Leticia

Written by Marcus Kayode, Marika Maslanka, Santiago Rodriguez
03/08/2025
Stunning sunset over the Amazon River with a silhouette of trees near Leticia, Colombia.
Nancy, Pexels

Leticia, Colombia, serves as the primary gateway to the vast Amazon rainforest, offering immersive experiences in nature and insights into indigenous cultures. It is uniquely positioned at the convergence of Colombia, Brazil, and Peru, allowing visitors to experience three distinct cultures.

For socializing, areas like the lively Malecon (tourist boardwalk) provide a place to observe activity along the Amazon River. Hostels in Leticia often feature common areas and shared kitchens, facilitating interaction among travelers. Additionally, restaurants such as Tierras Amazonicas can be good spots to meet other visitors.

Top 5 Things to do in Leticia

Leticia offers immersive Amazonian experiences, including jungle expeditions, wildlife encounters, cultural exchanges with indigenous communities, and unique cross-border exploration.

1. Multi-Day Amazon River and Jungle Expedition

Embark on an extensive journey deep into the Amazon rainforest, typically lasting three to five days. These expeditions involve navigating the Amazon River by boat, trekking through dense jungle trails both day and night to spot wildlife like monkeys, colorful birds, and caimans, and visiting indigenous communities to learn about their traditions. Some tours also include opportunities for piranha fishing, swimming in the river, or staying in a jungle lodge or treehouse. This immersive experience provides a profound connection with the Amazon's biodiversity and cultural heritage.

Cost: Tour prices vary significantly based on duration, group size, and inclusions. Expect to pay between COP 1,600,000 and COP 4,500,000 (approximately $400 - $1,200 USD) per person for a 3-5 day private or small group tour. These costs generally cover transportation, guide services, meals, accommodation, and all specified activities. Booking in advance with reputable agencies is recommended to ensure quality and insurance.

Transport: These tours typically include pick-up and drop-off from your accommodation in Leticia, with all subsequent river and land transportation managed by the tour operator. Access to the jungle and remote communities is primarily by boat along the Amazon River.

2. Day Trip to Puerto Nariño and Tarapoto Lake

Journey upstream on the Amazon River to Puerto Nariño, known as Colombia's first sustainable town and a car-free haven. This peaceful village offers a glimpse into Amazonian life. A highlight of this trip is visiting Tarapoto Lake, where you can observe pink and gray river dolphins in their natural habitat, particularly during the low water season when they are more visible near the shores. Some tours also include a visit to Monkey Island (Isla de los Micos) to interact with squirrel monkeys, and a stop at an indigenous community like Macedonia.

Cost: A guided day tour to Puerto Nariño and Monkey Island typically costs around COP 700,000 to COP 1,000,000 (approximately $185 - $280 USD) per person, usually including boat transport, guide, and lunch. For a self-guided option, a public fast boat from Leticia to Puerto Nariño costs around COP 40,000 (approximately $10 USD) one way. Once in Puerto Nariño, local boats can be hired to explore Tarapoto Lake and nearby areas.

Transport: Access is by boat from Leticia's main port (Malecon). Public fast boats depart regularly. Many tours include hotel pick-up and direct transfer to the port.

3. Explore Parque Ecológico Mundo Amazónico

Experience the Amazon's rich biodiversity and cultural heritage at this ecological park, located just outside Leticia. It offers a comprehensive introduction to the Amazon rainforest without requiring a deep jungle excursion. The park features a botanical garden with endemic medicinal plants, an aquarium showcasing native Amazonian fish species, and interactive cultural scenarios where you can learn about indigenous traditions and practices. Guided eco-routes provide an educational and relaxing experience suitable for all ages.

Cost: Entry fees are accessible, and many tours include transport, entrance, and a guide. Expect the cost to be around COP 40,000 - COP 80,000 (approximately $10 - $20 USD) for entrance and guided routes. Full-day tours with lunch might be slightly higher.

Transport: The park is located at Kilometer 7 on the road from Leticia. You can reach it by a short taxi ride, a local public bus, or as part of a tour that includes hotel pick-up.

4. Witness the Parrot Spectacle at Santander Park

As dusk approaches, gather in Santander Park in the heart of Leticia to witness a remarkable natural phenomenon. Thousands of vibrant parrots flock to the trees within the park, creating a loud and colorful display as they settle for the night. This nightly spectacle offers a unique opportunity for birdwatching and is a central part of Leticia's local life. You can also visit the church tower at the park for a panoramic view of the city and the Amazon River.

Cost: Free to observe from the park. A small donation (around COP 2,500, or ~$0.60 USD) might be requested if you wish to go up the church tower.

Transport: Santander Park is centrally located in Leticia and is within walking distance from most hotels and hostels. Taxis and moto-taxis (tuk-tuks) are readily available for short distances within the city.

5. Visit Three Countries in One Day (Tres Fronteras)

Take advantage of Leticia's unique geographical position at the 'Tres Fronteras' (Three Borders) where Colombia, Brazil, and Peru meet. You can easily cross the borders into Tabatinga, Brazil, and Santa Rosa, Peru, often by foot or a short boat ride. This allows for a fascinating cultural experience, observing distinct influences in language, cuisine, and local markets within a single day. Many multi-day tours include this as an activity, but it can also be explored independently.

Cost: Independent crossing is generally free, but you might incur costs for local transport (tuk-tuks in Tabatinga) or small boat fares to Santa Rosa (Peru). A day trip that includes these crossings might range from COP 100,000 - COP 200,000 (approximately $25 - $50 USD) depending on the activities and transport included. Remember to carry your passport for potential border checks, though they are often informal for day visits.

Transport: Tabatinga, Brazil, is directly adjacent to Leticia and can be reached by walking or a short moto-taxi ride. Santa Rosa, Peru, is across the Amazon River and requires a short boat ride from Leticia's port.

Check out our other pages on Leticia

Getting There icon Getting There Restaurants icon Restaurants Bars and Entertainment icon Bars and Entertainment Hotels icon Hotels Budget Stays icon Budget Stays

Discover destinations in Colombia

Amazon Region
Andean Highlands & Coffee Region
Caribbean Coast
Pacific Coast
Southern Colombia