Group trips to Paraguay

Paraguay is in the Paraguay Standard Time Zone, which is 4 hours behind Coordinated Universal Time (UTC-4). During daylight saving time, which typically runs from October to March, the time shifts to UTC-3.

• If it is 12pm in the UK, it will be 8am in Paraguay during standard time and 9am during daylight saving time.
• If it is 12pm in New York, USA, it will be 12pm in Paraguay during standard time and 1pm during daylight saving time.

Paraguay uses the Paraguayan Guarani (PYG) as its currency. The daily exchange rate can vary, but as a rough guide:

• 1 GBP is approximately 9,400 PYG
• 1 USD is around 7,200 PYG
• 1 EUR is about 8,100 PYG

You can exchange currency at banks and currency exchange offices, which are commonly found in major cities and airports.

You can use cash, credit cards, and mobile payment apps in Paraguay. Credit cards like Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted in cities, but in smaller towns, cash might be needed. Make sure to inform your bank about your travel plans to avoid any issues with card transactions. Mobile payment apps are also becoming popular, so you might want to set one up before your trip. ATMs are available in urban areas if you need to withdraw cash, but try to do so in secure locations like banks or shopping centers.

In Paraguay, tipping is not obligatory, but it's appreciated for good service. In restaurants, leaving around 10% of the bill as a tip is common. For taxi drivers, rounding up the fare is a nice gesture. In hotels, you might tip a small amount to porters or housekeeping staff for their service. Always check if a service charge is already included in the bill before tipping.

In Paraguay, Wi-Fi is generally available in urban areas, particularly in cafes, hotels, and shopping centers, but the quality can vary. If you're venturing into rural areas or want reliable internet on the go, buying a local SIM card is a good idea. Major providers like Tigo, Claro, and Personal offer prepaid SIM cards with data plans. You can purchase them at the airport, mobile phone shops, or convenience stores. An e-SIM data plan is also an option if your phone supports it. This ensures you stay connected throughout your trip.

In Paraguay, the official languages are Spanish and Guarani. While traveling there, you might hear or want to use some common expressions in these languages:

• Hello: Hola (Spanish), Mba'éichapa (Guarani)
• Thank you: Gracias (Spanish), Aguyje (Guarani)
• Please: Por favor (Spanish), Ndéve (Guarani)
• Yes: Sí (Spanish), Héẽ (Guarani)
• No: No (Spanish), Nahániri (Guarani)

Both languages are widely spoken, so having a few phrases can really enhance your experience.

In Paraguay, the plugs are typically Type C and Type A. The voltage is 220V with a frequency of 50Hz. If your devices use a different type of plug or voltage, we suggest you bring a universal adapter to ensure compatibility. This will help you charge your devices safely and conveniently during your stay.

The main religion in Paraguay is Roman Catholicism. Important religious holidays include Easter, Christmas, and the Feast of the Assumption, which is also Paraguay's national holiday. While Paraguay is predominantly Catholic, you’ll find that religious freedom is respected, and there are also Protestant communities and other religious groups in the country.

When packing for Paraguay, consider the climate and your itinerary. Here's a suggested list of what to put in your backpack:

• Clothing:
  • Lightweight shirts
  • Shorts or light pants
  • A light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings
  • Swimwear if visiting pools or water attractions
• Shoes:
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Sandals for casual outings
  • Water-resistant shoes if exploring natural areas
• Accessories and Technology:
  • Sunglasses and a hat for sun protection
  • Power bank for charging devices
  • Universal adapter for plugs
• Toiletries and Medication:
  • Sunscreen
  • Insect repellent
  • Basic first aid kit
  • Common travel medication like pain relievers or anti-diarrheal pills

Paraguay's weather can be hot and humid, so lightweight and breathable clothing is key.

The weather in Paraguay varies by region. Here's a quick guide:

• Eastern Paraguay: This area, including Asunción, has a subtropical climate. Summers (December to February) are hot and humid, while winters (June to August) are mild. The best time to visit is during spring (September to November) or autumn (March to May) when the weather is more pleasant.
• Western Paraguay (Chaco region): This region is hotter and more arid, with high temperatures and less rainfall throughout the year.

Whenever you plan your trip, it is a good idea to check the weather forecast closer to your travel dates for the most accurate information.