San Juan River (Colombia)

The San Juan River is a major river located in western Colombia, flowing primarily through the Chocó Department. It is notable for its high rainfall and biodiversity, being situated in one of the wettest regions in the world.

The river's source is in the Andes Mountains, and it flows generally westward to its delta on the Pacific coast, north of Buenaventura. The river is an important transportation route for local communities, especially for movement of timber, agricultural products, and people. Many settlements along its banks rely heavily on the river for their livelihoods.

The San Juan River basin is characterized by its dense rainforest, rich in plant and animal life. The area is sparsely populated, primarily by Afro-Colombian and indigenous communities. The region has historically faced challenges related to illegal mining, deforestation, and armed conflict, which have impacted the river's ecosystem and the lives of its inhabitants. Conservation efforts are ongoing to protect the biodiversity of the river basin and promote sustainable development.