Is Paraguay Safe to Travel to in 2026?

The United States Department of State maintains Paraguay at Level 1 of its Travel Advisory System, designating it amongst South America's safest destinations for international travellers. This rating, confirmed in the April 2025 advisory update, places Paraguay in the lowest general risk category alongside countries such as Uruguay and Chile.

The assessment reflects Paraguay's relative political stability and lower violent crime rates compared to regional neighbours. Government data shows tourist-targeted incidents remain statistically uncommon, particularly in comparison to Brazil, Argentina, and Colombia. However, specific geographical restrictions apply to five northern departments where US government employees require special authorisation to travel.

The Current Situation

Paraguay's security landscape centres on two primary challenges: cross-border trafficking activity and mosquito-borne disease transmission. The tri-border area with Brazil and Argentina experiences heightened criminal activity, according to the US Embassy in Asunción. Drug trafficking organisations operate extensively through the Ciudad del Este corridor, generating secondary security concerns across Alto Paraná department.

Dengue fever cases increased 340% between January and September 2025, the Ministry of Public Health reported. The outbreak affected 67,000 people nationwide, with Asunción recording the highest concentration of cases. Central department, containing the capital region, reported 12,400 confirmed infections during this period.

The economic situation remains stable with inflation at 3.2% annually, according to the Central Bank of Paraguay. Currency stability supports tourism infrastructure, though cash transactions dominate outside major urban centres.

Regional Safety Breakdown

Five northern departments face elevated security restrictions. US government employees require special Embassy authorisation to visit Alto Paraná, Amambay, Canindeyu, Concepción, and San Pedro, the State Department confirmed. These areas experience higher rates of kidnapping, drug trafficking, and organised criminal activity.

Pedro Juan Caballero, located in Amambay department on the Brazilian border, represents Paraguay's most dangerous urban area. The city recorded 47 homicides per 100,000 residents in 2025, placing it amongst South America's most violent municipalities. Border dynamics with Brazil create jurisdictional challenges for law enforcement.

Asunción maintains relatively low crime rates with most incidents involving petty theft and pickpocketing. The capital's historic centre experiences increased tourist-targeted crime after dark, particularly around Plaza de los Héroes and the Costanera area. Police presence increased 25% in tourist zones following government directives in late 2025.

Ciudad del Este requires heightened awareness due to its position in the tri-border region. Street crime targets tourists frequently, whilst contraband trade creates unpredictable security situations. The Friendship Bridge connecting to Brazil experiences regular delays due to enhanced security screening.

Crime & Safety

Petty theft dominates crime statistics affecting international visitors. Bus terminal robberies increased 18% in 2025, with Asunción's main terminal recording 156 reported incidents. Criminals typically target electronics, cash, and travel documents during boarding periods.

Express kidnapping affects middle-class Paraguayans primarily, though tourists face minimal risk according to Embassy security briefings. Most incidents occur in wealthy neighbourhoods of Asunción and involve victims using ATMs after dark. The practice involves short-term detention whilst forcing victims to withdraw money.

Road safety presents significant challenges with Paraguay recording 24.4 traffic deaths per 100,000 residents annually. Rural highways lack adequate lighting and emergency services coverage. The Ruta 1 highway connecting Asunción to Encarnación experiences frequent accidents, particularly during rainy season months between December and March.

Motorcycle theft affects urban areas extensively, with Asunción reporting 2,400 stolen motorcycles in 2025. Tourists using motorcycle taxis face elevated risks, particularly in peripheral neighbourhoods. Police recovery rates remain below 15% for stolen vehicles.

Entry Requirements & Practicalities

Australian, British, Canadian, and US passport holders enter visa-free for stays up to 90 days. Extensions require application through Paraguay's immigration authority at least 10 days before expiry. Overstaying incurs fines of $8 USD per day according to current regulations.

Yellow fever vaccination certificates are mandatory for travellers arriving from infected areas, including Brazil, Bolivia, and northern Argentina. The requirement applies to anyone having visited these regions within six days of Paraguay arrival. Vaccination must occur at least 10 days before travel.

Typhoid and hepatitis A vaccinations receive strong recommendations from health authorities. The Australian Department of Health upgraded its typhoid advisory for Paraguay to "recommended for all travellers" in August 2025 following increased case reporting.

Cash dominates transactions outside Asunción with ATM availability limited in rural areas. Credit cards receive acceptance in major hotels and restaurants, though transaction fees often apply. The US dollar maintains parallel circulation alongside the guaraní in tourist areas.

What Travellers Should Do Now

Obtain comprehensive travel insurance covering medical evacuation to neighbouring countries. Paraguay's healthcare system provides adequate basic services in Asunción but lacks specialist capabilities. Medical evacuation to Brazil or Argentina costs exceed $50,000 for serious conditions.

Register with relevant embassies upon arrival, particularly for extended stays or travel to northern departments. The British Embassy in Buenos Aires provides consular services for Paraguay, requiring advance notification for emergency assistance. US citizens should enrol in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program.

Carry photocopies of essential documents whilst securing originals in hotel safes. Police frequently request identification, particularly near border areas. Replacement of stolen passports requires travel to Buenos Aires for most nationalities, involving significant time and expense.

Monitor dengue fever risk levels through health ministry updates. Insect repellent containing DEET provides essential protection, particularly during dawn and dusk periods. Seek immediate medical attention for fever, headache, and joint pain symptoms within two weeks of arrival.

Key Facts:

  • US Level 1 travel advisory maintained through 2026
  • Five northern departments require special authorisation for US government employees
  • 67,000 dengue fever cases reported between January-September 2025
  • Pedro Juan Caballero records 47 homicides per 100,000 residents annually