Guarani culture, Jesuit heritage, subtropical landscapes and historic cities

Paraguay Travel Guide

Discover a distinctive South American country shaped by Guarani and Spanish traditions, historic cities, subtropical forests, the vast Chaco and remarkable landmarks. Explore Asuncion, Ciudad del Este, Encarnacion, the Jesuit Missions and the Itaipu Dam while experiencing Paraguay’s bilingual culture, warm hospitality, local cuisine and lesser-explored natural landscapes.

  • Asuncion culture and history
  • Jesuit Missions heritage
  • Itaipu Dam and Parana River
  • Chaco wildlife and landscapes
Explore Paraguay vacation packages
Palacio de los Lopez and city skyline in Asuncion Paraguay
Asuncion, Paraguay

Essential travel information

All About Paraguay

Find practical information about Paraguay’s destinations, transportation, climate, currency and languages before planning your South America vacation.

Traditional terere drink in Paraguay Paraguay FAQ Learn what Paraguay is known for, where to visit, how long to stay, what currency to use and how to travel around the country.

What is Paraguay known for?

Paraguay is a landlocked South American country located between Argentina, Brazil and Bolivia. Its landscapes include extensive wetlands, subtropical forests and the Chaco, a vast wilderness of savanna and scrubland.

Paraguay is also notable for its bilingual identity. Spanish and Guarani are both official languages, and Guarani remains an important part of everyday culture. This cultural blend is reflected in local art, crafts, music, festivals, literature, food and traditions.

What are the best places to visit in Paraguay?

Paraguay offers historic cities, cultural attractions, major engineering landmarks, riverfront destinations and large areas of relatively undeveloped wilderness.

  • Asuncion for history, museums, markets, restaurants and nightlife
  • Ciudad del Este for shopping and access to the Triple Frontier
  • Encarnacion for beaches, waterfront scenery and carnival traditions
  • Itaipu Dam for one of South America’s great engineering landmarks
  • Jesuit Missions for UNESCO-listed historical heritage
  • The Chaco for wildlife, Indigenous communities and natural landscapes

How many days should I spend in Paraguay?

We recommend approximately 7-10 days depending on what you want to see and do. A minimum of about three nights works well for larger cities, while additional time allows travelers to combine Asuncion with eastern and southern Paraguay.

Tripmasters vacation packages are customizable, allowing travelers to select the number of nights, hotels, transportation and activities included in each destination.

What is the best way to get around Paraguay?

Transportation choices depend on the itinerary and the amount of time available. Rental cars and private transfers provide additional flexibility when combining several Paraguayan cities.

Rental cars Rental cars are available at the airport and in major cities and can provide flexibility for independent travel.
Private transfers Private transfers are a practical option for combining Asuncion, Ciudad del Este and Encarnacion.
Air travel Flights are useful when Paraguay is combined with other major destinations throughout South America.
Regional connections Paraguay’s location makes it possible to combine the country with Argentina and Brazil on multi-country trips.

What currency is used in Paraguay?

Paraguay uses the Paraguayan Guarani. Travelers should have access to local currency and can exchange U.S. dollars after arrival. Currency exchange services are available at the airport and in many city locations.

Do people speak English in Paraguay?

Spanish and Guarani are Paraguay’s official languages. Portuguese is also encountered in some northeastern areas because of the country’s proximity to Brazil. English is not widely spoken, so learning a few basic Spanish phrases can be useful.

Waterfall surrounded by subtropical forest in Paraguay Best Time to Visit Paraguay Compare Paraguay’s warm subtropical seasons before choosing the best dates for cities, nature and cultural travel.

When is the best time to visit Paraguay?

Paraguay has a subtropical climate characterized by high humidity and warm temperatures throughout much of the year. Summers are generally hot and rainy, while winters are milder but can experience considerable temperature changes.

March through November is one of the most comfortable periods for visiting Paraguay. During much of this period, daytime temperatures commonly range between approximately 72°F and 85°F. Travel is possible throughout the year.

March – May

Autumn

Temperatures begin moderating after the hottest summer months, making this an attractive period for city travel, sightseeing and longer itineraries.

Best for: Asuncion, cultural travel and multi-city itineraries.

June – August

Winter

Paraguay’s winter is generally mild, although temperatures can vary considerably and occasional cold periods are possible.

Best for: Cities, history, cultural attractions and outdoor sightseeing.

September – November

Spring

Spring becomes progressively warmer while remaining within one of the country’s generally recommended travel periods.

Best for: Nature, city travel and regional exploration.

December – February

Summer

Summer brings Paraguay’s hottest conditions along with high humidity and increased rainfall. Travelers should prepare for heat when sightseeing during this period.

Best for: Travelers comfortable with hot tropical conditions.

Traditional Paraguayan food and coffee Tipping in Paraguay Review local currency and practical payment information before paying for services during your Paraguay vacation.

What currency should I use in Paraguay?

Paraguay uses the Paraguayan Guarani. Travelers should be prepared to exchange U.S. dollars for local currency after arrival and keep Guaranies available for everyday purchases and smaller services.

Where can I exchange currency?

Currency exchange desks can be found at the airport and at numerous locations throughout major cities. Having some local currency available is recommended when traveling outside the principal urban areas.

Before leaving a gratuity or paying for a service, review the bill for any included service amount and use local currency where practical.

Cities, rivers and cultural heritage

Top Cities in Paraguay

Explore Paraguay’s historic capital, energetic eastern commercial center and popular southern riverfront destination. Together they offer a varied introduction to the country’s culture, history, shopping, beaches and regional attractions.

Ciudad del Este and Friendship Bridge in Paraguay

Alto Parana

Ciudad del Este

Paraguay’s second-largest city is known for its active commercial life, shopping districts and strategic location near Brazil, the Itaipu Dam and the wider Iguazu Falls region.

Explore Ciudad del Este
Beach and waterfront in Encarnacion Paraguay at sunset

Parana River

Encarnacion

Encarnacion is a popular riverfront destination known for beaches, its waterfront boulevard, carnival celebrations and convenient access to Paraguay’s preserved Jesuit Missions.

Explore Encarnacion

Prepare for your vacation

What to Expect While Traveling

Review Tripmasters guides covering flights, accommodations, transportation and sightseeing so you can understand each component of your Paraguay vacation.

Continue exploring destinations, regions and practical travel information across South America with Tripmasters.

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