The Amazon — a River Without Bridges

The Amazon River, with a length of approximately 6,800 kilometers, creates a stunning landscape with its vast volume of water and rich fauna and flora. Considered the second longest river after the Nile, the Amazon flows through three main countries — Brazil, Colombia, and Peru — as well as Venezuela, Ecuador, and Bolivia. The main part of the river is located in Brazil. The Amazon, which “feeds” the Amazon rainforest, discharges about 219,000 cubic meters of fresh water into the ocean every second. One of the most astonishing features of the Amazon is the absence of a single bridge crossing the river. Surrounded by dense green forests, the river can only be crossed by ship or boat from one bank to the other. During the rainy season, the water level rises up to 30 meters above normal. In the Amazon, one can encounter unique freshwater dolphins known as “boto,” found nowhere else, as well as the dorado fish with a blunt forehead and yellowish-green color. Viewed from above, the branching Amazon River resembles a winding snake. This river, which attracts the attention of many, offers boat tours for tourists. Travelers enjoying the combined beauty of the Amazon rainforest and the river can closely observe various species of insects, birds, plants, monkeys, and jaguars. For those who enjoy unexpected events and thrilling adventures, the Amazon is one of the best natural tourist destinations. Visitors to the Amazon have the opportunity to become familiar with Amazonian villages, local people, and culture. Here, tourists are shown traditional cooking techniques and are offered activities such as tree climbing, relaxing in open-veranda huts, and taking photographs on trees.