A backpacker who just completed the 16-hour fast boat journey from Leticia, Colombia to Iquitos, Peru has shared detailed logistics that are nearly impossible to find online — and the route is trickier than it appears.
The journey is a classic South America backpacker route connecting Colombia, Peru, and Brazil via the Amazon River. But information is scarce, schedules change constantly, and immigration requirements span three countries. Here's what travelers need to know, based on a February 2026 trip.
The Journey
The fast boat departed at 1:00 PM and arrived in Iquitos at 5:40 AM — 16 hours total. Cost: 120 Peruvian soles (about $32 USD) paid in cash. The boat offers Starlink internet (sometimes free, sometimes for a fee) and charging plugs (US/Latin America standard).
Three companies operate the route: Haydee, Valeria, and Zoe Alexa. Schedules cannot be found online and change frequently. During this trip, Valeria ran Monday, Thursday, and Saturday; Haydee filled the gaps but nothing ran Sunday. Travelers should build in a potential one-day delay.
Immigration Requirements
Before boarding, you must complete immigration paperwork at two locations within 24 hours of departure:
1. Leticia Airport (Colombian exit stamp) 2. Santa Rosa immigration office (Peruvian entry stamp) — a 10 Kolombian peso boat ride from Leticia, followed by a 12-minute walk
The boats depart from Santa Rosa, so arrive early to complete paperwork and secure your spot. Pro tip: arrive around 8:00 AM to complete immigration, purchase your ticket, and leave luggage on the boat to save a seat. Sit in the front — the motors and toilet are in back, making it smelly and loud.
What to Bring
- Water and lunch (available on Santa Rosa for 17 Colombian pesos) - Pillow (25 soles on the island) - Cash in multiple currencies (Reales, Colombian pesos, and soles all accepted, though exchange rates favor Brazilian Reales)
Skip dinner before boarding — the boat stops at small Amazon villages where vendors board to sell food. One traveler enjoyed roasted chicken with plantain and rice. Snacks and water are also available during stops.
On Arrival in Iquitos
Mototaxis (tuk-tuks) will try to charge inflated prices like 10 soles for a 15-minute walk. Negotiate hard. One traveler paid 20 soles for a 30-minute ride to the airport. Local buses cost just 3 soles.
The Verdict
Don't expect luxury — this is everyday transport. Seats smell like humidity, windows are covered with fabric, and comfort is minimal. "But it is efficient and just take a shower when you arrive to Iquitos!"
For backpackers traveling between Peru and Brazil via Colombia, this route offers an authentic Amazon experience far from tourist trails. Just pack patience, cash, and realistic expectations.
