Leticia City - Amazonas

It is the capital of Amazonas department; it is located to the south of Colombia. It was founded in 1867, April 25 with the name of San Antonio. It was inhabited by native cultures like Ticunas, Tucanos, Camsás, Huitocos and Yaguas who lived in a wild environment.

Leticia is very visited, because it is situated in a frontier.  The most copious river, The Amazonas River, crosses it.  Its general developing and its landscapes make it a privileged and admired zone.  In Leticia, it is possible to practice ecological and adventure tourism through the river and by visiting natural parks as Amacayacu and Isla de los Micos (The Island of Monkeys).

How to arrive

It is possible to a Leticia by air or sea; by air from Bogotá to Vasquez Cobo, international airport (telephone: 592-7192); by sea, arriving through Amazonas River.

Tourist attractions
 
Amacayacu Natural Park

It is located 60 Km. from Leticia.  Its typical name means “River of the Hamacas” a variety of animals that are residents of the park.  One of these animals is the pink dolphin, a unique type of dolphin that lives in Yahuarcacas Lake.

Cahuinari Natural Park

This park contains exuberant landscapes that preserve marvelous natural zones.  In this jungle, it is possible to find black crocodiles (10 meters long) and the biggest river turtles in the world.

Santa Sofía or Isla de Los Micos

It is a sanctuary of flora and fauna.  It is situated in front of the Santa Sofía Institute.  It preserves a great variety of monkeys.  The different flora and the diverse fauna make it an interesting place for tourists.

Cultural Events of Leticia

Festival de la Confraternidad Amazónica (Festival)

This festival is carried out on July from 15 to 20, to promote the cultural, gastronomic, folkloric and sportive integration. Among the activities, we can observe the international fishing championship, football championship; there are also dances and musical events that reflect the cultural richness of Colombia. In this important event the Amazon basin countries participate and other countries too.

Festival de la Música Pirarucá de Oro ( Music Festival)

The festival is carried out in November in Leticia, in “concha caústica” of park.  There, many compositors and musicians participate, reflecting the cultural identity.

Desfile de Muñecos de Años Viejos (Parade)

The parade is carried out from November to December. People enjoy playing with water and flour. There is disguises parade of famous, national and foreign politicians; the peculiar disguises are the main attraction.

Gastronomy

Leticia is plenty of rivers, so that, its gastronomy consist in dishes that contain fish, with cascabe (it is elaborated with “yucca brava”). The most popular fruit are banana and other typical and exotic ones like arazá, copoazú and anon amazónico.