Travelling in Paraguay can be made easier when you have all the necessary information. In Paraguay, both outside and inside Asunción, buses are the main means of transportation if you do not own a car. From the capital, you can hop on a bus to virtually any corner of the country, with routes stretching even further to Argentina, Bolivia, and Brazil. Though the quality, service, and comfort of buses may differ, the fares remain relatively low, no matter where your journey takes you. Ready to embark on an adventure? Let us jump in!
Main bus companies operating in Paraguay
There are numerous companies operating within the country. The two most prominent are Nuestra Señora de la Asunción (NSA), and Expreso Paraguay. These are the closest equivalents to Greyhound or FlixBus in other parts of the world. Below is a list of bus companies operating within Paraguay, and beyond:
- Canindeyú
- CDE
- Crucero del Norte
- El Tigre
- Empresa General Artigas
- Expreso Guaraní
- Expreso Paraguay
- Expreso Río Paraná
- Expreso Sur
- Golondrina
- Guaireña
- Grupo Stel
- La Encarnacena
- Lago Ypoá
- La Ovetense
- La Sampedrana
- La Santaniana
- La Yuteña
- Nuestra Señora de la Asunción (NSA)
- Río International
- Río Paraguay
- San Juan
- San Luis S.A.
- Sol del Paraguay
Where can you travel by bus?
The main routes from Asunción connect to the other two largest metropolitan areas of the country: east to Ciudad del Este, and south-east to Encarnación.
One of Paraguay’s main bus routes is the journey to Ciudad del Este, a lively trip that takes about five hours. comparable to Boston to Philadelphia for Americans, or Paris to Cologne for Europeans. Even better, certain bus companies continue from Ciudad del Este to Brazil’s Foz do Iguaçu, opening the door to every major city in the country.
The journey to Encarnación takes roughly the same time, as the distance is similar. You can travel directly to Posadas, and from there continue deeper into Argentina. Alternatively, you can take the train crossing from Paraguay to Argentina. This is currently the only remaining passenger train service in Paraguay.
From Asunción, you can also travel to Santa Cruz de la Sierra or La Paz in Bolivia. Although it might be faster to fly, many people choose the bus for exploring Paraguay’s Chaco region, or for its lower cost.
In addition, buses from Asunción connect to other cities such as Caacupé, Caaguazú, Concepción, Coronel Oviedo, Dr. Juan Estigarribia, Hernandarias, María Auxiliadora, Pedro Juan Caballero, Pilar, Saltos del Guairá, San Ignacio, San Juan Bautista, and Villarrica.
How to purchase tickets?
For companies such as NSA and Expreso Paraguay, you can purchase tickets online, although a local bank card is required for the transaction. If you wish to pay with an international bank card, without going to the station, the only functioning option is the Plataforma 10 website, which operates similarly to Expedia, for Paraguayan buses. It is a reliable platform for buying tickets regardless of card type.
If you prefer to pay in cash, you can purchase tickets directly at the bus station. However, ensure that ticket sales staff will be present. Terminals in large cities are open at all hours, but those in smaller towns may not operate 24/7.
Cost and frequency
To travel to Ciudad del Este, the most expensive tickets costs Gs. 145,000, approximately US$18. For Encarnación, the highest price is Gs. 195,000, which is around US$24.50.
Prices depend on various factors such as the day, time, inclusion of Wi-Fi, bus type, and services offered. Depending on the company, complimentary water and food may be provided.
For Ciudad del Este and Encarnación, there are buses almost every hour throughout the day. For other destinations, frequency varies, and should be checked in advance.
Comfort, security, and safety
Comfort levels vary depending on the company, but some buses are more comfortable than those in places such as North America or Europe. Choosing carefully can result in a more pleasant experience. Aside from on-board food, one key difference is legroom; you are unlikely to feel cramped or restricted.
Regarding safety, conditions largely depend on the route. Many roads are not dual carriageways, which can make journeys slower, and more challenging. However, the largest companies operate modern buses that are well-maintained and in good condition.
Before, or after, your trip outside Paraguay’s captial, there are several transport options for getting around Asunción to complement your bus journeys. Public buses are available there for local travel, while private services such as Uber and Bolt can provide greater convenience and flexibility. Combining these options can help you move more efficiently, and enhance your overall travel experience in the capital.
With this information at hand, you are ready to board a bus, and explore Paraguay!
