Currency & Payment

Paraguay uses the Paraguayan guaraní (PYG, ₲). It is a currency with large numbers, so everyday prices are often written in thousands. The guaraní circulates only within Paraguay, so plan to exchange leftover cash before you leave. Cash is still widely used, especially outside the main cities.

Many visitors bring US dollars and exchange them locally. You can change money at banks and licensed exchange houses (casa de cambio), which are common in Asunción and Ciudad del Este. Compare rates and count your cash, and keep smaller notes for everyday purchases. Rates and fees vary, so check before committing to a large exchange.

Credit and debit cards are accepted at hotels, larger stores and restaurants in the main cities, with Visa and Mastercard the most widely taken. In small towns, markets and for street food, cash is still expected. Carry enough guaraní for everyday spending and keep a card for hotels and bigger purchases.

ATMs (cajeros automáticos) are widely available in Asunción, Ciudad del Este and other cities, often at banks and shopping centres. They usually dispense guaraní and may offer US dollars at some machines. Watch for foreign-card fees, decline home-currency conversion (DCC) for a better rate, and use ATMs in secure, well-lit locations.

Mobile wallets and QR-code payments are growing in Paraguay's cities, and contactless card payments are increasingly common in modern shops. Local mobile-money services are used by residents, but coverage can be uneven, and many of these apps need a local account. Visitors should not rely on mobile payment alone and should keep cash and a card as backup.

Tipping in Paraguay is appreciated but not obligatory. In upmarket restaurants a tip of around 10 percent is common if a service charge is not already included, while for casual meals rounding up is enough. Small tips for hotel porters, guides and helpful drivers are welcome. Check the bill to see whether service is already added.

Paraguay is generally one of the more affordable countries in South America, though prices vary between Asunción and rural areas. Local meals, public transport and markets are inexpensive, while imported goods and upmarket hotels cost more. Because prices are quoted in guaraní with many zeros, take a moment to read the amounts carefully.

Paraguay does not offer a broad tourist VAT-refund scheme like some countries, so do not count on reclaiming sales tax on ordinary purchases. Ciudad del Este is known for low prices and duty-free style shopping instead. Whatever you buy, remember that goods you carry into another country must follow that country's customs and duty rules.