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Asuncion city residential area
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Is Paraguay Safe to Live? My Experience as an Expat in Paraguay

As a traveller who has been coming in and out of Paraguay for the past four years and now living here in Asuncion for the past year, I can confidently say that I have experienced that Paraguay is a safe and welcoming country to live in.

Before moving here full-time, I had my reservations, like anyone relocating to a new country, but Paraguay has proven to be a peaceful and secure country, for the most part (details below), especially compared to its neighboring Latin American countries.

Whether you’re considering Paraguay for its low cost of living, friendly locals, or business opportunities, safety is often a top concernā€”and here I will share my personal experiences and insights of safety in Paraguay.

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Crime Rates Compared to Neighboring Countries

Paraguay is (not well known for) being one of the safest countries in South America, particularly when compared to its larger and more well-known neighbors like Brazil and Argentina.

While petty theft and minor crimes can occur in any country, I found Paraguay generally has lower crime rates and less violent crime than neighbouring LatAm countries (and I have travelled to most countries in Latin America).

The capital city, AsunciĆ³n, where I now reside, is often compared to major cities in the region, but unlike Buenos Aires or SĆ£o Paulo, AsunciĆ³n lacks the heavy gang presence and violent crime that can be found in larger cities in Latin America.

Safe Neighborhoods to Consider In AsunciĆ³n

If you’re planning to move to or visit Paraguay, I have included some of the safest and most expat-friendly neighborhoods in AsunciĆ³n below:

  • Villa Morra: Known for its modern amenities, upscale restaurants, and shopping centers, Villa Morra offers a safe and vibrant atmosphere with plenty of expats and business people.
  • Recoleta: This neighborhood is popular for its quiet residential streets and proximity to parks and cafes. It is near Villa Morra and a close walking distance to anywhere you may want to be in Asuncion
  • Carmelitas: A great area for those looking for a mix of modern living and local culture, with a strong presence of businesses and security. This is also well-known for being the party area, especially on weekends, so beware not to book a place too close to the main party street
  • San Bernardino: If you’re looking for lakeside living, this area offer tranquility and community-oriented environments. San Bern, as its locally known, comes alive in the summer (November-February) as all the locals enjoy spending time there on weekends. However in the winter season, its quite and many of the restaurants and bars are closed
Drinks at Casa Clari Paraguay view

I would also recommend to check out this blog post, which is a detailed guide to the safest neighbourhoods in Asuncion, and also where you will want to stay away from during your visit to Asuncion.

I have found most areas in the new centre to be quite safe, even at night. However, you will want to stay away from certain areas, nearby to the old center in particular, which I detail more in the above blog post.

This is important to know before you visit Paraguay, as you donā€™t want to get caught getting a ā€˜cheapā€™ price for an AirBnb or hotel, but itā€™s in the old center (not safe and not much to do).

Tips for Staying Safe in Paraguay

While Paraguay is a relatively safe place to live overall, it’s always good to follow basic safety precautions in any new city, such as:

  1. Avoiding Late-Night Strolls Alone: Although major areas are safe, it’s best to take extra precautions at night. I have found it to still be quite safe at night, in the main areas (like Villa Morra) near the main roads (like Mariscal).
  2. Being Cautious with Valuables: Like in any country, avoid displaying expensive jewelry or electronics in public places. I donā€™t wear flashy jewelry or bags while I go out or walk around. At certain venues, this is acceptable, but not in most places or simply walking around on the streets.
  3. Using Trusted Transportation: Ride-hailing apps like Uber and Bolt are reliable options for getting around safely. Uber is much safer, but a few cents more per ride.

Overall, my experience living in Paraguay has been overwhelmingly positive, and the safety aspect has exceeded my expectations in many ways, especially compared to neighbouring countries in Latin America.

Crime Rates and Security Measures

When I first considered moving to Paraguay, one of my biggest concerns was safety. After all, the media often paints Latin America with a broad brush of crime and insecurity.

However, having lived in Paraguay for the past year and visited multiple times over the last four years, I can confidently say that Paraguay is a safe country to live in, especially when compared to its neighbors.

The crime rates in Paraguay are relatively low, especially when you stay in cities like AsunciĆ³n and EncarnaciĆ³n. Petty crimes, such as pickpocketing and minor theft, can occur in crowded areas, just like in any other city around the world. However, violent crime is not a common concern for most residents.

Calle Palma rooftop view

Personally, I feel comfortable walking around my neighborhood during the day and even in the evening. Local authorities are visible, and security measures are in place, making the city feel safe and welcoming.

You will often find local police on the corners, in both the daytime and night, in the old central area of Asuncion, called the Catedral area. This is above area mentioned that is not the safest place to be in Asuncion.

One of the biggest advantages I enjoy that Paraguay has is the sense of community and hospitality. Locals are friendly, and they genuinely look out for each other. It’s not uncommon for people to strike up a conversation with strangers and offer assistance if needed.

Not only this, but there are also gated communities and secure apartment complexes for those who prioritize extra safety measures. Many of the nicer apartment buildings near the Villa Morra or Shopping Del Sol area have new apartment buildings with 24/7 security. This is not uncommon.

How Safe Is Paraguay for Women?

As a 30-year-old female who has been living in Paraguay for the past year and visiting for the last four years, I can confidently say that Paraguay is a safe place for women, and one of the safer places I have been in in Latin America.

In my experience, walking around neighborhoods in AsunciĆ³n, such as Villa Morra and Carmelitas, feels safe at almost any time of day. The people are generally friendly and respectful, and I rarely feel unsafe just going about my daily activities.

One thing I appreciate is the strong sense of community here. Whether I’m grabbing a coffee at a local cafĆ© or running errands, I often notice how friendly and kind the locals are. You will even often hear many Argentinians or Brazilian saying how friendly the locals are in Paraguay!

Public transportation, such as buses and ride-sharing services like Bolt and Uber, are widely used and safe. I often take Uber or Bolt rides late in the evening without any issues.

Safety in Paraguay

That being said, like in any country, it’s always best to stay aware of your surroundings and take standard precautions, such as avoiding badly lit areas at night and keeping valuables secure.

Another aspect I find reassuring is the low level of street harassment compared to other Latin American countries. While it does happen from time to time, it is far less aggressive and persistent than in neighboring countries. Dressing comfortably and confidently while maintaining a mindful attitude has helped me blend in and feel at ease.

Overall, my experience as a woman in Paraguay has been quite positive. The country’s laid-back atmosphere, along with its friendly locals and general safety, make it an inviting place for female travelers and expats alike.

I will note that it will be much easier to experience the friendly locals and culture that Paraguay has to offer if you speak Spanish. Without speaking Spanish in Paraguay, you will only know expats and foreigners, meaning you wonā€™t get to experience the full, true culture of Paraguay and its people.

Safety in Smaller Cities and Rural Areas

From my experience traveling to smaller towns like EncarnaciĆ³n, Ciudad del Este, and Villarrica, I’ve found that safety is even less of a concern compared to AsunciĆ³n.

When I lived in Ciudad del Este, I did find that it was a much smaller city than Asuncion, but I felt more unsafe there. There are many areas in the city that feel more unsafe than in Asuncion, and in the main shopping ā€˜commercialā€™ area, there are many vendors and sellers.

In Ciudad del Este, it is easier to feel unsafe when walking the streets in broad daylight, but I would still recommend for you to visit if you will be in Paraguay. However, I liked Asuncion more.

Smaller towns in Paraguay have a slower pace of life, which often translates into a heightened sense of security and tranquility. Unlike the capital, where petty theft can sometimes be an issue in crowded areas, rural Paraguay offers a peaceful environment where crime rates are significantly lower.

The community-oriented lifestyle in these areas means that everyone knows each other, making it harder for outsiders to engage in criminal activity without being noticed. This sense of vigilance and mutual respect enhances the overall feeling of security.

In rural areas, itā€™s common to see families enjoying public parks well into the evening without concern. The slower pace of life and tight community bonds create an environment where both locals and expats can feel safe.

Cost of Living and How It Impacts Safety

One of the key reasons why Paraguay feels so safe is its affordable cost of living, which of course reduces financial stress for both locals and expats.

In contrast to other Latin American countries, Paraguay offers a high quality of life at a fraction of the cost, making it easier for people to meet their basic needs without resorting to crime.

Travelling Paraguay

Because housing, food, and transportation are reasonably priced, there is less economic inequality and fewer instances of financial desperation that often lead to petty crimes. As an expat, I can comfortably afford housing in safe neighborhoods, dine out frequently, and enjoy recreational activities without breaking the bank.

I recommend checking out this detailed article about the supermarket and food costs in Paraguay. Let me know in the comments below how these costs compare to your home country!

Common Scams and How to Avoid Them

While Paraguay is a safe place to live, like any country, itā€™s important to stay aware of common scams. From my personal experience, most scams here are minor and can be easily avoided with some basic common sense.

One common issue is inflated tourist prices, especially in popular areas like Mercado 4 or at souvenir stands near tourist attractions. My advice is to always ask for prices upfront and compare them across different vendors. Learning a few basic Spanish phrases can also help avoid being overcharged.

When it comes to money and transactions, it’s best to stick to official exchange houses rather than street vendors for currency exchange. ATMs are generally safe to use, but I recommend using those located inside shopping malls or banks.

Check out the article here on the currency and money in Paraguay.

Another thing to watch out for is unofficial tour guides. While most Paraguayans are helpful and genuine, itā€™s best to book tours through reputable agencies or verified online platforms.

Overall I think that scams in Paraguay are more of an inconvenience than a threat, and by staying informed and cautious, you can easily avoid them when coming to visit Paraguay.

My Final Thoughts: Is Paraguay Safe to Live?

After living in Paraguay for the past year, I can say that Paraguay is one of the safest and most relaxed places to call home, especially after travelling to most of Latin America.

The sense of community, affordability, and overall safety make it an ideal destination for expats looking for a peaceful lifestyle.

Of course, no place is without its challenges, and taking basic safety precautions is always good. However, Iā€™ve found that with a little awareness and adaptation, Paraguay offers a secure and welcoming environment.

If you’re considering moving here, I highly recommend you to do so. With its friendly people, rich culture, and low cost of living, Paraguay is a great option for those looking to live abroad in a safe and comfortable new country.

FAQ

Is Paraguay safe to live for expats?

Yes, Paraguay is generally safe for expats. The crime rate is low compared to other Latin American countries, and locals are welcoming and friendly.

Are there areas to avoid in Paraguay?

While Paraguay is mostly safe, it’s best to be cautious in some parts of downtown AsunciĆ³n at night, such as near the bus terminals.

Is public transportation safe in Paraguay?

Yes, public transportation, including buses and ride-sharing services like Uber, MUV, and Bolt, is safe and commonly used by both locals and expats.

What are the safest neighborhoods in AsunciĆ³n?

Areas like Villa Morra, Carmelitas, Shopping Del Sol, and Recoleta are known to be safe and expat-friendly.

Are there a lot of scams in Paraguay?

Scams exist but are generally minor, such as inflated prices for tourists. Buying from reputable businesses and being cautious with money transactions can help you avoid them.

Is it safe for women to live in Paraguay?

Yes, Paraguay is relatively safe for women. Street harassment is lower compared to other countries, and the sense of community helps create a safe environment.

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