Things To Do
in Puerto Nariño

Puerto Nariño is a picturesque town located in the Amazon region of Colombia, known for its vibrant cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty. Nestled along the banks of the majestic Amazon River, it serves as a gateway to the lush rainforest and diverse wildlife. The town features traditional wooden architecture and is less commercialized than other tourist spots, providing a more authentic experience.

Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture, explore nearby indigenous communities, and enjoy a variety of outdoor activities in this enchanting environment.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Nature and Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the beautiful Lake Tarapoto, where you can enjoy birdwatching and take a canoe ride.

afternoon
:

Explore the town's local market, where you can interact with vendors and find traditional crafts and foods.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a riverside restaurant, savoring local dishes while watching the sunset over the Amazon River.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure and Relaxation
morning
:

Take an early guided tour into the surrounding jungle to encounter exotic wildlife and learn about local flora.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby indigenous community to experience their customs, crafts, and culinary traditions.

evening
:

Return to Puerto Nariño for a casual evening stroll along the riverfront, followed by a nightcap at a local bar.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$5-10
Cup of coffee$1-2
🚕Taxi ride (short distance)$3-5
🛒Grocery items (per week)$20-30
🎟️Entry fee for guided tours$10-20

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural scenery and biodiversity.
  • Authentic cultural experiences with indigenous communities.
  • Less crowded than other Colombian tourist destinations.
  • Limited healthcare facilities in case of emergencies.
  • Language barrier if you don't speak Spanish.
  • Variable weather can disrupt travel plans in the wet season.
  • "¡Hola!" - Hello!
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Puerto Nariño

Visit one of these nice places.

Lake Tarapoto

A serene location perfect for capturing the reflections of lush greenery and vibrant skies.

Amazon River Sunset

The river offers breathtaking sunsets that are ideal for capturing stunning landscape photos.

Indigenous Community

Visiting local communities provides opportunities for cultural photography and portraits.

Culinary Guide

Food in Puerto Nariño

Puerto Nariño offers a delightful array of local cuisine, reflecting the rich cultural tapestry of the Amazon region. From fresh river fish to exotic fruits, the flavors here are both unique and delicious.

Puerto Nariño Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pescado a la plancha

Grilled fish, a staple in the region, seasoned with local spices.

Must-Try!

Sancocho

A hearty soup made with meat, plantains, yuca, and various vegetables.

Chicha

A traditional fermented drink made from maize, often served during community gatherings.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal

The town’s main market where you can find fresh produce, fish, and local snacks.

Street vendors

Various vendors throughout the town selling empanadas, grilled meats, and tropical fruits.

Climate Guide

Weather

Puerto Nariño has a tropical rainforest climate characterized by high humidity and temperatures averaging 25-30°C (77-86°F) year-round. The region experiences a wet season from November to May, with heavy rainfall, while the dry season from June to October sees less precipitation, making it the ideal time for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A handshake or a friendly hug is common; always greet people when entering a shop.

Respect for indigenous cultures

Be respectful when visiting local communities; ask for permission before taking photos.

Dress modestly

While the climate is warm, dress modestly, especially when visiting indigenous communities.

Safety Guide

Safety

Safety in Puerto Nariño is generally good, but travelers should remain vigilant, especially in isolated areas. Avoid displaying valuables, and be cautious at night. It's advisable to consult local guides for tips on safe travel to nearby indigenous communities.

Tipping in Puerto Nariño

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping customs

It is customary to leave a tip of around 10% in restaurants, though it is not mandatory.

Payment methods

Cash is the preferred method of payment. ATMs are available, but carry cash for small vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (June to October)

Expect less rainfall, making it easier to explore outdoor sites and participate in activities.

Wet Season (November to May)

Higher humidity and frequent rains; however, the landscape is lush and vibrant.

Festival Season (February)

Experience vibrant local festivals with music, dance, and traditional food.

Tourist Season (July to August)

More visitors during this time; book accommodations and tours in advance.

Nightlife Guide

Puerto Nariño at Night

Puerto Nariño offers a relaxed nightlife scene with local bars hosting small gatherings, live music, and traditional dance performances. Most locals enjoy socializing at open-air venues along the river, where you can experience the warm hospitality of the community while enjoying local drinks.

Hiking in Puerto Nariño

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Amazon Rainforest Trails

Several trails are available for hiking in the surrounding rainforest, offering opportunities to see unique wildlife and plant species.

Cerro de la Paz

A popular hiking destination with stunning views of the rainforest, ideal for adventurous travelers.

Airports

How to reach Puerto Nariño by plane.

Alfredo Vázquez Cobo International Airport (LET)

Located in Leticia, this is the nearest airport. It serves domestic flights and some international connections, and is the main gateway for travelers heading to Puerto Nariño.

Getting Around

Walkability

Puerto Nariño is a small town that is highly walkable, with most attractions, restaurants, and shops located within a short walking distance. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and the town's laid-back atmosphere makes it a pleasant place to explore on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Indigenous Communities

The region is home to various indigenous groups, including the Ticuna, which contribute to the area's rich cultural heritage.

Local Residents

The town has a mixed population of locals, including farmers, fishermen, and artisans, who maintain traditional ways of living.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer (Fútbol)

Soccer is extremely popular in the region, with locals often gathering to play or watch matches.

Fishing

Fishing is both a recreational activity and a source of livelihood for many residents along the Amazon River.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Puerto Nariño is minimal, as the town is small and mainly pedestrian-friendly. Public transportation options are limited to boats and taxis, with most travel involving river transport to nearby locations.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Puerto Nariño.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian/Vegan

Many local dishes contain meat, but you can find vegetarian options at restaurants and can request modifications.

Gluten-Free

Some traditional dishes are naturally gluten-free, but it's recommended to double-check with vendors.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Puerto Nariño are limited, with a small local clinic available for basic medical needs. For more serious conditions, patients may need to travel to larger cities such as Leticia, which is approximately a 2-hour boat ride away. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Discover Colombia

Read more in our Colombia 2025 Travel Guide.

Colombia Travel Guide