Paraguay

At the heart of South America

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Paraguay is a country with long traditions, a passion for soccer and fascinating natural beauties. A mix of the indigenous Guarani Indian culture with that of the Spanish conquistadors resulted in very friendly, warm and welcoming people who can’t wait to show you their riverside capital of Asuncion, Jesuit mission ruins, and national parks.

Paraguayan teenagers like to spend their weekends together going out together as a group: to play sports, have picnics, go to parties or a movie, take walks, or hang out in parks. Dancing is a big part of the culture of Paraguay. Paraguayan teenagers also place a lot of value on their academic success and spend their free time on weekdays dedicated to their homework.

People & Community

Most people in Paraguay are mestizos, people of mixed European and Indian descent, and most are bilingual in Spanish and Guaraní. Paraguayans are very hospitable and enjoy in a peaceful, leisurely pace life. Paraguayan traditions proudly keep its native arts, crafts, music, instruments and dance. Families are the center of Paraguayan society. You will probably live in a small town with easy access to larger cities in Paraguay. Families tend to be very traditional and protective of their children, especially daughters. Most social activities, vacations, and weekends are family events.

School

You will probably attend a private high school with a focus on business, accounting and administration; social sciences; or biological sciences. On most days, classes run until 3pm. In public schools, classes run in two shifts, from 7 am until noon and 1.30 to 6.30 pm. Students in Paraguay wear uniforms.

Language

There are two official languages in Paraguay: Spanish and Guaraní, and most Paraguayans understand them both. AFS Paraguay will provide an online language course with Rosetta Stone to help you learn the language and prepare for your time in Paraguay.

Food

The staple of Paraguayan nutrition is meet, which is locally produced in large amounts. Corn, rice, potatoes and wheat are important staples, as are in-season fruits. The most traditional dish is Sopa Paraguaya, a corn flour cake made with eggs, milk, cheese and onions. Meals are a time for family and socializing, especially on Sundays.

Chipa in Paraguay

Let AFS guide your intercultural adventure

With over 75 years of experience in student exchanges, we know what we’re doing when it comes to support and education! AFS provides comprehensive orientation for all students and families before, during and after your exchange – AFS volunteers and staff will be there to support and guide you the whole way through. In-person orientation camps in New Zealand and your host country are supplemented by our world-leading online Student Learning Journey, an interactive course that brings AFSers from around the world together to develop essential global skills, learn intercultural communication techniques, and practice social impact. This journey will help you maximise your experience, cope with the challenges of navigating a new culture and community, and gain knowledge, skills, and a global understanding throughout your time abroad and as you return to your home country. Find out more about our educational expertise here!

Explore the Programmes Available in Paraguay