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Best Time to Visit Asuncion

Best Times to Visit

Asunción experiences a humid subtropical climate, with distinct seasons that shape travel conditions.

Climate patterns throughout the year create varied travel experiences. Summers bring hot and humid conditions, with mean temperatures from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F) and frequent heavy thunderstorms. Autumn offers a pleasant transition with milder temperatures (20°C to 30°C / 68°F to 86°F) and less humidity. Winters (From june To august) are generally the most comfortable, having average temperatures of from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F) and drier weather. Spring gradually returns warmth and humidity, with the weather between 20°C and 30°C (68°F and 86°F).

Seasonal Overview

  • Summers (Dec-Feb): Hot, humid, rainy.
  • Autumn (Mar-May): Milder, pleasant, less rain.
  • Winters (Jun-Aug): Coolest, driest, ideal for exploration.
  • Spring (Sep-Nov): Warming up, increasing humidity and rain.

Travel Seasons

The High Season (June to August - Winter) offers cooler, drier weather suitable for sightseeing. It may feature additional regional tourists and slightly higher prices. The Shoulder Season (March to May / September to November - Autumn & Spring) has pleasant temperatures and fewer tourists. Autumn often brings stable, sunny days. The Low Season (December to February - Summer) has the fewest tourists and potentially cheaper lodging prices. However, conditions are extremely steamy and hot, with frequent heavy rainfall.

Asunción does not experience monsoons or hurricanes. Prepare for common extreme summer temperatures and occasional cold fronts in winter. For summer visits, outdoor activities are best in early mornings or late afternoons. Seek shade in the middle of the day and hydrate constantly.

Low Season Summer

Between december And february

Pros

Fewest tourists, potentially lower prices.

Cons

Extreme heat, high humidity, frequent heavy rain.

Shoulder Season

March-May / September-November

Pros

Pleasant temperatures, fewer tourists.

Cons

Humidity and rain increase in late spring.

High Season Winter

From june To august

Pros

Cooler, drier, ideal for exploration.

Cons

Potentially with more people, slightly higher prices.

Ideal Timing for Activities

City Exploration

The winter months (June-August) or the shoulder seasons (March-May, September-November) give the coziest temperatures for walking tours, historical site visits, and savoring the city's plazas.

Outdoor Recreation

Visiting parks, walking along the Costanera, or light outdoor recreation are best enjoyed during winter or the shoulder seasons when the heat is less intense.

Special Considerations

  • Cultural Events:

    Occur throughout the year; review local event listings for specific dates.

  • Summer Planning:

    For summer visits, plan for alfresco adventures for early mornings or late afternoons.

  • Midday Heat:

    Seek shade during midday hours and stay hydrated.

  • Winter Layers:

    Even with mild forecasts, pack layers for occasional cold fronts.

  • Thunderstorms:

    Summer storms are intense; carry an umbrella.

Important Note for Summer Visits

  • Plan for outdoor pursuits for early mornings or late afternoons.
  • Seek shade around noon hours (10 AM to 4 PM).
  • Hydrate constantly with bottled water.

Smart Timing

Choosing the right time of year greatly shapes your Asunción experience.

Visa & Entry Requirements

Entry requirements vary by nationality and your intended length of stay.

Visa Categories

Visa application processes vary by nationality and purpose of visit. Mercosur citizens enjoy visa-free entry with a national ID card. Numerous other nationalities, including those from the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, most EU countries, and the Uk, do not need a visa for tourist stays up to 90 days.

Documentation

  • Valid passport (6 months validity beyond stay).
  • A ticket out of the country.
  • Proof of sufficient funds.
  • Passport photos (for applying for a visa, not always for entry).

Entry Procedures

Generally, no standard entry fees exist for most nationalities. Upon arrival at Silvio Pettirossi International Airport (ASU) or a land border, proceed to immigration with your valid passport and a completed immigration form. A legitimate stamps your passport, noting the permitted stay (usually 90 days for tourists).

Yellow Fever Vaccination

  • Recommended for all travelers aged 9 months or older.
  • A requirement if arriving from or transiting through risk countries.
  • Obtain well-lit in advance; validity begins 10 days after administration.
  • Carry your International Certificate of Shots or Prophylaxis (ICVP).

Visa Considerations

For Other Nationalities

  • Apply for a visa before travel.
  • Contact the nearest Paraguayan embassy or consulate.
  • Start the process well in advance; processing times differ.
  • Verify the latest requirements with authorities before your trip.

Special Permits

  • No specific tourist permits are generally needed for standard travel.
  • Read up regarding any one-of-a-kind journeys plans to confirm no special documents are needed.
  • Always maintain physical and digital copies of all essential documents separate.
  • Keep your passport and any documents for your visa secure.

Advisory

  • Always verify the latest entry and visa regulations with the Paraguayan the embassy or consulate in your home country.
  • Consult your government's foreign travel advice website before your trip.
  • Rules can change.
  • Having an up-to-date Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is strongly recommended for all travelers.

Mercosur Countries Travel

Citizens of Mercosur member and associate states (Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay, Venezuela, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru) experience visa-free entry. They may enter Paraguay using only their national ID card for visits of up TO 90 days.

For Mercosur Citizens

  • Visa-free entry.
  • National ID card sufficiency for up to 90 days.
  • Simplified regional travel.
  • No visa application needed for tourism.

For Other Visa-Exempt Countries

  • No visa needed for tourist stays up to 90 days.
  • Includes USA, Canada, Australia, NZ, most EU countries, UK.
  • General tourism purposes apply.
  • Passport valid for 6 months beyond stay is paramount.

Document Readiness

Proper documentation preparation makes for a smoother entry into Paraguay.

Budgeting & Costs

Paraguay uses the Guaraní as its currency, and prices vary based on your travel style.

Currency and Exchange

The official currency of Paraguay is the Paraguayan Guaraní (PYG), symbol Gs. Major international currencies like USD, EUR, BRL, and ARS are exchangeable at banks or specialized exchange houses (casas de cambio). Exchange houses generally provide better deals. ATMs (cajeros automáticos) are widely available. Visa and MasterCard are accepted at numerous hotels and larger restaurants, but cash is standard for smaller purchases.

Carry small denominations of Guaraní for daily expenses, as many smaller establishments may not have change for large bills.

Daily Estimates US$

  • Budget Traveler: $18 - $38
  • Mid-Range Traveler: $60 - $127
  • Luxury Traveler: $180+
1

Budget Traveler

Expect to pay Gs. 80,000 to Gs. 150,000 (US$11-US$20) for hostel dorms or basic private rooms. Cost of food are Gs. 40,000 to Gs. 80,000 (US$5-US$11) for local eateries. Transportation via public buses is Gs. 10,000 to Gs. 20,000 (US$1.50-US$3). Most activities are free or low-cost.

Manageable on $18-$38 daily.

Minimal alternatives for high-end experiences.

2

Mid-Range Traveler

Plan for Gs. 250,000 to Gs. 500,000 (US$35-US$70) for comfortable hotel rooms or An airbnb rental. Meals at medium-range restaurants are around Gs. 100,000 to Gs. 200,000 (US$14-US$27). Taxis or ride-sharing cost Gs. 30,000 to Gs. 70,000 (US$4-US$9.50) daily. Admission to the museum and guided tours are within reach.

Expect to expend $60-$127 daily.

Does not cover fine dining every night or extensive exclusive tours.

3

Luxury Traveler

High-end hotels or boutique lodging start from Gs. 750,000 (US$100). Fine dining experiences shall be Gs. 250,000 (US$35) or more. Frequent chauffeured cars or rental cars cost Gs. 100,000 (US$14) or more daily. Budget Gs. 200,000 (US$27) or more for private tours and higher-end entertainment.

Easily exceeds $180 daily for a premium experience.

Cost savings strategies are generally not a focus.

Price Ranges Approximate

Category Price Range (GS) Price Range (US$)
Hostel Dorm (per night) 80,000 - 150,000 $11 - $20
Mid-Range Meal 70,000 - 150,000 $9.50 - $20
Local Bus Fare 3,400 $0.45

Accommodation per night

  • Hostel dorm:Gs. 80,000 - Gs. 150,000
  • Mid-range hotel:Gs. 250,000 - Gs. 500,000
  • Luxury hotel:Gs. 750,000+

Meals

  • Street food/local snack:Gs. 5,000 - Gs. 15,000
  • "Menú del día" (lunch special):Gs. 30,000 - Gs. 50,000
  • Mid-range restaurant meal:Gs. 70,000 - Gs. 150,000
  • Fine dining:Gs. 200,000+

Transportation

  • Local bus fare:Gs. 3,400
  • Taxi (short ride):Gs. 20,000 - Gs. 40,000

Attractions

  • Ride-sharing (short ride):Gs. 15,000 - Gs. 35,000
  • Airport taxi into the city's core:Gs. 100,000 - Gs. 150,000
  • Museum entry:Gs. 15,000 - Gs. 30,000

Tipping Culture

Restaurants:10% standard for good service.
Taxis:Rounding up the fare is common.
Barmen/Waitstaff (casual):Small change is a kind gesture.
Hotel Porters:Gs. 5,000 to Gs. 10,000 for each bag.
Tour Guides:Gs. 30,000 to Gs. 50,000 per person for 50% of-day tour.
Check Bill:Some places include a service charge automatically.

Money-Saving Strategies

  • Eat at "Comedores" for cheap meals.
  • Use public buses (very economical).
  • Visit free attractions like parks and historic areas.
  • Bargain politely at local markets (Mercado 4) for non-food items.
  • Cook your own meals if accommodations have kitchen facilities.
  • Carry a Reusable water bottle; get more from large bottles.

Health & Safety Considerations

This part explains health preparations, common concerns, safety practices, and emergency details.

Vaccinations & Health

  • Consult Doctor:

    Discuss vaccination needs at least 4-6 weeks before your trip.

  • Routine Vaccinations:

    Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR), Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis (DTaP), Varicella, Polio, and annual Influenza immunization.

  • Recommended:

    Hepatitis A, Typhoid for most travelers. A LIVER infection caused by the hepatitis b virus and Rabies for a few activities/duration.

Yellow Fever

A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is advised for all travelers aged 9 months or older.

It becomes a requirement if you are arriving from, or have transited through, countries with a risk of yellow fever transmission (e.g., Brazil, Bolivia, Peru, or various African countries). Enforcement for direct arrivals from non-risk countries can vary, but having proof of inoculation is advisable.

Obtain your vaccination far in advance of your travel, as immunity develops over time, and the certificate becomes valid after a certain period. Keep your International Certificate of Getting vaccinated or Prophylaxis (ICVP), often called a "Yellow Card," carrying your passport.

This is true if your itinerary includes onward travel within the region.

Health Concerns & Prevention

Crime & Safety

Asunción is safer in general than some other large South American cities, but petty crime is a concern. Awareness and caution help keep you safe.

Risks

  • Pickpocketing and bag snatching are common, particularly in busy places.
  • Avoid displaying expensive jewelry or electronics.
  • Be vigilant, especially after dark.

Areas to Note

  • Mercado 4: Requires extreme caution due to theft. Visit during daylight, preferably with a local or in a group.
  • Public Transportation: Pickpocketing can occur on crowded buses.
  • Poorly Lit Areas: Avoid walking or cycling alone at night.

Natural Hazards

Asunción faces natural hazards based on its climate and geography.

Flooding

Heavy rainfall in summer can cause localized flooding in low-lying areas.

Heatwaves

Frequent and intense heatwaves happen during the summer months.

Cold Fronts

Winter "surazos" can bring sudden, sharp temperature drops.

Emergency & Healthcare

Emergency Contacts

  • General Emergencies (Police, Fire, Ambulance):911
  • Tourist Police:(021) 445-560 (Verify upon arrival)
  • Local Embassy/Consulate:Have their contact details ready
  • Lost Documents:Report to police, then embassy.

Healthcare Access

  • Hospitals:Private hospitals (e.g., Hospital La Costa, Sanatorio Migone) offer good facilities.
  • Pharmacies:Widely available for minor ailments.
  • Drinking Water:Tap water is generally not safe; consume bottled water.
  • Food Hygiene:Be cautious with street food; choose hot, cooked to order items.

Travel Insurance

Purchasing comprehensive Travel insurance is highly recommended. It covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, plus bags loss. World Nomads, SafetyWing, and Insubuy are some providers.