Embassy of the United States

News and Information

Warden Message from the American Embassy

American citizens residing or traveling in Paraguay should be aware that crime in Paraguay continues to rise.  The embassy recently became aware of what appears to have been an attempted high-speed armed robbery/carjacking on the road from Villarica to Asuncion. This notice serves to remind that the criminal threat in Paraguay is real.

Following are suggestions and recommendations for personal safety and security:

• It is recommended that travel at night on major routes outside of Asuncion be avoided.  Furthermore, it is important that colleagues and/or family members are aware of your travel itinerary when you are traveling outside of Asuncion.
• Be aware of your surroundings.  A state of alertness can save your life.  A good sense of what is normal and what is unusual in your surroundings is vital.  Know the neighborhoods where you live and work.  Do not settle into a routine, vary your times and routes of travel.
• Police officials indicate that concealed weapons are commonly used to commit armed robberies.  In most instances, it is safest to be non-confrontational and give up your property – don’t give up your life.
• If possible, don't walk alone during late-night hours.  Walk confidently, directly, and at a steady pace.  Send the message that you're calm, confident, and know where you're going.
• Avoid carrying large sums of cash, or displaying expensive jewelry in public.
• Trust your instincts. If something or someone makes you uneasy, avoid the person or leave the area.

If you become a victim of a crime, seek assistance from the nearest police authority and also report the crime to the Consular Section of the American Embassy. 

Americans living or traveling in Paraguay are encouraged to register with the U.S. Embassy in Asuncion, through the Embassy website http://asuncion.usembassy.gov/; email ParaguayConsular@state.gov.  For those without Internet access, the Embassy is located at 1776 Mariscal Lopez, telephone 0ll 595-21-213-715, after hours 0ll 595-21-213-715 x 2210; fax 0ll 595-21-228-603.  Hours of operation are 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 7:30 to 11:30 am on Friday except U.S. and Paraguayan holidays.

Updated information on travel in Paraguay may be obtained from the Department of State by calling 1-888-407-4747 within the U.S., or from overseas, 1-202-501-4444.  For further information please consult the Consular Information Sheet for Paraguay available via the Internet at http://travel.state.gov.  Please also see the current Worldwide Caution Public Announcement.