The Amazon rainforest is the world’s green lung, a beautiful but actually quite fragile region where strange and exotic birds and animals share their forest home with hunter-gatherer jungle tribes, and where you can leave the motorized, industrialized world behind and disappear off into the jungle, or just take a boat ride up the world’s mightiest river, check out the wildlife and meet the indigenous people. Way off the beaten track, this is our guide to this remote and exotic region.
## Highlights
* Embark on unforgettable adventures at **Zacambú Lagoon**, where you can spot the elusive pink dolphins, carefully search for caiman lurking in the shadows, and try your hand at fishing for the notoriously toothy piranhas.
* Experience a unique cultural immersion by visiting three countries in a single day, seamlessly ferrying between Colombia, Peru, and Brazil, each offering its own distinct charm and flavors.
* Deepen your understanding of the Amazonian way of life as you learn about traditional methods of hunting, fishing, farming, and cooking during an enlightening visit to a local indigenous community.
* Indulge your adventurous palate by sampling exotic jungle fruits bursting with unique flavors, savor the taste of tasty giant river fish, and even dare to try forest critters and other culinary treats that you simply won’t find anywhere else in the world.
## Overview
Leticia, a welcoming and effortlessly laid-back town nestled deep within the Amazon rainforest, serves as your primary gateway to the wonders that await. From this strategic location, you can gain easy access to the Peruvian jungle, which lies just across the mighty river, a land that experiences annual flooding for three months of the year, creating a dynamic and ever-changing landscape. Furthermore, you can also explore Colombia’s own section of the jungle, a region that uniquely never gets completely flooded, resulting in a remarkably distinct ecosystem with its own set of flora and fauna.
Within the immediate vicinity of Leticia, a multitude of exciting activities await. You can partake in thrilling adventures such as ziplining through the towering tree-tops, providing a breathtaking perspective of the rainforest canopy. For those interested in avian wonders, you can observe the colorful local birdlife in its natural habitat, identifying the many unique species. Alternatively, you can explore the intricate network of rivers and lagoons by kayak, immersing yourself in the tranquil beauty of the waterways. Back in town, treat your taste buds to the local cuisine, which features an array of tasty river fish prepared in various styles, and if you’re feeling particularly adventurous, you can even sample jungle grubs stuffed with flavorful mincemeat. A mere two hours upriver, the eco-village of Puerto Nariño beckons, offering a delightful day-trip destination.
The vast Amazon rainforest, a true marvel of nature, spans an astounding area of over two million square miles, encompassing a significant quarter of Colombia’s total land area. While it is almost certain that you will arrive and depart by plane, owing to the lack of road connections to the rest of Colombia, it is also possible to access the region by boat, providing a unique and immersive journey. Leticia occupies a unique position, sitting directly on the border where Colombia converges with both Brazil and Peru. Remarkably, as long as you stay within the immediate border towns of these three countries, you can freely pass between them without the usual concerns of visas or passport stamps, offering a truly seamless and international experience.
## Visit the eco-conscious community of Puerto Nariño
A truly unique and enriching trip involves embarking on a scenic two-hour journey upriver from Leticia to the eco-community of Puerto Nariño. While a day trip is certainly feasible, you can easily extend your stay and immerse yourself more fully in the charm of this beautiful little village. What sets Puerto Nariño apart is its commitment to sustainability. Motorized vehicles are strictly banned within the town limits, and the community has implemented a successful and ambitious recycling program, setting a commendable example for environmental consciousness. Be sure to visit the fascinating local museum, where you can delve into the rich history and cultural heritage of the region. You can also gain insights into the various eco-projects that are actively run by the town, showcasing their dedication to preserving the natural environment.
Wildlife viewing is yet another popular and captivating activity in Puerto Nariño. Keep a keen eye out for dolphins and manatees, which can often be spotted gracefully swimming in the water. **Tarapoto Lake**, located just 2 km north of Puerto Nariño, is a particularly excellent spot for observing several playful dolphins, although they can also be seen in the main river itself, especially in areas where there is little to no current (local guides, with their extensive knowledge, can readily guide you to the best viewing locations).
## Hike through the jungle to reach Zacambú Lagoon
One of the most sought-after and memorable trips into the heart of the rainforest entails a three-day excursion down to the captivating **Zacambú Lagoon**, situated on the Javari River, on the Peruvian side of the vast Amazon. Depending on your personal preferences, as well as the prevailing water levels, you have a couple of options to reach this natural wonder. You can opt to cross the Amazon by boat and then embark on an invigorating five-hour hike through the dense forest to reach the tranquil lagoon, or you can choose to travel the entire distance by boat, allowing you to soak in the scenic beauty of the waterways.
Once you’ve arrived at the lagoon, you’ll be rewarded with a refreshing swim in its cool waters, an opportunity to spot some of the Amazon’s iconic pink dolphins as they playfully frolic, and the chance to engage in some piranha fishing, with the thrilling prospect of enjoying your catch for supper. As evening descends, you can embark on a guided caiman-spotting adventure with a flashlight, revealing the nocturnal creatures in their natural habitat. For the adventurous, camping in the heart of the forest is an unforgettable option, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the Amazonian night. Additionally, you can take a boat ride through the flooded areas, especially during the wet season (typically from March to May), when boats may be the only feasible mode of transportation, adding a unique element to your jungle exploration.
## Go ziplining and wildlife watching in nature reserves near The Kilometers
While staying in Leticia, consider venturing up a road known locally as **“The Kilometers”**, which leads to a cluster of no less than three remarkable little reserves, each offering a range of exciting activities and opportunities for nature enthusiasts. You can engage in invigorating forest walks, immersing yourself in the diverse flora and fauna of the Amazon. For an adrenaline rush, try ziplining through the dense canopy, providing a unique perspective of the rainforest ecosystem. Alternatively, you can relax and unwind in a charming tree house, taking in the serene surroundings. Those keen to learn more about the forest and its inhabitants can follow carefully designed educational trails that delve into the local ecology, the indigenous communities that call it home, and the incredible diversity of wildlife. You can choose to stay in a comfortable eco-lodge within the reserves, allowing for immersive experiences such as guided night walks in the forest, where you can observe the nocturnal creatures that emerge after dark. Keep an eye out for the colorful local birdlife, including iconic species like toucans and macaws, which are frequently spotted in the area. You’ll also find opportunities to interact with indigenous communities along the road, gaining insights into their rich culture and traditions. There are also several places where you can stop for a refreshing bite or a swim. However, it’s important to exercise caution, as not all sections of the road are safe to wander on your own; it’s always advisable to seek local advice first to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
## See the local flora and fauna from a boat
Kayaking has emerged as an increasingly popular and engaging activity for visitors to the Amazon region. Several hotels by the riverside in Puerto Nariño offer kayak rentals, providing an excellent opportunity to explore the river at your own pace. Furthermore, tour operators in Leticia frequently include kayaking on the **Tacana River** as part of their comprehensive tour packages. You can also enjoy kayaking adventures at the **Tanimboca reserve**, conveniently located along the Los Kilometros road, offering a unique perspective of the local ecosystem.
From Puerto Nariño, you have the opportunity to take a scenic boat ride on **Lake Tarapoto**, where you can glide effortlessly through the lake’s collection of giant Victoria Regia water lilies. These remarkable plants are the largest lily species in the world, with leaves that can reach up to six feet wide, featuring neatly turned-up edges. For those seeking a refreshing experience, swimming is also possible in the lake, offering a chance to immerse yourself in its tranquil waters.
## Go on a birdwatching tour
For ornithology enthusiasts, there are several birdwatching activities available, including guided walks organized by local hotels and experienced tour operators. The **Amacayacu National Park** near Puerto Nariño is particularly renowned for its avian diversity, with over 400 different bird species having been recorded within its boundaries. Although the park is officially closed to independent visitors, it is possible to enter with licensed guides from the local indigenous villages, providing a unique and culturally enriching experience. Alternatively, you can opt to stay at a lodge in Los Kilometros, which is frequently visited by over forty different species of local birds, allowing for convenient birdwatching opportunities right from your accommodation. Even within the town of Leticia itself, the main square plays host to an impressive gathering of squawking parrots each evening around dusk as they fly in to roost in its trees, creating a vibrant and memorable spectacle.
## Learn ancient traditions practiced by indigenous communities
A truly distinctive and insightful way to experience the Amazon is to visit a local indigenous community, where you have the opportunity to stay with a local family and gain firsthand knowledge about their traditional hunting, fishing, farming, and cooking techniques. You can even actively participate in these activities, gaining a deeper appreciation for their way of life and the challenges they face. Several Indigenous peoples have established villages near to Leticia, and they are generally happy to receive visitors, provided that arrangements are made in advance through local tour operators, ensuring a respectful and culturally sensitive interaction.
The Matis people, a remote hunter-gatherer tribe residing deep within the Amazon rainforest, allow visits by outsiders, subject to the condition that their lifestyle and culture are treated with utmost respect. Reaching their community necessitates a trek of several days into the jungle, offering an immersive and challenging adventure for those seeking a truly authentic cultural experience.
## Tuck into some local delicacies
While Leticia’s restaurant culture may be somewhat limited in scope, a couple of establishments stand out for offering culinary treats that you simply won’t find anywhere else. At **Tierras Amazónicas**, widely considered to be Leticia’s finest restaurant, the specialty is Amazonian river fish, with an impressive selection of varieties available. The most popular river fish is undoubtedly pirarucú, a large and meaty fish that is often served as a juicy steak.
It’s worth noting that pirarucú should not generally be consumed during its breeding season (which typically spans from November through March), as fishing for this species is banned during this period to conserve fish stocks. However, Tierras Amazónicas claims to source their pirarucú from a sustainable reserve located in Brazil, ensuring responsible and environmentally conscious practices. Whichever fish you choose, the restaurant offers it prepared in several delectable ways, including in a tangy mango sauce or steamed in a fragrant banana leaf. In addition to the fish, Tierras Amazónicas also serves a selection of tasty juices made from exotic Amazon fruits such as copoazú, borojó, or kamu-kamu, which you’re unlikely to encounter elsewhere.
If you’re seeking something even more adventurous and exotic, you don’t have to venture far. Just around the corner from Tierras Amazónicas, you’ll find the innovative **El Cielo** restaurant, which specializes in serving up some truly unique jungle treats. Appetizers served here include *canoas*, which are made of plantain stuffed with succulent prawns, or *canajois*, which are jungle grubs stuffed with flavorful minced beef. El Cielo’s signature dish is *casabe*, which consists of a base of local cassava-bread, topped with your choice of meat, fish, or vegetables, creating something akin to an Amazonian pizza.
## Visit three countries in one day
Due to its exceptional location on the intersection of the borders of Colombia, Brazil, and Peru, Leticia offers you unparalleled access to the best that each of these three vibrant countries has to offer. A particularly popular and readily accessible excursion is a short hop across the river to **Santa Rosa** in Peru. Simply take a ferry to the other side and take a leisurely stroll through Santa Rosa to the **Brisas del Amazonas** restaurant, where you can indulge in the Peruvian specialty, *ceviche*, consisting of raw fish marinated in refreshing lime juice. In this case, of course, the fish is sourced directly from the river rather than the sea, adding a unique local touch. If you’re fortunate, the local macaws might even come and say hello while you’re enjoying your meal, adding to the authentic Amazonian ambiance.
After savoring your Peruvian lunch, instead of immediately returning to Colombia, consider taking a boat over to **Tabatinga** in Brazil. While there, don’t miss the opportunity to visit **The Comara Show Club**, where you can sample a *caipirinha*, Brazil’s iconic national cocktail, made from crushed limes, sugar, and ice, with a generous dose of *cachaça* (cane spirit). On Sundays, the bar puts on a lively show, attracting a large crowd of locals and tourists alike. Alternatively, you can simply hang out next to the bar, watching the spectacular sunset and sipping *caipirinhas* from one of the various stalls, creating a truly memorable and immersive Brazilian experience.
B-391