Guainía

Guainía is a department of Colombia, located in the easternmost part of the country. Its capital is Puerto Ayacucho, which is also its largest city. The department shares borders with Venezuela to the north and east, and with the departments of Vichada and Guaviare to the west. Guainía is characterized by its vast, mostly undeveloped Amazon rainforest, and its significant indigenous population.

The economy of Guainía is primarily based on subsistence agriculture, fishing, and some small-scale mining. The region is rich in natural resources, including timber and minerals, but their exploitation is limited due to the remote location and environmental concerns. Tourism is a growing sector, attracting visitors interested in ecotourism, indigenous culture, and the unique biodiversity of the Amazon.

The territory of Guainía is home to numerous indigenous communities, including the Puinave, Curripaco, and Siona. These communities maintain distinct languages, traditions, and ways of life, deeply connected to the rainforest. The cultural heritage of Guainía is a significant aspect of its identity.

The department is known for its stunning natural landscapes, including the Caño Cristales, a river famous for its vibrant colors caused by aquatic plants, though it is located in the neighboring Meta department and often mistakenly associated with Guainía due to its remote location. Guainía's remoteness and pristine environment offer a unique glimpse into the Amazonian ecosystem. The Guainía River, which gives the department its name, is a major waterway that flows into the Orinoco River.