The Paz River forms the natural border between Guatemala and El Salvador. Its waters are shared by both countries for the benefit of their inhabitants. Let’s find out more.
Indice De Contenido
River Paz
The Rio Paz rises in the Quezada mountains, near the Amayo volcano.
It is located in the department of Jutiapa, in Guatemala. It is worth noting that it was also known as the Pasaco River.
This is how the river begins its descent through the mountains of the municipality of Quesada.
In this way, it becomes the natural border that divides the countries of Guatemala and El Salvador (see Suchiate River).
This occurs in the area where the cities of Ahuachapán and Jutiapa are located. (See Sabinas River)
It continues its journey through both countries until it reaches its mouth in the Pacific Ocean.
Characteristics of the Paz River
The Paz River is 134 km long. Its source is 1700 metres above sea level.
The Paz River basin covers an area of approximately 2,661 km2.
Its basin is divided into two parts, approximately 1,732 km2 corresponding to Guatemala and approximately 929 km2 corresponding to El Salvador.
At the confluence with the Chalchuapa River, it becomes the border between El Salvador and Guatemala (see Guadiela River).
Map of the Peace River
Tributaries of the Paz River
In its course, the River Paz receives the waters of what are considered its tributaries, such as the following rivers
- Las Lajas
- Amayo
- La Calera
- Iztacapa Pulula
- Conguaco
- Bran and
- Tempisque
Activities on the Paz River
In all the amplitude of its course you can find different pools, in addition you can also enjoy magical backwaters. All this is suitable to connect with nature in the summer season (see Río Dulce).
It offers an ideal place to enjoy its entire environment in the part that stands out as a bar at the mouth of the river.
There is also another called Barra, a barra being the formation of a kind of beach with sand, generally in an elongated shape. It is about 4 kilometres from the previous one, which is called Garita Palmera.
It is also located in the city of Ahuachapán, in El Salvador, near the border called Las Chinamas, one of the most famous and visited coasts of Río Paz by locals and foreigners.
Enjoying the Rio Paz
How beautiful it is to be able to enjoy the peace and tranquillity of the banks of the Rio Paz, as its name suggests, when its waters are calm.
And the ambience creates an atmosphere of comfort. Surrounded by so much beautiful nature.
Surely nothing gives more happiness than to enjoy the environment that surrounds us. It recharges the visitor with energy.
Rio Paz (2013)
Climate change and the Paz River
There are three different physiographic positions in the Paz River basin. In the upper part, the potential for erosion is greatest.
In the so-called middle part, the susceptibility to erosion is moderate. However, it is in the lower parts of the basin that all the material eroded at higher altitudes is deposited.
As a result, river courses are blocked. This not only leads to soil loss in the upper reaches. It also makes flooding more likely.
Problems in the seedbed
Nutrients are also lost. There is also a correspondingly low water retention due to the loss of infiltration.
This leads to an increase in surface run-off. The result is a significant reduction in agricultural yields and an increase in production costs.
This is because much more fertiliser has to be used to maintain productivity.
Flooding
Another serious problem caused by climate change is flooding. This is a problem that affects both countries in their coastal plains.
This is a problem that affects both countries in their coastal plains. These effects are reflected in the loss of crops due to flooding. Apart from other crops and agricultural activities carried out in both countries.
With the likelihood of this becoming increasingly recurrent. This makes them highly vulnerable to persistent flooding during the rainy season.
It will certainly be necessary to take urgent action to adjust or change the way environmental resources are used. And of these lands that provide the livelihoods of so many people in these two countries. Without words.
Curiosities
Taking advantage of the current environment, I am sure there are many people who would like to take a walk along the river. Enjoy its waters and prepare something to eat on the banks of a place full of comfort.
Surrounded by nature’s most beautiful creation. Fresh air and the sound of the water lapping against the rocks. There is much more to say, much more.
But let’s see it and let’s restore our soul. With this walk that the video shows us. A truly beautiful walk. How wonderful it is to have so many beautiful things to enjoy. That’s why we have to take care of them. Enjoy it!
Rio Paz Ahuachapan.