At the turn of the last century, the Rioblanco area was adorned with valuable resources like rubber and cinchona, which characterized the lush jungle. However, for the first settlers arriving in this untamed environment, the region’s wealth in prized plants contrasted sharply with the dangers presented by native wildlife such as tigers, lions, bears, and snakes. According to the oral history passed down from old residents of the town and distant farms, the semi-discovery of the Mendarco River banks occurred around 1897, stretching from the site “El Mesón” towards the river’s mouth in the torrential Saldaña. Those who inhabited this area balanced agricultural tasks with the exploitation of rubber. Notably, these early settlers, driven by the allure of cinchona and rubber, did not initially consider establishing a permanent settlement or town. In the late 19th century, an expedition of farmers from Chaparral, including individuals like Abraham Caicedo, Marcelino Hernández, and Absalón Ramírez, ventured into the remote and dense forests for over three years, reaching the banks of the Blanco River. Their primary objective was the exploitation of cinchona, a highly valued product. These expeditions, lasting about a month and a half, involved extracting eight to ten arrobas of ball rubber from the jungle. The explorers then navigated the Saldaña River to Ataco, where they found buyers for their product. The journey presented challenges, including dangerous water currents, but it provided access to a clientele willing to purchase the natural resources. Driven solely by the desire for wealth, these jungle tamers never intended to establish permanent settlements. Their focus was on opening trails that would lead them to the coveted rubber tree or the small cinchona plant. The expeditions were perilous, as they exposed themselves to the dangers of the wilderness, contending with formidable adversaries like tigers, Creole lions, bears, and snakes. Despite the constant threat of the natural environment, these pioneers exhibited bravery and courage, making their mark as trailblazers in the dense jungles surrounding Rioblanco.

Geography of the city
Rioblanco, situated at approximately 3°31’45” N latitude and 75°38’41” W longitude, encompasses a vast area of 1443 square kilometers. Positioned at an average altitude of 900 meters above sea level, the city boasts diverse landscapes and terrains. As of 2015, the population of Rioblanco stood at 24,553 inhabitants, resulting in a population density of around 11,386.32 people per square kilometer. Within the urban confines, 4,673 individuals contribute to the city’s vibrant community. These geographical and demographic characteristics paint a dynamic picture of Rioblanco, capturing both its spatial expanse and the density of its population, factors that undoubtedly influence the city’s climate, topography, and overall living experience.