Paraguay: The unspoilt river country in the heart of South America attracts nature lovers with two dozen national parks, biotopes, the Ypacaraí lake and the Itaipu reservoir.

The green capital Asunción is also worth a visit. The Chaco in the northwest, a vast steppe, crossed by water, populated by wild animals and cattle, covers two thirds of the country and is home to the Guarani, German-speaking Mennonites and cattle barons.

An absolute highlight are the ruins of the Jesuit reduction not far from Iguazú.

Uruguay, the smallest country in Latin America, does not have to hide from its bigger neighbours. In the capital Montevideo, with its stately buildings and magnificent streets, one feels as if one has been transported to another time.

Uruguay is small in size, but big in sightseeings, like the Uruguayan Riviera for recreation seekers, gentle, hilly pastures for the soul and Punta del Este with its glamour for the jet set. The word "Uruguay" means "river of colourful birds".

 

TRAVEL TIPS

Culture:

Jesuit reductions Jesús de Taravangue and Trinidad del Parana (UNESC World Heritage), Asunción, Paraguay, Colonia del Sacramento (UNESCO World Heritage, Montevideo, Uruguay)

Nature:

San Rafael National Park and Gran Chaco, Paraguay

Sports:

Water Sports and Polo in Uruguay, Fishing, Golf, Horse Riding, Trekking in Paraguay

Festivals:

Feast of the Virgin of Caacupé (8.12) in Paraguay, Semana Griolla (Rodeo Week) in April in Montevideo, Uruguay

Culinary:

In Paraguay the Mate tea grows in highest quality. In both countries, hardly anyone starts the day without this delicate, bitter infusion - that is a way of life. The most important food is meat, mostly from the grill and of excellent quality.

Tip:

A visit to the "Mercado del Puerto" in Montevideo, where the entire range of the country's culinary offer is offered, primarily meat specialities, fish and seafood.

FACTS AND FIGURES PARAGUAY

Country and people:

Paraguay has 6.9 million inhabitants to 90% Spanish-Indian descent on 407 thousand sqkm, capital is Asunción with 2.6 million inhabitants.

Language:

Spanish and Guaraní

Currency:

Guaraní (PYG)

Entry:

Valid passport for stays up to 90 days.

Climate and travel time:

Best travel time April to Oct.

DATES AND FACTS URUGUAY

Country and people:

Uruguay has 3.38 million inhabitants on 176.2 thousand sqkm, capital is Montevideo with 1.33 million inhabitants.

Language:

Spanish

Currency:

Uruguayan Peso (UYP)

Climate and travel time:

Best travel time Oct. to May

Entry:

Valid passport for stays up to 90 days