• Colombia!

    Colombia: Caribbean Sea coast. Go Now!

    Colombia
    Although most of the people live inland, Colombia also has its share of coastline along the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea (pictured). Go Now!

  • Ecuador!

    Ecuador: Sally Lightfoot Crab. Go Now!

    Ecuador
    The Galapagos Islands and Ecuador are home to incredible wildlife, such as the famous Galapagos Turtle and the lesser known, but more common Red Rock or Sally Lightfoot crab (pictured). Begin Your Journey!

  • Chile!

    Chile: Torres del Paine National Park. Go Now!

    Chile
    The Andes dominate much of Chile, including the breath-taking Torres del Paine National Park (pictured). However, the country also hosts the world's driest desert and a thriving metropolis. Begin Your Journey!

  • Venezuela!

    Venezuela: Los Roques. Go Now!

    Venezuela
    Rooted in Europe, Venezuela boasts an impressive history, culture, and beauty, including the Caribbean Coast (pictured). Explore Venezuela!

  • Bolivia!

    Bolivia: Salt flats. Go Now!

    Bolivia
    This hidden gem is full of surprises, from the impressive salt flats (pictured) to the migrating flamingos. It also clings to the most historic indigenous culture on the continent. Explore Bolivia!

Ethnicity, Language, & Religion of Paraguay

Ethnicity

The overwhelming majority of people in Paraguay are mestizo, which means they are descended from both Europeans and indigenous people. Of these people, most have some Spanish blood and some Guarani blood as the people are truly a result of these two groups. The Guarani people are actually defined by language, as opposed to ethnicity, although they tend to be related ethnically as well. As almost everyone in Paraguay is both Spanish and Guarani many Paraguayans refer to themselves simply as "Guarani."

Language

Paraguay has two official languages, both Spanish and Guarani. Spanish is perhaps the more widely spoken of the two, especially in cities, but many people learn Guarani as a second language and this is a source of pride. Additionally, many native speakers of Guarani in rural areas don't learn Spanish, which makes Guarani the de facto language of communication across many parts of the country. Guarani belongs to the Tupian language family, which includes the Tupi language among others, all of which are indigenous American languages.

Religion

Nearly 90% of Paraguay's population is Roman Catholic; a result of the Spanish settlement and influence. The rest of the population is also primarily Christian, but they fall into various sects of Protestantism.

Catholicism is a Christian religion that is one of the first Christian religions and was the most dominant religious force in the Christian world for years. Catholicism believes that there is a single God who created everything, a savior, the son of God, Jesus Christ who is the forgiver of sins, and there is the Holy Spirit, which makes up the last part of the Holy Trinity.

Continue reading on Safari the Globe to Learn the Catholic Church's doctrines, liturgy, symbolism, traditions, & hierarchy

This page was last updated: May, 2014