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Discover Paraguay, a hidden gem in the heart of South America, and explore its extraordinary and understudied ecosystems. This remarkable country is a biodiversity hotspot, home to the critically endangered Upper Paraná Atlantic Forest and a stunning array of wildlife. Imagine spotting a hooded capuchin monkey or hearing the distinct call of a black and gold howler monkey, or catching a glimpse of the endemic Pilar tuco-tuco. With over 720 species of birds, Paraguay offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness unique fauna thriving in rare habitats.

Despite its natural riches, Paraguay faces pressure from industrial agriculture and cattle ranching. As the world's fourth-largest soybean exporter, the country's economic growth often comes at the expense of its fragile ecosystems. However, a new generation of eco-leaders is rising to the challenge. This program partners with, a grassroots conservation non-profit founded by a Dragonfly graduate, dedicated to protecting Paraguay's habitats through scientific research, education, and community engagement. You'll gain a diverse set of skills essential for effective eco-leadership, from assessing wildlife populations to developing public exhibits and fostering local ingenuity.

*** If you're interested in Paraguay: Eco-ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉúhip for Summer 2026, . This option is ideal for anyone needing Continuing Education Units or additional graduate credits, those with previous Master's experiences, or Dragonfly alums. We offer a limited number of spots (up to 6) for non-Master's candidates in most of our EE courses. An undergraduate degree is required. ***

Asunción

Students will fly into Asunción, the capital of Paraguay and a historic South American city. Here, shaded streets and local squares, where Guaraní vendors sell exquisite needlework and hand-crafted leather, exist alongside more industrial zones and upscale malls. Asunción is the transportation hub of Paraguay and a gateway to the country’s diverse biological and cultural landscapes.

San Rafael (Nueva Gambach and PRO COSARA)

Located in Eastern Paraguay, San Rafael is the country’s largest remaining fragment of the once extensive Atlantic Forest. Still under threat from agriculture development among other threats, the region is critically important for conservation in South America. This biodiversity hotspot boasts more than 430 species of bird – 60% of all the birds registered in Paraguay are found in this expansive forest reserve. Para La Tierra’s primate team studies the hooded capuchin monkey and works with several rural Paraguayan and indigenous Mbya Guaraní communities surrounding the forest.

Pilar

Also known as ‘The City of Birds,’ Pilar is a quaint town on the coast of the mighty Paraguay River. Surrounded by a network of marshes, streams, and lakes, there is a deep tradition of nature appreciation in this area. Howler monkeys coexist with people in the city, using power-lines and rooftops to travel from fruit tree to fruit tree in the city’s squares and plazas. Pilar is also home to Para La Tierra’s Center for Investigation, Development, Environmental Education and ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉúhip (Centro IDEAL). In addition to wildlife research, the Center oversees a community-wide program that engages children in the conservation of local forest and wetland ecosystems.

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