Paraguay is a fun country that's famous for its beauty, culture, food, and exciting activities. We've got the ultimate travel cost guide to make sure your adventure is incredible and affordable. Dive into average costs for hotels, food, activities, sightseeing, and transportation. We'll cover all the essentials for a wallet-friendly trip.
How much does it cost to travel to Paraguay?
You should plan to spend around $82 (Gs642,752) per day on your vacation in Paraguay. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $27 (Gs208,980) on meals
- $8.23 (Gs64,826) on local transportation
- $42 (Gs329,118) on hotels
A one week trip to Paraguay for two people costs, on average, $1,143 (Gs8,998,528). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
-
One Week
Per person
$571
Gs4,499,264
-
2 Weeks
Per person
$1,143
Gs8,998,528
-
One Month
Per person
$2,449
Gs19,282,560
-
One Week
For a couple
$1,143
Gs8,998,528
-
2 Weeks
For a couple
$2,286
Gs17,997,056
-
One Month
For a couple
$4,898
Gs38,565,120
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Paraguay cost?
A one week trip to Paraguay usually costs around $571 (Gs4,499,264) for one person and $1,143 (Gs8,998,528) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
A two week trip to Paraguay on average costs around $1,143 (Gs8,998,528) for one person and $2,286 (Gs17,997,056) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Paraguay will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.
A one month trip to Paraguay on average costs around $2,449 (Gs19,282,560) for one person and $4,898 (Gs38,565,120) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.
Independent Travel
Traveling Independently has many benefits including affordabilty, freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to control your own experiences.
All of the travel costs below are based on the experiences of other independent travelers.
Is Paraguay expensive to visit?
Paraguay is a reasonably affordable destination to visit. It is in the top 25% of countries in the world for its affordability. If you're traveling on a budget, then this is a good destination with affordable accommodation, food, and transportation.
Within South America, Paraguay is somewhat more expensive compared to the other countries. It is in the top 25% of countries in South America for its travel costs. While a few countries in the region are more expensive, Paraguay is more expensive than most.
Paraguay offers a great mix of sights and accommodations, making it a destination that works for travelers of all budgets and preferences. In Asuncion, budget options like hostels are available, but if you're after something more luxurious, there are plenty of high-end hotels, as well as mid-range spots for families and couples.
It's true that Paraguay can be expensive, but eating at less expensive restaurants and enjoying free activities can help you make the most of your money.
On average, budget travelers spend $45 (Gs355,646) per person per day, mid-range travelers spend $82 (Gs642,752) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $148 (Gs1,168,490) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Paraguay.
For more details, see Is Paraguay Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Paraguay?
The average Paraguay trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Paraguay travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Paraguay cost?
Paraguay on a Budget
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$8.95
(Gs70,480)
|
$21
(Gs164,559)
|
$43
(Gs336,499)
|
Local Transportation 1
|
$3.65
(Gs28,768)
|
$8.23
(Gs64,826)
|
$15
(Gs117,937)
|
Food 2
|
$11
(Gs87,998)
|
$27
(Gs208,980)
|
$57
(Gs449,288)
|
Entertainment 1
|
$6.66
(Gs52,459)
|
$15
(Gs119,815)
|
$29
(Gs228,348)
|
Alcohol 2
|
$2-6
(Gs16,750-50,250)
|
$5-14
(Gs38,041-114,123)
|
$9-27
(Gs71,126-213,378)
|
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
Having a realistic perspective on your travel budget is very important. While many like to think of themselves as "budget" travelers, most people are not prepared for the discomfort and lack of amenities that come with traveling on a shoestring budget. Consider what you really love about travel and thinkg about your previous travel experiences. Are you more inclined to stay in hostels, or do you prefer more comfortable hotels, resorts, or vacation rentals? Is dining out a priority for you? Do you want to visit the major sights and attractions? Your answers to these questions will shape your overall travel budget significantly.
What Does It Mean to Be a Budget Traveler?
Many travelers hear that exploring Paraguay can be done for $45 a day, but if you want to keep some comforts, expect to pay a lot more.
Backpackers might find a way to travel around on that tight budget, but that usually means dorm stays in hostels, eating at budget-friendly restaurants or fast food places, using public transport or walking, and focusing on free attractions.
Fortunately, Paraguay has a significant number of hostels, especially in Asuncion.
Do You Identify as an Average Traveler?
Couples or families on vacation will probably choose mid-range hotels, popular dining spots, and visits to major museums and attractions that charge entry fees. Most visitors to Paraguay will want to visit the major attractions, sights, and landmarks. Since most activities have a cost, you should realisticly plan for your budget to be closer to $82 per person, per day.
Paraguay has tons of hotels and vacation rentals available. If you're traveling with a group or family, sharing accommodations with a partner, friend, or your family will cut back on the daily per-person budget. Popular family-friendly destinations like Asuncion and Encarnacion offer hotels and restaurants that cater specifically to kids. For a family-friendly stay, consider La Mision Hotel Boutique in Asuncion or Milord Hotel Boutique in Encarnacion. You can discover more family and couples options in our hotel guide for Paraguay here.
Seeking a Stylish Getaway from the Daily Routine?
If you're planning a vacation with all the finer things in life, prepare for a budget that can reach $148 per day. If you want upscale hotels, world-class dining, premium excursions, and private drivers, this will put you firmly in the "luxury" category. Some of the more high-priced destinations include Asuncion. Another option would be to splurge on a multi-day high-end tour that takes care of everything for you, such as 6 Days in El Chaco Paraguayeno - offered by Ecuador Galapagos Travels.
Accommodation Budget in Paraguay
The variety of accommodation prices in Paraguay can be surprising. Some areas and hotels are much more expensive than others, and prices soar during peak season. You'll save more if you visit in the off-season or book in advance.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Paraguay for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $42 (Gs329,118). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $21 (Gs164,559) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Paraguay? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
Local Transportation Budget in Paraguay
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $8.23 (Gs64,826) per person, per day, on local transportation in Paraguay. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Paraguay is significantly more than public transportation.
-
Local Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$8.23
Gs64,826
Food Budget in Paraguay
Calculated from travelers like you
-
While restaurant and meal prices in Paraguay can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Paraguay is $27 (Gs208,980) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$27
Gs208,980
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Paraguay is around $27 (Gs208980) per person, with previous travelers spending from $11 to $57. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Paraguay are as follows:
- Breakfast: $5 to $8
- Lunch: $4 to $13
- Dinner: $9 to $21
- Coffee: $2
- Fast Food or Street Food: $4
The food in Paraguay is a large amount of dishes collected from standard South American culture with a bit of Brazilian influence. You'll want to seek out the stuffed empanadas and milanesa. These are considered fast food, but well worth a taste when you're trying to catch the bus to Asuncion.
If you're dying for some real, traditional Paraguayan food, the chip-a-bread is made of mandioca flour, and baked in an outdoor oven or "tatcua." This flour is a substitute for potatoes. Tortillas are also different on Paraguay. Here they are more like fried dough made with Paraguayan cheese.
Traveling with kids? Look for restaurants that have a dedicated kids menu. This can help you save some cash since those meals are often cheaper. Additionally, some restaurants might not list the childrens' options, so don't forget to ask the waiter first.
Many hotels have breakfast included in the room rate, while some charge for it separately. The cost and quality of breakfast can differ from hotel to hotel. Being aware of this ahead of time can help you choose whether to enjoy the hotel buffet or opt for a more affordable option at a nearby bakery or café.
Opt to carry a water bottle with you instead of splurging on drinks all the time. It's a choice that benefits the environment too.
If you're organizing a tour, take the time to find out which meals are included ahead of time. Having to pay for some of your meals can increase your total expenses.
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Paraguay
Calculated from travelers like you
-
Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Paraguay typically cost an average of $15 (Gs119,815) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
-
Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$15
Gs119,815
Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Paraguay. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Full day Paraguay River Nature and Wildlife Boat Tour for $230 details
- Asuncion Birding Tour for $70 details
- Asuncion : Custom Walking Tour with A Guide (Private Tour) for $33 details
- Walking Tour with a Local in Asuncion "The Mother of Cities" for $35 details
Nightlife Budget in Paraguay
Calculated from travelers like you
-
The average person spends about $9.66 (Gs76,082) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Paraguay per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$9.66
Gs76,082
Nightlife can be fun, but trimming your drink expenses can make a big difference in your travel savings.
Typical prices for alcohol and nightlife in Paraguay are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the drink prices in Paraguay. However, your individual costs will vary based on your travel style, how often you drink alcoholic beverages, and how much you order. Keep in mind that if you want to save money on your trip, cutting out alcohol can make one of the biggest impacts on your travel budget.
Traveling in Paraguay
Asuncion, Paraguay
In the heart of the small, landlocked country of Paraguay is a relatively untouched culture. The Spanish and Amerindian mix known as "mestizo" still makes up more than 80% of Paraguay's population. This remote region of South America has seen its share of ups and downs throughout its long history. Wars, splits and immigration surges have formed a country with a distinct identity offering an authentic South American experience.
At a Glance
Paraguay is divided into several regions. The Gran Chaco consists of most of the northwester area od the country. It's full of large, wild plains. The Parana Plateau is on the opposite end of Paraguay - covering the southeast area. Covered in forested highlands, this region runs along the Parana River, and is home to the second largest city, Ciudad del Este. Northern Paranena is located between these two regions, with Southern Paranena just beneath it. Southern Paranena is where you'll find the bulk of the country's population.
When it comes to traveling throughout the country, taxis are your most efficient and reliable option. Outside of Asuncion there are no meters so be sure to negotiate the price before your trip begins. As you communicate with locals, you'll find that Spanish is widely spoken and very few people will know English. Outside of the larger cities, you'll mostly hear the indigenous language of Guarani. Often locals will mix the two to form a language known as Jopara.
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Top Tourist Attractions
At the heart of Paraguay is the simple and classic Asuncion. The original architecture mixed with modern shops and restaurants provide a nice introduction to the country as a whole. While they claim to be home to 2.5 million people, you'll swear it's more. Locals flock to this city, and after a few days there, you'll begin to wonder if you shouldn't stick around, too.
The most beautiful city you'll visit in Paraguay is Encarnacion, also known as "the Capital de Carnaval." This is the place to see and be seen during the summer. It's amazing riverside promenade will provide the perfect backdrop for every evening stroll.
Just 28 kilometers northeast of Encarnacion, is the hilltop region of Trinidad. This is Paraguay's best-reserved Jesuit settlement. Have a guide show you around during the day, and then spend the evening watching the spectacular light show projecting the history of the site onto the walls of the ancient settlement. If you're up for a challenge, try to get to the San Cosme y Damian - the spot where the settlement kept its astronomical observatory.
If you're more interested in spotting wildlife, head to the Gran Chaco. This massive land region is split into the flooded palm savannas of Humid Chcao and the forests of Dry Chaco. Here you can keep your eyes out for birds of prey and flocks of waterbirds. No need to strain, these are easily seen along every roadside. Even though this region makes up 60% of the entire country, less than 3% of the country's population lives here. It was once a refuge for hunter-gatherers, but today most of the settlements you'll find belong to the Mennonite communities.
One of the more fascinating man-made attractions in Paraguay is the Itaipu Dam. The second largest dam in the world, the Itaipu Dam generates nearly 80% of all of Paraguay's electricity. Free tours leave from the visitor's center near the town of Hernandarias - just north of Ciudad del Este.
If you're more interested in the ornate than the practical, take a trip to the 19th century Franciscan church at Yaguaron. This architectural landmark is a shining example of Paraguayan colonial architecture. With its wooden bell tower and carved interiors, it is easily one of most breathtaking churches in all of South America.
We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.