Safe to Travel – Paraguay
Is Paraguay Safe to Travel to in 2025
Thinking about heading to Paraguay for your next trip? It’s totally normal to wonder about safety, especially since this country is a bit under the radar. So, instead of just guessing, let’s get the real scoop from people who’ve been there and look at the facts. We’re going to dive into what’s what with crime and travel advisories to give you the full picture.
It’s a great adventure, but you’ll want to be prepared. This guide is here to give you the rundown on everything you need to know, from staying healthy to understanding local customs and the political scene. We’ll focus on the stuff that really matters so you can feel confident and have an unforgettable, safe trip.
As a travel enthusiast and photographer from the UK. I have a passion for nature and wildlife, I tend to focus on eco-tourism and sustainable travel but like to cover a wide range of articles. My favourite destination has got to be Malta, I love the food there and the relaxing nightlife of Silema is my happy place!
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In a Hurry? Here's our Key Info for This Article
- Paraguay generally offers a safe travel experience
- Petty crime is the most common risk
- Always be cautious in crowded places
- Use reputable transportation options
- Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas
- Consult local advice on areas to avoid
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Political Scene and Safety Tips
Paraguay is generally a safe place to visit, but it’s smart to be aware of your surroundings, just like you would in any big city. While political protests can happen and may cause a bit of a traffic headache, they’re usually peaceful, so you can just steer clear of them. Petty crime like pickpocketing is the biggest thing to watch out for, especially in crowded spots. Overall, by using common sense, staying informed, and respecting the local culture, you can have a great, safe trip.
Fact vs Fiction
| ✅ Fact | ❌ Fiction |
|---|---|
| Don’t let what you hear about safety in Paraguay scare you. Just use your common sense, and you’ll have a great, safe trip. | It’s pretty dangerous in Paraguay, especially if you’wre traveling alone. |
| Don’t worry if you run into trouble, the emergency numbers are easy to find, and the police and other folks are usually pretty good about helping out visitors. | There is no help available in case of an emergency while traveling in Paraguay. |
| You’ll definitely want to get travel insurance for your trip, just to be safe in case anything unexpected happens. | Travelers don’t need any insurance since there are no risks in visiting Paraguay. |
| Learning the local culture and trying to make friends will make your trip even better! | Local customs and etiquette in Paraguay are not important for travelers to know. |
Emergency Contacts
Traveling to Paraguay can be a blast, but you’ll want to be in the know about safety, especially when it comes to who to call in a pinch. Whether you’re heading out on a solo adventure or with a group, having the right emergency numbers on hand is a must. Here’s a quick list of the most important contacts to make sure your trip stays safe and fun.
- Here are the important numbers to have on hand:
- Police: 911 – If you’re in trouble, or just have a security issue, this is the number to call.
- Medical Emergencies: 141 – For an ambulance or if you need any kind of emergency medical help.
- Fire Department: 132 – Call them if you see a fire or something else that looks dangerous.
- Tourist Police: (021) 444-642 – These folks are specifically there to help tourists with any safety questions or problems.
- Your Embassy or Consulate – If you lose your passport, get into legal trouble, or something bigger happens, they’re the ones to contact for help.
To have an amazing trip, it’s a super good idea to get travel insurance. That way, you’re covered if anything unexpected happens, like a lost bag or a sudden trip to the doctor. Plus, taking a little time to learn about the local culture and what’s going on politically will make you a more respectful and aware traveler, which can only make your experience better!
Addressing Safety Worries in Paraguay
It’s totally normal to wonder about safety. Here’s the deal: just like anywhere else, it has its quirks, but with a little street smarts, your trip can be super fun and safe. The main thing to watch out for is petty theft, like pickpocketing, especially in busy spots and on public buses. Just keep your stuff close and pay attention to what’s going on around you.
Also, it’s probably best not to wander around alone at night, especially in less-crowded areas. Stick to well-lit, busy streets and go with friends if you can. If you’re planning on driving, just be ready for some wild traffic and roads that aren’t always in the best shape. For your health, it’s a good idea to stay up-to-date on your shots and maybe skip the tap water. Mosquitos can be a pain, so pack some bug spray and wear long sleeves around sunrise and sunset. Overall, while there are a few things to keep in mind, a little caution goes a long way. You’ll be just fine!
Crime Rates
To help you feel prepared and in the know, it’s a good idea to get a quick sense of the crime situation so you understand what to expect and how to stay safe.
| Crime Type | Rate | Comparison to Average |
|---|---|---|
| Petty Theft | Medium | It’s about as safe as its neighbors, so you won’t be in for any big surprises. |
| Violent Crime | Low to Medium | The rates are actually lower than the average for the region, which is a nice surprise. |
| Scams | Medium | Similar to other tourist destinations |
| Transport & Taxi Risk | Low | Generally safe, just take common precautions and be self aware |
Cultural Norms
When you’re getting ready for your trip to Paraguay, it’s a super good idea to learn a little about the local culture. It’s kind of a hidden gem with a cool mix of indigenous and Spanish influences that you’ll see everywhere. Being respectful of those customs will not only make your trip way more fun, but it can also help you stay safe while you’re there.
Respecting Local Etiquette
A simple “Hola” or “Buen día” goes a long way in Paraguay. Locals are incredibly friendly and value a good chat, so don’t be surprised if a casual conversation leads to an invitation to share a meal. Even trying to say a few words in Spanish or Guaraní will get you a huge smile. Just a heads-up: it’s best to avoid talking about sensitive stuff like politics or crime with people you’ve just met.
For solo travelers, a little extra caution is smart, always tell someone where you’re headed, especially if you’re venturing off the beaten path. Make sure you have the emergency numbers saved in your phone and consider getting travel insurance just in case. On the health side, stick to bottled water and pack plenty of bug spray to keep those mosquitoes away. Overall, showing interest in the culture and respecting local customs will not only keep you safe but also make your trip a million times more memorable.
Is Paraguay Safe for Female Travelers
Here’s the deal with safety in Paraguay: most people have a great time without any problems. The country is getting safer all the time, for both locals and tourists. Still, like any place, it’s smart to use your head. You’ll want to know which areas to steer clear of and when it’s better not to be out alone, especially at night. The best thing you can do is just be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on any travel alerts. It’s all about being smart, not scared.
Tips and Tricks
If you’re thinking about going solo in Paraguay, it can be an amazing adventure with just a little prep. Make sure you have the emergency numbers saved in your phone, and it’s a super good idea to get travel insurance just in case. Learning a few phrases in Spanish or Guarani will help you get around and connect with people. And always, always tell someone where you’re headed for the day and trust your gut if a situation feels off.
Health and Safety in Paraguay
When you’re thinking about health and safety in Paraguay, it’s super important to be ready. You might need some specific shots, so it’s a good idea to check what’s recommended before you go. Also, stick to bottled water just in case, and be a little careful with street food, look for places that seem clean to avoid any issues. On a different note, it’s smart to keep an eye on the political situation too, since that can sometimes affect your travel plans.
Final Thoughts
Good news: Paraguay is generally a pretty safe place for travelers, especially in big cities like Asunción. While serious crime isn’t super common, you’ll still want to be smart about petty theft, like pickpocketing or someone grabbing your bag, especially in crowded spots or on public transport.
To have a great, safe trip, just use your common sense. Don’t walk alone at night, and try not to flash expensive stuff around. It’s also a good idea to use official taxis or rideshare apps and just be aware of what’s going on around you, especially near the borders. By keeping these simple things in mind, you can have an amazing time checking out Paraguay’s awesome culture and landscapes.
Is Paraguay Safe to Travel to in 2025 FAQ
Paraguay, like many places, has areas of concern primarily around petty crime such as pickpocketing, especially in crowded places. It’s wise to keep your belongings close and stay aware of your surroundings.
Yes, public transportation is generally safe, but it’s recommended to use reputable bus companies for long distances. In cities, opt for official taxi services or ride-sharing apps to ensure reliability and safety. This is similar to safety in Chile.
Travelers should be aware of potential safety risks, particularly in departments like Alto Paraná, Amambay, Canindeyu, Concepcion, and San Pedro due to crime.
Ensure you’re up-to-date with vaccinations recommended for travel to Paraguay. Drinking bottled water, avoiding raw foods, and using mosquito repellent will help prevent common travel-related illnesses. This will be similar to traveling many countries around South America. Peru safety is similar,
