Things To Do
in Puerto Asís
Puerto Asís sits on the Putumayo River in southern Colombia, at the edge of the Amazon rainforest. The town serves as a gateway to lush rainforests, riverine ecosystems, and vibrant Indigenous cultures. Its laid‑back pace, riverside markets, and warm community vibe offer an authentic Amazonian experience, though travel here can be humid and weather-dependent.
Visitors should stay mindful of logistics and local safety considerations when exploring beyond the town center.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Puerto Asís after a scenic flight, taking in views of the lush Amazon rainforest below. Settle in at your chosen accommodation and prepare for your adventure by unpacking and relaxing. Enjoy a traditional Colombian breakfast to fuel up for the exciting day ahead.
Visit the local market to experience the vibrant culture and sample delicious street food. Engage with local artisans as you shop for handmade crafts and souvenirs that reflect the rich heritage of the region. Spend some time walking through the town, soaking in the picturesque landscapes and the friendly atmosphere.
Dine at a local restaurant where you can savor regional delicacies like grilled fish and hearty soups. After dinner, take a stroll along the riverbank to enjoy the serene beauty of the evening and listen to the sounds of nature. Wrap up your day by resting in your accommodation and preparing for tomorrow's adventure.
Start your day early with a guided tour into the Amazon rainforest, equipped with a picnic breakfast. Marvel at the diverse flora and fauna, spotting exotic birds and perhaps even monkeys swinging through the trees. The air is fresh and invigorating, providing the perfect backdrop for exploration.
Continue your adventure with a canoe ride along the river, where you can observe the vibrant life along the banks. The guide will share stories about the local ecosystem and indigenous tribes that inhabit the area. Enjoy a prepared lunch in a tranquil setting amidst the natural beauty.
Return to Puerto Asís, where you can freshen up before heading out for dinner. Choose a lively restaurant to enjoy your meal while recounting the day’s memorable experiences with fellow travelers. Conclude your evening with a relaxing soak in a hammock at your accommodation, allowing the sounds of the jungle to lull you to sleep.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| 🏨Hostel or budget hotel per night | $7-20 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride (within town) | $1-3 |
| 💧Bottle of water (1.5 L) | $0.50-1 |
| 🧭Local groceries or prepared food (daily) | $3-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic Amazonian culture and river life
- Relaxed pace and friendly locals
- Easy access to rainforest experiences and river tours
- Affordable compared with larger urban centers
- Limited infrastructure and services outside the town center
- Heat and humidity can be strenuous for some travelers
- Less nightlife and few high-end dining options
- Travel times to bigger cities can be lengthy
- "Hola, ¿cómo está?" - Hello, how are you?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Puede recomendarme un lugar para comer?" - Can you recommend a place to eat?
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The bill, please
- "No hablo español muy bien" - I don't speak Spanish very well
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta esto?" - How much does this cost?
Places to Visit in Puerto Asís
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide river horizons, últimos rayos del sol and silhouettes of boats creating dramatic silhouettes against a warm sky.
Vibrant stalls, woven goods, and fruit displays—great for candid portraits and close-up still-life shots.
Calm morning light along the river with boats and local activity; a good spot for wide-angle river portraits.
Colorful walls, doorways, and market lanes that capture daily life and the Amazonian town character.
Food in Puerto Asís
Puerto Asís Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
River fish fried crisp, served with yucca, patacones, and a bright salsa. Commonly found in local eateries near the river.
Must-Try!
Hearty fish stew with plantains, yuca, and corn, a comforting option in cooler evenings or after a day in the rainforest.
Rice dish cooked with seafood or fish, often prepared with tropical aromatics and peppers.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market stalls offering fresh tropical fruits, river fish, yuca, plantains, herbs, and ready-to-eat snacks from neighborhood cooks.
Casual spots along the waterfront selling empanadas, fried plantain snacks, fresh fruit juices, and grilled corn.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly “hola” and a handshake; address people with courtesy. Ask for permission before photographing individuals or communities.
Dress modestly in town and preserve cultural sensitivity when visiting Indigenous communities or religious sites.
Always ask for permission to photograph people, homes, or ceremonies; avoid private spaces without consent.
Safety
Tipping in Puerto Asís
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected in small eateries. A small tip (5–10%) for good service or for guides is common in tourist-oriented places.
Cash (Colombian pesos) is widely used in markets and small eateries. Some larger establishments accept cards; ATMs are available in town. USD may be accepted in some tourist spots, but local currency is preferred.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry spells typically bring clearer skies and more comfortable daytime temperatures, making river excursions easier. Trails are usually drier, but evenings remain humid; plan for heat protection and hydration.
Expect frequent, heavy showers with high humidity. Rivers may rise and paths can be muddy; pack a reliable rain jacket, quick-dry footwear, and insect repellent.
Puerto Asís at Night
Hiking in Puerto Asís
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Beginner-friendly forest trails with opportunities to observe birds and small wildlife; guided hikes recommended to learn about medicinal plants.
Short day hikes within protected or community-managed areas; provide essential safety and ecological guidance from local guides.
Airports
How to reach Puerto Asís by plane.
The regional gateway for Putumayo; provides occasional flights to major hubs and is accessible for travel to Puerto Asís by road or river.
A longer flight option for connections to the Amazon region; primarily serves longer routes from major cities.
Major international gateway; typically the first stop for travelers coming to southern Colombia, with onward domestic flights to regional airports.
Another large hub for domestic connections to the Amazonian region and southern Colombia.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of urban and rural residents with diverse cultural traditions and cuisines.
Nearby Indigenous groups contribute to the cultural landscape with unique crafts, languages, and customs; respectful engagement is encouraged with prior consent and guidance from local hosts.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The region’s most popular sport; informal matches and local leagues are common in town squares and fields.
A common recreational sport in community centers and schools, especially among youth.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Puerto Asís.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In Puerto Asís, focus on fresh fruits, vegetables, beans, yuca, plantains, and rice. Request dishes without meat or fish (por ejemplo, ‘sin carne, sin pescado’) and ask for sauces on the side to control oil and dairy usage.