Communication: Leticia

Local SIM Cards and Mobile Providers

Claro, Movistar, and Tigo are major providers. Claro generally has good coverage in the Amazon region. Passport for registration is standard.

ESIM for Travelers

Consider Airalo for digital SIM cards for easy connectivity.
Avoid physical SIM card hassles during your trip.
Activate your eSIM plan before arrival for immediate use.

Portable Wi-Fi

For consistent internet access, especially for multiple devices, a portable Wi-Fi device is a consideration.

Reliable Connection

Solis Wi-Fi provides portable hotspots for your travel.
Access reliable internet for multiple devices simultaneously.
Ideal for group travel or frequent connectivity needs.

Language Barriers and Translation Resources

Spanish is the main language. English spoken is limited. Learning basic Spanish phrases is a good idea.

Language Learning

Rosetta Stone for comprehensive language learning.
Focus on travel phrases before your trip.
Cultural immersion starts with language basics.

Translation Apps

Technology assists communication when language proficiency is a challenge.

Digital Assistance

Google Translate App: Download the Spanish offline pack.
Translate spoken words, text, and even images.
A digital phrasebook on your phone, even without internet.

Important Phrases

Greetings & Basics

Hola (OH-lah) - Hello
Gracias (GRAH-see-ahs) - Thank you
Por favor (por fah-VOR) - Please
Sí/No (see/noh) - Yes/No

Practical & Time

¿Cuánto cuesta? (KWAHN-toh KWEHS-tah?) - How much does it cost?
No entiendo (noh ehn-TYEHN-doh) - I don't understand
Agua (AH-gwah) - Water
Baño (BAH-nyoh) - Bathroom

Navigation Aid

Download Google Maps offline for Leticia before your trip. This helps with navigation even when you have no signal.

Airport Services

Enhance your airport experience and manage travel disruptions.

Lounge Access

Travelers benefit from independent airport lounge access with Priority Pass.

Flight Compensation

Compensair assists with compensation for flight delays or cancellations.

Airport Tips

Consider early arrival for security checks and tourist tax payments at Alfredo Vásquez Cobo International Airport (LET).

General Business Hours

Most shops open from 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM; some smaller ones close for lunch. Restaurants open for standard meal times.

Banking Hours

Banks operate Monday to Friday (approx. 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM).
ATMs are available in Leticia, some affiliated with major banks.
Withdraw smaller amounts frequently; ATMs can run out of cash.

Public Holidays

Colombia observes numerous public holidays. Services may be limited on these days.

Impact on Services

Banks, government offices, and some businesses may close.
Some businesses may have reduced hours.
Transportation may experience higher demand around holiday weekends.

Seasonal Information

Off-Season Exploration

Fewer crowds during off-season.
More intimate travel experiences.
Potentially better prices for flights and accommodation.

Service Availability

Some smaller tour operators may reduce services.
Always confirm availability in advance.
Embrace seasonal changes, like river levels.

Information Access

Check the Colombian national holiday calendar for your travel dates. This helps avoid unexpected closures or crowds.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Navigating local customs deepens your connection with the Amazonian culture.

Greeting Customs

Handshakes are common. A kiss on the right cheek for women or close acquaintances. 'Buenas' is an informal all-purpose greeting.

Verbal Greetings

"Hola" (Hello) - the most common and versatile.
"Gracias" (Thank you) - always appreciated.
"Por favor" (Please) - for polite requests.

Physical Greetings

Observe local interactions before initiating physical greetings.

Interacting with Locals

Handshake: Common for formal introductions or between men.
Kiss on the Cheek: One kiss on the right cheek for women, or a woman and a man they know well.
Observe: Do not initiate this unless offered or clearly expected.

Dining and Tipping Practices

10% tipping is appreciated in restaurants if not already included. Street food typically does not require a tip.

Restaurant Tipping

A 10% tip is standard for good service.
Check if service charge is already included on the bill.
Cash tips are often preferred by staff.

Street Food

Street food offers an authentic taste of local cuisine at affordable prices.

Informal Dining

No tipping for street food vendors.
Enjoy local snacks like empanadas and arepas.
Support small vendors directly with your purchases.

Taboos and Sensitive Topics

Conversations to Avoid

Politics and the history of drug trafficking.
Avoid asking overly personal questions early on.
Do not photograph military or security installations.

Cultural Respect

Do not enter private homes without invitation.
Do not touch or disturb ceremonial objects.

Gender Considerations and LGBTQ+ Information

General Conduct

Colombia is generally more conservative than many Western countries.
Public displays of affection, especially for same-sex couples, may attract attention.
Observe local norms for interactions.

Respectful Interactions

Leticia is less likely to have overt issues than some other regions.
Exercise discretion and respect local norms.
Focus on respectful behavior during your visit.

Photography Ethics

Always ask permission before photographing individuals. Do not photograph children without parental consent.

Accessibility Information

Leticia's infrastructure presents challenges for travelers with mobility needs.

Infrastructure for Mobility Challenges

Leticia's infrastructure is generally not designed for accessibility. Uneven sidewalks, a lack of ramps, and no elevators are common.

Mobility Limitations

Sidewalks are often uneven, broken, or non-existent.
Buildings rarely have ramps or elevators.
Reliance on small boats and motorcycle taxis presents significant challenges.

Accessible Attractions and Transportation

Very few attractions are specifically designed for accessibility. Mobility around town and in the jungle will be difficult.

Attractions Access

Limited accessible sites within and outside town.
Jungle terrain is challenging for mobility.
Getting in and out of boats at riverbanks is difficult.

Services for Sensory Impairments

No specific formal services are provided for travelers with visual or hearing impairments.

Visual Impairment

Navigating with visual impairment is challenging due to uneven terrain.
Lack of accessible signage.
Bringing a companion is highly beneficial.

Hearing Impairment

Communication might be difficult given the limited English spoken by many locals.

Communication Assistance

Limited English spoken by locals.
A Spanish-speaking companion would be helpful.
Bring your personal communication aids.

Resources for Accessible Travel

Specialized Agencies

Consult agencies focusing on accessible travel.
They may have specific experience or contacts.
Directly inquire with local tour operators.

Direct Communication

Contact eco-lodges and tour operators directly.
Clearly communicate your specific needs.
Confirm their capabilities and limitations.

Pre-Trip Advice

If you have mobility challenges, communicate your needs directly with your chosen tour operator and accommodation well in advance.

Communication