Magdalena River Facts for Kids

Quick facts for kids Magdalena
River
The delta of the Magdalena River
Name origin: Biblical figure Mary Magdalene

Country	Colombia

Tributaries
- left	Páez River, Saldaña River, La Miel River, Nare River, Cauca River, San Jorge River
- right	Cabrera River, Bogotá River, Negro River, Carare River, Sogamoso River, Cesar River
Cities	Neiva, Girardot, Honda, La Dorada, Puerto Boyacá, Puerto Berrío, Barrancabermeja, Santa Cruz de Mompox, Magangué, Barranquilla


Source	La Magdalena lagoon
- location	Colombian Massif, Colombia
- elevation	3,685 m (12,090 ft)
- coordinates	1°56′3″N 76°36′29″W / 1.93417°N 76.60806°W / 1.93417; -76.60806
Mouth	Caribbean Sea
- location	Baranquilla, Colombia
- elevation	0 m (0 ft)
- coordinates	11°7′0″N 74°51′0″W / 11.11667°N 74.85000°W / 11.11667; -74.85000

Length	1,528 km (949 mi)
Basin	257,438 km² (99,397 sq mi)
Discharge	for Calamar, Bolívar
- average	7,200 m³/s (254,300 cu ft/s)
- max	12,000 m³/s (423,800 cu ft/s)
- min	2,000 m³/s (70,600 cu ft/s)

The Magdalena River is the most important river in the western part of Colombia. It flows for about 1,528 kilometers (949 miles) from south to north. This makes it the longest river in the country. A huge part of Colombia's population, about 80 percent, lives near the river or its smaller streams.

The river is like a busy highway for boats. It can be used by ships for about 1,000 kilometers (620 miles) upstream to the city of Honda. At Honda, there are fast-moving sections called rapids. After these rapids, the river becomes calm enough for boats again for another 240 kilometers (150 miles).

Where Does the Magdalena River Start and End?
Why is the Magdalena River Important?
- A Lifeline for People and Wildlife
History and Culture of the River
- River Transport Over Time
Images for kids
See also

Where Does the Magdalena River Start and End?

The Magdalena River begins high up in the Colombian Massif. This is a mountain range in southwestern Colombia. It starts from a place called La Magdalena lagoon. The river then flows north across the country. Finally, it empties into the Caribbean Sea near the city of Barranquilla.

Why is the Magdalena River Important?

The Magdalena River is super important for Colombia. It has been a main way to travel and trade for centuries. Many cities and towns grew up along its banks. These include Neiva, Girardot, and Barranquilla. Barranquilla is one of Colombia's biggest cities.

A Lifeline for People and Wildlife

The river provides water for farming and drinking. It also supports many different kinds of plants and animals. The area around the river is home to unique wildlife. This includes various fish, birds, and even some mammals. The river's health is vital for the environment.

History and Culture of the River

The Magdalena River has played a big role in Colombia's history. It was used by native people long before Europeans arrived. Later, it became the main route for explorers and goods. The river helped connect different parts of the country. It allowed ideas and cultures to spread.

River Transport Over Time

In the past, steamboats were common on the Magdalena. They carried passengers and cargo. Today, smaller boats and barges still use the river. They transport things like oil, coffee, and other products. The river continues to be a key part of Colombia's transportation network.