Paraguay is the very center of South America, so Where is it?
Paraguay lies landlocked between Argentina, Brazil, and Bolivia. The capital is Asunción, sitting on the banks of the Paraguay River. Its central position makes it both literally and figuratively the continent’s crossroads.
Is it safe to travel to Paraguay?
Paraguay is considered moderately safe for most travelers. The main risks are petty theft and occasional muggings in urban areas, particularly at night around bus terminals. Border towns can sometimes see organized-crime activity, and protests may block roads in Asunción. Common-sense precautions—using registered taxis or ride-hailing apps, avoiding poorly lit streets, and keeping valuables discreetly stored—will help most visitors. Out in rural Paraguay, crime is rarer, but distances are vast, so adventurers should be self-sufficient and plan ahead.
Why go to Paraguay, just asking
Paraguay isn’t just another stop on the South American trail—it’s a country that feels almost secret. Here, you’ll find colonial towns that whisper of Jesuit missions, thundering waterfalls that rival Iguazú without the crowds, and wilderness regions like the Gran Chaco, where jaguars and giant anteaters still roam.
And then there’s the intangible draw: this is also a place for the true adventurer. Unlike Argentina or Brazil, Paraguay is not a polished tourist stage. Roads can be rough, signage scarce, and sometimes you’ll have to rely on locals’ hospitality and your own resourcefulness. For travelers who crave authenticity and discovery over Instagram-ready convenience, Paraguay offers the thrill of being far off the beaten path.
Ascunsion: Cobblestone street lined with old buildings and palm trees.
What to see, more than you might think
Asunción: Wander the historic downtown with its colonial buildings, admire the Costanera riverfront promenade, and explore the buzzing Villa Morra/Carmelitas district with modern dining and nightlife. This is Paraguay’s beating urban heart—laid-back, colorful, and accessible.
Jesuit Missions of Trinidad & Jesús (UNESCO): These haunting 17th- and 18th-century ruins near Encarnación are living museums of Paraguay’s layered history. Evening sound-and-light shows make the stones glow under the stars, a spectacular adventure in itself.
Encarnación: A riverside resort city with beaches along the Paraná River. It’s perfect for combining relaxation with culture, as it’s also the jumping-off point for mission explorations.
Saltos del Monday: A wild, roaring waterfall in Alto Paraná, with jungle views and hiking trails. Unlike the more famous Iguazú, here you can stand close enough to feel the spray without jostling with hundreds of tourists.
The Gran Chaco: This is Paraguay’s ultimate wilderness—remote, raw, and adventurous. It’s a land of thorny forests, wetlands, and endless skies, where wildlife specialists seek out tapirs, peccaries, and elusive big cats. Venturing here is not for the casual tourist; it’s for those who relish the challenge of logistics, isolation, and nature in its purest form.
Where to stay
In Asunción, Villa Morra and Carmelitas offer boutique hotels and international chains with comfort and convenience. Downtown has budget-friendly guesthouses and historic charm.
In Encarnación, riverside hotels along the Costanera give you beach access and easy transport to the missions.
In the Chaco, it’s all about adventure: eco-lodges and cattle estancias that double as safari bases. Here you’ll find rustic comfort, 4×4 vehicles, and guides who know every trail and watering hole.
Price level
Paraguay is one of South America’s most affordable destinations. A simple restaurant meal might cost just a few dollars, while a mid-range dinner for two could be under $35. Accommodation ranges from hostels ($20–40) to mid-range ($50–90) to well-appointed 4-star hotels ($65–120+). Even adventure tours into the Chaco are relatively inexpensive compared to African safaris, though still require careful planning.
Health & diseases
Dengue fever is present—use mosquito repellent and wear long sleeves.
Yellow fever: Some regions have risk; vaccination may be required depending on your travel history.
Malaria: Paraguay was certified malaria-free in 2018.
Routine vaccines, plus hepatitis A and typhoid, are recommended. Always consult a travel clinic for tailored advice.
Climate—when to go
Paraguay’s subtropical climate means hot, humid summers and mild, dry winters. Asunción averages 23 °C yearly, with heavy summer rains. The best time for adventurers is April–July and late July–October, when the weather is warm but less oppressive. Expect quick changes—storms can roll in fast, especially in summer.
How far is it?
To Asunción from:
Madrid ~9,200 km (1-stop flights ~14–17 h).
London/Paris/Frankfurt ~10,000–10,600 km (1-stop ~15–19 h).
Copenhagen ~11,200 km (1-stop ~16–20 h).
New York (JFK) ~7,500 km (1-stop ~12–16 h).
Tokyo (NRT) ~17,900 km (usually 2 stops, 26–32 h).
Most flights route via São Paulo, Buenos Aires, Panama City, or Madrid.
Adventure tips
City smarts: Carry a passport copy, use ATMs inside malls, and rely on registered taxis or apps after dark.
Pack light but smart: mosquito repellent, sunscreen, light rain gear, and good shoes are essentials.
Off-the-grid: In the Chaco, travel with experienced guides—fuel, food, and water logistics are vital. This is where real adventure begins.
Bottom line
Paraguay rewards those who seek something different. If you want polished resorts and ready-made tours, you might look elsewhere. But if your spirit leans toward exploration—UNESCO ruins glowing under the night sky, waterfalls roaring without a crowd, or vast wilderness where you might be the only outsider for miles—then Paraguay is calling.
This is South America’s secret heart: affordable, authentic, and a true adventurer’s dream.
