Paraguay’s internet connectivity is improving, but finding WiFi can still be a challenge. It may be worth getting a local SIM card for reliable internet access.

Connectivity in Paraguay: A Comprehensive Guide to Internet Access and Local SIM Cards

Paraguay is a landlocked country in South America, bordered by Argentina, Brazil, and Bolivia. It is a country with a rich cultural heritage and a growing economy. However, when it comes to connectivity, Paraguay still has a long way to go. In this article, we will explore the internet situation in Paraguay, the availability of WiFi, and whether it is worth getting a local SIM card.

Internet Situation in Paraguay

Paraguay has made significant progress in recent years in terms of internet access. According to the World Bank, the percentage of the population with internet access increased from 10% in 2010 to 43% in 2019. However, this still lags behind the global average of 59%. The government has taken steps to improve internet access, such as launching a national broadband plan in 2013. However, there are still challenges to overcome, such as the high cost of internet services and the lack of infrastructure in rural areas.

In terms of internet speed, Paraguay ranks 107th in the world, with an average download speed of 14.5 Mbps. This is slower than the global average of 46.2 Mbps. However, this is still an improvement from previous years, and the government has set a target of increasing the average speed to 50 Mbps by 2022.

Availability of WiFi

WiFi is becoming more widely available in Paraguay, particularly in urban areas. Many cafes, restaurants, and hotels offer free WiFi to their customers. However, the quality of the WiFi can vary, and it may not be reliable in some areas. It is also worth noting that some places may have a time limit on their free WiFi, so it is important to check before connecting.

If you need to use the internet for work or other purposes, it may be worth investing in a portable WiFi device. These devices are available from local providers such as Tigo and Claro, and they allow you to connect to the internet wherever you are. However, they can be expensive, and you will need to purchase a data plan to use them.

Local SIM Cards

If you are planning to stay in Paraguay for an extended period, it may be worth getting a local SIM card. This will allow you to make local calls and use data services at a lower cost than using your home country’s SIM card. There are three main mobile providers in Paraguay: Tigo, Claro, and Personal.

Tigo is the largest provider in Paraguay, with the widest coverage and the most customers. They offer a range of prepaid and postpaid plans, with prices starting from around Gs. 10,000 ($1.50) per day for a data plan. Claro and Personal also offer similar plans, with prices varying depending on the amount of data and calls included.

To purchase a local SIM card, you will need to provide identification, such as a passport or national ID card. You can buy SIM cards from the mobile providers’ stores or from street vendors. However, it is important to ensure that the vendor is reputable and that the SIM card is genuine.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Paraguay is making progress in terms of internet access and connectivity. WiFi is becoming more widely available, particularly in urban areas, and there are options for portable WiFi devices if you need to use the internet on the go. If you are staying in Paraguay for an extended period, it may be worth getting a local SIM card to save on costs. However, it is important to ensure that you purchase from a reputable vendor and that the SIM card is genuine. Overall, while there are still challenges to overcome, Paraguay is moving in the right direction when it comes to connectivity.