Paraguay

Travel tips for Paraguay: safety advisories, currency and cash vs. card, tap water, plugs, local phrases, food, and advice from travelers.

Cash and cards

Carry some cash. While cards work at major hotels, malls, and upscale restaurants in Asunción, travelers report that cash is still king in Paraguay. You will need Guaraníes for local eateries, buses, markets, and any travel outside the capital.

Try the food

  • Sopa paraguaya: A savory, dense cornbread baked with cheese, onions, and milk or whey.
  • Chipa: A chewy, ring-shaped bread made from cassava flour, anise, and cheese.
  • Mbeju: A crispy, pan-fried flatbread made of cassava starch and crumbly cheese.
  • Lomito árabe: A popular street food wrap similar to shawarma, filled with shaved beef or chicken, vegetables, and garlic sauce.

Say it in Spanish

  • Hello: Hola
  • Thank you: Gracias
  • Please: Por favor
  • Excuse me: Disculpe
  • How much is this?: ¿Cuánto cuesta?
  • The bill please: La cuenta, por favor
  • Yes / No: Sí / No
  • Goodbye: Adiós

Essentials

Voltage
220V, 50Hz
Driving
Right side
SIM tip
Purchase a prepaid Tigo or Claro SIM card at the airport or official kiosks in Asunción, keeping your passport handy for mandatory registration.

Etiquette

A 10% tip is customary in restaurants, and if invited to share tereré (cold yerba mate), accept it as a sign of friendship but never stir the metal straw (bombilla).

Airports in Paraguay