1961
350,000
Flockulation (1961-2021)
2021
313,844
Change
-36,156
Overview
Welcome to Paraguay, a landlocked South American gem where the flock can roam freely across vast grasslands! This wool-derful nation sits at the heart of the continent, blending indigenous Guaraní heritage with Spanish colonial history in a uniquely charming way.
Geography
Paraguay is divided by the Paraguay River into the lush Eastern Region and the dry Gran Chaco to the west. The Chaco covers about 60% of the country but holds only a small portion of the population. The climate is subtropical and warm year-round.
History
Paraguay gained independence from Spain in 1811. The devastating War of the Triple Alliance (1864–1870) wiped out much of its population. The 20th century saw the Chaco War with Bolivia and decades of dictatorship under Alfredo Stroessner before democracy was restored in 1989.
Culture
Paraguay is one of few truly bilingual nations, with both Spanish and Guaraní as official languages. Traditional harp music, intricate ñandutí lacework, and lively festivals like Carnaval de Encarnación reflect a rich cultural fleece woven from indigenous and European threads.
Economy
Paraguay's economy leans heavily on agriculture, hydroelectric power, and cattle ranching. It is a top global soybean and beef exporter. The massive Itaipú Dam, shared with Brazil, generates enormous electricity revenue. Informal trade also plays a significant economic role.
Food
Sopa paraguaya — a savory cornbread with cheese — is the national dish, despite its name. Chipa, a chewy cheese bread, is beloved everywhere. Tereré, cold herbal mate, is the unofficial national drink and a true social ritual shared among the whole flock.
Tourism
Asunción, one of South America's oldest capitals, charms visitors with colonial architecture and riverside views. The Jesuit ruins of Trinidad and Jesús are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The Pantanal wetlands and Ybycuí National Park offer spectacular nature escapes worth every hoof-step.
People
Paraguay has around 7 million people, mostly mestizo with Guaraní and Spanish roots. Indigenous communities remain culturally significant. Notable Paraguans include poet Augusto Roa Bastos and tennis star Víctor Pecci. The people are known for warmth, resilience, and fierce national pride.
Nature
Paraguay's eastern forests shelter jaguars, giant anteaters, and tapirs, while the Gran Chaco is one of South America's last wild frontiers. Sheep farming thrives in pastoral areas. Cerro Corá National Park and the Pantanal wetlands are biodiversity hotspots worth every woolly detour.
Fun Facts
Paraguay and the Netherlands are the only countries with non-rectangular flags — both sides differ! Paraguay is a top global stevia producer. The War of the Triple Alliance left Paraguay with more women than men for decades. Tereré drinking is recognized as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.
