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Paraguay
- The risk environment is generally moderate but varies by city and region. Opportunistic crime poses the primary risk to travelers. While violent crime exists in Paraguay, it is generally isolated to low-income neighborhoods; foreign nationals are rarely targeted.
- The risk of crime is higher for travelers in Ciudad del Este compared to the capital, Asunción. Apart from Area 1, exploring Ciudad del Este should be limited to day-time hours.
- Travel to the Tri-Border Area of Paraguay, Argentina, and Brazil poses heightened risk due to organized crime and smugglers. Both foreign nationals and Paraguayan citizens have been subject to kidnapping and violent crime in this area.
- The eastern border region with Brazil, to include cities such as Pedro Juan Caballero, are also less safe due to narcotics trafficking that contributes to higher crime rates.
- The country faces challenges related to road safety and infrastructure, with many rural roads being poorly maintained and hazardous during the rainy season (November to April).
Risk Factors
- Crime rates are higher in urban centers such as San Pedro and Asunción, with frequent incidents of petty crimes like pickpocketing and bag-snatching. Criminals target those with perceived wealth, including foreign nationals. Travelers are advised to avoid walking alone after dark or in isolated areas and to reduce displays of affluence
- Rates of armed robbery (i.e., edged weapons and firearms) have witnessed an uptick in the capital of Asuncion. If confronted, do not resist demands as criminals may not hesitate to use force.
- Express kidnappings, where victims are briefly abducted and forced to withdraw money from ATMs, are a risk in Asuncion. To reduce risk, avoid hailing taxis off the street and obtain taxis from reputable sources (see transportation). Targets include travelers using ATMS on the street or unlicensed taxis.
- Road conditions in Paraguay are often poor, with many unpaved or inadequately maintained roads outside major cities. Drive with caution and avoid rural driving at night due to poor road conditions, lack of street lighting, and potential hazards such as unmarked roads and stray animals.
- Urban and intercity public transportation is available; however, it does not meet sufficient safety standards. Petty crime, poor maintenance, and bus accidents present major concerns. Hiring a professional driver is the safest means of intercity travel.
- Taxis arranged by upscale hotels, radio taxis, or ride-sharing apps (e.g., Uber) are safer than those hailed on the street—this is especially true at night. Few taxi drivers speak English.
- The rainy season (November-April) can make driving risky, particularly in the northern regions of Alto Paraguay and Boqueron, due to flooding. Overland travel should be conducted during daylight hours with reliable communication and a well-maintained vehicle.
- Exercise increased caution in the eastern border and tri-border areas of Paraguay. Foreign nationals have been kidnapped and subjected to violent crime in these regions.
- Avoid traveling alone and stay vigilant, especially in the departments of Amambay and Canindeyu, where drug trafficking routes heighten the risk of violence.