Paraguay, South America travel resource.

Paraguay,South America.

Paraguay was once so isolated it was called an island surrounded by land. But in recent years, this small, landlocked country has opened up to the outside world. It has adopted democracy and free trade. It's friendly and relatively safe. Still, it's not often given serious consideration by travelers planning South American itineraries. Perhaps that's because its attractions aren't as dramatic as those of its neighbors.
What it does have is a surprising variety of unspoiled terrain for bird-watchers, anglers and nature lovers -- ranging from savanna and marshland to subtropical farms, ranches and rain forest. Its stark, sparsely settled Chaco region, where most of the country's indigenous Guarani Indians reside, offers good opportunities for trekking. These days, you can have these more subtle pleasures nearly all to yourself.
The land that became Paraguay was populated by Guarani Indians until the Spaniards conquered it in the 1500s. Fortunately for all, the two societies blended well, and the current population is a mix that maintains the distinct characteristics of each. Ruled by dictators throughout most of its history, the country suffered tremendous blows from two devastating wars: the 1865-1870 War of the Triple Alliance and the 1930s Chaco War. In the War of the Triple Alliance, tiny Paraguay took on the combined might of Argentina, Brazil and Uruguay. The country was devastated by the conflict -- nearly every male over the age of 12 was killed, a demographic disaster from which the nation has never really recovered. The Chaco War, however, which was waged against Bolivia, wasn't a complete debacle for the nation: Paraguay got all its current territory north of Filadelfia.