Paraguay is a landlocked, South American country with a population of about 6.2 million people. It's known for its unique bilingual culture where nearly 90% of the population speaks the indigenous language, Guaraní, alongside Spanish. Its capital and largest city is Asunción.
The Natalia Foundation's mission work is in a central region of Paraguay a few hours drive from Asunción in Yataity del Norte – an indigenous town of 1400 people.
KEY CHARACTERISTICS
Geography: The Paraguay River bisects the country into two distinct zones:
Energy Powerhouse: Despite being landlocked, Paraguay is a leading exporter of hydroelectricity. The Itaipu Dam, shared with Brazil, provides nearly all of Paraguay's electricity and is one of the world's largest power plants.
Bilingualism: It is the only country in the Americas where an indigenous language is spoken by the vast majority of the non-indigenous population.
Unique Flag: It is the only national flag in the world with different emblems on each side: the national coat of arms on the front and the treasury seal on the back.
CULTURE & TRADITIONS
Tereré: The national drink, a cold-brewed herbal tea made with yerba mate, is a daily social staple.
Handicrafts: Famous for Ñandutí, an intricate lace that mimics spider webs.
Social Norms: In many areas, it is customary to clap hands at the gate or door instead of knocking to announce a visit.
Food: Meat is a diet staple, often prepared as Asado (barbecue). Other traditional dishes include Chipa (cheese bread) and Sopa Paraguaya, which is actually a savory cornbread.
HISTORY & POLITICS
Independence: Gained independence from Spain in 1811 without a single shot fired.
Devastating Conflicts: The War of the Triple Alliance (1864–1870) against Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay wiped out over half of the population and 90% of the adult male population.
Dictatorship: General Alfredo Stroessner ruled for 35 years (1954–1989), one of the longest dictatorships in South America.
Current Leadership: As of 2024, Santiago Peña serves as the President of the Republic.
Cabinet: The Council of Ministers appointed by the president.
Elections/Appointments: president and vice president directly elected on the same ballot by simple majority popular vote for a single 5-year term; election last held on 30 April 2023 (next to be held in April 2028)
TRAVEL INFORMATION
Capital City: Asunción, known as the "Mother of Cities," is one of the oldest settlements in South America.
UNESCO Sites: The Jesuit Missions of La Santísima Trinidad de Paraná and Jesús de Tavarangue are remarkably preserved ruins from the 17th and 18th centuries.
Other Points of Interest: Circuito de Oro - an excursion out of Asunción to a collection of traditional towns known for their productivity of Paraguayan crafts; Iguaza Falls - a UNESCO World Heritage site - one of Latin America's natural wonders.
Visa Requirements: U.S. citizens can currently enter Paraguay for tourism for up to 90 days without a visa.
Currency: Paraguayan Guarani (PYG)
