Paraguay
South America • PRY
Last updated: May 18, 2026
Paraguay is a hidden gem in the heart of South America, offering an authentic experience free from mass tourism. Visitors can explore lush landscapes, historic Jesuit missions, and vibrant cultural traditions in a country known for its warm hospitality.
Visa Requirements
Citizens of many Western nations, including the USA, UK, and EU, can enter Paraguay for up to 90 days for tourism purposes without a visa.
Typically Required Documents
- Passport with at least six months validity
- Proof of onward or return travel
- Evidence of sufficient funds for the stay
- Proof of yellow fever vaccination if arriving from high-risk countries
Popular Attractions
Jesuit Missions of La Santísima Trinidad de Paraná: These UNESCO World Heritage sites offer a fascinating glimpse into the 17th and 18th-century religious settlements.
Itaipu Dam: As one of the largest hydroelectric power plants in the world, this marvel of engineering provides impressive tours of its massive infrastructure.
Asunción's Historic Center: The capital city features charming colonial architecture, the Panteón Nacional de los Héroes, and lively markets.
Saltos del Monday: These breathtaking waterfalls near Ciudad del Este are often referred to as the 'mini-Iguazu' due to their impressive power and natural beauty.
Ybycuí National Park: This lush park is perfect for nature lovers, offering beautiful hiking trails, historical iron foundry ruins, and refreshing swimming spots.
Local Customs & Etiquette
Greet others with a single kiss on the cheek, which is common even among acquaintances.
Sharing tereré, the national herbal tea, is a deeply ingrained social ritual; never refuse if offered by locals.
Arriving slightly late for social gatherings is considered normal and is often expected in Paraguay.
Dress is generally conservative and tidy; avoid wearing overly casual athletic gear when dining in formal establishments.
Use formal titles like 'Señor' or 'Señora' when addressing people you do not know well.
Respect the local culture by showing interest in the Guaraní language, which is spoken widely alongside Spanish.
Safety Tips
Avoid displaying expensive jewelry, cameras, or smartphones openly in crowded public areas.
Use only official radio-taxis or reputable ride-sharing apps when traveling within urban centers at night.
Stick to well-lit, populated tourist areas and avoid walking alone in deserted streets after dark.
Keep copies of your passport and important travel documents in a secure location separate from the originals.
Be cautious when using ATMs; try to use machines located inside secure banks or shopping malls during business hours.
Maintain a low profile and avoid discussing political topics in public settings to minimize potential conflicts.
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 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 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 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 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 sourceCOVID-19 precautions
Source: CDC
Follow COVID-19 guidelines for safe travel.
Stay updated on vaccine requirements and safety measures.
View sourceTetanus-diphtheria-pertussis (Tdap)
Source: CDC
Make sure you are up to date with Tdap, especially if traveling to rural areas.
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 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 sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended for all travelers due to potential exposure through contaminated food or water.
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 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 sourceInsect bite prevention measures
Source: CDC
Important to avoid insect-borne diseases.
Use insect repellent and wear appropriate clothing.
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