Want to know how to get to Paraguay?
After all, exploring the Triple Frontier is a unique experience, and one of the most popular tours is to cross to the Paraguay, especially for shopping in Ciudad del Este.
However, it is essential to plan your trip well to avoid inconveniences with queues and bureaucracy at customs.
In this guide, you will discover the best ways to get to Paraguay and how to optimize your itinerary, also enjoying the wonders of Foz do Iguaçu, including a visit to Itaipu Binacional.
Read on!
How to get to Paraguay?
Paraguay borders Brazil and is a destination accessible by different means of transport.
Therefore, there are several ways to get to Paraguay from some main routes.
For example, Silvio Pettirossi International Airport, in Asunción, receives direct flights from Brazilian cities such as São Paulo, Curitiba and Rio de Janeiro.
By bus, road transport companies operate direct lines to Paraguay, departing from the main Brazilian capitals.
For those who prefer to drive, access is via highways that connect the southern and central-western states of Brazil to the Paraguayan borders.
Finally, from Foz do Iguaçu, which is the main gateway for those who want to visit Ciudad del Este, located just after the Friendship Bridge.
How to get to Paraguay from Foz do Iguaçu?
The most common way to cross to Ciudad del Este is by Friendship Bridge, which connects Foz do Iguaçu to Paraguay.
So, there are a few options for making this crossing:
- On foot: Ideal for avoiding traffic, but not recommended for those who intend to make bulky purchases.
- Bus: Local companies offer frequent transportation, crossing the bridge and dropping passengers off in downtown Ciudad del Este.
- Taxi or Uber: Quick and comfortable options, but they can be more expensive and do not cross the bridge to Ciudad del Este, meaning you will have to continue the journey on foot.
- Private car: A practical alternative, but you may face congestion at customs, especially during peak times.
How much does it cost to go from Foz do Iguaçu to Paraguay?
The cost of the crossing depends on the means of transport chosen:
- On foot: Free
- Urban bus: Approximately R$10 per leg
- Transfers and Van: Tourism companies in Foz offer this service and the price needs to be checked
- Taxi or Uber: Prices range from R$30 to R$80, depending on the time and demand.
- Private car: Only the cost of fuel
What do I need to enter Paraguay?
To cross the border, you must carry an official document with a photo, such as:
- RG (issued less than 10 years ago)
- CNH (for short stay)
- Passport (recommended for foreign tourists)
Children and adolescents must be accompanied by their parents or present judicial authorization.
Paraguay Customs: Tips and Information on Shopping, Queues and Currency Exchange
To avoid hassles with queues and bureaucracy, follow these tips:
- Avoid peak times: Early in the morning and after 16pm, the crossing is usually faster.
- Use alternative transportation: Transportation apps can help you avoid traffic jams.
- Know the purchase limit: The amount allowed without taxation is US$500 per person.
- Keep an eye on the exchange rate: Real is accepted in some stores, but exchanging it for Guarani or Dollar may be more advantageous. Take advantage of the exchange offices in Foz do Iguaçu.
How to Get from Foz do Iguaçu to Paraguay: Plan Your Itinerary!
Although purchases in Ciudad del Este are a major attraction, it is worth putting together an itinerary that also includes the tourist attractions of Foz do Iguaçu.
Check out our suggestions:
1. Morning
Take advantage of the morning to go shopping in Ciudad del Este.
After all, the earlier you go to Paraguay, the shorter the lines for the crossing.
So, organize yourself in advance and make a list of the products you want to buy, the most recommended stores and the opening hours of each one.
So, consider finishing everything by mid-day and returning to Foz do Iguaçu for lunch and enjoying the city's attractions.
2. Lunch and Afternoon
Returning to Foz, take the opportunity to visit the Itaipu Power Plant, one of the largest hydroelectric plants in the world.
So, enjoy the regional cuisine in the food services offered by Turismo Itaipu and then choose the Itaipu tours with panoramic and ecological options, for all ages.
3. Late Afternoon and Evening
Finally, visit the Landmark of the Three Borders to enjoy an unforgettable sunset and, as night walks, enjoy the city's restaurants and bars.
So, with this itinerary, you can guarantee a balanced day between sightseeing and shopping, making the most of your trip.
Want more tips about the Triple Frontier? Check out our other tips blog content and plan your trip with more exclusive information!
Images: Avant Productions via Combo Iguassu; Marcio Ramalho – Flickr; Gazeta do Povo
