Welcome to the heart of the Colombian Amazon, where adventure comes to life in the region of Leticia, located in the department of Amazonas. Forget everything you know, because this experience goes far beyond conventional travel. In Leticia, you immerse yourself in the heart of the forest, where nature dictates its own rules and every moment is an encounter with the unknown. On the agenda: breathtaking landscapes, mysterious rivers and a biodiversity that will leave you speechless. It’s not just a journey, it’s a plunge into a rich ecosystem, and a fragile but ever-present indigenous culture, where the simplicity of everyday life blends with the grandeur of nature. Get ready to discover the unexpected in this one-of-a-kind adventure.
Geography of Amazonas department: an endless forest dotted with waterways
Amazonas, a corner of Colombia where geography tells a story as captivating as the jungle itself. Get ready to dive into the details, from interesting facts to fascinating data, that make this region a geographical gem.
Key figures for Amazonas
Let’s unpack the numbers that define Amazonas. With a surface area of over 109,000 km2, this region is vast and ready to be explored. However, despite its impressive size, the population of Amazonas is relatively low, at around 85,000 (48,000 in Leticia alone, the department’s capital). This low population density creates a peaceful atmosphere and offers visitors an authentic experience. Most of the department is in fact uninhabited, dominated by dense, partly impenetrable forest. Almost the entire population lives on the banks of the Amazon River and its tributaries, in the extreme south of the department.
The cultural diversity of Amazonas is reflected in the languages spoken. Several indigenous languages, including Ticuna, Yucuna and Matapi, coexist, adding a fascinating linguistic dimension to the region. These languages are living witnesses to the rich and varied cultural heritage of Amazonas.
Le Terrain de l’Aventure
The Amazonas, located in the southwest corner of Colombia, is an undiscovered jewel, offering a unique experience combining varied landscapes and fascinating cultural richness. The topography of Amazonas is composed exclusively of forest and rivers (including the Amazon River, which also marks the border between Peru and Colombia).
Rivers, notably the Rio Putumayo and the Rio Caquetá to the north, trace fluid lines through this territory, providing not only vital transportation routes, but also contributing to the development of a high level of biodiversity. The Amazon plains, rich in biodiversity, present a dense and mysterious forest, where every tree seems to tell a story, and hide indigenous villages dotted along the rivers.
Equatorial climate, Tropical life
The climate in the Colombian Amazon isequatorial, due to thehigh humidity. You’ll enjoy warmth all year round, with average temperatures between 23°C and 35°C. Despite heavy rainfall, the sun is always shining. The dry season runs from June to October, and the rainy season from November to May. But there’s humidity all year round.
This equatorial climate, though demanding, contributes to the biological richness of the region. The Amazon rainforest is home to a variety of species, from brightly-colored birds to mischievous monkeys and exotic flora. Constant rainfall creates an environment conducive to life in the tropics, making Amazonas a paradise for nature lovers.
Amazonas: past, present and future of an enchanting region
Welcome to the meandering history of the Colombian Amazonas. From ancestral indigenous civilizations to modern challenges, explore the rich history of this region where each period has left its mark.
The ancient roots of indigenous peoples
Long before the shadow of the conquistadors, Amazonas was the scene of an ancient saga woven by the skilful hands of indigenous peoples. The Tikunas, Yucunas and other indigenous communities built thriving civilizations along the winding rivers and vast expanses of the Amazon, forming a complex web of unique cultures.
These pre-Columbian civilizations were not simply spectators of nature, but active participants, adapting harmoniously to the rhythms of the rainforest. Their in-depth knowledge of the land, from medicinal plants to hunting strategies, was passed down from generation to generation, creating a unique symbiosis between man and his environment.
Archaeological remains reveal elaborate ceremonial centers, delicate pottery and works of art that testify to a deep connection with the sacred and the natural. Indigenous peoples were custodians of rich traditions, building sustainable societies in balance with the Amazon’s abundant resources.
So, even before the echo of the conquistadors’ boots, Amazonas was the cradle of advanced civilizations, whose influence persists in the customs and knowledge passed down even today. These early civilizations shaped the unique character of Amazonas long before history took a turn with the arrival of the Europeans.
The colonial era and the Jesuit missions
In the 16th century, the Amazonas witnessed the tumultuous arrival of the Spanish conquistadors, driven by the elusive dream ofEl Dorado. The vast expanses of the Amazon, however, proved to be hostile terrain for the European invaders. Indigenous peoples, such as the Tikunas and Yucunas, fiercely resisted this foreign intrusion, establishing a complex dynamic between colonizers and native inhabitants.
Jesuit missionaries followed the conquistadors, bringing with them the cross and European culture. They established missions along the rivers, trying to impose their worldview on the local populations. However, the Amazonas, with its untamed nature and vast, little-explored expanses, remained largely out of reach for total colonization. The indigenous peoples, adapted to this complex biome, have largely preserved their traditions despite outside influence.
Thus, during this colonial era, Amazonas became a frontier where wild nature resisted European domestication, and where indigenous cultures defied the changes imposed by foreigners. This period laid the foundations for Amazonas’ relative autonomy, a characteristic that would influence its history over the centuries.
The rubber boom and immigration
In the 19th century, Amazonas became part of the complex web ofSouth American independence. However, its difficult access delayed its integration into the newly independent Colombia (1819). The tumultuous borders with Brazil and Peru were defined after international negotiations, establishing the region’s current configuration.
Indigenous peoples, grappling with the consequences of these political changes, see their traditional way of life impacted. However, despite these challenges, Amazonas continues to vibrate to the rhythm of its rivers and forests, preserving a unique cultural identity.
The Rubber Fever, which swept Colombia in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, was a period of economic ferment fuelled by the growing global demand for rubber. Colombia’s latex-rich Amazon region attracted adventurers and foreign companies in search of quick fortunes. This rush led to the development of towns like Leticia and rubber camps along the rivers. However, the craze left scars, with harsh working conditions for indigenous and migrant “caucheros”, disastrous environmental consequences, and often brutal exploitation by large foreign companies.
The subsequent discovery of rubber plantations in Asia precipitated the decline of this economic era, leaving behind persistent economic and ecological challenges. The Rubber Fever left a complex legacy, with social and environmental repercussions that continue to mark thehistory of Colombia and its Amazon region, reminding us of the duality between ephemeral prosperity and the lasting costs of unbridled exploitation.
Modern challenges, regional integration and sustainable tourism
The Colombian Amazon, particularly in the Leticia region, faces modern challenges while seeking to promote regional integration and sustainable tourism. Despite its natural wealth, the region faces challenges such as deforestation, biodiversity loss and economic pressures.
Deforestation, often linked to illegal activities such as logging and unsustainable agriculture, threatens the ecological balance of the Amazon. Biodiversity loss is a major concern, affecting the region’s unique ecosystems and endangering many species.
In this context, regional integration is emerging as a crucial response. Countries bordering the Amazon, including Colombia, are seeking to work together to implement cross-border conservation policies and sustainable development initiatives. Enhanced cooperation would enable them to better protect this vital ecosystem and promote responsible use of its resources.
Sustainable tourism appears to be a promising lever for balancing economic development and environmental preservation. As a major gateway to the Amazon, Leticia is becoming increasingly attractive to tourists. However, it is essential to manage this influx sustainably to preserve the fragile ecosystem. Educational initiatives, responsible tourism practices and partnerships with local communities are needed to promote tourism that respects the environment and benefits local people.
Biodiversity of Amazonas: a mosaic of Life
Welcome to the Amazonas Natural Sanctuary, a living mosaic where every rustling leaf, every bird song, weaves a story of exceptional biodiversity. Let’s dive into this natural epic, exploring the fascinating facts and data that reveal the incredible richness of this Colombian region.
The extraordinary flora of the Colombian Amazon
The lush flora of the Colombian Amazon rainforest is a symphony of colors, shapes and fragrances that captivates the imagination. This region is home to exceptional plant biodiversity, with thousands of species, many of them endemic to this part of the world. With some 16,000 tree species and remarkable animal biodiversity, Colombia plays a key role in the conservation of this vital ecosystem.
The Colombian Amazon rainforest boasts an impressive variety of trees, including majestic giants such as the Itahuba, Caricari, Tajibos, Cedro, Cuta barcina and Almandrillo. Each of these trees contributes to the complexity of the ecosystem, providing a vital habitat for a multitude of living creatures.
At the heart of this diversity lies the Amazonian Reina Victoria, or giant water lily, a gigantic floating plant with a wingspan of 3 to 5 metres and weighing up to 40 kg. Considered the world’s largest aquatic plant, it adds a touch of grandeur to the ecosystem.
Orchids, Colombia’s national flowers, also brighten up the Amazon rainforest with their exquisite beauty. Each variety offers a unique spectacle, testifying to nature’s infinite elegance.
The sacred Lupuna tree, reaching impressive heights of 70 metres, is an emblematic figure in many legends of pre-Columbian cultures. Its significance transcends the physical landscape to become an integral part of the region’s rich cultural fabric.
Beyond its visual splendor, the Colombian Amazon rainforest is also home to countless medicinal plants, playing an essential role in local traditions. These botanical treasures possess millennia-old healing properties, providing the region’s inhabitants with precious natural resources. The pharmaceutical industries of our modern societies have invented nothing…
The flora of the Colombian Amazon rainforest is much more than just a backdrop; it’s a complex ecosystem in which every plant has a vital role to play. Exploring this vast expanse of greenery reveals not only biological diversity, but also a rich cultural history rooted in the forest’s very roots.
Amazing wildlife
Colombian wildlife includes over 400 species of mammals, including the iconic jaguar predator and monkeys such as the howler monkey and capuchin monkey. The region is also home to over 1,300 species of bird, including the brightly-colored macaw and the toucan with its distinctive beak. The waterways are home to some 3,000 species of fish, while fascinating reptiles such as caimans and anacondas populate the aquatic zones.
In terms of endemism, over 10% of Colombia’s plant and animal species are found nowhere else on Earth. These figures underline the uniqueness of Colombian biodiversity within the Amazon. Below is a non-exhaustive list of the animals living in our green lung.
Mammals : Jaguar(Panthera onca), Three-toed sloth(Bradypus variegatus), Brazilian tapir(Tapirus terrestris), Red howler monkey(Alouatta seniculus), Anteater(Myrmecophaga tridactyla), Collared peccary(Pecari tajacu), Common vampire bat(Desmodus rotundus), Ocelot(Leopardus pardalis), Common armadillo(Dasypus novemcinctus), Pink Amazonian dolphin(Inia geoffrensis).
Birds: Scarlet macaw(Ara macao), Red-billed toucan(Ramphastos tucanus), Ferocious harpy(Harpia harpyja), Ruby-throated hummingbird(Chrysolampis mosquitus), Long-tailed ibijau(Nyctibius aethereus), Red-bellied kingfisher(Megaceryle torquata), Golden-chevroned woodpecker(Melanerpes cruentatus), Red-throated caracara(Ibycter americanus).
Reptiles and amphibians: Green anaconda(Eunectes murinus), Spectacled caiman(Caimancrocodilus) Carpenter tortoise(Rhinoclemmys punctularia), Poison arrow frog(Dendrobates spp.), Boa constrictor(Boa constrictor), Green Iguana(Iguana iguana), Cuvier’s dwarf crocodile(Paleosuchus palpebrosus), Matamata tortoise(Chelus fimbriatus), Red-eyed tree frog(Agalychnis callidryas).
Fish : Red piranha(Pygocentrus nattereri), Red-spotted electric fish(Brachyhypopomus walteri), Pirarucu(Arapaima gigas), Arrowfish(Apteronotus albifrons), Knifefish(Gymnotus spp.), Giant catfish(Brachyplatystoma filamentosum), Candiru(Vandellia cirrhosa), Electric eel(Electrophorus electricus).
Threats and conservation efforts
The Leticia region, part of Colombia’s vast Amazon rainforest, is facing serious environmental threats that are jeopardizing its ecological balance. Deforestation, largely fuelled by agricultural and logging activities, is fragmenting natural habitats, endangering the region’s unique biodiversity. Deliberate fires used to clear agricultural land exacerbate this problem, leading to the irreversible destruction of vast tracts of forest.
What’s more, the expansion ofmining, particularly forgold, is adding further pressure by degrading soils, contaminating water sources and upsetting the balance of ecosystems.
Climate change, with its impact on rainfall and temperatures, is increasing the region’s vulnerability. Extreme climatic variations can lead to prolonged drought, flooding and disturbances in the distribution of plant and animal species.
Finally, illegal trafficking in exotic flora and fauna persists, threatening wildlife populations through unregulated capture and trade. In the face of these challenges, the implementation of effective conservation policies and the promotion of sustainable natural resource management are crucial to safeguarding the ecological wealth of the Colombian Amazon rainforest and ensuring its sustainability for future generations.
The living culture of Colombia’s Amazonas department
When one thinks of the Colombian Amazonas, one’s imagination conjures up lush forests and serpentine rivers. However, beyond this exuberant nature, the department of Amazonas is the guardian of a deep and diverse cultural wealth. In this exploration, we plunge into the fascinating strata of Amazonian culture, exploring its unique traditions, heritage and dynamics.
Indigenous heritage: the deep roots of Amazonian culture
The Colombian Amazonas, cradle of remarkable cultural diversity, is home to between 12 and 19 indigenous ethnic groups, including the Tikunas, Yucunas, Huitotos and Cocamas. These communities preserve unique, often endangered languages, with Tikuna and Huitoto among the most widely spoken. Linguistic data demonstrate this richness, underlining the importance of indigenous languages as bearers of age-old traditions and knowledge.
Beyond words, indigenous heritage is manifested in concrete practices. Traditional agricultural techniques, such as slash-and-burn farming and agroforestry, have been handed down from generation to generation. Natural medicine draws its strength from the many plants and organic elements found in the forest, with knowledge passed down orally from generation to generation. These traditional methods demonstrate the symbiosis between communities and nature, preserving biodiversity while ensuring people’s livelihoods.
Ritual ceremonies and beliefs offer another fascinating insight into indigenous heritage. The data reveal an impressive diversity of practices, from dances celebrating the harvest to rituals honoring forest spirits.
Handicrafts and artistic expression: the visual language of Amazonas
In the Colombian Amazonas, handicrafts transcend the simple creation of decorative objects to become a visual language that tells the story of indigenous communities, an inexhaustible artistic wealth, where each woven basket, each piece of pottery, becomes a bearer of tradition and identity.
Artistic skills handed down over the centuries are expressed in a wide variety of handicrafts. Woven baskets, crafted with meticulous precision, are emblematic of Amazonian craftsmanship. These pieces are not simply utilitarian objects, but artistic expressions imbued with cultural symbols. In Leticia and the surrounding indigenous communities, a remarkable diversity of emblematic Amazonian handicrafts awaits you. These creations are meticulously crafted by the Huitoto and Ticuna ethnic groups, who cultivate specific native species to obtain fibers, barks and vegetable dyes. These raw materials are then skilfully transformed into a variety of objects that travellers often cherish as souvenirs, including ceramic pots and sculptures in balso or palo sangre wood.
Indigenous communities thus perpetuate ancestral traditions and demonstrate artistic mastery in the manufacture of these handcrafted items. Ceramic pots often reflect cultural motifs and symbolic representations, while wooden sculptures embody the artisans’ deep connection with the surrounding natural world. These handicrafts are not only artifacts, but also carriers of traditional knowledge and cultural stories, making their acquisition a way of supporting and celebrating the cultural riches of the indigenous communities of the Colombian Amazon region.
Contemporary adaptation of traditional crafts is also emerging as a trend. Contemporary Amazonian artists are integrating traditional elements into their work, creating a bridge between past and present.
Practical info: discover the Colombian Amazon in the Leticia region
Welcome to the green lung of the planet, where the Colombian Amazon unveils its mysteries and exceptional biodiversity. If you’ve chosen Leticia as your starting point for exploring this fascinating region, here’s a comprehensive guide to make your trip unforgettable.
Transport: accessible only by air from Colombia
The only way to get to Leticia from other parts of Colombia is by air. Leticia’s Alfredo Vásquez Cobo international airport handles flights from Bogotá, the Colombian capital (2-hour flight). Flights from other cities such as Medellín or Cartagena will inevitably make a stopover in Bogotá. Airlines such as Avianca and LATAM offer regular flights to Leticia. The flight also offers breathtaking views of the Amazon rainforest on approach.
Another, albeit less common, option is to travel to Leticia by river from Peru. The Amazon is criss-crossed by a dense network of rivers, and some travelers choose to sail up the Amazonas from cities such as Iquitos.
When to visit Leticia / Puerto Nariño?
Exploring the Colombian Amazon is possible all year round. However, we strongly advise you to plan your trip during the dry season, which runs from June to October. This recommendation is based on two important considerations. Firstly, this period is characterized by a significant reduction in the number of mosquitoes (and having experienced the Amazon during the rainy season, we’d stress how crucial this point really is).
Secondly, the dwindling number of watering holes, especially towards the end of the dry season, makes it easier to observe the fauna that concentrates around these last available watering holes. It should be noted, however, that the distinction between the dry and rainy seasons in the Colombian Amazon is less pronounced than in other countries such as Bolivia or certain regions of Brazil.
Accommodation and comfort: in the heart of the jungle or on the edge of town
When it comes to accommodation, you have several options depending on your comfort level and the degree of immersion you’re looking for:
High comfort / Less immersion: if comfort is a priority for you, opt for accommodation in the heart of Leticia and Puerto Nariño. There are offers to suit all budgets, from youth hostels to budget hotels and even 3-star hotels (especially in Leticia). However, don’t look for 5-star hotels or palaces, as these are not available. You will, however, be able to take advantage of air-conditioning (note that this is not environmentally friendly!) and wifi. Puerto Nariño has a more authentic feel than Leticia, but it’s still a tourist-oriented village.
Limited comfort / More immersion: if, like us, you’re looking for a balance between comfort and immersion, you can opt for an ecolodge in the heart of the forest, rustic and offering limited comfort but perfectly adequate given the forest context. Another possibility is to stay in a community, living like the locals with the bare necessities but offering an incredible experience. In both cases, accommodation is often in wooden cabins. If you’re interested, you can read about our experience on a 4-day tour of the Amazon in an ecolodge!
Total adventure / Maximum immersion: if you’re a true adventurer, the “extreme” option involves trekking into the forest for several days. You’ll sleep in a hammock right in the heart of the forest, and set off again the next day for a range of activities. You’ll be totally immersed, at one with nature. However, this option is clearly not for everyone.
Health and precautions: vaccinations and care in the Colombian Amazon
As you prepare to explore the Colombian Amazon, health becomes an essential priority. The particular conditions of this isolated region require special attention to medical aspects. Here are a few crucial points to consider:
Vaccinations: before you leave, make sure your basic vaccinations are up to date. However, specific vaccinations may be recommended for the Amazon, notably yellow fever. Statistics show that yellow fever vaccination is often required to enter the region, and should be administered at least ten days before departure. Other vaccines, such as those against typhoid, hepatitis A and B, may also be recommended.
Malaria: the Colombian Amazon is an area where malaria is present, but only to a very limited extent. It is essential to consult a health professional to determine the right medication for your profile, and to bear in mind that some areas may have resistant strains.
Basic health care in remote areas: in the Amazon, especially if you venture far from urban centers, access to health care can be limited. Pack a first-aid kit including diarrhea medication, antiseptics, bandages, insect bite medication and any other personal medicines you may need. The worst thing is to get a wound and develop an infection.
Hygiene and food precautions: preventing water-borne diseases is crucial. Drink bottled or purified water, avoid ice cubes and, if possible, wash or disinfect your hands before eating. When it comes to food, it’s best to eat hot, cooked foods, avoid raw or undercooked products, and beware of unpeeled fruit.
Travel insurance: seriously consider taking out travel insurance covering emergency medical expenses, medical evacuation and trip cancellation. In the Amazon, where conditions can be unpredictable, appropriate travel insurance is an essential precautionary measure.
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Activities: what to do in the Colombian Amazon in the Amazonas department?
Here’s a non-exhaustive list of what you can see and do in the Colombian Amazon from Leticia and Puerto Nariño. Most of these activities can be done by the day, or on an all-inclusive multi-day tour.
Canoeing: navigate through lush vegetation, slaloming between trees and vines. When the river is in flood, it’s a thrilling adventure that plunges you into the heart of the jungle. Maybe even on the majestic Amazon River!
Stroll on the Amazon River: you can take a wide tour to get to know and appreciate different tourist spots on the Amazon trapezoid, traveling on the water of the famous Amazon River.
Citytour Leticia – Tabatinga: during this tour, you’ll have the opportunity to discover all the tourist attractions of the city of Leticia and the border area with Brazil with the city of Tabatinga.
Puerto Nariño tour: discover the magic of Puerto Nariño in Colombia on a captivating sightseeing tour. From its colorful streets, its mirador, its ethnographic museum, to the biodiversity of its nature reserves, explore Amazonian culture, meet indigenous communities, and savor exquisite local cuisine. An immersive experience in the heart of the Colombian Amazon awaits you.
Pink dolphin watching: embark on a quest in search of the charming pink and gray dolphins. The famous Lake Tarapoto, near Puerto Nariño, is the ideal place to meet these graceful creatures, from a lancha, the typical Colombian boat.
Stay in an indigenous community: opt for minimal comfort for total immersion. Discover a totally different way of life thanks to the friendly locals. Guides make it easy to meet people, and accessible communities such as Santa Sofia, Mocagua, San Martín and San Juan de Atacuari await you along the banks of the Amazon.
Ethnotour Maloka Indigena: a one-day immersion in Huitoto culture. Meet the chief, holder of ancestral knowledge, and immerse yourself in nature. Continue with the Maloka Indigenous Night, a two-hour experience to live, learn and share indigenous Amazonian culture in the Wayruru maloka, located in rural Leticia, after an interpretive walk.
Ornithology: practice your birdwatching by getting up (very) early, 5am, to explore with your guide and a pair of binoculars. Observe the vibrant bird life of the Amazon in all its morning splendor.
Isla de Los Micos: this island near Leticia offers the chance to interact with the region’s monkeys (notably saimiris and capuchins). However, it is essential to note that there are concerns about the treatment of animals on the island. While the experience may seem entertaining, it’s wise to take these ethical considerations into account before deciding to visit. Instead, we recommend the Maikuchiga Sanctuary below, which we were lucky enough to discover and which is very good.
Maikuchiga Sanctuary: the indigenous Tikuna language translation means the story of the monkey, is an animal sanctuary and rehabilitation center located in the heart of the Amazon. Founded some 11 years ago by biologist Sara Bennett, the sanctuary provides a safe place for animals that have been confiscated through illegal animal trafficking. The main objective is to rehabilitate the woolly monkeys (Lagothrix lagothricha), a species of Amazonian primate currently threatened with extinction.
Night hikes: enter the mystical realm of the Amazon on night expeditions. Bioluminescent mushrooms and enigmatic tarantulas create an otherworldly atmosphere.
Parks and nature reserves: the Amazon is dotted with numerous protected areas. The nature reserves of Marasha, Tucuxira, Eware, Tanimboca, Flor de Loto and Mundo Amazonico, as well as Amacayacu National Park, are all jewels where you can spend nights or days immersed in nature.
Jungle expeditions: for the ultimate adventure, venture into the depths of the Amazon with your guide for days of exploration. Hike through the wilderness, search for elusive creatures, rest in hammocks under the stars and light campfires for an unprecedented experience.
Journey to the three Amazon frontiers: sail along the Amazon and Yavari rivers on this trip to the borders of Colombia, Peru and Brazil. You’ll visit three countries in a single day. Well, not necessarily the experience we’d recommend first.
Which agencies should you use to organize your activities?
Manyagencies offer a variety of activities, whether for a single day or a multi-day tour. With options to suit all budgets, it’s crucial not to rush. Read proposals carefully, checking what’s included/excluded, includingaccommodation. You can choose a tailor-made private tour (more expensive) or opt for a group tour (cheaper). Some hotels and youth hostels can also take care of the activities by acting as intermediaries.
Whichever agency you choose, you’ll need to talk to them several times to adjust your preferences and determine costs. Most agencies offer translation services in English (and sometimes in French for an additional fee). Finally, note that itineraries from different agencies are generally similar, covering the same destinations and accommodations. Finally, for day-long activities, it’s easy to find local guides.
For our experience in the Amazon, we chose a private 4-day ecolodge tour in the heart of the forest with the Yoi écotour agency. And the experience was really top-notch, with no regrets. Well, as we didn’t do a tour with another agency, it’s also difficult to compare to get a real idea.
Other service providers you might be interested in:
You can also get in touch with Sergio Giraldo, a French-speaking Colombian based in Leticia, who works with a number of agencies in the region. He’ll be able to help you find your way around, and, if necessary, accompany you as an interpreter.
A few tips
- Wear light, comfortable clothing, ideally light pants + long-sleeved T-shirts. Protect yourself from the sun with a hat and sunglasses, and don’t forget to generously apply sunscreen.
- Take along DEET / IR3535 mosquito repellent. Mosquitoes will be your biggest enemy in the Amazon. To deal with them, don’t just take a random mosquito repellent, but one with DEET / IR3535, proven effective against mosquitoes in tropical zones. Apply several times a day.
- Respect wildlife: don’t touch or disturb wild animals, for your own safety as well as theirs. Also, be careful with plants and trees, some of which can be dangerous or even toxic.
- If you’re a photo enthusiast, beware of humidity! Take waterproof bags with you to prevent your cameras from suffering. Of course, the best thing is to have a tropicalized camera + lens.
- Above all, listen carefully to the instructions given by the local guides. They know the area better than anyone and will ensure that your experience is as memorable as it is safe.
- Remember to take plenty of cash with you, as you’ll only find ATMs in the town of Leticia. There are none in Puerto Nariño, nor in the indigenous villages.
