Leticia is a special city in Colombia, right at the heart of the Amazon rainforest. It’s unique because it’s right next to Brazil and Peru. This makes it a super cool spot to visit if you’re looking to explore the Amazon. Leticia is where you’ll find amazing animals, plants, and a mix of cultures from three different countries. It’s a perfect place for adventurers wanting to dive into nature like never before.
Here’s a simple guide to the top 5 things you can do in Leticia, Amazonas. You definitely shouldn’t miss out on wandering through the rainforest – it’s an adventure of a lifetime. Sailing down the magical rivers is another must-do that you’ll always remember. Plus, you’ll get to enjoy the awesome local culture and yummy foods from the area. Every moment you spend here is going to be something you’ll never forget.
Get ready to explore all the cool secrets Leticia has to offer!
1. Start Your Day with Breakfast at the Leticia Amazonas Market Square
Kicking off your day with a true Amazon culinary experience means heading early to the famous Leticia market square. Here, fresh fish from local rivers is the undisputed star of a wide range of traditional breakfasts. You definitely don’t want to miss out on hearty broths like «caldo de cucha» or «caldo de bocachico». Plus, crispy delights like fried pirarucu or catfish are plentiful at traditional food stalls, offering a morning feast full of Amazonian flavors.
To make this unique culinary experience complete, you must try fariña, a native cassava flour that enhances dishes with its texture and nutritional value. Diving into the aromas, colors, and flavors of Leticia’s market square is a full plunge into the culinary essence of this magical Amazon region.
2. Visit Santander Park and Watch the Parrots Arrive
Leticia hosts a truly unique natural show that happens every day without fail. As the clock strikes 5 pm, thousands of tourists gather at the iconic Santander Park to witness a remarkable event. At that time, a multitude of parrots arrives in the city looking for a place to rest, turning the park into a captivating display of colors and sounds.
This avian spectacle is undoubtedly one of the most anticipated events of the day in Leticia. As the sky turns shades of orange, flocks of parrots begin to arrive, creating a true symphony of chirps and flapping wings. Consequently, visiting Santander Park at dusk becomes a must-do activity, where nature unfolds all its magnificence in a show that can only be witnessed in this magical Amazon city.
3. Visit Tabatinga, Brazil, and Santa Rosa, Peru
Located strategically at the tri-border between Colombia, Brazil, and Peru, Leticia offers you the unique opportunity to visit three countries in just one day. A must-do activity is crossing into Tabatinga, the neighboring Brazilian city. There, you can dive into the Brazilian vibe by touring around in tuk-tuks, a typical mode of transport that will take you to explore the best of the municipality.
However, the experience wouldn’t be complete without visiting the famous La Comara viewpoint in Tabatinga. From this strategic spot, you’ll get a spectacular view of the Amazon River and its shores, where the borders of the three countries converge. It’s the perfect setting to witness the most impressive sunsets in the region.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for an immersion in Peruvian culture, you can cross into Peru by water from the port of Leticia or Tabatinga. Just a 10-minute boat ride will take you to the Love Island, where the Peruvian village of Santa Rosa is located. Once there, you can’t miss tasting the region’s famous cuisine at the renowned Brisas del Amazonas restaurant, a true must for food lovers.
4. Kayaking in the Yahuarcaca Lagoon System
Just minutes away from Leticia lies a hidden natural paradise: the Yahuarcaca Lagoon System. This protected area offers an unparalleled experience of connecting with nature by kayaking through its calm waters and wetlands. From February to the end of May, during the high water season when the region is flooded, is the perfect time to embark on this adventure. As you gently paddle, you’ll delve into a world of peace and serenity, surrounded by lush native vegetation that unfolds in an explosion of colors and shapes.
But the experience doesn’t stop there. Yahuarcaca also offers the thrilling opportunity to spot the iconic pink and grey dolphins that inhabit these waters. Imagine gliding silently in your kayak as these magnificent mammals surface, creating a unique and unforgettable encounter with nature.
5. Tree Climbing
For adventure enthusiasts and those who love stunning panoramic views, Leticia offers a unique experience: tree climbing to heights of 35 meters. This long-standing activity in the region allows you to immerse yourself in the Amazon jungle from a completely new perspective.
Whether in Tanimboca or Omagua, located just 11 kilometers from the city, you’ll find qualified and expert personnel who will guide you on this thrilling adventure. As you carefully ascend the jungle giants, you’ll be amazed by the views unfolding before your eyes, offering you an unparalleled natural backdrop.
But the experience doesn’t stop there. Once you reach the top, you’ll have the chance to enjoy activities like rappelling, zip-lining, and crossing suspension bridges among the treetops. Each challenge will fill you with adrenaline and make you feel part of this extraordinary jungle environment.
Undoubtedly, tree climbing in Leticia Amazonas is a must-do experience for those seeking thrills and a deep connection with nature. Prepare to leave the ground behind and venture into a world of high-flying adventures, surrounded by the lush beauty of the Amazon rainforest.
Bogota to Leticia Airplane Ticket Purchase Recommendations
It’s crucial to buy your tickets in advance to secure the best rates and availability. The main airlines flying to Leticia Amazonas are Avianca and Latam. You can find detailed information about the best season to travel and the airlines that fly to Leticia Amazonas Here.
Recommended Luggage for Your Trip to Leticia Amazonas
Packing the right luggage is key to enjoying your Amazon trip. Here are some suggestions: bring a 25-30L backpack for a 3 or 4-day tour, wear suitable clothes for the hot and humid weather, rubber boots for jungle walks, insect repellent, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and other essentials. You can find a complete list of recommendations aquí.
If you’re after an authentic and memorable experience in Leticia Amazonas, we highly recommend the tours offered by Amazonas Jungle Tours. This company stands out for its authentic 3 to 4-day plans that immerse you in the true essence of the Amazon and its surroundings. With expert local guides and activities designed to connect you deeply with nature and local culture, you won’t find a better option for your adventure in Leticia Amazonas.