Some words that well describe Paraguayan busses are "hot", "chaotic", "noisy", "crazy", "unorganized", "humbling" and "simple". As a visitor in Paraguay, you may or may not find this way of traveling charming. Most of the Paraguayans, however, don't, and arguing the point is usually a lost case. Keeping some advice in mind will not necessarily make the ordeal more pleasant but it will prepare you.
How to get on:
Standing by the road, fix your bus of choice with an intensive stare and extend your hand. Wherever the bus is it will stop. Be quick about entering, or it will leave again.
How to get off:
In general the busses have one of two systems to signal your desire to descend. Either there's a button above the back door you've got to press, or a rope in the ceiling you've got to pull. On occasions neither of these systems are adapted, in which case you can shout your lungs out and hope you get heard, or just wait until the bus stops. Specific stops isn't a thing, you stop the bus wherever you wish to.
Practical info:
Bus fee: nowadays 2.000 gs
Stops: everywhere, on any street or route. There are, however, certain stops, evident by the sign "Parada"
Time tables: unknown. Busses just seem to appear at about 5 am and disappear during the night.
Security: high if you're smart about it. Always keep a close eye on your belongings and don't take the busses alone late at night.
Interesting facts
#1 the space on a bus may seem limited but is, in fact, infinite. This is not a joke, laws of nature just do not apply. However full the bus may seem there's always space for 10 more people. The next five might be a bit painful but you will rarely be refused a spot. #2 the busses usually have signs saying to where they are destined. This does not, however, mean that they necessarily go to there. If you are not absolutely sure and don't feel like a roadtrip, ask the driver by saying your destination in an inquisitive tone of voice.
#3 at what to you may seem very random times a bus can stop in the middle of nowhere for cleaning. Depending on your nerves and the time of day this may or may not be a reason to panic. If it seems that you are going in an off direction and empties, figure out if this is the case. Another sign is that you are meeting busses from the same bus line.
#4 while riding the bus, don't be surprised by the sellers that will get on. Even if the space is next to nonexistent (see #1) they WILL get on the bus, and force their way through, front to back. They sell everything from fruits and candy, to necklaces and bags.
Sometimes you will also be accompanied by live music, usually of rather poor quality...
Bus crew tips
#1: upon entering get as far back as possible. It makes it easier to get off.
#2: if you are the only one getting off, don't expect the bus to stop completely. It can and may but just as well may not. Try getting of at a traffic light or jump when the speed seems reasonably slow.
#3: if you're the last in a group to get on, you'll probably have to stand on the last step while the bus drives of. The driver won't wait until you've paid your ticket, you do that while the bus is in motion.
Balance!!
More often than not you'll have to stand up. Keep in mind that Paraguayan traffic is crazy in general, and that is also true for the busses. They stop a fair 5 times per minute so get a good grip and be steady on your feet.
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