Asuncion Paraguay Transportation

Like many cities in Latin America, the Paraguayan capital of Asuncion blends remnants of an Amerindian and Spanish Colonial past with a slowly rumbling new infrastructure. Although less instantly responsive to tourist transportation demands than Quito, Lima, and its other peers, Asuncion remains accessible. Here is a brief guide to Asuncion Paraguay transportation.

Asuncion Paraguay Transportation: Airport

Silvio Pettirossi International Airport is the main access point for travelers entering Paraguay. It’s located about ten miles from downtown Asuncion in the somewhat affluent suburb of Luque. Direct flights from the United States were once available departing Miami, but now most service comes through Sao Paulo (Brazil) or Buenos Aires (Argentina), so expect three flights unless you live near a large Southern US city. Carriers include Varig Airlines of Brazil and Aerolineas Argentinas, though American Airlines is often available for the first leg or two. If you’re staying in the Zona Centro district of Asuncion, expect at least 30-minute taxi ride from the airport. You can also take a bus which leaves every quarter-hour (Route 30). This is the easiest and most tourist-friendly local bus to use because there’s almost no question about the destination.

Asuncion Paraguay Transportation: Regional Buses

Bus rides to other cities in Paraguay, including Ciudade del Este, are cheap and bumpy, all leaving from a terminal just east of Zona Centro. Buses to and from Brazil, Argentina, and (less frequently) Bolivia also use this terminal, which is located on Republica Argentina at Fernando de la Moya. Appropriately enough, the buses to Buenos Aires are usually the most expensive but also the most comfortable. Prices vary based on seats and bathrooms, but the better-equipped buses may be worth the higher rates for those who insist on the long overland routes, which tend to consume a full day. And remember that visas (required for US citizens) are harder to deal with at border crossings than at airports.

Asuncion Paraguay Transportation: City Buses/Tram