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Some scams

South America

Tourist scams in Paraguay

Paraguay is generally safe, but visitors should watch for pickpockets, taxi overcharging and poor deals from street money changers. Police may also ask for bribes during stops, although most police in Asunción are described as not corrupt. Stay alert to your belongings in cities, especially Ciudad del Este.
  1. 1 Fake officialsCommonPolice asking for bribesAn officer may expect a bribe after stopping you. This can happen regardless of the reason for the stop.During police stops, with most police in Asunción described as not corrupt. 2Read
  2. 2 Changing moneyCommonPoor rates from street money changersStreet vendors offer currency exchange at very poor rates. They are also described as untrustworthy, so a convenient exchange can leave you with less money than expected.Street money vendors.Read
  3. 3 TheftOccasionalPickpocketingA thief takes money or belongings from your pockets or bag without you noticing. No particular distraction method is specified.Ciudad del Este 3Read
  4. 4 TaxisOccasionalInflated taxi faresA driver quotes a tourist an inflated price for a short journey. Without agreeing on the fare before getting in, you may face a dispute at the end.Outside Asunción, where taxis do not have meters. 1Read
  5. 5 Other tricksOccasionalCounterfeitingCounterfeiting is linked to illicit activity in Ciudad del Este. No specific tourist-targeted method is given, and it is not presented as a problem likely to affect an ordinary visit.Ciudad del Este 3Read

Where to stay alert

  • Ciudad del EsteVisitors are advised to watch their bags and wallets and stay alert to pickpockets. The city is also linked to counterfeiting and other illicit activity.

Habits that keep you safe

Taxis

  • Ask your hotel for a fare estimate before travelling.
  • Agree on the price before entering a taxi outside Asunción.
  • In Asunción, fares are determined by the meter.
  • A small late-evening or Sunday surcharge can be normal.
  • Tipping taxi drivers is not customary.

Money

  • Check exchange rates before exchanging cash.
  • Avoid street money vendors. Use an established exchange office.
  • Confirm the rate and count the money before leaving.
  • Avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
  • Bring pristine US dollar notes for exchange. US$50 and US$100 notes must be from the latest series; damaged or heavily worn notes may be rejected.

Cards and ATMs

  • Check the withdrawal fee shown before accepting a transaction.
  • A withdrawal fee alone does not mean an ATM is fraudulent.
  • Cover your PIN and keep your card in sight.
  • Balance fewer withdrawals against the risk of carrying more cash.

Your belongings

  • Keep bags closed and within sight.
  • Keep phones and wallets in secure pockets.
  • Split spare cash and cards between secure places.
  • Keep a secure copy of your passport details.
  • Watch your bags and wallet closely in Ciudad del Este.

Police and officials

  • Stay calm and polite if police stop you.
  • Ask for a clear explanation of any alleged offence.
  • Request an official process and receipt for any fine.
  • Record details of a troubling encounter only when it is safe.

What travellers say about Paraguay

Discussions on other sites, summarised in our words. Open a link to read the full thread.

Questions

Is Paraguay safe for a first-time visitor?

Generally, yes. Stay alert in cities, protect your belongings and agree on taxi prices where there are no meters. Opportunistic theft, poor exchange deals and police bribe requests are the main concerns described here.

How can I avoid being overcharged by a taxi?

Ask your hotel what the trip should cost. Outside Asunción, agree on the full price before getting in. In Asunción, fares are determined by the meter.

Is a taxi surcharge always a scam?

No. A small surcharge late in the evening or on a Sunday can be normal. Tipping is not customary.

Should I exchange money with someone on the street?

No. Street money vendors are described as untrustworthy and usually offer very poor rates. Use an established exchange office and check the rate first.

Can an exchange office reject my US dollars?

Yes. Exchange offices require pristine notes. US$50 and US$100 notes must be from the latest series. Notes with tears, ink marks or excessive wear may be rejected.

Does an ATM withdrawal fee mean I am being scammed?

No. ATM fees are described as normal. Check the fee before accepting it, and avoid carrying more cash than you can keep secure.

Where should I be especially careful about pickpockets?

Stay alert in cities, especially Ciudad del Este. Keep bags closed and within sight, and keep your phone and wallet in secure pockets.

What should I do if a police officer asks for a bribe?

Stay calm. Ask what the alleged offence is and request an official process with written details and a receipt. Avoid confrontation. Record details only if safe, and seek embassy help if you feel threatened.

Should counterfeiting stop me from visiting Ciudad del Este?

Counterfeiting is linked to the city, but it is not presented as likely to affect an ordinary visit. For purchases where authenticity matters, use a seller you can check and keep the receipt.

What should I do first if my wallet or passport is stolen?

Move somewhere safe and freeze missing cards. Report the theft to police and ask for a written record. If your passport is missing, contact your embassy or consulate through its official channels.

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