Looking for affordable accommodation in Paraguay? This comprehensive guide covers the best budget-friendly hotels and hostels across the country’s major cities, complete with current prices and insider tips.
Why Visit Paraguay?
As South America’s least-visited country, Paraguay is an intriguing travel destination that offers unique experiences without the tourist crowds. This landlocked nation is known for:
- UNESCO World Heritage Jesuit Missions
- Diverse wildlife and ecosystems, with over 1,000 bird species and endemic trees
- A unique bilingual culture (Spanish and Guaraní)
The logistics
There are few direct flights to Paraguay from many countries; budget travelers often arrive via neighboring countries like Argentina or Brazil. Buses are a common method of crossing borders.
The ideal time to visit is during the cooler months from April to September when temperatures are milder, and rainfall is less frequent.
Best Budget Accommodations by City
Filadelfia
Filadelfia isn’t the easiest town to get to since it’s right in the middle of the Chaco desert and about 14 km from the Transchaco Highway that connects Bolivia to Asunción. But trust me, it’s totally worth the effort!
If you’re taking a bus, you might need to rely on a friendly stranger to give you a ride. Another option is to get off at Mariscal Estigarribia on the highway and then catch a local bus to Filadelfia. Be sure to allow extra time and consider planning for an overnight stay, as the bus schedule can be sparse in this remote region.
The good news is that the place is generally safe and well-kept, thanks to the local German community. You can find more information on Filadelfia here!
1. Hotel Florida
This hotel offers a luxurious feel with its well-maintained, sparkling white interiors and refreshing air conditioning. Conveniently located across from the town central park and museums, it’s important to book in advance, as standard rooms fill quickly with business travelers on weekdays.
- Location: Avenida Hindenburg 165-S, Filadelfia
- Tel: +595 9848 47819
- Website: www.hotelfloridachaco.com
- Prices: from 262,000 Gs (32 USD) for a standard single to 550,000 Gs (68 USD) for a double superior
2. Hotel Safari
Just a 7-minute walk from Hotel Florida, this is a good alternative if Florida is fully booked. It features a fantastic breakfast buffet that can extend into a lunch, and the simple yet functional motel-style rooms are arranged around a courtyard with the main dining/reception building.
- Location: Calle Industrial 157-E, Filadelfia
- Tel: +595 981 213189
- Website: www.hotel-safari.com
- Prices: basic rooms without window are 130,000 Gs, and rooms with window and tv are 160,000 Gs — a better option if you’re planning to stay longer.
Asunción
Asunción has plenty of accommodation options in the city center, with most dorms and hotel rooms arranged around a courtyard with a pool. Staying in the center allows easy access to major attractions, but be aware that the area becomes a ghost town on weekends: the action moves to the upscale malls in nearby districts (Shopping Mariscal is not to be missed!).
If you plan to stay in Asunción for a week or more, consider purchasing a bus card, as public transit is quite decent. Otherwise, you’ll want to rely on taxis or Uber to get around, as the distances between places can be long and there are areas that aren’t very pedestrian-friendly.
Walking from the inconveniently located bus terminal is feasible, but not but not advisable if you have heavy luggage. Avoid slum areas like Chacarita and be cautious in Calle Ultima and Mercado 4 due to pickpocketing risks.
3. Casa Paradiso
This highly-rated traveler hostel features a central courtyard with beautiful plants and ample social spaces. It offers simple mixed dorms and double rooms with private bathrooms. The friendly owners are always willing to help.
- Location: México 890, Asuncion
- Tel: +595982172176
- Price: Starting at 56,000 Gs (5 USD) for a dorm bed
4. Mediterraneo Hostel
A popular choice for dorm beds, this hostel boasts comfortable sleeping arrangements and a large kitchen for those who want to cook. They offer both female-only and mixed dorms.
- Location: Ntra. Sra. de la Asunción 865, Asuncion
- Tel: +595961199733
- Price: Dorm bed starting at 70,000 Gs (9 USD)
5. El Viajero Asuncion Hostel & Suites
This is a good option if the others are fully booked or if you’re looking for something more private yet affordable. The rooms are arranged around an impressive open courtyard with a pool and a lively wildlife, all surrounded by the city lights.
- Location: Alberdi 734
- Tel: +595 21 444 563
- Price: Matrimonial rooms with private bathrooms at 120,000 Gs (15 USD)
Encarnación
There are few budget options near the center of Encarnación, but the town is small, safe, and quaint, making distances walkable. You can stay in town while visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Jesuit Missions on a day trip.
6. La Casa De Pedro Hostel
A large house featuring wooden sloped ceilings, offers dormitories and some rooms have balconies. While basic in terms of furniture, it remains comfortable. The friendly owner ensures a pleasant stay. They offer a self-service kitchen, a rarity in this type of accommodation, and a backyard patio filled with singing birds. It is conveniently located between the terminal and San José beach, next to the central plaza.
- Location: Cerro Corá N°552 C
- Tel: +595983948246
- Price: Dorm beds at 110,000 Gs (15 USD), private rooms at 180,000 Gs (23 USD)
Ciudad del Este
Ciudad del Este is an adventure in itself. As the gateway to Brazil’s stunning Iguazu Falls, the city can feel chaotic and is generally less safe than other parts of Paraguay. However, it’s worth a visit, not just as a quick layover on your way to Brazil.
The city embodies the offspring of capitalism, all with cut-throat competitions and a dense concentration of vendors. At night, the lack of lighting and activity turns the bustling center into a maze of deserted warehouses. The locals will tell you, use Uber or taxis to get around, as walking or relying on public transport can be risky.
While you should exercise caution in some areas near the Brazilian border, crossing the busy Friendship Bridge into Brazil is a quick and safe 15-minute walk. Once you’re on the Brazilian side, you can finally take a breath and enjoy the more relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.
7. Don Carmelo Hotel
This hotel was the most basic place I stayed in Paraguay, but the warm hospitality and helpfulness of the owner really made a difference. While the place could use some TLC—think exposed wires, questionable cleanliness, and noisy air conditioning units—it’s still a decent spot for a couple of nights. It’s conveniently located within walking distance of the city center and Friendship Bridge, just remember to explore during the day. Don’t miss the excellent bar on the corner; the food is great, and the staff are super friendly! A good place for solo female travelers to hang out.
- Location: Av. Mayor Rivas Ortellado, Ciudad del Este
- Tel: +59561512808
- Price: Private rooms with bathroom for 180,000 Gs (22 USD) *though negotiable
Prices listed in Guaranis and USD are as of 2024, and for single occupancy. It’s recommended to contact properties directly for current rates and availability.