Puerto Nariño is a peaceful town in Colombia that’s trying out sustainable living. Unlike busy Leticia, its neighbor, Puerto Nariño has no cars or motorbikes on its clean streets. It’s a positive example of how a community can live in harmony with nature.

To get there, you need to take a boat ride from Leticia, enjoying the scenic views along the Amazon River. Puerto Nariño is surrounded by endangered rainforest, attracting visitors who want to see the planet’s “lungs” up close.

The town was certified as a “sustainable tourist destination” in 2012, thanks to its efforts to protect the environment. Most of its 6,000 residents are from Indigenous groups, and they play a big role in keeping the town clean and organized.

Puerto Nariño doesn’t have roads, and only two vehicles are allowed: a garbage truck and an ambulance. Instead, people walk or use boats to get around. The town’s streets are lined with trees and plants, and there’s hardly any litter in sight.

Local families grow their own food using sustainable farming methods. They sell their produce at a daily market, where you can find fresh fruits, vegetables, and Amazon fish.

The community also works together to protect wildlife and educate visitors about the importance of conservation. Indigenous guides lead tours to see pink dolphins, sloths, and other animals in the nearby lake.

Puerto Nariño’s conservation efforts are locally led, with Indigenous people playing a key role in decision-making. They’ve created a unique blend of jungle living and eco-friendly practices in the middle of the rainforest.

Visiting Puerto Nariño is a chance to experience nature’s beauty while supporting sustainable tourism. It may not solve all the environmental challenges facing the Amazon, but it’s a step in the right direction.