• 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!

Social Life in Paraguay

Behavior

The Paraguayans are conservative in most aspects of their lives and this is best seen in their behaviors. They tend to dress and act conservatively, much of which is based on the tenants of the Catholic Church. Many of their behaviors and lifestyles are based on the landscape and the Guarani people, which most Paraguayans identify with.

As a visitor to Paraguay try to follow the lead of the locals by dressing conservatively (see below for details), dining in the local etiquette (see our Paraguay Dining & Food Page), and avoid doing anything that makes you stand out as a foreigner. Also try to avoid being loud, rude, showing off wealth, or getting noticeably drunk in public.

Dress

The dress in Paraguay is neither fully indigenous nor is it fully western, although it tends to fall closer to the western-styled clothing and in some cities, such as Asuncion, western-styled clothes dominate.

Many of the men in more rural areas tend to wear loose fitting pants called bombachas and straw hats to protect them from the sun, especially if they work outside. Women in rural areas tend to wear a simple dress or skirt, a blouse, and a rebozo, which is a shawl. In the cities this traditional dress is all but lost, especially in professional settings as western-styled clothes are common.

As a visitor to the country you are welcome to wear either western-styled clothes or the more traditional local dress, but no matter the clothes you wear, be sure to cover up. The Paraguayans are somewhat conservative in terms of dress and you should avoid wearing anything that shows too much skin or anything that is too tight. Shorts, sandals (on men), and t-shirts are not common and to some people may even be offensive. More than anything, these clothes will receive stares and are not recommended, especially if you are visiting churches as long pants, shirts, and shoes should be worn in any religious site.

This page was last updated: November, 2013