Amazon basin: Quick Facts

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Last updated

Oct. 29, 2026

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Photos and Videos

Aerial view of the Amazon River curving through dense green jungle in the Amazon Basin, Peru.

Physical map of northern and central South America highlighting the Andes Mountains along the continent's western edge and the Amazon River basin and drainage network spanning Brazil, Peru, Colombia, and surrounding countries. The map uses color shading to show elevation, marks major rivers, cities, international and political boundaries, and features a small locator map of South America in the corner.

Aerial view of Amazon rainforest showing a large cleared area with exposed soil and felled trees bordering dense green forest.

A narrow stream winds through dense, lush green vegetation in the Ecuadorian Amazon rainforest, with moss-covered rocks and overhanging trees.

White text on a textured blue background reading Amazonia.

Learn about effects of mercury used in gold mining on drinking water of innocent wildlife in Amazon Basin

Follow streams that flow from the Andes Mountains and merge to form the Amazon River

Learn how the Andes Mountains block warm moist air, causing heavy rainfall that feeds the Amazon River

Compare the expanse of the Amazon Basin with the U.S. state of Texas

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Topics

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