Amazonas is one of Colombia’s 32 departments, situated in the far south of the country. Its capital city is Leticia. The department takes its name from the Amazon rainforest, which dominates the region and shapes its culture, biodiversity and way of life.
Below are photographs from a recent visit to Amazonas taken by my good friend Mónica. They capture the lush landscapes, winding rivers and the vibrant atmosphere of this remote and biodiverse corner of Colombia. Thank you, Mónica, for sharing these beautiful images.
Amazonas is defined by its vast river networks, dense forest canopy and rich indigenous heritage. Leticia, the departmental capital, sits on the banks of the Amazon River where Colombia meets Brazil and Peru. This border location makes the city a cultural crossroads and a gateway for eco-tourism, research and river transport.
The photographic series highlights different aspects of the region: tranquil waterways reflecting the sky, forest trails, community life and the striking green of the rainforest. Amazonas supports an extraordinary variety of flora and fauna, with species found nowhere else on the planet. Conservation and sustainable tourism are essential here to protect both biodiversity and the livelihoods of local and indigenous communities.
Travelers to Amazonas often arrive by air into Leticia or by boat along the Amazon and its tributaries. Once there, guided river excursions, jungle walks, birdwatching and visits to indigenous communities offer meaningful ways to experience the region responsibly. Weather is typically warm and humid year-round, with seasonal variations in river levels that affect travel and activity planning.
These photos convey a sense of the region’s scale and serenity: broad rivers cutting through endless green, small settlements adapted to life on the water, and intimate moments from daily life. They are a reminder of the importance of protecting such irreplaceable ecosystems and the knowledge held by the people who call the Amazon home.
Thank you again to Mónica for capturing and sharing these moments from Amazonas. I hope these images inspire interest in Colombia’s Amazon region and the vital work underway to preserve it.