Things To Do
in Puerto Leguízamo
Puerto Leguízamo is a remote river town in southern Colombia, nestled where the Andean foothills meet the Amazon rainforest. Set along the Putumayo River, it serves as a gateway to lush jungle landscapes and vibrant Indigenous communities. The town has a small, friendly atmosphere with markets, riverside cuisine, and a rhythm shaped by the river.
Travelers come to explore nearby forests, learn from local guides, and experience Amazonian culture in a relaxed setting.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a scenic boat ride on the Amazon River, taking in the lush greenery and vibrant wildlife that call this area home. As the sun rises, watch for colorful birds and playful river dolphins breaking the surface of the water. Afterward, enjoy a traditional Colombian breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh arepas and coffee.
In the afternoon, visit the nearby indigenous community to learn about their culture and way of life. Participate in a guided tour where you can see their craftsmanship and perhaps even try your hand at traditional crafts. End your visit with a tasting session of local dishes prepared by the community, highlighting the rich flavors of the Amazonian cuisine.
As the sun begins to set, take a leisurely stroll along the riverbank, immersing yourself in the tranquil atmosphere of Puerto Leguízamo. Find a cozy spot to watch the sunset, capturing the stunning colors reflected on the water. Conclude your day with dinner at a local restaurant, enjoying fresh fish from the Amazon paired with tropical fruits.
Wake up early and prepare for a full-day adventure into the heart of the Amazon rainforest to meet local indigenous tribes. Your guide will take you through the jungle, sharing insights about the flora and fauna along the way. Upon arrival, greet the community and engage in a traditional welcome ceremony, giving you a unique glimpse into their customs.
Spend your afternoon learning about traditional hunting and fishing methods practiced by the tribe, participating in activities that showcase their skills. You can also explore local medicinal plants and their uses, guided by knowledgeable community members. This immersive experience will deepen your appreciation for their connection to nature and sustainability.
As evening falls, join the community for a traditional dinner featuring local ingredients cooked over an open fire. Share stories and experiences with the villagers, listening to their captivating tales about life in the jungle. End the night by witnessing a cultural dance performance that beautifully expresses their heritage.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🚗Local transport (short ride) | $2-6 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $25-70 |
| 🎟️Guided river or forest tour | $20-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Gateway to Amazonian jungle with authentic village experiences
- Relaxed pace and friendly local communities
- Limited nightlife and tourist infrastructure in remote areas
- Travel can be slow due to river and road conditions
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el mercado?" - Where is the market?
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
Places to Visit in Puerto Leguízamo
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden light reflecting off the slow-moving river with silhouettes of palm trees.
Colorful fruits, peppers, fish, and local produce offering vibrant street photography opportunities.
Colorful colonial-style church and bustling square ideal for portrait and street photography.
Overlook spots to capture the rainforest canopy and distant river vistas.
Food in Puerto Leguízamo
Puerto Leguízamo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh river fish fried until crispy, served with cassava bread (casabe) and boiled yuca.
Must-Try!
A hearty river stew with yuca, plantains, and seasonal greens, often featuring local fish or meat.
Coconut-infused rice paired with grilled fish for a comforting Amazonian meal.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant local market offering tropical fruits, yuca, plantains, fish, and everyday staples.
Stalls around the plaza with fried plantains, arepas, pescado empanada and fresh fruit juices.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Begin conversations with a friendly greeting; address elders with respect and use polite language; avoid raising your voice in public.
Wear modest clothing in rural areas; cover shoulders when visiting communities; ask permission before taking photos of people.
Safety
Tipping in Puerto Leguízamo
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is common but modest; 10% at restaurants is typical when service is not included; small tips to guides or bartenders are appreciated.
Cash (COP) is widely used; some places accept cards in larger establishments, but many small stalls prefer cash. ATMs exist in town but can be sparse.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect hot, humid days with little rainfall; river levels may drop, making riverbank walks easier but some boat trips slower.
Frequent rain, lush greens, higher river levels; trails can be muddy but the forest is at its most alive with wildlife and waterfalls running full.
Puerto Leguízamo at Night
Hiking in Puerto Leguízamo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Riverside trail with forest edge views and wildlife spotting opportunities.
Forest trails run through community-managed reserves, offering insight into medicinal plants and wildlife.
Elevated viewpoints that provide birds-eye views of the rainforest and river systems.
Airports
How to reach Puerto Leguízamo by plane.
Regional airport serving the Putumayo area; connections from Bogotá and other cities; taxi or private transport needed to Puerto Leguízamo.
Major gateway in the Amazon basin; longer international connections via Bogotá and regional flights; from there, regional trips can reach Puerto Leguízamo by road/river.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Significant presence of Indigenous groups such as Inga communities and other riverine groups; cultural traditions influence local markets and crafts.
A mixed population contributing to the town’s cultural diversity and music.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Most popular sport at schools, leagues, and informal games on weekends.
Common community sport in schools and local clubs.
Played in community centers and on the beach along the river during dry season.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Puerto Leguízamo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In Puerto Leguízamo, vegetarian options include plantains, yuca, beans, rice, fresh fruits, and veggie stews; inform cooks that you don’t want fish or meat and look for local casabe as a snack.