Paraguay
Money in Paraguay: currency, ATMs, cards and tipping
Use the Paraguayan guaraní (₲) for most purchases; keep small cash for markets and buses, and use cards in hotels and larger restaurants. Tip about 5‑10 % in restaurants and round up fares for taxis.
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GuideParaguay
Key facts
- Currency
- Paraguayan guaraní (PYG, ₲)
- Exchange rate 2026check
- ≈ ₲7,000–8,000 per US$1
- Cash necessity
- High outside major hotels and malls
- ATMs
- Common in cities; may dispense US$ as well as guaraníes, fees apply
- Card acceptance
- Widely accepted in hotels, larger restaurants and malls
- Typical tip
- 5‑10 % in restaurants, round‑up for taxis
Currency overview
Paraguay uses the guaraní (PYG, ₲). In 2026 the market rate is around ₲7,000–8,000 per US dollar; verify the exact rate before large exchanges.
| Item | Typical price (USD) |
|---|---|
| Street chipa | $0.50–1 |
| Set lunch (menú del día) | $4–8 |
| Beer (1 L) | $2–3 |
Using cash and cards
Cash dominates everyday transactions such as buses, market stalls and small eateries; carry small notes (₲5 000–₲20 000).
US dollars and Brazilian reais are accepted in border towns like Ciudad del Este; they can be exchanged at banks or official kiosks.
ATMs are plentiful in Asunción, Ciudad del Este, Encarnación and other cities. Some machines dispense US dollars, but fees are charged per withdrawal.
Credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) work in hotels, larger restaurants, supermarkets and malls. Inform your bank of travel to avoid blocks.
Tipping guidelines
Restaurants: leave 5 %–10 % of the bill; rounding up to the nearest ₲10 000 is common.
Taxis: round the fare up to the nearest ₲10 000 or add a small tip if the driver helped with luggage.
Hotels: no mandatory tip, but you may give a few dollars to housekeeping staff.
Guides and drivers: 10 % of the tour cost is appreciated.
Questions people ask
What currency is used in Paraguay?
Paraguay uses the Paraguayan guaraní (PYG, ₲).
Should I use cash or a card in Paraguay?
Use cash for small purchases, markets and buses; cards are convenient in hotels, larger restaurants and malls.
How much should I tip in Paraguay?
Tip about 5 %–10 % in restaurants and round up taxi fares; small tips for hotel staff and guides are also customary.
Are US dollars accepted in Paraguay?
US dollars are widely exchanged at banks and official kiosks, especially in border cities like Ciudad del Este. Some ATMs also dispense dollars.
Do I need to carry small notes?
Yes. Buses, market stalls and small eateries rarely have change for large bills. Carry ₲5 000–₲20 000 notes.
Check live
Prices, schedules, rules and availability change. Open these to confirm today's details before you book.
Deep dive
Every source; changeable facts are marked check
Sources
- officialParaguay tourism board
Ask about Paraguay
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