Is Paraguay expensive to visit?
Paraguay is an affordable destination where expenses are lower than in many other South American countries, with the average visitor spending about $96 per day. I always tell fellow travelers that this is one of the continent's best-kept secrets for value. Your mileage may vary depending on whether you prefer street food or sit-down dinners. Backpackers spend around $51 per day by prioritizing low-cost accommodation and local food.
Premium services reach $167. A standard one-week trip for a single person totals around $670. Mid-range travelers get great value for their money, covering transportation, sightseeing, and entertainment.
What is the average daily cost to travel to Paraguay?
To plan your budget effectively, here is how that $96 (Gs642,752) average daily cost breaks down:
- Expect to spend around $31 a day on meals.
- Getting around is reasonable, averaging $9.66 for buses and taxis.
- You should plan to spend about $18 daily on sightseeing and entertainment, including entrance fees and nightlife.
- Your remaining funds cover accommodation, which varies by hotel class.
A slower travel pace often reduces this daily average. However, rushing through destinations tends to increase your spending for mid-range and luxury travel services.
What currency is used in Paraguay?
The official currency of Paraguay is the Guaraní; you'll recognize it by the symbol Gs and the ISO code PYG. Trust me, getting used to the number of zeros on the bills takes a day or two! You will primarily use this currency for daily transactions in Asuncion and other regions. While major hotels and large businesses sometimes accept US dollars, you'll definitely need cash for smaller shops. A Value-Added Tax (IVA) of 10% applies to most purchases and is included in the displayed price.
Don't forget to factor in tips. Restaurants expect a gratuity between 10% and 15% if the bill does not already include a service charge. Small tips for porters and taxi drivers are common courtesies that affect food and nightlife expenses. Keep these rules in mind to avoid overspending for both mid-range and luxury experiences.
How much do flights to Paraguay cost?
International flights to Paraguay primarily land at Silvio Pettirossi International Airport in Asuncion, the main gateway for visitors. Flight prices depend heavily on when you fly and how early you book. December is the most expensive month to fly, with average ticket prices reaching $1,706 due to high holiday demand.
March is often the cheapest month, with fares dropping to an average of $873. Securing tickets at least two weeks in advance can save 18% on airfare compared to last-minute bookings. Keep an eye on these price changes to keep your costs down.
When is the cheapest time to fly to Paraguay?
To get the best deal, you need to pick the right days. Tuesday is statistically the cheapest day to fly, with average prices sitting at $900, while Saturday departures remain the most expensive. You should also avoid high-demand periods like the Nanduti Festival in July to escape seasonal price spikes. Being flexible with your dates can save you a lot of money on the overall cost of travel to Paraguay.
What are the visa costs for international travelers?
You must factor administrative fees into your initial costs upon arriving at Silvio Pettirossi International Airport. Citizens of the United States, Canada, and Australia pay $65 to get their visa. These upfront expenses can eat into your budget for both budget and mid-range itineraries.
You'll also pay a mandatory airport departure tax of $25 upon leaving the country. US and Canadian citizens will need $90 to cover these essential entry and exit fees. Set aside this cash early so you aren't caught off guard when you arrive in Asuncion.
How can an eSIM save you money on connectivity in Paraguay?
Roaming charges can be a nasty surprise. I learned this lesson the hard way on my first trip down south. You can cut expenses by choosing a specialized eSIM card for Paraguay that eliminates high international roaming charges. This digital solution offers fixed data plans, so you don't come home to a massive phone bill.
While internet access at local cybercafes is available for $1 per hour, having data on your phone is worth the cost. Reliable data lets you use rideshare services in Asuncion, which result in lower transportation costs compared to standard taxis. Real-time access to maps and currency converters also helps you avoid overpaying for goods, helping you stick to your spending plan for both economy and mid-range travel alike.
How much does accommodation cost in Paraguay?
Accommodation prices in Paraguay are moderate; the average daily lodging cost is $49. This rate applies to a double-occupancy room, making it a great deal for couples and groups. Sharing accommodation lowers the per-person cost, so families benefit greatly from these rates.
Prices go up during the peak season from May to September. High demand in cities like Asuncion and Encarnacion during these months often pushes rates above the standard average. If you're planning for budget or mid-range travel, you should expect to pay a bit more.
What are the prices for hostels and budget stays?
You can save money by staying in hostels and affordable guesthouses. Single occupancy rooms in these budget establishments average $25 per night. This helps keep your daily spend under $51.
Major hubs like Asuncion and Encarnacion are packed with cheap hostels for thrifty backpackers. While seasonal price fluctuations in Ciudad del Este may slightly impact these rates, accommodation prices won't take up much of your budget.
How much do mid-range and luxury hotels cost?
Mid-range accommodation prices in Paraguay range from $40 to $80 per night for a double room. You'll get better rooms and more perks, fitting well within a $96 daily budget. If you prioritize luxury travel, you'll find upscale hotels and resorts in Asuncion starting around $120 per night.
Premium properties featuring extensive facilities and private services often push your daily spending up to $167. Seasonal price fluctuations can further impact these rates, particularly during peak holiday periods. Package tours occasionally bundle these costs, giving you a fixed price for high-end experiences.
What is the budget for food and dining in Paraguay?
Dining in Paraguay is affordable; you can eat very well here without spending much. The average daily cost for meals is $31 (Gs208,980). This covers everything from street snacks to sit-down dinners in Asuncion.
If you're interested in entertainment, add $11 per day for alcohol and nightlife expenses. Backpackers often lower food expenses by choosing local markets. If you prefer upscale meals, luxury dining increases this daily average significantly. Use these numbers to figure out your total trip expenses.
How much does street food and local cuisine cost?
Stick to street food to save money while exploring authentic flavors. You can find Guaraní-influenced staples everywhere in Asuncion and smaller towns at low prices. Popular items include chipá (cheese bread) and sopa paraguaya (cornbread), which make for filling, cheap snacks. Personally, I think grabbing a warm chipá is the perfect way to start a morning of exploring.
Relying on these local delicacies helps you stay within a strict budget of $51 per day. Street food is a great way to keep your total trip expenses low.
What are the prices for dining at restaurants in Asuncion?
Dining in Asuncion is easy to do on a mid-range budget of $96 per day. Standard meals at sit-down restaurants cost between $10 and $20 per person. Luxury travel experiences often exceed $35 for fine dining.
It's customary to tip 10% to 15% if service is not included. Don't forget to factor this in so you don't go over budget while enjoying the capital's gastronomy.
How much does transportation cost within Paraguay?
Transportation costs within Paraguay are surprisingly cheap, with past travelers spending $9.66 (Gs64,826) per day. This budget covers various transit methods available throughout the country. If you're exploring Asuncion, this is plenty to get you to major landmarks without significant expense.
Public transit is the cheapest option, while private transfers increase the daily total slightly. Car rentals are an alternative for those requiring independence, though this choice impacts the overall travel budget. Keeping transportation expenses under $10 daily leaves you more money for other activities.
What are the fares for local buses and public transport?
Local buses are the most economical choice for getting between cities, linking Asuncion, Encarnacion, and Ciudad del Este. These services offer low fares that help keep costs down. Budget travelers rely on these extensive networks to minimize expenses while moving between destinations.
Urban routes within major cities charge nominal fees, further reducing your overall spending. This affordability makes public transport a key to staying on budget.
How much do taxis and rideshares cost?
Taxis and rideshares offer convenience but cost more than public buses. A standard taxi fare from Silvio Pettirossi International Airport to downtown Asuncion averages $17. Drivers frequently round up the final price to the nearest thousand Guaraní, so you should carry small bills. Using rideshare apps often provides slightly lower rates, saving you a few dollars.
What are the costs for sightseeing and activities?
Sightseeing and entertainment in Paraguay are incredibly cheap, with daily expenses averaging just $18 per person. This amount covers admission fees for major historical sites and natural landmarks.
However, comprehensive tour options often cost around $458 per day for private guides and all-inclusive logistics, which will blow your budget. Exploring on your own is the best way to save money for a balanced mid-range travel plan while enjoying the country's rich cultural offerings.
How much does it cost to visit Iguazu Falls?
To see Iguazu Falls, you'll need to head to Ciudad del Este first.
- Transportation costs from Asuncion to this border city cost between $15 and $25 by long-distance bus.
- If you want faster access, you can fly into Guaraní International Airport, though this choice significantly increases the overall travel budget.
- Since the falls are in Brazil and Argentina, you must account for border crossing expenses. Taxis or private transfers across the Friendship Bridge cost between $10 and $30.
- Entrance fees to the National Park on the Brazilian side are $18 per person.
- Organized package tours including transport and a guide frequently start at $60.
These combined expenses make this day trip a splurge compared to the standard daily budget.
What are the entrance fees for the Jesuit ruins?
The Jesuit missions of La Santísima Trinidad de Paraná and Jesús de Tavarangue sit just outside the southern city of Encarnacion. These UNESCO World Heritage sites are a primary highlight for cultural heritage tourism in the region. Entrance fees are very cheap, with a standard ticket for foreigners costing $3.50 (Gs25,000). This single pass remains valid for three days and grants access to three different ruins, which is a great deal. Honestly, the photo opportunities here at sunset are worth the price of admission alone.
Transportation from Encarnacion to the sites via local bus adds less than $2 to the total excursion cost. Including these historic landmarks in an itinerary keeps sightseeing and entertainment expenses minimal. It's a world-class sight that barely touches your wallet.
How much money do you need for a one-week trip to Paraguay?
- A one-week trip to Paraguay costs roughly $670. This total includes the average daily cost of $96, including accommodation, food, and local transportation.
- If you're planning a two-week itinerary, you'll need a travel budget of around $1,341.
- Long-term stays of one month average $2,873 per person.
These estimates are a good starting point for mid-range travel.
By mixing budget-friendly street food with select mid-range comforts, you can experience the best of Paraguay without breaking the bank.
Sources
- https://travelcostcalculator.org/cost/paraguay
- https://www.kayak.com/flight-routes/United-States-US0/Paraguay-PY0
- https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Paraguay.html
