One of the most corrupt countries in the South American continent that requires careful organization and extreme caution.
Paraguay extends to approximately 406 000 square kilometers in South America. It borders with Bolivia in the northwest, with Brazil in the northeast, and with Argentina in the southwest Argentina. It is the only country of the South American continent that, among with Bolivia, has no access to the sea or ocean. Geographically, Paraguay River divides the country in the northwest, flat and sparsely populated area of Gran Chaco and the eastern mountainous area, with the highest peak – Cerro Pero (842 m).
Paraguay has a population of 6.2 million inhabitants and is considered one of the most homogeneous populations of this area. Even 95 percent of the population is descendants of Spaniards and Native Americans while smaller communities from Germany, Japan and other world states also live in the country. Agriculture and electricity are the main export culture of this country, and a good part of the economy is saturated with corruption.
The capital and largest city – Asuncion – stretches along the banks of the River Paraguay, on the border with Argentina.
Paraguayan cuisine combines many influences, and strongly resembles the South American countries, especially Brazil. It is based on large amounts of roasted but slightly spiced meat combined with vegetables, potatoes, eggs and dairy products. It is interesting to mention that the Paraguayan soup – Sopa Paraguaya – is actually a type of corn bread, and that tortillas made from flour and cheese are baked in deep oil. Food is served with fruit juices, beer and alcoholic drink like rum – cana – which is made from sugar cane.
5 memorable tourist attractions in Paraguay:
-
San Bernardino
Paraguay doesn’t have sea, but it has Ypacarai Lake in the southwest. City of San Bernardino is situated on its coast and is a favorite summer destination. It is well known for exciting nightlife in which enjoys generally younger population.
-
Traditional crafts
Head to the town of Itagui near Asuncion and learn about colonial architecture of this area, traditional crafts and trades. This place is an ideal destination for buying handicrafts at lower prices.
-
The most powerful hydroelectric power plant in the world
An interesting destination is a hydroelectric power plant Itaipu, which is located on the Parana river on the border with Brazil. It can annually produce up to 94.7 TWh, which satisfies 95 percent of Paraguay’s and 25 percent of Brazil’s needs for electricity. Itaipu in Guarani language means a rhapsodic rock.
-
The capital
Explore the Asuncion and its sights. It offers a stunning tour of the new Capitol, the town’s main cathedral and tomb of the unknown heroes – Pantenon Nacional de los Heroes. Here you will find many museums and parks that are inhabited with exotic birds.
-
Fishing trip
Tourists like to visit the picturesque town of Pilar in the southwest. It is situated along the banks of the river Paraguay, and is known for several fishing competitions. It is a perfect destination for exploration of many colonial buildings from the late 18th century.
USEFUL INFORMATION:
Official language: Spanish and Guarani
Religion: Christianity (90 percent)
Currency: Guarani (PYG)
Visa: Not required for citizens of the Republic of Croatia
How to travel: by plane – the main airport of Paraguay is Silvio Pettirossi International Airport near the capital.
When to travel: May to September
Disease and prevention: Mandatory vaccination against yellow fever, and recommended against typhoid, hepatitis A and B. You can get vaccinated at the Department of Public Health, Dr. Andrija Štampar in Zagreb. It is advisable to take digestion pills, anti-mosquito repellent and sunscreen lotion.
Accommodation: Sheraton and the Palace Hotel in the capital are a smart choice.
Restaurants: Hotel restaurants are always a smart choice.
Caution!
Ministry of Foreign Affairs warns of risks of travel in certain areas of Paraguay. Due to the high levels of crime associated with the activities of drug cartels it is not advisable to travel in the Departments of San Pedro, Amambay, Canindeyú and Caaguazú and areas along the border with Brazil.