Asunción Airport Guide – All You Need to Know Before You Fly

Arrive at least 2 hours before domestic departures and 3 hours before international flights. In the municipal zone outside the main doors, the official taxi desk is easy to locate–follow the streets signs to the pickup lanes and confirm the fare before you ride. If you’re heading to the east side of the city, choose a route that avoids congested parts during the morning rains, because delays can cause you to miss a connection. Open signs and clear floor markings help you move efficiently through the first steps.

On arrival, proceed to the baggage area, then to the transfer counters where you need to re-check bags. heres a simple route: follow the signs to the exit, then to the taxi desk in the municipal zone. The nearest information desk sits along the central corridor, and you can use the official links to check real-time gate and service status to ensure you have the right details. If rains hit, expect a longer wait time at security and customs; plan for more time and keep vital documents handy.

Ground transport includes official taxis, airport shuttles, and city buses. The municipal taxi desk operates at the arrivals area and offers fixed-rate trips to main centers in the east of the city; always confirm the fare before you depart. For more flexibility, consider rideshares that connect via your mobile app; these options serve a wide range of routes and usually appear near the main entrance. If you rent a car, the rental centers sit in the car rental area near the terminal; opening hours vary, but counters serve customers from dawn until late evening. Before you go, copy essential links to your phone so you can navigate maps and street names–caballero and rivera area drivers can help you reach obscure parts of town.

Before you fly, prepare a quick checklist: valid passport, visa if required, and an open mind about local rules. Keep your boarding pass on your phone or print it; security lanes move faster when you wear minimal metal and pack liquids in a clear bag. Hand over any essential items at the nearest checkpoint, and keep a copy of your itinerary in a cloud note or one of the official links–avoid unverified sources. If you encounter delays occasionally, plan accordingly.

Getting from Central Asunción to Silvio Pettirossi International: Fastest Routes

The fastest route is a taxi from Central Asunción to Silvio Pettirossi International. It typically takes 20–30 minutes depending on time and traffic, with a cost around 150,000–250,000 guaraníes. You can pay with money in cash or, where accepted, a credit card; confirm before youre aboard. If you prefer to book ahead, a private transfer ensures door-to-door service and predictable timing.

• Private taxi or booked transfer: The easiest option when you have bags. Book from Plaza de la Democracia via a local firm or your hotel. A booked transfer provides a fixed pickup time, a driver’s name, and a direct route to Silvio Pettirossi International, minimizing wait time and the risk of delays. Time: 20–30 minutes; cost: 150k–250k Gs. Load your bags and you’re straight to the terminal; you can also ask the driver to meet you at a specific point at the curb.
• Metropolitana buses (line us55 / us57): For a lower-cost path, use the metropolitana network. From central stops along Avenida Costanera you can board line us55 or us57 toward Luque. Stops are clearly marked; the ride to a transfer point near the airport typically runs 35–60 minutes, depending on traffic. If youre in the mood for a view, look for the mirador along the Costanera for a nice view before continuing by taxi.
• Combination route: A balance between cost and time combines a bus ride with a short taxi final leg. Take a bus to a junction on Avenida González, then aboard a taxi for the last stretch to the airport. Time varies; cost is generally lower than a full private transfer, but you’ll need to plan for transfers and the clock.
• Booking and tips: For morning or late-evening flights, booking ahead minimizes risk of delays and helps you keep to schedule. Share your flight details, bags count, and pickup point; you’ll receive a driver name and estimated arrival. If you’re arriving with larger bags, a private transfer can be especially convenient, and you can store bags in the trunk so you’re ready to go as soon as you reach the terminal.

Suggestions and practical notes: paraguays banks and exchange offices in central Asunción make it easy to handle money before you head out. If youre arriving with a plan for dinner, there are nice options near the airport, or you can dine along Costanera after you arrive. The costanera area and mirador provide a nice look at the river while you plan your next move. Among the routes, us57 often provides the best balance of time and comfort, while us55 offers a lower fare. This system gives you a clear set of points to compare time, cost, and risk, and you can book a route that matches your travel plans. If youre ready to book, start with the pickup point you prefer, and keep your booking reference handy.

Check-in Steps and Desk Locations Across Terminals

Arrive two hours before domestic flights and three hours before international to avoid delays and keep everything smooth.

1. Desk layout and point: Check‑in desks are organized into two main blocks. North blocks host Domestic flights; eastern blocks host International flights. Follow the signs to your correct check‑in point, and have everything ready: passport or ID, booking reference, and any visa documents.
2. At the counter: Present documents, confirm your flight, and let the agent print or reissue your boarding pass. If you travel carry‑on only, you can use self‑service kiosks to save time; for luggage, head to the bag drop right away.
3. Luggage drop and guard flow: After check‑in or at the drop counters, proceed toward security. Keep your baggage tag receipts safe; the guard will verify your documents and boarding pass before you enter security.
4. Security checkpoint: Remove electronics and liquids from your bag and place them in the tray; have your boarding pass and ID ready for inspection when asked.
5. Post‑security and gates: After clearance, consult the screens for your gate. Nearby services include currency centers, electronics shops, and eateries for a quick bite. If you drive, the us80 route is a common landmark to reach the terminal’s drop‑off area; parking lots are clearly marked in blocks and close to the stadium area for evenings departures.
6. Layover tips: If time allows, check whats around: a small museo or local articles about Paraguayan culture can be a nice distraction. Whats nearby and directions can be asked at information desks. For families, there are kid‑friendly corners and rest areas; desks running from morning to evenings to assist late‑running flights.
7. Neighborhood and landmarks: Locals reference independencia and cervera streets when talking about access routes, and padre avenues for taxi tips. The layout is beautiful with huge signage that helps you move smoothly between terminals and close to every services area.

Security, Passport Control, and Boarding: Step-by-Step Expectations

Take your passport, boarding pass, and any required documents in hand before you approach security. For years, paraguayan travelers know to head toward the security lanes near independencia, just beyond the blocks of shops and rental counters. Have electronics, phones, and power banks ready to place in trays, and keep liquids in a single clear bag. Staff said this keeps the line moving and helps you reach the rear of the terminal gates faster.

Proceed to passport control with your passport and boarding pass easily accessible. Officers may ask where you’re headed or what you’ll be taking home, and they will likely snap a quick photo for verification. If you carry goods, declare them when prompted; if not, stay in the standard line and follow the officer’s instructions. The provider for the service desk near gonzález keeps the flow orderly, and you’ll see signage pointing to the próxima gate or door.

After clearance, move toward the gate area, which sits at the heart of the terminal. Look for signs and screens that show the point where boarding begins. Boarding usually happens in groups, and you’ll likely be instructed to proceed when your zone is called. If you’re taking a rental car or luggage, head to the rear doors and follow the posted directions from the staff and partners at loma and paseo checkpoints near the corridor.

What to have ready at security and boarding

Keep your boarding pass and passport in a pocket or wallet you can access without slowing the line. Have your electronics set for quick inspection, and know where to place your goods on the belt. The coordinates shown on screens and the onscreen links will help you forecast your gate and any changes. Security and passport control are two linked points; knowing the route helps you avoid delays caused by crowds, especially during popular travel periods with high passenger volumes.

Baggage Rules, Prohibited Items, and the Lost Luggage Process

Verify your airline’s baggage allowance before you travel and pack accordingly. At Asunción’s Silvio Pettirossi International Airport (ASU), baggage limits come from the carrier, not the airport. Check the exact weight and piece limits for your fare and destination; typical international rules include one carry-on plus a personal item, with a checked bag in the 23–32 kg range depending on ticket type. Fees apply for overweight or extra bags, so plan to consolidate and book any additional pieces online to save time at the counter.

Baggage rules you should know include keeping liquids in 100 ml containers and placing them in a clear resealable bag. Carry-on bags should fit in the overhead bin, and personal items must fit under the seat. Verify any airline-specific restrictions for laptops, cameras, and batteries before packing. At the airport setting, staff enforce these limits during check-in, and the rules apply to all visitors moving through the terminals near costanera, malls, and museums at the city’s edge.

Prohibited items cover weapons, fireworks, compressed gases, and flammable liquids, plus large lithium batteries (or batteries beyond the airline’s watt-hour limit) in carry-on luggage. Do not pack dangerous goods in checked or carry-on bags. Always review the airline’s prohibited items list before packing, and keep spare batteries and chargers in your carry-on if permitted. For added safety, store essential medications and valuables in your carry-on in case of a delay.

Lost luggage process begins at the airline baggage service desk near the arrivals hall. Report the issue with your boarding pass and baggage tag, and complete a Property Irregularity Report (PIR). You’ll receive a reference number, and airline staff work to locate the bag, typically within 24–72 hours. Updates arrive via email or the airline app, and if found, the bag is delivered to your hotel, hostel, or chosen address. If you’ll be in town longer, you can book a pickup at a nearby office or arrange a safe delivery through a store or courier service. When a delay happens, the cause is usually simple misrouting in the system, but staff are trained to resolve it quickly, and you can wait for confirmation at the desk with a cup of coffee or a quick stroll through nearby buildings until you hear the good news.

Tips to speed things and stay prepared include labeling luggage clearly with a durable tag and ensuring the name and contact info are displayed on the outside. Include a copy of your itinerary in your carry-on and keep a spare outfit and essentials packed if you’re staying in a hostel; past experiences show a triple check of tags saves hassle. If you’re heading to a museum or an exhibition after landing, plan your timing around the queue at the baggage hall. The airport’s signage helps visitors navigate to the baggage desk or the nearby us57 bus stop; you can book a transfer in advance or ride buses to Costanera and the malls. Summer trips often bring crowds, so pack a small day bag and a pretty compact dose of essentials to reduce complexity. In short, include your contact number, two ways to reach you, and a plan for returning items if a bag is delayed; this makes the process smoother for you and for the maestro at the desk who handles the cause of delays with calm efficiency.

Money Matters and Internet Access: ATMs, Currency Exchange, SIMs, and Wi‑Fi

Withdraw local cash from the airport ATMs in the arrivals hall as soon as you land, whenever you come, so you have local currency for taxis and your first SIM purchase.

ATMs and Currency Exchange

Use ATMs from major networks inside the terminal; they display Guaraní (PYG) and often include a small airport surcharge. Keep your PIN protected and withdraw only what you need for immediate use. dont rely on street-exchange desks; they frequently post higher margins or unclear rates. If you must exchange cash, choose official desks near the information line and confirm the posted rate before proceeding. The guard posts help keep the area safe, and you’ll find bright signage rather than dark corners. Water is readily available in the terminal, so you can stay hydrated while you handle cash and logistics. In a pinch, plan ahead to avoid late exchanges and keep your situation calm.

SIMs and Wi‑Fi

Two main operators serve Asunción: Claro Paraguay and Tigo Paraguay. You can buy a prepaid SIM at airport kiosks or official stores; bring your passport for registration and choose a plan with 3–5 GB data for a week. Starter packs with data usually start around us49, specially for travelers who want reliable access. Both local and international options exist, and you can add extra data for destinations on your list. The Teresa street area near the terminals has additional vendor options if you want a backup SIM. If you come from uruguaya routes, check roaming charges with your provider before you travel. For navigation and staying in touch, a solid data plan helps you explore Loma viewpoints and nearby buildings with ease.

The airport Wi‑Fi covers the terminals with a free but limited connection. Post updates to social networks or dating apps with caution on public networks; use a VPN and avoid logging into sensitive accounts on open networks. If you plan activities with friends or family, almost every traveler uses the service to coordinate meetups and day trips. For easy trips to the city center and the government area, use the official transportation line and head to the taxi stand when you’re ready. Be careful with open networks and keep an eye on your belongings near water features in crowded areas. If time allows, a quick museum visit nearby can be a delightful post-arrival option.

Food, Shops, and Airport Amenities: Dining, Shopping, and Lounges

Arrive at least 2 hours before your flight to sample fast bites, browse shops, and unwind in a lounge before connections. The port area, located near the main concourse, is set up so dining runs along a single, easy-to-navigate corridor near check-in, making the crossing to gates smooth. The gigago counter, called a fast favourite by travellers, serves wraps and bowls, while the alcides stall offers coffee and pastries; pairing a pastry with estrella refreshes you between legs of travelling. The setting features large windows and pools of seating that invite a comfortable pause after a long day. Opening times vary by outlet, with many shops staying open late and some extending toward the us80 corridor for social stops and bundles of gifts for destinations around the region. The articles here show how these options work together to support your plan, from quick meals to last-minute shopping before your next leg. This layout supports smooth connections between flights.

Dining: Quick bites, local flavors, and lounge access

For speed, hit gigago counters near the central atrium; for a relaxed option, estrella-branded stands offer coffee, pastries, and light meals. Lounges near gates provide comfortable seating, wifi, and charging points; access is available through lounge programs or paid entry. The alcides stall remains widely praised for friendly service, and additional shops feature Paraguayan snacks and regional crafts. The port’s layout aims to keep their customers moving smoothly from check-in to boarding, with clear signs and helpful staff. This will help you manage your time between stops and relax before the next flight.

Shops and amenities: Shopping, social spots, and practical buys

The shops span long aisles with gifts, fashion, and travel essentials; their bundles of duty-free items let you stock up for destinations across the region. Clear signs point to connections and destinations, helping you plan the next step after a layover. Social spaces near windows invite a quick break between stops, and kiosks cover last-minute needs, from chargers to reading material. The setting and signage ensure crossing from dining to shopping remains seamless, so you won’t miss your flight.

Transit Between Airport and Outer Asunción: Reaching Neighborhoods and Hotels

Take an official airport taxi or pre-booked private transfer to reach central Asunción and outer neighborhoods; this ensures a reliable, faster ride and fixed-rate options. At the arrivals hall, go to the official taxi desk or the transfer counter, where the driver can confirm a set price before departure. If you travel with companions, you can stay united by choosing a shared service, keeping the group unidos with a single plan.

Public buses exist, but they are the traditional option and can be slower, especially in rains; they are cheaper but don’t promise steady schedules or easy luggage handling. For a smoother trip, request a direct route to neighborhoods like loma, cerro, estancias, and olimpia, or to hotels near the peru embassy and the museum district. If you want a flexible stop for an exhibition or a 19th-century iglesia, ask the driver to adjust. A quad should be avoided at the airport; use a licensed car instead. Rates differ by service; a typical downtown ride runs around 15-25 USD, while trips to farther estancias can reach 25-40 USD.

Language options are straightforward: most drivers speak Spanish; some can do basic English. Show the hotel’s name in both English and Spanish to prevent miscommunication. There are a number of transfer options, including fixed-rate vans that cover the city setting and the outskirts. If you arrive during the night or in difficult weather, a pre-arranged transfer is especially useful; drivers wait with a name card and can track your flight number.

Safety and practicality: confirm the pickup point with the desk, avoid shady streets, and stay with licensed drivers only. If you need to reach a museum or embassy area, tell the driver the exact address and cross streets; that helps in a setting with almost every major venue near a central avenue. For a smoother ride, plan ahead for peak times and rainy days, when harder to secure a ride. A number of neighborhoods like cerro, loma, and estancias offer direct access from the airport with minimal detours, ensuring you reach your hotel efficiently.