How to Get to Puerto Nariño, Amazonas: Complete Guide

Puerto Nariño, known as the "Pearl of the Colombian Amazon," is a destination that combines nature, culture, and sustainability. Located in the heart of the Amazon rainforest, this small, picturesque town is accessible only by river. Getting there is not just a journey, but an experience that lets you enjoy the majesty of the Amazon River and its surroundings.

River routes from Leticia to Puerto Nariño

Puerto Nariño has no road connection to any other city due to its remote Amazon location. Because of this, the only way to get there is by river, specifically from the city of Leticia, the main gateway to the region. The river journey between Leticia and Puerto Nariño is a unique experience that combines comfort with stunning views of the rainforest.

Three main companies operate this river route daily, offering reliable, punctual service:

• Expresos Tres Fronteras (the Reds)
• Transportes Fluvial del Amazonas (the Greens)
• Líneas Amazonas (the Blues)

These companies work on a rotating basis, each covering a specific day of the week. This means there are travel options between Leticia and Puerto Nariño every day of the week, ensuring you can always find available transport.

Schedule and frequency of service

Each river transport company offers four daily routes in each direction (Leticia to Puerto Nariño and Puerto Nariño to Leticia).

• Leticia to Puerto Nariño — 7:00 am, 9:00 am, 12:00 pm, and 2:00 pm.
• Puerto Nariño to Leticia — 7:00 am, 10:00 am, 1:30 pm, and 3:30 pm.

The trip takes approximately 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on intermediate stops the boat makes at other ports along the river.

Transport cost and buying tickets

The cost per person for traveling between Leticia and Puerto Nariño is 42,000 COP. This price includes luggage up to 21 kilos. If you carry excess luggage, you will need to pay an additional fee. To secure your spot on the boat and avoid inconvenience, it is recommended to buy tickets directly at the companies' offices located at Leticia's civil port.

• Payment method — companies only accept cash payments, so it is essential to bring enough cash before heading to the port.
• Punctuality — departure times are strictly followed, with a maximum delay margin of 10 minutes.
• Where to buy — purchase tickets only at the official companies' offices to avoid issues with pricing or availability.

What to expect during the trip

The journey along the Amazon River between Leticia and Puerto Nariño is a fascinating experience, as it not only takes you to your destination but also immerses you in the beauty of the Amazonian landscape. During the trip, you can enjoy panoramic views of the rainforest, spot exotic birds, and, with some luck, even see pink dolphins playing in the water. The boats also make stops at intermediate ports, giving you a glimpse into the pace of life in riverside communities.

Key tips for a safe, smooth trip

• Bring enough cash — not just for tickets, but also for extra expenses in Puerto Nariño, since credit card use is limited there.
• Plan an early departure — if traveling to Puerto Nariño for the first time, consider taking one of the first boats of the day.
• Travel light — although you can bring up to 21 kilos of luggage, try to pack efficiently.
• Use sun protection and insect repellent — you will be exposed to sun and insects during the trip.
• Stay hydrated — bring a water bottle with you.