Paraguay Travel Safety

Precautions

Remain vigilant at all times and avoid walking alone after dark. If attacked, do not resist. Ensure that your personal belongings and passport and other travel documents are secure at all times. Carry a photocopy of your passport for identification purposes and keep the original in your hotel safe. Do not show signs of affluence, as wealthy looking tourists are more likely to be targeted by criminals. Do not carry large amounts of cash and keep cellular telephones and other valuable items out of sight. Remain aware of your surroundings when exiting currency exchange bureaus and when using automated teller machines (ATMs). Criminals have been known to observe, follow and then rob victims who have made withdrawals. Choose ATMs in controlled areas such as in banks and avoid using them at night. Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances, as the items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of assault and robbery. Checked luggage has been pilfered at airports. Pack valuables in your carry-on luggage or carry them on you. Be extremely cautious when travelling near border areas due to organized crime and lack of security patrols.

Road safety

Road accidents are frequent. Traffic laws are frequently ignored and road signs are often lacking. There is no roadside assistance on most highways. Roads in rural areas are generally unpaved and may become impassable during rainy periods. When travelling outside Asuncin after dark, stray animals and vehicles operating without headlights present hazards. The number of traffic accidents tends to increase during the holiday season. Be particularly cautious during this period. Keep windows closed and doors locked at all times, even if stopped. Do not leave bags, luggage or other valuable items in the car, and never in plain view. Cars that are parked on the street and left unattended are often broken into. Police checkpoints are common throughout the country, especially at night. Carry identification and vehicle registration at all times. Local police may not speak English.

Hiking

If you intend on hiking, backpacking or skiing:never practice these activities alone and always hire an experienced guide from a reputable company. Buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation. Obtain detailed information on hiking routes or ski slopes before setting out and do not venture off marked trails or slopes. Ensure that your physical condition is good enough to meet the challenges of your activity. Ensure that you are properly equipped and well informed about weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard. Inform a family member or friend of your itinerary. Know the symptoms of acute altitude sickness, which can be fatal.

Taxis

Taxis can be hailed on the street. After dark, however, they should be ordered by phone. Very few taxi drivers speak English. Outside Asuncin there are no metered taxis so negotiate the fare in advance.

Public transportation

There is no international train service available to and from Paraguay.

Women's safety

Be extra cautious when visiting Ciudad del Este, Alto Parana, San Pedro, Concepcion, Amambay, and Canindeyu. Be extremely vigilant at isolated places and while dealing with strangers. Avoid dark or non-tourist areas at night. Instead try to be around larger crowds, whether they are fellow tourists or local citizens. Female visitors and residents should take care when walking or travelling alone even during daylight hours. Exercise a very high degree of caution during travel.

Crime

Street crime such as pickpocketing, purse snatching and mugging is prevalent in cities, bus terminals and on public buses. Muggings by motorcyclists-usually two men on a motorcycle-can occur day or night. Crime, including violent crime, has increased in recent years. Armed robbery, car theft and burglary occur in both urban and rural areas.

LGBT

Homosexuality is not illegal and there is a small, active LGBT community in Asunción. There are no provisions, however, in Paraguayan law guaranteeing freedom from discrimination on any grounds, including sexual orientation. Same-sex marriages or unions are not recognised in Paraguay and public displays of affection between same-sex couples are likely to be frowned upon.

Illegal drugs

Possession, use, or trafficking of illegal drugs may result in jail sentences and heavy fines. Prison sentences are mandatory, without bail, and prison standards are poor.

Driving

An International Driving Permit is required. Rental vehicles are available.