Amazonas and Orinoco

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The destination: Dense, wild rainforest bordering vast open plains characterizes this extensive region of the country. In the north, Los Llanos [loz 'ʎa nos], the endless great plains, stretch beyond the horizon and are teeming with exotic wildlife. This region is home not only to cattle farmers, but also to capybaras, caimans, birds and coatis, and features breathtaking sights like Caño Cristales ['ka ɲo kris 'ta les], also known as the “Crystal Canyon”, a colorful natural spectacle created by unique aquatic algae.

In the south, the Amazon rainforest, bordering the Amazon River, shelters countless indigenous communities, extraordinary flora and fauna, and unique natural wonders.

The people: Llaneros, the region’s cowboys, are known for their strong sense of solidarity and dedication, and are always eager to share their way of life. The Amazon region, one of the least densely populated areas of the country, is home to people from all corners of Colombia who have settled in the rainforest.

Typical food: Carne a la mamona ['kar ne a la ma 'mo na] = slow-roasted veal cooked over a wood fire on metal rods; Chicharrones de pirarucú [tʃi tʃa 'řo nez ðe pi ra ru 'ku] = seasoned, breaded and fried pieces of pirarucú, a typical regional fish

Fun fact: The traditional Llanero cowboy songs were declared Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.