Travel Guide: Bolivia To Paraguay

There are several ways to travel from Bolivia to Paraguay, including by plane, bus, train, car, or a combination of these. The best option for you will depend on your budget, time constraints, and preferences. Flying is the fastest way to travel between the two countries, while bus travel is the cheapest option. The distance between Bolivia and Paraguay is approximately 787 miles, and the road distance is around 833 miles.

If you choose to fly, there are several flight routes available, including from Cochabamba (CBB) to Asuncion (ASU), Sucre (SRE) to Asuncion (ASU), La Paz (LPB) to Asuncion (ASU), and Oruro (ORU) to Asuncion (ASU). The flight time varies depending on the specific route, but it typically takes around 3-4 hours. The cost of flights can range from $182 to $1,100.

Alternatively, you can take a bus from Bolivia to Paraguay. There are direct buses from Santa Cruz, Bolivia, to Asuncion, Paraguay, with tickets priced at around $60-$75. The journey by bus is significantly longer than by plane, taking approximately 23-25 hours.

It is also possible to travel by train and car, although these options may involve additional connections and may not be as straightforward as flying or taking a direct bus.

Travel by plane

If you're looking to travel from Bolivia to Paraguay by plane, there are a few options available to you. The flight time between the two countries is relatively short, with the average duration being around 3 hours and 40 minutes to 4 hours and 50 minutes. The cheapest option is a flight from Asuncion to Santa Cruz, which costs around $54. This flight takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. However, if you're looking for a more direct route, there are flights available from Asuncion to Cochabamba. These flights typically cost around $182 and take 4 hours and 50 minutes.

Another option is to fly from Santa Cruz, Bolivia to Asuncion, Paraguay. This flight typically takes around 3 hours and 40 minutes and costs between $270 and $1,100. Alternatively, you can fly from La Paz, Bolivia to Asuncion, Paraguay. This flight takes around 3 hours and 47 minutes and costs between $370 and $1,100.

It's important to note that the availability and pricing of these flights may vary depending on the day of the week and any applicable COVID-19 travel restrictions. It's always a good idea to check the official websites for the latest information and updates.

In addition to traditional commercial flights, there are also taxi and private plane options available for those seeking a more luxurious or expedited experience. These options can be significantly more expensive, but may be worth considering if time is a critical factor in your travel plans.

Travel by bus

The bus journey from Bolivia to Paraguay is not for the faint-hearted. It is a long, arduous trip that can take anywhere from 22 to 28 hours, and sometimes even 38 hours. The route from Santa Cruz in Bolivia to Asuncion in Paraguay is particularly notorious, with stories of old, uncomfortable buses, long delays, and multiple military and border checks.

There are a few bus companies that service this route, including Stel Turismo, Yacycreta, and Rio Paraguay. Tickets can be purchased at the bus terminal, and prices range from $50 to $75 USD. It is worth noting that these companies all sell tickets for the same bus, which is often a Stel Turismo bus. The buses tend to be old and uncomfortable, with semi-adjustable seats and no air conditioning. The roads are mostly unpaved and bumpy, with lots of swerving to avoid huge potholes. There are also numerous army and police checkpoints along the way, where guards are sometimes paid off by bus drivers.

The border crossing can be a lengthy process, with separate exit and entry procedures for Paraguay and Bolivia. This usually involves getting off the bus, opening luggage for inspection, and filling out immigration forms. It is recommended to bring your own food and water, as the meals provided on the bus may not be sufficient and there are limited stops along the way.

The journey is made even more challenging by the unpredictable weather conditions. Rain can double the travel time, as the unpaved roads turn to mud, making it difficult for buses to pass through. It is not uncommon for buses to get stuck in the mud and require assistance from tractors.

Despite the challenges, the bus journey from Bolivia to Paraguay can be an adventurous and unique experience. It offers a glimpse into the developing world and the contrast between the bus terminal in Ciudad del Este, Paraguay, and the comfort of the bus. It is a trip that requires patience, flexibility, and a sense of humour.

Travel by train

Travelling by train is a great way to see the South American landscape. Trains in Bolivia are a good option for those who want to take in the scenery and experience the charm of train stations. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to travel from Bolivia to Paraguay by train:

Step 1: Get to the Starting Point of the Train in Bolivia

The central train station in La Paz is no longer functional, but you can take a cable car to El Alto, and from there, take a radio taxi to the train's departure point, known as the Ingavi Regiment. This will cost you around 15 Bs. Alternatively, you can take public transportation from the 2nd Street of La Ceja in El Alto. Any minibus that goes to Santiago II and the road to Oruro will take you to the Ingavi Regiment as well.

Step 2: Board the Train to Tiwanaku and Guaqui

The train is operated by the Andean Railway Company (FCA) and offers a round trip to Tiwanaku and Guaqui on the second Sunday of each month. The train has three types of wagons: Popular (20 Bs), Saloon (40 Bs), and Executive (80 Bs). The main difference is the seating arrangement, with the executive wagon offering reclining seats. Keep in mind that the ticket price only includes the transportation service. However, passengers can purchase breakfast on the dining car.

Step 3: Explore Tiwanaku

Tiwanaku is a pre-Inca archaeological site located near Lake Titicaca. To visit the attractions in Tiwanaku, you will need to purchase an entrance ticket, which costs 15 Bs for Bolivian nationals and 100 Bs for foreigners. It is recommended to visit the Tiwanakota Museum and the archaeological site, which includes the Akapana pyramid, the Semi-subterranean Templete, and the Temple of Kalasasaya with the Puerta del Sol.

Step 4: Continue to Guaqui

After spending some time in Tiwanaku, you will board the train again for an hour-long ride to Guaqui, a port town on Lake Titicaca. Guaqui is becoming an increasingly popular tourist destination due to its museums, which showcase the history of Lake Titicaca and the Chiripa culture. You can also visit the main square and church, which are a short walk from the port.

Step 5: Return to El Alto

After exploring Guaqui, return to the ship and board the train for your journey back to El Alto. The return trip takes approximately three and a half hours. Once you arrive in El Alto, you can take a radio taxi to the cable car station and return to La Paz.

Step 6: Travel from La Paz to Santa Cruz

To continue your journey to Paraguay, you will need to travel from La Paz to Santa Cruz. You can take a bus or fly between these two cities. The flight time is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, while the bus journey can take up to 17 hours.

Step 7: Take the Train from Santa Cruz to Villamontes

From Santa Cruz, you can take a train to Villamontes. This train journey is part of the route from Bolivia to Paraguay. The train operator for this route is Ferroviaria Oriental S.A.

Step 8: Bus from Villamontes to Asunción, Paraguay

After arriving in Villamontes, you will need to take a bus to complete your journey to Asunción, the capital of Paraguay. This bus journey will take you across the border from Bolivia to Paraguay.

Travelling by train from Bolivia to Paraguay is a unique and scenic experience. By following these steps, you will be able to enjoy the beauty of South America and explore the cultural attractions along the way.

Travel by car

Driving from Bolivia to Paraguay is a long journey, but it is possible. The distance between the two countries is around 833 miles, and the drive will take approximately 19 hours and 34 minutes. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to travel from Bolivia to Paraguay by car:

Step 1: Prepare for Your Journey

Before embarking on your road trip, ensure that your vehicle is in good condition and that you have all the necessary documents, such as a valid driver's license, registration, and insurance. Check the weather conditions and road status along your route, and pack appropriate supplies, including snacks, water, and a first aid kit.

Step 2: Determine Your Route

The most direct route between Bolivia and Paraguay is via the cities of Santa Cruz de la Sierra in Bolivia and Asunción, the capital of Paraguay. This route offers the advantage of a more established road infrastructure, but it is still important to check for any road closures or construction works that may impact your journey.

Step 3: Understand Border Crossing Procedures

When crossing the border between Bolivia and Paraguay, you will need to go through immigration and customs procedures. Have your passport and vehicle documentation ready, and be prepared to pay any necessary fees or taxes. It is recommended to research the specific requirements and regulations for both countries before your trip to ensure a smooth border crossing.

Step 4: Embark on Your Journey

Once you have completed your preparations, you can begin your drive from Santa Cruz de la Sierra to Asunción. This route will take you through a variety of landscapes, including urban areas, rural towns, and potentially some challenging road conditions, especially if you are crossing the Chaco region, which is known for its remote and rugged terrain.

Step 5: Take Breaks and Explore

Such a long drive can be tiring, so be sure to take regular breaks to rest and stretch your legs. You can also use these breaks to explore some of the interesting places along the way. For example, you might want to visit the Mennonite colony area or the 'Centro de la interpretacion', a museum in the Chaco region that provides insight into the area's nature, culture, and history, including the Chaco War between Bolivia and Paraguay in the 1930s.

Step 6: Arrive in Asunción

Asunción, the capital of Paraguay, offers a range of attractions for visitors, including museums, historical buildings, and a vibrant cultural scene. You can explore the city at your leisure, enjoying the local cuisine, visiting museums like the Museo del Barreo, and discovering the rich history of Paraguay.

Remember to follow all local traffic regulations and adjust your plans based on current road and weather conditions. With careful planning and a sense of adventure, your road trip from Bolivia to Paraguay by car can be a memorable and rewarding experience.

Travel by taxi

One option for travelling from Bolivia to Paraguay is to take a taxi to either Morón, Tabor, or Esmeralda, and then take a bus to Santa Clara, Cayo Coco, Camaguey, or Havana, respectively. From there, you can fly to Asuncion, Paraguay.

Taking a taxi and flying is the quickest way to get from Bolivia to Paraguay, with the journey taking around 18 hours and 30 minutes. However, it is not the cheapest option, with costs ranging from $340 to $1,500.

It is important to note that there is no direct flight from Santa Clara Airport to Asuncion Airport. The quickest flight takes around 11 hours and has one stopover.

Frequently asked questions