Facts About Amazon River

Here are some fascinating facts about the Amazon River, one of the most iconic and important rivers in the world:

🌊 Amazing Facts About the Amazon River:

Second Longest River (or maybe First?)
The Amazon is often considered the second longest river in the world, after the Nile. However, some studies argue the Amazon might actually be longer, depending on where you measure its source.
Largest River by Volume
The Amazon carries more water than any other river — it accounts for about 20% of the world’s freshwater that flows into oceans.
Flows Through Multiple Countries
The river flows through 9 countries: Brazil, Peru, Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Venezuela, Guyana, Suriname, and French Guiana.
Over 1,100 Tributaries
The Amazon has over 1,100 tributaries, with 17 of them over 1,500 kilometers (930 miles) long!
Home to the Amazon Rainforest
The Amazon River flows through the Amazon Rainforest, the largest tropical rainforest on Earth, often called the “lungs of the planet.”
Incredible Biodiversity
The river basin is one of the most biodiverse places on Earth. It’s home to:
- Pink river dolphins 🐬
- Piranhas 🐟
- Anacondas 🐍
- Electric eels ⚡
- Over 3,000 species of fish (and still counting!)
No Bridges Across It (in the main part)
Despite its size, there are no bridges crossing the main course of the Amazon River. The surrounding forest and flooding make bridge-building super difficult.
Massive Flooding
In the wet season, the Amazon can swell to over 24 miles (40 km) wide, turning forest into temporary lakes.
Supports Indigenous Tribes
Many indigenous communities live along the Amazon and rely on it for water, food, and transport. Some of these tribes are still uncontacted by the outside world.
Discovered by Europeans in 1541
Spanish explorer Francisco de Orellana was the first European to navigate the Amazon River, giving it its name after encountering fierce warrior women — reminding him of the mythical Amazons from Greek legend.