22 Fun Facts About Paraguay | Where Guarani Echoes

1. One of the few countries with two official languages in Paraguay.

Paraguay is unique in that it has two official languages, Spanish and Guarani, which are spoken by nearly everyone. Guarani, an indigenous language, is deeply embedded in the culture, and its usage is widespread, even in government and education.

This dual-language system makes the country stand out, as it’s rare for a nation to embrace both a colonial language and a native one in equal measure. Guarani is not only spoken, but it’s also a symbol of national identity and pride for Paraguayans.

2. The Paraguay River forms part of the border with Argentina.

The Paraguay River plays a crucial role in the nation’s geography, serving as the natural border between Paraguay and Argentina. It stretches for more than 2,500 kilometers and is vital for transportation and trade within the region.

Throughout history, the river has been a lifeline for commerce, connecting the country to international markets. It also provides stunning natural beauty, with scenic views enjoyed by locals and tourists alike.

3. A leader in renewable energy production in Paraguay.

One of Paraguay’s standout achievements is its reliance on renewable energy. Over 90% of the country’s electricity comes from hydroelectric power, mainly from the Itaipu Dam, one of the largest in the world.

This clean energy source is not only environmentally friendly but also a key driver of the country’s economy, as it exports surplus electricity to neighboring countries.

4. Paraguay’s Festival del Ovecha Rague celebrates the artistry of wool.

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Every year in San Miguel, Paraguay, the Festival del Ovecha Rague celebrates the rich tradition of sheep and wool. This festival transforms the town with artistic performances, vibrant craft fairs, and showcases of wool products. 

Festival del Ovecha Rague is a colorful celebration of Paraguay’s pastoral heritage and a gathering spot for those who appreciate the artistry and utility of wool in both traditional and contemporary forms.

5. Among the least populated countries in South America, Paraguay.

Despite its vast size, Paraguay is one of the least populated countries in South America. With only around 7 million people, its population density is significantly lower than many of its neighbors.

This relatively low population density allows for vast stretches of untouched natural land, contributing to the charm and peaceful rural life.

6. A national drink that defines the culture in Paraguay.

Tereré is Paraguay’s national drink, made from yerba mate leaves steeped in cold water. This traditional beverage is often shared among friends and family and is deeply ingrained in social life.

Unlike mate, which is served hot, tereré is a refreshing, cool drink that’s perfect for the country’s hot climate. It’s a symbol of hospitality and community.

7. Paraguay was once an ‘island surrounded by land’ for a century.

Another unique fact about Paraguay is its historical isolation, once dubbed ‘an island surrounded by land‘ From 1864 to 1870, following the devastating War of the Triple Alliance, Paraguay closed its borders to recover from losses that claimed two-thirds of its population and much of its territory. 

This period significantly shaped its culture and societal structure, emphasizing resilience and self-sufficiency.

8. Football is the most popular sport in Paraguay.

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Football is deeply ingrained in Paraguayan culture, standing as the nation’s most popular sport. It was introduced in the late 19th century and quickly transcended social classes, captivating everyone from the elite to the general populace. 

Today, Paraguay prides itself on a robust football scene, characterized by passionate fans, intense local derbies, and a national team that has competed in numerous international tournaments.

9. A rich biodiversity hub in Paraguay.

Paraguay is home to an incredible variety of wildlife, thanks to its tropical forests, wetlands, and grasslands. The country boasts a diverse range of species, including jaguars, capybaras, and colorful parrots.

This biodiversity makes it an important destination for nature lovers and conservationists who seek to preserve its unique ecosystems and wildlife.

10.  A landlocked country with river access to the Atlantic, Paraguay.

Paraguay is one of two landlocked countries in South America, meaning it has no coastlines or direct access to the sea. Despite this, it has access to the Atlantic Ocean through the Paraguay and Paraná rivers.

Being landlocked hasn’t hindered its economic growth, as the rivers have facilitated trade and transportation for centuries.

11. A major player in soybean production in Paraguay.

The country is one of the world’s leading producers of soybeans, a crop that plays a significant role in its economy. It is known for its high-quality soybeans, which are exported worldwide.

This agricultural success has turned the country into a key player in global food production, with soybeans remaining one of its most valuable exports.

12. Cerro León is the highest and most climbed peak in Paraguay.

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Another interesting Paraguay fact is that Cerro León, located in the heart of Defensores del Chaco National Park, is the highest peat in the country. This peak is not just a popular climbing destination but also a place of ecological and cultural significance. 

It is home to diverse species and the Ayoreo Indigenous people. Cerro León’s unique geological formations and rich biodiversity make it a magnet for both adventurers and conservationists.

13. A thriving arts and crafts scene in Paraguay.

The cultural heritage is rich with art, especially in the form of crafts. Local artisans produce intricate textiles, pottery, and woodwork that are highly prized both locally and internationally.

The tradition of craftsmanship reflects a deep connection to indigenous roots and the country’s creative, resilient people.

14. Colorful festivals celebrated throughout the year in Paraguay.

Paraguayans enjoy a number of vibrant festivals, many of which are tied to their cultural and religious traditions. The National Day in May and the San Juan Festival in June are particularly well-known.

These celebrations often include folk music, traditional dances, and delicious local foods, providing a lively way for people to come together and celebrate their national identity.

15. A large Mennonite community contributes to the economy of Paraguay.

The Mennonite community in the country is one of the largest in the world. Arriving in the 1920s, they’ve maintained a distinct way of life, centered on farming and community-based living.

The Mennonites play a significant role in agriculture, especially in dairy, grains, and vegetable production, contributing greatly to the country’s food supply.

16. Paraguayans consume more yerba mate per capita than any other nation.

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Paraguay leads the world in yerba mate consumption per capita, deeply ingraining this energizing herbal tea into its national culture. 

Known locally as tereré when served cold, it’s not just a drink but a social ritual that reflects the community-oriented spirit of Paraguayans, gathering them together in both celebration and everyday life.

17. Chaco region spans a significant portion of Paraguay.

The Chaco region, located in the western part, makes up a significant portion of the total area. This semi-arid landscape is home to a variety of wildlife and indigenous communities.

Although challenging due to its harsh climate, the Chaco is an important part of the country’s history and natural heritage, with many untapped resources and opportunities for sustainable development.

18. Home to the world’s largest hydroelectric plant, Itaipu Dam, Paraguay.

The Itaipu Dam, located on the border between Paraguay and Brazil, is one of the largest hydroelectric plants in the world by energy generation.

This massive project provides electricity to both countries and is a key factor in Paraguay’s renewable energy dominance, contributing significantly to its economy.

19. A unique approach to education in Paraguay.

Paraguay’s education system is notable for its bilingual curriculum, where students learn in both Spanish and Guarani. This dual approach helps preserve the indigenous language and fosters cultural pride.

Educational reforms have focused on improving access to quality education for all citizens, ensuring that both languages are equally valued.

20. Mercado 4 in Asunción is among South America’s largest open-air markets.

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Mercado 4 in Asunción, Paraguay, is renowned as one of South America’s largest open-air markets. This vibrant marketplace is a bustling hub where locals and tourists alike can find everything from fresh produce and meats to handicrafts and electronics. 

It epitomizes the lively street market culture, offering a colorful array of goods and an authentic taste of Paraguayan life in the heart of the capital.

21. Rich in forests and natural reserves, Paraguay.

The country is home to dense forests and rich natural reserves, many of which are untouched and home to endangered species. These reserves contribute to the biodiversity of the region and attract conservation efforts.

Tourism to these protected areas continues to grow as more people look to experience Paraguay’s vast natural beauty.

22. Significant producer of beef in Paraguay.

Paraguay is a major global exporter of beef. Its vast grassy plains are perfect for raising cattle, and the country has a long tradition of cattle farming.

The beef industry plays a major role in the economy, with much of the output being exported to international markets, making the country one of the leading beef producers globally.

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