety precautions
Source: CDC
To reduce risk of foodborne and waterborne diseases.
View sourceItinerary-Specific
Meningococcal vaccination
Source: CDC
Consider vaccination if traveling to the Hajj pilgrimage or certain areas with outbreaks.
View sourceMalaria prevention measures
Source: CDC
If traveling to areas with malaria risk, take measures to prevent malaria.
Use of mosquito repellent is advised.
View sourceInsect bite prevention
Source: CDC
Prevention of mosquito-borne diseases, such as dengue and Zika.
View sourceInsect bite prevention measures
Source: CDC
Important to avoid insect-borne diseases.
Use insect repellent and wear appropriate clothing.
View sourceFood and water safety precautions
Source: CDC
To prevent food and waterborne illnesses during travel.
Drink bottled or boiled water and eat thoroughly cooked food.
View sourceRabies
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers who may come into contact with animals in rural areas.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers who may have sexual contact with the local population or require medical procedures.
View sourceRisk Area: No malaria risk
View sourceRisk Area: All areas of Paraguay
Chemoprophylaxis: Atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, mefloquine, tafenoquine
Seasonality: Year-round
View source