- The best travel insurance plans for Paraguay
- Safety and Security in Paraguay
- Is travel insurance required by law to enter Paraguay?
- Why take out travel insurance for Paraguay?
- What Travel Insurance for Paraguay Should Cover
- The cost of travel insurance for Paraguay
- How to Pay Less for Your Travel Insurance to Paraguay
- Using Your Current Insurance in Paraguay
- FAQ
Travel insurance for Paraguay: key takeaways
1. Definition: Travel insurance for Paraguay covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and other unforeseen events.
2. Key protection: Insurance is not mandatory for US citizens but is crucial for covering potential medical emergencies.
3. Healthcare cost: Private healthcare is available but can be costly, with hospital stays averaging $300-$800 per night.
4. Price: A one-week travel insurance policy for Paraguay typically costs between $30 and $60.
5. Good to know: Ensure your policy includes medical evacuation, as advanced care is limited outside major cities.
Why trust HelloSafe?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travelers every month. After analyzing 42 travel insurance policies available in the US, our experts share here everything you need to know to choose the best travel insurance for Paraguay.
The best travel insurance plans for Paraguay
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement limit | Our view |
|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | $1.1M | Our choice for travelers to Paraguay. - high medical ceiling - strong evacuation cover - flexible guarantees |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | $1.1M | A robust plan for reliable support. - 24/7 assistance - no deductible - covers trip interruption |
| Tourist Card | $550k | Best for tourists seeking value. - solid medical protection - emergency support - affordable for short trips |
| Travel Pass Monde | $770k | Comprehensive coverage for international travel. - repatriation included - hospitalization costs - valid for long stays |
| Globe Partner | $330k | Basic but dependable for global travelers. - medical care abroad - repatriation - civil liability |
| Globe Traveller | $550k | Good option for budget travelers. - essential medical cover - efficient reimbursement - limited ceiling |
- high medical ceiling
- strong evacuation cover
- flexible guarantees
- 24/7 assistance
- no deductible
- covers trip interruption
- solid medical protection
- emergency support
- affordable for short trips
- repatriation included
- hospitalization costs
- valid for long stays
- medical care abroad
- repatriation
- civil liability
- essential medical cover
- efficient reimbursement
- limited ceiling
Safety and Security in Paraguay
As of June 2025, the US Department of State advises travelers that Paraguay is generally safe, with a current alert level of Level 1: exercise normal precautions. Certain border departments, including Alto Paraná and Amambay, warrant increased caution due to higher crime rates and weaker police presence.
Security risks: petty crime and occasional violent incidents affect both urban and rural areas. The northeastern border with Brazil, especially in Canindeyu, is known for drug trafficking and armed groups.
Health risks: mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue and Zika are present throughout the country. Medical facilities are adequate in major cities but limited elsewhere, and yellow fever vaccination is required if arriving from an endemic country.
Legal requirements: all visitors must carry a valid US passport and may be asked for proof of return or onward travel. An airport departure tax is charged on flights leaving Paraguay, usually included in the ticket.
Environmental conditions: severe flooding and road hazards can affect travel during the rainy season, particularly around the Paraguay River. Travelers in remote regions may face road disruptions and long detours.
Although not required, travel insurance is strongly recommended by the US Department of State, particularly to cover medical expenses and emergency repatriation, which can be extremely costly in Paraguay.
Is travel insurance required by law to enter Paraguay?
No, travel insurance is not mandatory for US citizens to enter Paraguay for short stays, whether for tourism or business.
Travel insurance is still strongly recommended by the US State Department. In Paraguay, private healthcare can be expensive, and medical facilities are limited outside main cities. Insurance is especially advised for medical emergencies, repatriation, and unexpected travel disruptions.
According to our data, 80% of travelers purchase travel insurance before going to Paraguay. This high rate is mainly due to the cost of medical care and the need for evacuation cover.
Why take out travel insurance for Paraguay?
It is an essential financial and medical protection for anyone going to Paraguay.
In Paraguay, medical care for foreigners is mainly provided in private hospitals, especially in Asunción. Institutions like Hospital Universitario Privado and Sanatorio Migone Batista can charge high fees. Outside the capital, access to quality care is limited and private clinics are often expensive.
Travel insurance covers medical expenses, hospitalization, medication, ambulance transport, and emergency repatriation to the US in case of serious health issues.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs in Paraguay.
| Example of medical treatment | Cost at Sanatorio Migone Batista | Covered by travel insurance |
|---|---|---|
| I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection | 6,500,000 PYG (around $850) | up to 100% (within policy limits) |
| I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental) | 5,300,000 PYG (around $690) | up to 100% (within policy limits) |
| I need to be repatriated | 91,000,000 PYG (around $12,000) | up to 100% (within policy limits) |
| I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery) | 14,200,000 PYG (around $1,870) | up to 100% (within policy limits) |
These prices are given as an indication and may vary depending on the facilities and regions.
It is therefore essential to take out appropriate travel insurance to avoid unexpected and potentially high expenses.
What Travel Insurance for Paraguay Should Cover
| Main coverages | Explanations and recommendations |
|---|---|
| ? Medical expenses | Covers costs for hospitalization, consultations, and treatment if you fall ill. Recommended minimum reimbursement: $100,000. |
| ? Medical evacuation | Pays for transport to an appropriate hospital or back to the US for serious cases. Recommended minimum reimbursement: $100,000. |
| ? Medication reimbursement | Covers prescription medications you may need if sick or injured during the trip. Recommended minimum reimbursement: $2,500. |
| ✈️ Trip cancellation | Refunds prepaid costs if you need to cancel for serious reasons like illness or family emergency. Recommended minimum reimbursement: $2,000–$5,000. |
| ? Baggage loss or delay | Compensates for personal belongings if your luggage is lost, stolen, or delayed. Recommended minimum reimbursement: $1,000–$2,000. |
| ? Personal liability | Covers damages you accidentally cause to others or property. Recommended minimum reimbursement: $50,000. |
| ? 24/7 assistance | Provides access to medical helplines and emergency support in English. Always choose a plan with 24/7 support. |
Recommended minimum reimbursement: $100,000.
Recommended minimum reimbursement: $100,000.
Recommended minimum reimbursement: $2,500.
Recommended minimum reimbursement: $2,000–$5,000.
Recommended minimum reimbursement: $1,000–$2,000.
Recommended minimum reimbursement: $50,000.
Always choose a plan with 24/7 support.
Travel insurance from local providers or credit card plans typically offers limited coverage, low reimbursement, and many exclusions. It is safer to select a respected insurer offering full benefits. Compare top options on HelloSafe and subscribe online for instant certification.
The cost of travel insurance for Paraguay
| Trip duration | Traveler’s age | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 1 week | 25 years old | $18 |
| 2 weeks | 45 years old | $35 |
| 1 month | 35 years old | $55 |
| 1 month | 70 years old | $130 |
These prices are indicative and may vary depending on the coverage chosen and the specifics of each insurer.
Good to know
Your travel insurance cost is shaped by key factors: your age, trip length, destination, chosen coverage level, and any add-ons like trip cancellation. Considering these helps you find the best-value plan for your needs, ensuring you're properly covered without overpaying for your trip.
? It is always recommended to compare multiple offers to find the best value-for-money plan for you. You can use HelloSafe.
? Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compareHow to Pay Less for Your Travel Insurance to Paraguay
Here are some suggestions to optimize the cost of your travel insurance to Paraguay while keeping good coverage:
| Criteria | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| ? Traveler’s age | Premiums usually increase with age, especially for seniors. | Compare various insurers and consider Heymondo, which does not increase prices for people over 62. |
| ? Trip duration | Longer trips lead to higher premiums. | Insure only for the exact travel period, not for extra days before or after your stay. |
| ? Level of coverage | High or unnecessary limits can drive up costs. | Opt for essential medical and evacuation coverage, but avoid paying for extras you won't use. |
| ? Geographical area | Worldwide coverage is more expensive than regional. | Select coverage limited to South America if you have no plans outside the region. |
| ? Medical conditions | Cover for pre-existing or chronic illnesses increases the premium. | Declare only those conditions you genuinely need covered to avoid unnecessary supplement costs. |
| ? Number of travelers | Insuring a group or family may offer discounts. | Look for family or group plans to reduce the per-person price. |
| ? Activities planned | Adventure sports or hazardous activities add to the cost. | If not participating, choose a standard plan without sports cover to get a lower rate. |
Using Your Current Insurance in Paraguay
It’s completely legitimate to wonder whether your existing coverage—such as credit card insurance or your public health insurance—can protect you during a trip to Paraguay. Unfortunately, these options rarely provide comprehensive or sufficient coverage, often excluding important benefits like medical evacuation or high medical costs. Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of insurance | Valid in Paraguay? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance (Medicare, Medicaid) | No, never | No coverage for medical care, hospitalization, or repatriation outside the US | Travel insurance covers $100,000+ for medical care and emergency evacuation |
| Private health insurance (Aetna, Cigna, Blue Cross) | Yes, partly | Some plans may reimburse emergency care abroad, often up to $50,000, but exclude evacuations | Travel insurance covers $100,000+, includes evacuation and on-site assistance |
| Classic credit card (Visa Classic, Mastercard Standard, Discover) | Yes, partly | Emergency medical fees up to $2,500-$5,000, no baggage or trip cancellation | Travel insurance can offer $100,000+ in medical, baggage, and cancellation cover |
| Premium credit card (Chase Sapphire Preferred, Amex Gold, Citi Premier) | Yes, partly | Medical fees up to $10,000-$25,000, limited trip or baggage delay benefits | Travel insurance often offers $5,000+ for trip cancellation plus 24/7 support |
Example
While visiting Iguazu Falls, Mark contracted severe Dengue fever. Private hospitalization in Asunción cost $15,000. His US health plan had no out-of-network coverage abroad, and his Visa Signature card’s travel benefit capped at $2,500. Mark was unexpectedly forced to pay the remaining $12,500 out-of-pocket for his treatment.
Expert advice
Always check your existing insurance terms, exclusions, and limits. Critical events, like trip interruption for a relative's illness, may be excluded. Read the fine print carefully to avoid nasty surprises abroad. In all cases, it's safer and more reassuring to purchase dedicated travel insurance tailored to your trip.
FAQ
Do I need a visa to travel to Paraguay?
US citizens do not need a visa to visit Paraguay for up to 90 days for tourism or business. A valid US passport with at least one blank page is required for entry. Upon arrival, you may also need to show proof of onward travel and pay an airport departure tax, which is often included in your airline ticket.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Paraguay?
To purchase travel insurance for Paraguay, first compare insurance offers using a comparison tool like HelloSafe. Next, review each policy’s coverage and exclusions, paying special attention to guarantees specific to travel in Paraguay. Then, proceed to buy your chosen insurance plan online. Once purchased, you will receive your insurance certificate by email.
What medical coverage should I look for when traveling to Paraguay?
It is important to choose travel insurance that includes comprehensive medical coverage and emergency evacuation, as medical facilities may be limited outside of major cities. Look for at least $50,000 in medical benefits, coverage for emergency evacuation, and 24/7 support services. Always check for exclusions related to pre-existing conditions.
Is emergency evacuation included in standard travel insurance for Paraguay?
Most standard travel insurance policies offer emergency medical evacuation as an optional or included benefit, but the limits may vary. Make sure the insurance covers medical evacuation to the United States or another country if needed, as services can be expensive. Always confirm the maximum coverage amount before purchasing.
Are there any required vaccinations before visiting Paraguay?
No vaccines are mandatory for US travelers entering Paraguay directly from the United States. However, yellow fever vaccination is required if you arrive from countries with yellow fever risk. The CDC recommends being up to date on routine vaccines, as well as hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, and yellow fever for some regions of Paraguay.
What should I do if I need healthcare or have an emergency in Paraguay?
In case of a medical emergency, contact your insurance provider’s assistance hotline for help locating hospitals or arranging evacuation. Major cities have reasonable facilities, but rural areas may lack quality care. Keep the US Embassy contact details handy for serious emergencies. Make sure your insurance certificate and emergency numbers are easily accessible.
Do I need a visa to travel to Paraguay?
US citizens do not need a visa to visit Paraguay for up to 90 days for tourism or business. A valid US passport with at least one blank page is required for entry. Upon arrival, you may also need to show proof of onward travel and pay an airport departure tax, which is often included in your airline ticket.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Paraguay?
To purchase travel insurance for Paraguay, first compare insurance offers using a comparison tool like HelloSafe. Next, review each policy’s coverage and exclusions, paying special attention to guarantees specific to travel in Paraguay. Then, proceed to buy your chosen insurance plan online. Once purchased, you will receive your insurance certificate by email.
What medical coverage should I look for when traveling to Paraguay?
It is important to choose travel insurance that includes comprehensive medical coverage and emergency evacuation, as medical facilities may be limited outside of major cities. Look for at least $50,000 in medical benefits, coverage for emergency evacuation, and 24/7 support services. Always check for exclusions related to pre-existing conditions.
Is emergency evacuation included in standard travel insurance for Paraguay?
Most standard travel insurance policies offer emergency medical evacuation as an optional or included benefit, but the limits may vary. Make sure the insurance covers medical evacuation to the United States or another country if needed, as services can be expensive. Always confirm the maximum coverage amount before purchasing.
Are there any required vaccinations before visiting Paraguay?
No vaccines are mandatory for US travelers entering Paraguay directly from the United States. However, yellow fever vaccination is required if you arrive from countries with yellow fever risk. The CDC recommends being up to date on routine vaccines, as well as hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, and yellow fever for some regions of Paraguay.
What should I do if I need healthcare or have an emergency in Paraguay?
In case of a medical emergency, contact your insurance provider’s assistance hotline for help locating hospitals or arranging evacuation. Major cities have reasonable facilities, but rural areas may lack quality care. Keep the US Embassy contact details handy for serious emergencies. Make sure your insurance certificate and emergency numbers are easily accessible.
