Capital: Asunción

Language: Spanish

Currency: Guarani

Paraguay has everything!  From the now empty Jesuit missions in Encarnacion to the Chaco, a virtually roadless land full of desert-like plains and dry forest. Observe here the thriving wildlife and botany with a guide to the religious Mennonites,  people who have lived since the early 20 century!

The capital Asunción is home to the Godoi Museum, the Church of the Incarnation, and the National Pantheon of Heroes, where many of the national heroes are laid to rest. Those who enjoy ecotourism can find peace and tranquillity in the Gran Chaco region, located in the country’s western part.

Geography

Paraguay is in South America and is bordered by Argentina to the south and southwest, Brazil to the east and northeast, and Bolivia to the northwest. Although one of only two landlocked countries in South America (the other is Bolivia), ports on the Paraguay and Paraná rivers give exit to the Atlantic Ocean through the Paraná-Paraguay Waterway.

Climate

The overall climate is tropical to subtropical. Winds play a major role in influencing Paraguay’s weather: between October and March, warm winds blow from the Amazon Basin in the north, while the period between May and August brings cold winds from the Andes. Rainfall varies across the country, with substantial rainfall in the eastern portions and semi-arid conditions in the far west. The rains in the west tend to be irregular and evaporate quickly, contributing to the area’s aridity.

Culture

Although heavily influenced by former Spanish colonisers and other European countries, Paraguayan has strong roots in the Southern Guaraní past. Now, Paraguay is one of the most homogenous countries in Latin America, where 93% of all Paraguayans are mestizos!

Gastronomy

Barbecue, known as Asado, is not just a cooking technique here but is more of a social event, and the cuisine here is comprised of dishes based on maize, milk, fish, fruits, and vegetables!

The chipa, Paraguay’s answer to Brazil’s pão de queijo (cheese bread), is a universal staple in every bar and restaurant. Vori vori is a must-try winter warmer: a meat stew with dumplings.