The Paraguayan Chaco or Región Occidental (Western Region) is a semi-arid region in Paraguay, with a very low population density. The area is being rapidly deforested. Consisting of more than 60% of Paraguay's land area, but with less than 10% of the population, the Chaco is one of the most sparsely inhabited areas in South America. The surrounding Gran Chaco area is also a large geographic area that is sparsely populated. Many of those living in the region are indigenous. It covers the departments of Boquerón, Alto Paraguay and the Department of Presidente Hayes, Paraguay.