Nestled on the shores of the Amazon River, just 87km from Leticia, you’ll find Puerto Nariño. A tranquil experiment in sustainable living, it really is one-of-a-kind. The careful monitoring of the town’s growth and the rules and regulations it has protecting the reserve is what first drew me to the place and why I’ve continued to go for 37 years.
Founded in 1961, it became the second-largest municipality in the Amazonas department by 1984. Today, it’s home to three Indigenous groups: the Tikunas, Cocamas and Yaguas, who are some of the friendliest people you’ll meet. I’m always saying hello. They lead many of the measures ensuring the town’s sustainable development. As a visitor, you can fish using hooks or arrows – nets are prohibited by fishery agreements that protect the ecosystem. Life in Puerto Nariño is deeply connected to the Amazon’s natural rhythms and the lakes are central to everything.
Most of the buildings are wooden houses, blending seamlessly with the forest. The town is impeccably clean and there are designated areas where you can fill your water bottles for free – no plastic required. There are just six hostels and one small, well-run hotel. Visiting Puerto Nariño isn’t about any impressive infrastructure or luxury suites, it’s about immersing yourself in the beauty of Mother Nature.
Exploring the area is a truly unforgettable experience. You can hike through the jungle, glide across the river and, if you’re lucky, catch a glimpse of the pink dolphins that have been my life’s work. The lakes also host a wealth of other wildlife, making them a paradise for nature enthusiasts.
Puerto Nariño isn’t just a place, it’s a model for how humanity can coexist with nature. The Indigenous-led initiatives here show that sustainable living isn’t just possible, it’s essential. This small town offers lessons the world desperately needs. If we want a future where people and the planet thrive together, we could all learn a lot from Puerto Nariño.
Interview by Farah Thorndycraft
