Practical information about Leticia
Here you will find practical information and useful tips for Leticia, such as can you use ATM, is Leticia safe and what about phone and wifi in Leticia.
Practical info A-Z
Drinking water
Water is not drinkable, also be careful with raw vegetables and avoid restaurants where you have doubts about hygiene.
Food and drinks
With its location on the border of three countries with their culinary influences, you can try something new every day in Leticia. At Tierras Amazónicas you can try specialties from the Colombian, Peruvian and Brazilian Amazon. If you really want to try something local -and adventurous- there are the mojojoy worms, which are grilled or stuffed. The Pirarucú fish is particularly recommended. If you don’t like fish, there is usually a chicken or meat dish available. Read more about the culinary specialties of the Amazon in Amazon culinary.
One of the better restaurants in Leticia is Nativos. Besides fish, you can order meat dishes here and the restaurant is known for its delicious ceviche.
In Santa Rosa, Brisas del Amazonas is highly recommended and in Tabatinga Restaurantes 3 fronteras. Particularly popular for the Brazilian drink. For a meal of fish and rice you will pay around COP20,000 ($5 USD).
Withdrawing money
There are several ATMs in Leticia. The ATMs don’t always have enough cash, so we recommend that you already withdraw money in Bogotá as well. Be sure to carry enough cash to pay for tours and in restaurants. Poor wifi means you can’t always pay by card.
Electricity
If you go to an accommodation deeper in the jungle, there is often only a few hours a day of electricity in which to charge your devices. In the jungle there is no air conditioning and usually no fan, but since it cools down at night, that is not necessarily a problem.
Phone / Wifi
Claro has the best coverage in Leticia. It is recommended that you bring a local SIM card. Wifi is slow and not all hotels have wifi.
Safety
- Leticia is known as safe. However, it is not recommended to travel between the different countries at night, even if it is just to cross the “border.” There are gangs that smuggle between the 3 countries and therefore you should avoid Tabatinga at night or use cabs and tuk tuks. The center of Leticia is safe, but avoid the suburbs.
- Don’t go into the jungle alone, but take a hike with a guide who knows the way and the animals well!
- Check the travel advice from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs here
Supermarkets
The most important supermarkets in Leticia are Hipercosto supermarkets and La Ceiba supermarket.
