Leticia is an ideal starting point for exploring the Colombian Amazon. This river port town is the perfect stopover to venture deep into the Amazon rainforest and discover the Amazon River.

Geographic Location

Leticia is located at the southern tip of Colombia, at the border with Brazil and Peru. Capital of the Amazonas department in Colombia, it serves as a gateway to the Amazon rainforest. The city is accessible only by plane or boat.

History

Leticia is the birthplace of the Uitoto, Inga, Ticuna, Yucuna and Nukak indigenous cultures. The city was founded in 1867 by Benigno Bustamante, a Peruvian military officer. It has been part of Colombia since 1922.

Discovering Leticia and the Amazon

When you mention only the pink river dolphins, marmosets and black caimans, it becomes clear that the biodiversity of the Amazon is exceptional. Leticia is an authentic city full of secrets.

Tracking the pink river dolphins of the Amazon

Continue your adventure toward Lake Tarapoto, located just near Puerto Nariño. Pink river dolphins traverse the Amazon rivers and gather in large numbers in this lake. It is one of the main attractions of the Amazon. Known by many names—boto, boutou, butu—the pink river dolphin measures between 2 and 2.8 meters in length, can weigh up to 200 kg, and live up to 15 years.

A brief stop at MundoAmazonico Ecological Park

During your Leticia getaway, the Mundo Amazonico ecological park is well worth a visit. More than a simple nature reserve, it is also an environmental education center. With a local guide, you can learn about the diverse cultures and communities that have settled there for decades. You will also discover a garden featuring plant species typical of the region with detailed explanations of their uses. Many activities are available on site, making it a perfect destination for family visits.

A visit to Isla de los Micos—Monkey Island

Located on the banks of the Amazon, Monkey Island is home to more than 5,000 specimens. You can reach the island by boat. It is the perfect place to encounter squirrel monkeys. These primates are accustomed to human presence and in exchange, you will need to bring them food. They will happily nibble from your hands. Don't be alarmed—the monkeys sometimes even climb onto you. You can purchase souvenirs on the island; some locals craft various unique objects from palo de sangre (bloodwood), an extremely durable timber.

Kayaking on Lake Yahuarcaca

By boat, explore Lake Yahuarcaca, a paradise for birdwatchers. You may spot eagles and kingfishers in action. Keep your eyes open—you might encounter pink river dolphins or reptiles. Allow yourself to be charmed by the Tikuna indigenous community of La Playa. Typically, departures are at 9:00 am and returns at 6:00 pm.

Navigating the Amazon River

Boating and kayaking expeditions, treks, encounters with indigenous communities, and piranha fishing are all on the agenda along the Amazon River.

Around Leticia

A detour to Tanimboca Natural Reserve

For nature lovers, Tanimboca Natural Reserve is a top-tier destination. Located about thirty minutes from Leticia, you can spend the night in tree houses. Night safaris or jungle tours accompanied by a shaman can be arranged. Other activities are also available to visitors: canopy walks, kayaking and hiking.

Discovering Puerto Nariño

Need a bit of tranquility? Head to Puerto Nariño. Located approximately 75 km from Leticia, you'll follow the Amazon to reach it. The boat journey from Leticia to this small indigenous village takes about two hours.

Other activities in Leticia

• Taste local cuisine
• Visit indigenous villages
• Explore Omagua Park
• Take a jungle excursion
• Discover Marasha Reserve
• Visit Puerto Alegría

Practical Information

Unlike many cities in Colombia, Leticia is not accessible by road. The fastest and most comfortable way to get there is by plane. From Bogotá, the approximate flight time is 2 hours. Once you arrive, you'll have no trouble getting around—most parks are easily accessible. The tuk-tuk is the most common form of transportation in Leticia.

When to visit?

The climate is warm and rainy year-round. In the Amazon, rain can strike at any time, so always be prepared. However, rainfall decreases from June through September, making this the best period for organizing an Amazon expedition.