Leticia & the Amazon

★★★ Leticia — The Gateway to the Amazon

Leticia is Colombia's southernmost point and the capital of the vast Amazon Department (109,665 km², almost uninhabited). The city lies directly on the Amazon River at the tri-border area with Brazil (Tabatinga, directly adjacent — you can walk across the border!) and Peru (Santa Rosa, accessible by boat). It is one of the few places in the world where three countries blend seamlessly.

The city itself has about 50,000 inhabitants and serves as a base for jungle adventures. Typical activities include:

• Jungle Lodges: 2–4 nights in a lodge by the river, surrounded by rainforest. Program: jungle hikes (day and night!), canoeing through flooded forests, piranha fishing, searching for caimans at night, visiting indigenous Ticuna communities.
• Pink River Dolphins: The Amazon dolphin (Boto) is the largest freshwater dolphin in the world — and indeed pink. Best seen in the rainy season (Apr–Jun) and in the Lagos de Tarapoto.
• Isla de los Micos (Monkey Island): An island full of squirrel monkeys that climb onto your shoulders. Touristy, but fun. 50,000 COP (12€) by boat.
• Tri-border Area: By boat to the point where Colombia, Brazil, and Peru meet. In the evening, head to Tabatinga (Brazil) for a Caipirinha and Brazilian Churrasco — bring your passport!

Practical Info

Getting there: Only by plane. Avianca and LATAM fly from Bogotá (2h, 200,000–500,000 COP / 50–120€ one-way). No road connects Leticia with the rest of Colombia.

Climate: Tropical-humid. 25–35°C, high humidity year-round. Drier months: July–September (less rain, river levels drop, beaches become visible). Rainy season: April–June (highest water levels, jungle "underwater" — perfect for canoeing).

Budget: Jungle lodge all-inclusive: 200,000–450,000 COP (50–110€) per person/night including tours and meals. Cheaper option: day tours from Leticia (100,000–150,000 COP / 25–35€).

What to bring: DEET mosquito repellent (a must!), long clothing, rain gear, rubber boots (often provided), flashlight, travel pharmacy with malaria tablets (consult a tropical doctor). Malaria risk is low but present.