🐾 Traveling to Paraguay with Pets
Pet-Friendly Paraguay
Paraguay is increasingly welcoming to pets, particularly dogs, in urban areas and rural estancias. From river walks in Asunción to countryside explorations, well-behaved pets are often accommodated in hotels, restaurants, and public spaces, making it a growing pet-friendly destination in South America.
Entry Requirements & Documentation
Health Certificate
Dogs, cats, and other pets need a veterinary health certificate issued within 10 days of travel, endorsed by official authorities.
Certificate must include proof of good health, vaccination records, and parasite treatments.
Rabies Vaccination
Mandatory rabies vaccination administered at least 30 days but no more than 1 year before entry.
Vaccination must be valid for the entire stay; boosters required if expired.
Microchip Requirements
All pets must have an ISO 11784/11785 compliant microchip implanted before rabies vaccination.
Chip number must match all documentation; scanners available at entry points.
Non-Endemic Countries
Pets from rabies-free or low-risk countries require an import permit from SENACSA (Servicio Nacional de Calidad y Salud Animal).
Apply in advance; no quarantine for compliant pets from approved countries.
Restricted Breeds
No nationwide breed bans, but aggressive breeds may face local restrictions in urban areas like Asunción.
Some dogs may require muzzles or leashes in public; check municipal rules.
Other Pets
Birds, fish, and exotic animals have specific import rules; contact SENACSA for permits.
CITES documentation required for endangered species; quarantine may apply for certain animals.
Pet-Friendly Accommodations
Book Pet-Friendly Hotels
Find hotels that welcome pets across Paraguay on Booking.com. Filter by "Pets allowed" to see properties with pet-friendly policies, fees, and amenities like dog beds and bowls.
Accommodation Types
- Pet-Friendly Hotels (Asunción & Encarnación): Many mid-range hotels welcome pets for 50,000-150,000 PYG/night, offering bowls and nearby green spaces. Chains like Sheraton and Bourbon are often accommodating.
- Estancias & Rural Lodges (Chaco & Itapúa): Countryside ranches frequently allow pets at no extra charge, with open spaces for roaming. Ideal for dogs during nature stays.
- Vacation Rentals & Apartments: Airbnb and local listings commonly permit pets, especially in suburban areas. Homes provide space for pets to play freely.
- Estancia Farmstays: Traditional farms in the interior welcome pets alongside livestock. Great for families with animals seeking authentic rural life.
- Campsites & Eco-Lodges: Most campsites near Ypacaraí Lake and rivers are pet-friendly, with walking areas. Popular for pet owners exploring nature.
- Luxury Pet-Friendly Options: Upscale hotels like the Sheraton Asunción offer pet amenities including walking services and special beds for premium stays.
Pet-Friendly Activities & Destinations
Gran Chaco Trails
Paraguay's western region offers pet-friendly hiking in the Chaco with guided nature walks.
Keep dogs leashed near wildlife; check park rules for seasonal access.
River Beaches
Paraná River beaches in Encarnación and San Bernardino have areas for dogs to swim.
Designated pet zones; follow local signs for restrictions during high season.
Cities & Parks
Asunción's Botanical Garden and Costanera welcome leashed dogs; outdoor eateries often allow pets.
Encarnación's riverside paths permit dogs; most patios are pet-friendly.
Pet-Friendly Cafés
Paraguayan café scene includes pet-friendly outdoor seating in cities.
Water bowls common; inquire before entering indoor spaces with pets.
River Walking Tours
Outdoor tours along the Paraguay River in Asunción welcome leashed dogs free of charge.
Historic sites are accessible; avoid indoor ruins with pets.
Boat Trips
Many river boats on Ypacaraí Lake allow small pets in carriers; fees around 20,000 PYG.
Confirm with operators; some require reservations for pets in busy seasons.
Pet Transport & Logistics
- Buses (Local & Long-Distance): Small pets travel free in carriers; larger dogs need tickets (20,000-50,000 PYG) and must be leashed or crated. Allowed in most classes except crowded areas.
- Urban Transport (Buses & Taxis): Asunción buses allow small pets free in carriers; larger dogs 10,000 PYG with leash. Avoid rush hours.
- Taxis: Confirm with driver before pet entry; most accept with notice. Apps like Uber may offer pet options in cities.
- Rental Cars: Agencies like Avis allow pets with prior notice and cleaning fee (100,000-200,000 PYG). Opt for larger vehicles for comfort on rural roads.
- Flights to Paraguay: Check airline policies; LATAM and Copa Airlines permit cabin pets under 10kg. Book early and review requirements. Compare flights on Aviasales for pet-friendly options.
- Pet-Friendly Airlines: LATAM, Copa, and Avianca accept cabin pets (under 10kg) for 200,000-500,000 PYG round-trip. Larger pets in cargo with health certificates.
Pet Services & Veterinary Care
Emergency Vet Services
24-hour clinics in Asunción (Clínica Veterinaria Central) and Ciudad del Este offer urgent care.
Travel insurance recommended; consultations cost 100,000-300,000 PYG.
Pharmacies & Pet Supplies
Chains like Pet Shop and local markets in Asunción carry food, meds, and accessories.
Pharmacies stock basic pet items; bring prescriptions for specialized needs.
Grooming & Day Care
Cities provide grooming and daycare for 50,000-150,000 PYG per session.
Reserve in advance during holidays; hotels can suggest local providers.
Pet-Sitting Services
Local services and apps like PetBacker offer sitting in urban areas for day trips.
Hotels may arrange sitters; inquire at front desk for recommendations.
Pet Rules & Etiquette
- Leash Laws: Dogs must be leashed in cities, parks, and protected areas. Rural trails may allow off-leash if controlled and away from livestock.
- Muzzle Requirements: Some urban areas require muzzles for large or certain breeds on transport. Carry one for compliance.
- Waste Disposal: Bags and bins available in cities; fines for not cleaning up (50,000-200,000 PYG). Always carry supplies.
- Beach & Water Rules: River beaches have pet areas; some restrict during peak times (Dec-Feb). Keep distance from bathers.
- Restaurant Etiquette: Pets at outdoor tables; ask permission indoors. Ensure pets stay calm and on the ground.
- Protected Areas: National parks like Ybycuí require leashes; seasonal restrictions during wildlife breeding (Oct-Mar).
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Paraguay
Paraguay for Families
Paraguay offers family adventures with safe urban parks, river activities, historical sites, and warm hospitality. From Jesuit ruins to lake outings, kids enjoy interactive experiences while parents appreciate affordable, relaxed vibes. Facilities include playgrounds and family dining options.
Top Family Attractions
Parque Ñu Guasú (Asunción)
Expansive park with playgrounds, train rides, and picnic areas for family fun.
Free entry; activities 20,000-50,000 PYG. Open daily with seasonal events.
Zoo of Asunción
Family zoo featuring local wildlife, aviaries, and educational shows in green surroundings.
Tickets 30,000 PYG adults, 15,000 PYG kids; great for half-day visits.
Jesuit Ruins of Trinidad (Encarnación)
UNESCO site with guided tours, museums, and open spaces kids explore.
Entry 50,000 PYG family; combines history with outdoor adventure.
Museo de las Ciencias (Asunción)
Interactive science museum with experiments, planetarium, and hands-on exhibits.
Tickets 40,000 PYG adults, 20,000 PYG kids; ideal for indoor learning.
Itaipu Dam Tours (Ciudad del Este)
World's largest dam with visitor center, tours, and engineering wonders for families.
Tickets 100,000 PYG adults, 50,000 PYG kids; includes bus tours and exhibits.
Ypacaraí Lake Activities (San Bernardino)
Boat rides, beaches, and water parks around the lake for summer family outings.
Activities 30,000-80,000 PYG; suitable for kids 3+ with safety measures.
Book Family Activities
Discover family-friendly tours, attractions, and activities across Paraguay on Viator. From Jesuit mission tours to river adventures, find skip-the-line tickets and age-appropriate experiences with flexible cancellation.
Family Accommodations
- Family Hotels (Asunción & Encarnación): Hotels like Sheraton and Villa Flipper provide family rooms (2 adults + 2 kids) for 500,000-1,000,000 PYG/night. Include cribs, pools, and kids' areas.
- River Resorts (Paraná Region): Family-oriented resorts with pools, activities, and suites. Places like Posada Ypacaraí focus on kids with play programs.
- Estancia Holidays: Rural farms offer family stays with animal feeding, horseback riding, and meals for 200,000-500,000 PYG/night.
- Vacation Apartments: Self-catering options with kitchens for family meals and space to relax.
- Budget Hostels: Family rooms in hostels like those in Asunción for 150,000-300,000 PYG/night with shared facilities.
- Eco-Lodges: Nature lodges near lakes like those in San Bernardino for immersive family experiences with gardens.
Find family-friendly accommodations with connected rooms, cribs, and children's facilities on Booking.com. Filter by "Family rooms" and read reviews from other parents.
Kid-Friendly Activities by Region
Asunción with Kids
Botanical Garden picnics, Palacio de los López tours, riverfront playgrounds, and street food.
Children's museum and ice cream spots add fun to city exploration.
Encarnación with Kids
Carnival parades, river beaches, Jesuit ruins adventures, and water slides.
Boat trips and family festivals keep everyone engaged.
Ciudad del Este with Kids
Itaipu Dam tours, shopping malls with play areas, and Triple Frontier viewpoints.
Cable car rides and interactive exhibits for family photos.
Lake Region (Central)
Ypacaraí Lake boating, San Bernardino beaches, and easy nature walks.
Picnic spots and pedal boats perfect for young children.
Family Travel Practicalities
Getting Around with Kids
- Buses: Children under 5 free; ages 5-12 half-price with adult. Family seating on long-distance routes with space for strollers.
- City Transport: Asunción buses offer family passes (2 adults + kids) for 50,000 PYG/day. Many routes are stroller-friendly.
- Car Rentals: Child seats (20,000-50,000 PYG/day) mandatory for under 12; book ahead. Family cars available for trips.
- Stroller-Friendly: Urban areas improving with ramps; major sites offer parking for strollers.
Dining with Children
- Kids' Menus: Restaurants serve simple dishes like empanadas or milanesa for 20,000-40,000 PYG. High chairs common.
- Family-Friendly Restaurants: Asado spots and riverside eateries welcome kids with play areas and casual vibes.
- Self-Catering: Markets like Mercado 4 stock baby food and fresh items for home cooking.
- Snacks & Treats: Chipa (cheese bread) and tereré refresh kids on the go.
Childcare & Baby Facilities
- Baby-Changing Rooms: Found in malls, zoos, and bus terminals with facilities.
- Pharmacies: Carry formula, diapers, and meds; staff helpful with advice.
- Babysitting Services: Hotels arrange sitters for 100,000-200,000 PYG/hour; local agencies available.
- Medical Care: Clinics in cities; hospitals with pediatrics. Travel insurance advised.
♿ Accessibility in Paraguay
Accessible Travel
Paraguay is improving accessibility in urban centers with ramps and adapted transport, though rural areas pose challenges. Major attractions offer some facilities, and tourism services provide guidance for inclusive trips.
Transportation Accessibility
- Buses: Some urban buses have low floors and ramps; long-distance options vary. Assistance available at terminals.
- City Transport: Asunción taxis and minibuses accommodate wheelchairs; apps help book accessible rides.
- Taxis: Wheelchair-adapted taxis in cities; standard ones fit folding chairs. Book via phone.
- Airports: Silvio Pettirossi Airport in Asunción provides assistance, ramps, and accessible facilities.
Accessible Attractions
- Museums & Sites: Asunción museums and Itaipu have ramps, elevators, and audio guides.
- Historic Sites: Jesuit ruins offer partial access; paths may be uneven in rural spots.
- Nature & Parks: Botanical Garden has accessible trails; lake areas improving with boardwalks.
- Accommodations: Hotels indicate accessible rooms on Booking.com; seek wide doors and adapted bathrooms.
Essential Tips for Families & Pet Owners
Best Time to Visit
Dry season (May-Sep) for comfortable weather and outdoor activities; avoid rainy summer (Dec-Mar).
Shoulder months (Apr, Oct) balance mild temps, fewer crowds, and events like Carnival.
Budget Tips
Family sites offer group discounts; Asunción Card covers transport and attractions.
River picnics and markets save costs for accommodating family needs.
Language
Spanish and Guaraní official; English in tourist spots and hotels.
Basic phrases help; locals are friendly with families and visitors.
Packing Essentials
Light clothes for heat, rain gear for wet season, and sturdy shoes for sites.
Pet owners: pack food, leash, waste bags, and health docs.
Useful Apps
Moovit for buses, Google Translate for language, and local pet apps.
Asunción transport apps for real-time updates.
Health & Safety
Paraguay safe for families; bottled water advised. Pharmacies offer help.
Emergency: 911 for all services. Insurance covers health needs.