Avá Guaraní
The second most numerous Indigenous people in Paraguay, with communities in the east and north and a long history of defending their territory.
What it is
The Avá Guaraní (known as Chiripá in Brazil and Argentina) live mainly in Canindeyú and Alto Paraná, and also in Caaguazú, Concepción and Amambay. They are the second largest people in the country according to the 2022 census. They should not be confused with the 'Ava' or Chiriguano of the Chaco, which the INE classifies separately as Western Guaraní. According to the INE, use of their own language is in a critical state in several communities, where many people speak Paraguayan Guaraní. According to the INE, after Canindeyú and Alto Paraná, the largest Avá Guaraní population lives in San Pedro (about 2,080 people).
Culture
Their relationship with the land (tekoha) is central. According to Indigenous organisations and the press, about 38 Avá Guaraní Paranaense communities were displaced by the Itaipú dam, which also submerged the Guairá Falls, part of their territory, and today several communities seek restitution of land, such as Sauce. It is a living issue, not a fact of the past. To learn more, the Museo Etnográfico Dr. Andrés Barbero (Asunción) and the Centro de Artes Visuales / Museo del Barro, which holds an Indigenous art collection, are two starting points; check opening hours before you go.
Where they live
Canindeyú, Alto Paraná, San Pedro, Caaguazú, Amambay, Concepción
If you visit a community, do so with permission from its leaders or through Indigenous organizations, and ask before taking photos.
Indigenous peoples
Researched and reviewed in September 2026 with 6 sources. A second reviewer checked dates, coordinates and lodging. Hours and prices may change.