Caquetá Department

Caquetá Department covers a large part of southeastern Colombia, extending from the mountains of the Eastern Cordillera down to the lower areas of the Amazon Basin. The landscape shifts from green hills in the west to wide plains and dense rainforest in the east.

The territory was organized as an intendancy in 1905 and officially became a department in 1981. This change gave the region more autonomy and a stronger role in the Colombian administrative system.

The name comes from the Caquetá River, which flows through the territory and shapes how communities organize their daily routines. Many residents live along the waterways, where boats and small docks define everyday movement.

The region sits around 590 feet (180 m) above sea level and follows the UTC-5 time zone. Travelers should note that many places are accessible by river routes or unpaved roads.

With around 4.5 people per square kilometer, this territory ranks among the least populated regions in Colombia. The wide spaces leave room for nature and small, scattered settlements.

Location: Colombia

Inception: December 15, 1981

Capital city: Florencia

Elevation above the sea: 182 m

Reference: CAQ

Part of: Amazon natural region

Shares border with: Putumayo Department, Cauca Department, Huila Department, Meta Department, Guaviare Department, Vaupés Department, Amazonas Department

Website: http://caqueta.gov.co

GPS coordinates: 1.03333,-73.90000

Latest update: December 13, 2025 16:34