Short answer: the Colombian Amazon is visited from Leticia, a river town on the triple border with Brazil and Peru, reached by a two-hour flight from Bogotá. Plan at least four days, travel with a registered local operator, and head upriver to Puerto Nariño and the Tarapoto Lakes for pink dolphins, Indigenous communities and flooded forest.
This guide brings together everything you need to plan the trip. Each section links to a detailed note.
Where is the Colombian Amazon?
The Amazon region covers much of southern Colombia, but for travelers it means the Amazonas department and its capital, Leticia, on the banks of the Amazon River. Across the street is Tabatinga (Brazil); across the river, Santa Rosa (Peru). Upriver lies Puerto Nariño, Colombia’s car-free town, and the Tarapoto lake system.
How to get there
Fly to Bogotá, then take a domestic flight of about two hours to Leticia. There is no road from the rest of Colombia. Full details, entry requirements and tips: How to get to Leticia.
When to go
The Amazon is warm and humid all year. What changes is the river: high water floods the forest and lets canoes glide through treetops; low water exposes beaches and trails and concentrates fish — and dolphins — in the lakes. Both seasons are worth it. See the best time to visit the Colombian Amazon.
How many days
Four days and three nights is the sweet spot for a first trip; five to seven days let you add a second reserve and slower wildlife time. Day-by-day plan: Colombian Amazon itinerary.
Is it safe?
Leticia is one of Colombia’s calmer tourist destinations. Most real risks are natural — sun, heat, insects and river travel — and are managed by traveling with an experienced local guide. Full guide: Is it safe to travel to the Colombian Amazon?
What to see and do
- Pink and grey river dolphins on the Tarapoto Lakes — where and when to see them
- Night walks with bioluminescent fungi and caiman spotting — the jungle at night
- Puerto Nariño, the Victoria amazonica water lilies and Ticuna communities
- Canopy platforms, birdwatching and forest hikes with Indigenous guides
- Wildlife: what animals live in the Amazon and are there anacondas in the Amazon?
- Culture: Indigenous peoples of the Colombian Amazon
- Travel style: Amazon river cruise vs private expedition
More ideas: Things to do in Leticia and Puerto Nariño.
What to pack
Light long-sleeve clothing, a rain layer, repellent, a headlamp, a reusable bottle and your yellow fever card. Full checklist: Amazon packing list.
Choosing a tour
Look for a registered operator, local Indigenous guides, small groups and a clear list of what’s included. Our checklist: How to choose an Amazon tour operator.
Colombia or another Amazon country?
Brazil, Peru and Ecuador each offer a different Amazon. Compare them: Colombia vs Peru vs Brazil vs Ecuador.
Travel with Colombia Remote Adventures
Since 2014, Matapi and Yucuna families have hosted our private expeditions from Leticia: private boats and transfers, private rooms, all meals and a bilingual Indigenous guide. Start with the Amazon Nature Tour, the Amazon Wildlife Adventure or the Puerto Nariño Explorer.
FAQ
Does Colombia have part of the Amazon?
Yes. The Amazon covers a large share of southern Colombia, and Leticia sits on the Amazon River.
Do I need a visa?
Citizens of the US, Canada, the UK and the EU do not need a tourist visa for short stays. Complete Colombia’s online Check-MIG form before arrival and confirm current rules with official sources.
Can I see pink dolphins in Colombia?
Yes — the Tarapoto Lakes near Puerto Nariño are one of the best places to see them.
Ready to experience it yourself?
All expeditions are private, max 6 travelers, and depart from Leticia year-round. WhatsApp Eliceo to check availability and dates.