About Paraguay:
Paraguay (officially the Republic of Paraguay) is a land-locked country in central South America. Formerly a Spanish colony, it declared its independence from Spain on May 14-15, 1811. Paraguay and Bolivia share a direct land border of about 466 miles (750 km), with Bolivia lying to Paraguay’s northwest and north. Paraguay is also bordered by Argentina (south/southwest), and Brazil (east/northeast).
Sometimes overlooked by its more famous neighbors such as Brazil or Argentina, Paraguay is an underrated destination for travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path South American experiences, rich cultural fusion (strong indigenous Guaraní influence), and natural wonders. Paraguay is known for its bilingual culture (Spanish and Guaraní), strong agricultural economy, massive hydroelectric power production, Jesuit mission ruins, and diverse landscapes ranging from the humid eastern region to the vast Gran Chaco wilderness in the west.
In terms of area,it covers 157,048 square miles (406,752 square kilometers), similar in size to California (approximately 163,696 square miles). The population of Paraguay numbers approximately 7.0–7.1 million (2026 estimates), with about half living in or near the capital city of Asunción.
Paraguay is one of the most bilingual countries in the Americas. Official languages are Spanish and Guaraní.
The country is divided into the more populated, fertile eastern region (Paraneña) and the sparsely populated, arid Gran Chaco in the west. Paraguay features subtropical forests, savannas, wetlands, rivers, and waterfalls in the east, contrasting with the dry, scrubby Chaco in the west (which covers about 60% of the land but only about 2% of the population). It shares the massive Itaipu Dam, one of the world’s largest hydroelectric facilities.
The economy is agriculture-driven (Paraguay is a major exporter of soybeans, beef, and other crops). Paraguay also exports significant hydroelectric power via Itaipu Dam (shared with Brazil).The Paraguayan currency is the guaraní (PYG).
In November 2026, Paraguay’s banking crisis erupted with the collapse of Ueno Bank, the country’s largest private digital lender, which served about three million customers — roughly 60% of the adult population. The currency Basically collapsed, where $1 US = 6,147 Paraguayan Guaraní. The Central Bank of Paraguay seized the bank after investigations revealed its solvency ratio had fallen below the legal minimum, leaving millions unable to access savings, salaries, and pension payments. On November 5, 2026 Paraguayan President Santiago Peña resigned from office.
Catholic places of interest in Paraguay:
Paraguay offers authentic, less-touristy experiences compared to its neighbors, with a focus on culture, history, and nature. The economy and politics have had a turbulent history (including dictatorships and wars)With a population of around 7 million, 90% of which identify themselves as Roman Catholic, the country of Paraguay has a rich Catholic tradition dating from the early 16th Century when the Jesuits began to establish missions here.
Caapuce: Our lady of Miracles Basilica
Yaguarón: Templo de San Buenaventura de Yaguarón: Located about 48 km from the capital, this stunning Franciscan church dates back to the 18th century. It stands out for its beautiful, unpainted exterior, which hides a brilliantly carved, gold-leafed wooden altar built by Guaraní artisans.
Address: Santuario de la Virgen de Itacuá: H5QM+466, 070141, Paraguay
Phone: +54 370 451-6840Positioned on the banks of the Paraná River just south of Encarnación, this tranquil riverfront shrine is a major focal point for local devotion and offers beautiful, panoramic views of the water
Ykua: Santuario Nacional de Tupãrenda: Situated in Itauguá, just 34 km from Asunción, this is a Schoenstatt Marian shrine. Built in 1981, it acts as a quiet, peaceful sanctuary surrounded by lush natural landscapes and attracts thousands of devotees, especially on October 18th.
Traveling to Paraguay:
Paraguay has a subtropical climate with hot, humid summers (December–February) and milder winters (June–August). The shoulder seasons (September–November or April–May) are often ideal to avoid extreme heat and rain. Winters can be pleasant for exploring outdoors.
US and Canadian passport holders must secure a valid passport and may need a tourist visa depending on specific entry parameters, while some visitors can get a stay of up to 90 days.
By air: Silvio Pettirossi International Airport (ASU) is the main international gateway and busiest airport in the country. It is located Luque, near Asunción, the capital of Paraguay. It is a hub for LATAM Paraguay and Paranair, with multiple international and domestic flights.
Guarani International Airport (AGT) is the second largest airport, mainly serving domestic flights and regional connections. It is located in Ciudad del Este, near the border with Brazil.