Leticia, Colombia: The Ultimate Gateway to the Amazon Rainforest

Nestled in the far southern corner of Colombia, where the country borders Brazil and Peru, Leticia is a remote, fascinating frontier town and the capital of the Amazonas Department. With dense rainforest on all sides, indigenous tribes just a short boat ride away, and the mighty Amazon River flowing through the region, Leticia offers one of the most unique travel experiences in South America.
 

This complete travel guide will help you understand why Leticia is more than just a border town—it’s a vibrant Amazonian hub bursting with wildlife, culture, and adventure.

📍 Where Is Leticia?

Leticia lies on the Amazon River, at the intersection of Colombia, Brazil, and Peru. It shares a border with Tabatinga, Brazil, creating a rare bi-national city experience.

Region: Amazonas, Colombia

Population: Approx. 40,000

Closest Airport: Alfredo Vásquez Cobo International Airport (LET)

Access: Mainly by plane from Bogotá (around 2 hours)

There are no roads connecting Leticia to the rest of Colombia. This isolation preserves its unique Amazonian culture and biodiversity, making it a true escape from the modern world.

🌳 Why Visit Leticia?

Leticia is a launchpad for Amazon rainforest exploration. From guided jungle treks and river cruises to wildlife spotting and indigenous village visits, there’s no shortage of activities. It’s ideal for travelers looking for:

Eco-tourism and nature adventures

Wildlife and birdwatching

Indigenous culture and traditions

River experiences like pink dolphin watching

A peaceful alternative to Colombia’s bustling cities

🛩️ How to Get to Leticia

Leticia is accessible only by air or river. The most common route is via a direct flight from Bogotá.

Flights to Leticia:

From Bogotá: Daily flights (approx. 2 hours)

Airlines: LATAM, Avianca, Satena

There are no highways into Leticia, which adds to its untouched charm. You can also arrive by boat from towns along the Amazon River, such as Iquitos (Peru) or Manaus (Brazil), though this is less common and more time-consuming.

🏨 Where to Stay in Leticia

Leticia offers accommodation options for all budgets, from cozy eco-lodges to riverside resorts.

Recommended Stays:

Decameron Decalodge Ticuna – Comfortable resort with Amazon-themed architecture

Amazon B&B – Popular budget-friendly choice with local charm

Calanoa Jungle Lodge – For those wanting to stay deep in the rainforest

Hotel Anaconda – One of the more established hotels with a pool and restaurant

For a more immersive jungle experience, consider staying outside Leticia in the rainforest itself, often reachable by boat.

🐒 Top Things to Do in Leticia

1. Explore the Amazon Rainforest

This is the main reason people visit Leticia. Multiple tour operators offer guided excursions ranging from day trips to multi-day adventures.

Hike through dense jungle trails

Learn about medicinal plants

Spot monkeys, sloths, and countless bird species

2. Visit Indigenous Communities

There are several indigenous tribes living near Leticia, such as the Yagua, Ticuna, and Huitoto.

Take a guided visit to learn about their way of life

Participate in traditional ceremonies

Buy handmade crafts directly from artisans

3. Go on a River Cruise

The Amazon River is the lifeline of the region. Boat tours are an unforgettable way to explore the surrounding jungle.

Sunset or sunrise cruises

Fishing excursions

Visit Peru or Brazil via river

4. See the Pink Dolphins

Pink river dolphins, or “botos,” are native to the Amazon and can often be seen near Leticia.

Head to Lago Tarapoto or Isla de los Micos

Go early morning for best sightings

5. Birdwatching at Parque Santander

Every evening at sunset, thousands of parrots descend on Santander Park, creating a spectacular (and noisy!) natural show.

Free to visit

Ideal for photographers and bird lovers

6. Cross into Tabatinga, Brazil

Walk across the invisible border into Tabatinga—no passport required (unless you're flying out of Brazil).

Shop for Brazilian snacks

Try out Portuguese

Explore local markets

7. Isla de los Micos (Monkey Island)

A popular attraction where visitors can interact with friendly squirrel monkeys in a semi-natural environment.

Great for families

Usually part of a half-day tour

8. Ethnographic Museum of Leticia

A small but interesting museum showcasing indigenous history, traditional tools, and Amazonian art.

Free or small entry fee

Worth a quick visit to understand local culture

🌦️ Best Time to Visit Leticia

Leticia experiences a tropical climate with high humidity and rainfall year-round.

Dry Season: July to September (better for trekking)

Wet Season: October to May (rivers rise, ideal for canoeing and birdwatching)

Leticia is beautiful in all seasons, but choose based on your activity preferences.

🍽️ What to Eat in Leticia

Leticia offers a unique Amazonian culinary experience. Expect lots of fish, tropical fruits, and indigenous ingredients.

Must-Try Dishes:

Pirarucú – Giant Amazonian fish, grilled or fried

Tacacá – Brazilian-inspired soup made with jambu and shrimp

Casabe – Cassava bread eaten with most meals

Exotic fruits like copoazú, arazá, and camu camu

Don’t miss the chance to try jungle juice (jugos amazónicos) made with fresh rainforest fruits!

🎒 What to Pack for Leticia

Lightweight, breathable clothes

Waterproof gear (poncho/jacket)

Insect repellent (essential!)

Sunscreen and sunglasses

Binoculars for wildlife watching

Power bank (some areas have limited electricity)

If you're doing jungle treks, waterproof boots and long sleeves are highly recommended.

🧭 Tips for Visiting Leticia

Cash is king – ATMs exist, but bring some cash as many places don’t accept cards.

Vaccinations – Yellow fever vaccination is recommended and sometimes required.

No visa zone – You can cross into Tabatinga without customs checks, but check visa requirements if flying out.

Local guides matter – Support community-based tourism by hiring local, certified guides.

Spanish and Portuguese – Spanish is spoken in Leticia; Portuguese is common in Tabatinga.

🧘 Responsible Tourism in Leticia

Respect indigenous communities – Always ask before taking photos.

Avoid single-use plastics – Bring your own bottle and filter if possible.

Support local businesses – Buy from artisan markets and eat at family-run restaurants.

Be mindful of wildlife – Avoid tours that exploit animals or allow handling of wild creatures.

🌎 Day Trips & Nearby Excursions

Leticia is not just a destination—it’s a hub. From here, you can embark on exciting day trips and jungle expeditions:

Puerto Nariño – A picturesque village known for its eco-friendly practices

Lago Tarapoto – Prime spot for dolphin watching and canoe trips

Amacayacu National Park – Colombia’s flagship Amazon conservation area

Marasha Natural Reserve (Peru) – Offers overnight jungle stays and canopy walks

These locations are typically accessible by river and often require organized tours.

🌅 Final Thoughts: Is Leticia Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. Leticia is unlike any other destination in Colombia. Its remote jungle setting, access to the mighty Amazon, and rich cultural encounters make it ideal for adventurous travelers, nature lovers, and anyone looking for an off-grid experience.

Whether you’re kayaking down the Amazon, trekking through a rainforest, or sipping fresh camu camu juice with a view of the river, Leticia is the perfect place to connect with nature—and yourself.