We’ve all heard stories about the Amazon rainforest. People lost in the jungle for days. Jaguars, pumas, and spiders bigger than your head. Cannibalistic communities who view the average traveler as a rare delicacy.
But what struck me most when I first landed in the Colombian Amazon was just how normal it felt. People catching buses through town, eating their lunch by the side of the river. Families and friends crossing country lines on the daily, existing between borders drawn far from the Amazon itself.
I was even further surprised when I traveled upriver, to the tiny town of Puerto Nariño. Here, the aforementioned jaguars, pumas, and spiders are certainly a reality, and yet there were people living their normal lives among it all. Ordinary lives in extreme conditions, community across borders.
As an American who loves Latin America, a story that transcends borders feels especially relevant right now. It’s not exactly the story I expected to find in Amazonas, but certainly one that continued to play a role in nearly every encounter I had. This is one of my favorite departments I’ve ever explored, and I hope you enjoy the video to explore along with me!
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If I’ve written any articles about Amazonas, you’ll see them listed here!
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In my journey to visit all 32 departments of Colombia I’ve written extensively about the different places I’ve traveled and people I’ve met. Click below to view all of my guides, stories, and tips from my travels around Colombia.
Virginia Taylor (Ginna) is a travel writer and photographer exploring the world until her boots wear through. She’s currently on a mission to explore all 32 departments of Colombia, though she formerly called the Middle East home. Want to know more? Visit the About Page.