Things To Do
in Leticia
Leticia is a small city located in the Amazon rainforest of Colombia, near the border with Brazil and Peru. It is the capital of the department of Amazonas and serves as a gateway to the surrounding natural wonders. The city is known for its diverse wildlife, including pink river dolphins and various bird species.
Leticia offers opportunities for eco-tourism, with excursions to nearby indigenous communities, national parks, and the impressive Amazon River.
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Cómo te va?" - How's it going?
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Amazon River. Enjoy a guided boat tour to spot wildlife and learn about the local ecosystem.
Head over to the Leticia Boardwalk for a leisurely walk and lunch at a riverside restaurant. Explore local markets and shop for unique crafts.
Finish your day with a sunset dinner, savoring regional dishes. Stroll through Parque Santander and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.
Embark on a guided hike in the Amacayacu National Park. Keep an eye out for exotic birds and unique plant species.
After lunch, visit the park's biological research center to learn about conservation efforts. Enjoy kayaking or canoeing in the tranquil waters.
Return to Leticia and dine at a traditional Amazonian restaurant. Reflect on your adventures over local drinks and music.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural landscapes and biodiversity, including the Amazon rainforest.
- Cultural richness with a blend of indigenous and colonial history.
- Ecotourism opportunities for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
- Warm and tropical climate year-round.
- Vibrant local markets and unique culinary experiences.
- Remote location can make travel challenging and expensive.
- Limited infrastructure compared to larger Colombian cities.
- Higher levels of humidity and heat may not be comfortable for everyone.
- Potential issues with safety and crime in certain areas.
- Basic healthcare facilities may not meet all needs, necessitating travel to larger cities for specialized care.
Best Activities in Leticia
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Leticia is the gateway to the Amazon Rainforest, offering opportunities for hiking, bird watching, and wildlife spotting.
Explore the Amazon River and its tributaries, observe the diverse flora and fauna, and visit indigenous communities.
Experience the beauty of the rainforest from above on a canopy walk, offering an adrenaline-filled adventure and stunning views.
Enjoy the tranquility of the Amazon River while exploring its hidden corners and observing wildlife.
As Leticia is located on the border with Brazil, take a short trip to visit the neighboring city of Tabatinga and experience Brazilian culture.
Tours
Uncover the best of Leticia with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Leticia
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers a stunning view of the Amazon River and the three countries' borders (Colombia, Peru, and Brazil). Perfect for capturing sunset and river views.
A picturesque village located near Leticia, offering beautiful views of the Amazon rainforest and the opportunity to witness its rich wildlife.
A scenic lookout point that provides panoramic views of the Amazon River and the surrounding jungle. Ideal for capturing breathtaking landscape shots.
Food in Leticia
Leticia Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular local dish featuring fried fish, often served with coconut rice and fried plantains. Best enjoyed at the waterfront restaurants along the Amazon River.
Must-Try!
A traditional bread made from cassava, often served with various toppings such as local cheeses, meats, and salsas. Available at local bakeries and restaurants.
A hearty dish made with mashed green plantains and pork, typically accompanied by a spicy sauce. Locally found at traditional Amazonian eateries and street food stalls.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Leticia better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market is a feast for the senses, offering a wide array of fresh produce, exotic fruits, spices, and local delicacies. Visitors can sample various street foods such as juanes (Amazonian tamales) and grilled meats.
The Malecón area is dotted with street food vendors offering traditional snacks like empanadas, patacones (fried plantains), and jugos naturales (fresh fruit juices). It's a great place to immerse in local street food culture.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Leticia, it's important to be mindful of personal space and avoid standing too close to others, especially when interacting with locals.
It's a common custom in Leticia to greet people with a handshake, even when meeting for the first time. This gesture is a sign of respect and friendliness.
Leticia is home to several indigenous communities, so it's essential to show respect for their traditions, customs, and way of life. Be mindful of cultural sensitivities and seek permission before taking photographs or participating in traditional activities.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Leticia with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Leticia
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Leticia, Colombia. However, in some tourist-oriented establishments, a service charge may be included in the bill.
Cash is the preferred method of payment in Leticia, especially in local markets and smaller establishments. Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and larger stores, but it's always advisable to have some cash on hand.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for great weather and wildlife spotting in the Amazon rainforest. Expect hot and humid conditions with occasional rain showers.
Expect heavy rainfall and higher humidity. This season offers lush vegetation and opportunities for birdwatching, though outdoor activities may be limited due to the weather.
Leticia at Night
Hiking in Leticia
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful natural reserve located just outside Leticia, offering guided hikes through the Amazon rainforest, where visitors can experience diverse wildlife and lush vegetation.
This national park is accessible from Leticia and provides numerous hiking trails, showcasing the rich biodiversity of the Amazon region, including unique flora and fauna.
An ecological trail nearby Leticia that allows hikers to immerse themselves in the surrounding jungle environment while learning about the local ecosystem.
Located close to Leticia, the Mocagua Nature Reserve offers hiking trails that lead through picturesque landscapes and opportunities to observe local wildlife.
A project area where visitors can hike and reach scenic viewpoints while enjoying the beauty of the Amazon, along with cultural aspects presented by local communities.
Aiports
How to reach Leticia by plane.
Leticia's main airport, serving domestic and limited international flights.
Major airport serving Manaus, Brazil, located about 580 km from Leticia.
International airport serving Tabatinga, Brazil, approximately 7 km from Leticia.
Primary airport serving Iquitos, Peru, situated around 140 km from Leticia.
Approximate distance airports in common regional traffic, around 500 km away, situated in the Philippines.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The indigenous population in and around Leticia, including various ethnic groups such as the Tikuna, Huitoto, and Yucuna, plays a significant role in the cultural diversity of the region.
Mestizos are individuals of mixed European and Indigenous ancestry, and they represent a large portion of the population in Leticia.
This group includes individuals with Spanish and other European ancestry, contributing to the cultural and social landscape of Leticia.
Afro-Colombians are part of the demographic makeup, with their own unique cultural traditions and contributions to the community.
There is a presence of immigrants from neighboring countries, particularly from Brazil and Peru, impacting the demographics and economic activities in Leticia.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer (football) is the most popular sport in Leticia, attracting many local players and fans. The town has several fields and teams that compete in local leagues.
Basketball is also widely played in Leticia, with many parks and community courts available for practice and informal games.
Volleyball enjoys popularity, particularly in schools and community events, with both beach and indoor variations played.
Given its proximity to rivers and the Amazon, fishing is a popular activity in Leticia, both as a sport and for subsistence.
Cycling is a favored recreational activity in the region, with both locals and tourists enjoying biking through the scenic landscapes and nature.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Leticia.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Amazonian cuisine heavily features meat and fish, many restaurants in Leticia now offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, such as hearty salads, grilled vegetables, and fruit-based desserts. Specialized cafes and eateries cater specifically to these dietary preferences.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can explore locally sourced dishes like fresh fish, tropical fruits, and rice-based meals. It's advisable to communicate dietary needs clearly at restaurants, as many are accommodating and can provide suitable options.