This December, we finally took a trip we had dreamed about for years. We embarked on a five-day journey deep into the Colombian Amazon with Oxígeno Tour Company. From the moment we arrived, the region welcomed us with its warm air, slow rhythm, and endless green. What followed was an adventure full of wildlife and culture. It included unexpected moments and gentle connections with the people who call the Amazon rainforest home.
Before the Tour – Leticia & the Biohotel Arara River
Our adventure began the moment we stepped off the plane in Leticia. After taking a taxi to the ferry dock, we walked around the small riverside town and quickly decided we wanted to return after the tour. At the dock, a few people offered to take our bags, but as they didn’t seem to work for the ferry company, we handled everything ourselves and boarded safely.
The one-hour river ride to Puerto Nariño was peaceful, and soon we reached Biohotel Arara River, where we stayed for two nights. To reach the hotel, we walked along a raised wooden bridge above semi-flooded riverbanks, with beautiful views on both sides. The lodge was made entirely of wood, giving it a warm and natural feeling.
The staff were kind, and meals were served buffet-style with simple but tasty choices. Food outside meal hours was limited, but drinks were always available. The two forest-side pools were perfect for relaxing, and the rooms were clean and surprisingly luxurious for such an isolated location. After two days of rest, we felt ready for the adventure ahead.
Day 1 – Into the Jungle
After arriving in Puerto Nariño, we enjoyed a quiet lunch at Wikungo Hotel, where we met our guide Gury and our translator Lucas. Gury has years of experience and a deep respect for the rainforest. He promptly made us feel safe to begin our trek. He also provided some recommendations and tips.
It rained that afternoon, but we were given boots and took only small overnight bags. The walk to our jungle cabin took around three hours. Along the way, we saw monkeys, insects, and birds. Some parts of the trail were flooded, and crossing wet logs brought a few funny moments—especially when Lucas and I slid into the water.
After dinner at our rustic cabin, we headed out for a night trek. With our flashlights, we saw spiders, lizards, and other nocturnal animals moving in the dark. Back at the cabin, we slept deeply, surrounded by the quiet sounds of the forest.
Day 2 – Amacayacu, Gary the Monkey & a New Friend
The next morning, we walked to a small lodge for breakfast and met a playful monkey we quickly named Gary. He kept us entertained with his curious personality.
Later, we continued our hike and spotted a black caiman resting near the water. Watching such a powerful creature so close was a moment we will never forget.
In the afternoon, we returned to Puerto Nariño for a town tour. Our guide showed us the best places to eat, including a surprisingly good burger spot—a nice change after several days of rice and meat. Puerto Nariño also has many street dogs. Some looked unwell, so we bought meat to share. One dog bonded with us instantly and followed us for days. The locals told us he was a small celebrity known for choosing friendly tourists.
Day 3 – Brazil, Sloths & Tarapoto Lake
We spent the morning crossing the Amazon River into Brazil. The boat ride was calm, and entering another country by water felt exciting. In a quiet part of the rainforest, we saw over a dozen sloths during a three-hour walk. Their slow movements and gentle nature made the experience peaceful.
Afterwards, we visited a small Indigenous village where capybaras rested under raised houses. We took a short break before returning to the boat.
In the afternoon, we travelled to Lake Tarapoto, known for piranha fishing. We fished, swam, and enjoyed the warm water. For anyone wondering—the famous myth about Amazon fish entering unexpected places is almost certainly untrue. After my own swim, I’d say I’m at least 95% sure.
It was Christmas Eve, and when we returned to our hotel, the owner had prepared a special meal and gifts for local children. We brought some presents too, and sharing that moment felt meaningful and joyful.
Day 4 – Maikuchiga, Local Culture & Pink Dolphins
The Maikuchiga Monkey Sanctuary was one of the best experiences of the trip. Along with Gury and Lucas, we had another local guide who knew every detail of the forest. Lucas, only nineteen and from Sweden, was beginning to feel the heat after so many long days, but he continued translating with a smile.
We saw many different species of monkeys, some close enough to study their faces and hear their small sounds. After a couple of hours, we visited a local museum to learn more about the community. During a break outside, a young man offered me a glass of homemade alcohol. Since it was Christmas and everyone was nearby, I accepted. Later, Gury explained that it was a traditional drink. It tasted surprisingly good and made the moment memorable.
In the afternoon, we went dolphin watching and saw several pink dolphins leaping out of the water in quick, beautiful bursts.
Day 5 – Viewpoints, Wildlife & a Rainy Ride Home
On our final morning, we visited the main viewpoint of Puerto Nariño. The tall wooden tower gave us a stunning view of the rainforest and river stretching endlessly into the distance. Afterwards, we visited the small wildlife museum, where we learned more about the animals we had spent the last days meeting in the wild.
Soon it was time to return to Leticia. Halfway down the river, our boat engine broke down, and we spent an hour sitting in the rain waiting for another ferry. Even though we were soaked, it felt like another piece of the adventure—one last reminder of the Amazon’s unpredictable nature.
After the Tour – Leticia & Waira Suites
Back in Leticia, we stayed at Waira Suites, a smaller hotel with excellent service. It has two pools, a bar, comfortable rooms, and one of the best restaurants in the city. The food was high quality, the prices were fair, and service was fast and friendly.
The true star of the hotel is Manchas, the resident dog. He is the best good boy in Leticia, always ready to greet visitors or even join them on a walk around town. His presence gave the hotel a warm, homely feeling.
If we had one small complaint, it would be the rule against drinks in the pool area. A cold beer with a book would have been perfect. Still, with great facilities, kind staff, and the company of Manchas, Waira Suites was the ideal place to end our journey.
Final Thoughts
Looking back on our five days in the Amazon, we realise that the experience was shaped not only by the rainforest but also by the people who guided us. Our guide, Gury, was truly exceptional. His knowledge, calm leadership, and deep respect for the forest made every moment meaningful. Hearing parts of his story and seeing how much he loves his home added depth to our journey.
Gury didn’t just show us the Amazon—he helped us understand it. He taught us how to move gently, observe carefully, and appreciate every detail. His kindness and dedication made this adventure unforgettable.
We recommend him with all our hearts. Our trip would not have been the same without him, and he has our full gratitude.
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