Asuncion Safety Guide
Health, security, and travel safety information
Emergency Numbers
Save these numbers before your trip.
Healthcare
What to know about medical care in Asuncion.
Healthcare System
Asunción has a two-tier healthcare system with public hospitals that are often overcrowded and underfunded, and private clinics that offer high-quality care comparable to international standards. Most travelers utilize private healthcare facilities.
Hospitals
Recommended private hospitals for tourists include Hospital Italiano, Sanatorio Migone Battilana, and Hospital Bautista. These facilities accept international insurance and offer 24-hour emergency services. The Centro Médico Bautista is particularly known for treating expatriates and tourists.
Pharmacies
Pharmacies (farmacias) are widely available throughout Asunción, with many open 24 hours. Common medications are readily available, often without prescription, though it's advisable to bring sufficient supplies of specific medications. Chain pharmacies like Catedral and FarmaCentro are reliable options.
Insurance
Travel insurance with comprehensive medical coverage is strongly recommended and may be required by some healthcare providers before treatment. Medical evacuation coverage is advisable for serious conditions requiring treatment outside Paraguay.
Healthcare Tips
- Carry copies of prescriptions and generic names of medications, as brand names may differ in Paraguay
- Private healthcare requires upfront payment or insurance guarantee, so ensure your insurance provides direct billing or keep emergency funds available
- Tap water in Asunción is generally treated but not recommended for drinking; stick to bottled water to avoid gastrointestinal issues
- Heat-related illnesses are common during summer; stay hydrated and use sun protection
- Dengue fever occurs in Paraguay; use insect repellent and consider protective clothing during outbreaks
Common Risks
Be aware of these potential issues.
Pickpocketing and bag snatching are the most common crimes affecting tourists, particularly in crowded areas, markets, and on public transportation. Thieves often work in pairs or groups to distract victims.
Theft by criminals on motorcycles who snatch bags, phones, or jewelry from pedestrians or through car windows at traffic lights is a significant concern in Asunción.
While less common than petty theft, armed robberies do occur, particularly at night or in isolated areas. Criminals may target ATM users or people in parking lots.
Traffic accidents are common due to aggressive driving, poor road conditions, and limited traffic law enforcement. Public buses can be overcrowded and are hotspots for theft.
Rare but occurring incidents where victims are forced to withdraw money from ATMs or held briefly for ransom. Usually targets appear wealthy or are in isolated areas.
Counterfeit Paraguayan guaraníes and US dollars circulate, particularly in informal exchange situations or small shops.
Scams to Avoid
Watch out for these common tourist scams.
Scammers pose as plainclothes police officers and ask to check your wallet for counterfeit money or drugs, then steal cash or demand bribes. They may show fake badges.
One person creates a distraction (spilling something on you, asking for directions, dropping coins) while an accomplice steals your belongings. Common variations include the 'bird poop' scam where someone points out a stain on your clothing.
Unofficial or dishonest taxi drivers quote inflated prices to tourists, take unnecessarily long routes, claim the meter is broken, or state they have no change for large bills.
Criminals install devices on ATMs to capture card information and PIN codes, then clone cards to withdraw money from accounts.
Overly friendly locals befriend tourists, gain their trust, then invite them to bars or clubs where they're charged exorbitant prices for drinks, with the 'friend' receiving a commission.
Fake taxi drivers or touts claim your booked hotel is closed, fully booked, or has problems, then take you to a different (often substandard) hotel where they receive commission.
Safety Tips
Practical advice to stay safe.
General Safety
- Keep copies of important documents (passport, insurance, credit cards) separate from originals and store digital copies in cloud storage
- Register with your embassy upon arrival for emergency notifications
- Learn basic Spanish phrases as English is not widely spoken, even in tourist areas
- Carry only what you need for the day; leave passports and extra cash in hotel safes
- Stay aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts; if something feels wrong, leave the situation
- Avoid displaying wealth through expensive jewelry, watches, cameras, or designer bags
- Keep emergency cash hidden separately from your main wallet
Money and Valuables
- Use ATMs inside banks during business hours rather than street-facing machines
- Inform your bank of travel plans to avoid card blocks
- Carry a mix of small bills as change can be scarce
- The Paraguayan guaraní is the local currency; US dollars are accepted in some places but exchange rate may be poor
- Use hotel safes for passports, extra cash, and valuables
- Consider using a money belt or hidden pouch for important documents
- Be discreet when handling money in public
Transportation
- Use Uber or Bolt for reliable, safe transportation with upfront pricing
- If using taxis, only use registered ones (look for company name and phone number) and insist on the meter
- Avoid public buses if you're unfamiliar with the city; they're crowded and prime targets for pickpockets
- If renting a car, park in secure lots; never leave valuables visible in the vehicle
- Keep car doors locked and windows up, especially at traffic lights
- Avoid driving at night outside the city center due to poor lighting and road conditions
- Always wear seatbelts; traffic enforcement is limited but accidents are common
Accommodation
- Stay in reputable hotels or well-reviewed accommodations in safe neighborhoods like Villa Morra, Carmelitas, or Las Carmelitas
- Verify that your accommodation has secure entry and room safes
- Don't open your door to unexpected visitors; verify with reception first
- Keep windows and doors locked, even when inside
- Note emergency exits and evacuation procedures upon arrival
- Use hotel transportation or arranged pickups for airport transfers, especially late at night
Food and Water
- Drink only bottled water; avoid ice in drinks unless you're certain it's made from purified water
- Eat at established restaurants rather than street vendors if you have a sensitive stomach
- Wash hands frequently or use hand sanitizer, especially before eating
- Ensure meat is thoroughly cooked; be cautious with salads and raw vegetables
- Asunción has many excellent restaurants serving traditional Paraguayan cuisine safely
- Try local specialties like chipa, sopa paraguaya, and asado at reputable establishments
Communication
- Purchase a local SIM card for reliable communication and data; major providers include Tigo, Personal, and Claro
- Download offline maps of Asunción before arrival
- Keep your hotel's address and phone number written down in Spanish
- Learn basic Spanish phrases; few people speak English outside tourist hotels
- Have important numbers programmed in your phone including your embassy and emergency contacts
- Consider downloading translation apps like Google Translate for offline use
Cultural Awareness
- Paraguayans are generally friendly and helpful; don't let safety concerns prevent you from enjoying local hospitality
- Dress modestly when visiting churches or religious sites
- Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; 10% is standard in restaurants
- Avoid discussing politics, especially regarding the Stroessner dictatorship era, unless you know the person well
- Photography of military or government buildings may be restricted
- Paraguayans value personal relationships; greetings and small talk are important
- The afternoon siesta (roughly 12pm-3pm) means some businesses close; plan accordingly
Information for Specific Travelers
Safety considerations for different traveler groups.
Women Travelers
Women travelers can visit Asunción safely with appropriate precautions. While Paraguay is generally more conservative than some South American countries, solo female travelers are not uncommon. Street harassment (catcalling or 'piropos') occurs but is typically verbal and not physically threatening. Women should exercise standard precautions and be aware that machismo culture persists in some areas.
- Dress modestly to avoid unwanted attention; while Asunción is relatively modern, conservative clothing is respected
- Avoid walking alone at night; use registered taxis or ride-sharing apps
- Book accommodations in safe neighborhoods like Villa Morra, Carmelitas, or near the Shopping del Sol area
- Ignore catcalls and avoid engaging with harassers; continue walking confidently
- Carry a fake wedding ring and mention a husband/partner if uncomfortable situations arise
- Join group tours or activities to meet other travelers and explore safely
- Trust your instincts; if a situation feels uncomfortable, remove yourself immediately
- Keep your phone charged and easily accessible for emergencies
- Avoid excessive alcohol consumption, especially when alone or with people you don't know well
- Be cautious about accepting drinks from strangers or leaving drinks unattended
- Consider staying in female-only dorm rooms in hostels if budget traveling
- Connect with other female travelers through online forums or travel apps
- Be aware that solo dining is less common in Paraguay; you may attract attention but it's generally safe in reputable restaurants
LGBTQ+ Travelers
Homosexuality is legal in Paraguay (decriminalized in 1880), and the age of consent is equal for same-sex and opposite-sex relationships. However, same-sex marriage and civil unions are not recognized, and there are no comprehensive anti-discrimination laws protecting LGBTQ+ individuals. Adoption by same-sex couples is not permitted.
- Exercise discretion with public displays of affection; while unlikely to result in violence, negative reactions are possible
- Asunción has a small but welcoming LGBTQ+ scene with several bars and clubs, primarily in the Villa Morra area; research current venues as they can change
- Connect with local LGBTQ+ organizations like Aireana (LGBTQ+ rights group) for current information and safe spaces
- Hotel staff in international chains and upscale accommodations are generally professional and welcoming
- Be more cautious in rural areas or conservative neighborhoods where acceptance is lower
- Consider booking LGBTQ+-friendly accommodations through specialized travel sites
- Pride events occur in Asunción but are smaller and lower-key than in more liberal countries
- Trans individuals may face more challenges; carry identification and be prepared for potential questioning
- Healthcare providers in private hospitals are generally professional, though some may lack cultural competency
- Use discretion when discussing LGBTQ+ topics with strangers; gauge comfort level first
- Online dating apps are used but exercise caution when meeting people; choose public places for first meetings
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is essential for visiting Asunción and Paraguay. While not legally required for entry, comprehensive insurance protects against significant financial risks. Private healthcare, while excellent, is expensive and requires upfront payment or insurance guarantees. Medical evacuation to neighboring countries or home may be necessary for serious conditions, with costs potentially exceeding $50,000. Trip interruption, lost belongings, and other unexpected events can significantly impact your travel budget without insurance coverage.
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