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.
