Braving the Amazon

Many of you have probably already heard of the Amazon Rainforest, the world’s biggest rainforest and most biodiverse region. The Amazon forms a large part of the nation of Colombia, making up approximately 35 percent of the country. It is home to some of the most beautiful and exotic animal and plant life in the world, with hundreds of tributaries and 2.1 million square miles (5.5 square kilometers) of land. The most well-known inhabitants of the Amazon are iconic in many different ways:

• jaguars
• sloths
• spider monkeys
• pink dolphins
• toucans

Plants like orchids and cacao also thrive in its climate. Experts estimate that some 400 Indigenous tribes live in the rainforest.​

Amazonian Adventures

The Amazon is part of three countries:

• Brazil
• Peru
• Colombia

It contributes to their economies, providing land, resources, and opportunities for tourism. Projects that extract oil and natural gas bring revenue but also pose threats to conservation.

Tourists can choose from many resorts along the river, taking tours offered by locals. The Amazon is open every day as there are no off-seasons. The weather is a constant loop of rainy, humid, and warm, with temperatures between 23℃ and 30℃ (68℉-86℉).

Many people love the Amazon for its exotic location as well as biodiverse animal and plant life. Excursions that include physical activity range from hiking to rock climbing to canoeing in the river.

Welcome to the Jungle

Even though it’s a great destination for tourists wanting a unique adventure, the Amazon is still a hazardous jungle environment. Encountering these animals might leave unpleasant memories:

• poison dart frogs that can kill with just a touch
• the largest species of spider in the world, capable of eating a bird
• bullet ants whose sting feels like being shot
• piranhas that will chomp on tourists’ toes
• black caimans that weigh up to 800 pounds

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