Putumayo, Colombia Travel Guide

Discover Putumayo, Colombia's untouched paradise where nature, culture, and spirituality intertwine in a breathtaking adventure.

Putumayo, located in the southwestern part of Colombia, is a paradise for nature lovers and adventurers alike. This region is known for its lush rainforests, stunning waterfalls, and vibrant indigenous cultures. Whether you're seeking the thrill of exploring untouched wilderness or the tranquility of connecting with ancient traditions, Putumayo offers an experience like no other. The region is home to the Sibundoy Valley, where you can witness the rich cultural heritage of the Inga and Kamentsá indigenous communities. Here, you can learn about their traditional crafts, music, and rituals that have been passed down through generations. The valley's picturesque landscapes, with its rolling hills and flower-filled meadows, provide a serene backdrop for cultural immersion. Nature enthusiasts will find Putumayo's diverse ecosystem captivating. The department boasts several national parks, such as La Paya and Serranía de los Churumbelos, where you can hike through dense jungles, spot exotic wildlife, and marvel at the region's breathtaking waterfalls. The Fin del Mundo waterfall, in particular, is a must-visit; its dramatic drop and surrounding natural beauty make it a perfect spot for photography and relaxation. For those interested in a deeper spiritual journey, Putumayo is also known for its shamanic traditions. Many visitors come here to participate in Ayahuasca ceremonies, guided by experienced shamans. These rituals offer a unique opportunity for self-discovery and connection with nature in a respectful and authentic setting.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Putumayo.

Pack lightweight, breathable clothing and sturdy hiking boots for exploring the rainforests and valleys.
Respect the local customs and traditions of the indigenous communities; always ask for permission before taking photos.
Hire a local guide for treks and excursions to ensure safety and gain deeper insights into the region.
Be prepared for limited connectivity; enjoy the opportunity to disconnect and immerse yourself in nature.
Bring insect repellent and sunscreen to protect yourself from mosquitoes and the sun's rays.

Explore Putumayo: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Putumayo

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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The End Of The World Waterfall / Cascada Fin Del Mundo

Discover the serene beauty of The End of the World Waterfall, a stunning natural attraction in Colombia's Putumayo region, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.

4.8

Cascada Fin del Mundo

Discover the breathtaking Cascada Fin del Mundo near Mocoa: Hike through the Amazon, swim in crystal pools, and witness stunning natural beauty.

4.8

Fin del Mundo Extremo Mocoa Putumayo Colombia

Discover cascading waterfalls and hidden swimming holes in the lush Amazonian foothills near Mocoa, Putumayo.

4.8

Parque Nacional Cueva de los Guacharos

Explore Colombia's first national park: a haven of cloud forests, unique caves, and the fascinating oilbirds in the heart of the Andes-Amazon transition.

4.8

Best landmarks in Putumayo

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Parque General Santander

Explore the breathtaking beauty and rich biodiversity of Parque General Santander, a national park that captures the essence of Colombia's natural wonders.

4.3

Monumento Al olvido

Discover Monumento Al Olvido in Mocoa, a serene memorial that honors the past amidst the breathtaking beauty of Colombia's Putumayo region.

4.1

Puerto asis monumento a los fundadores

Explore the Monumento a los Fundadores in Puerto Asís, a stunning tribute to history and culture amidst the scenic beauty of Putumayo.

4.3

Fin del Mundo Extremo Mocoa Putumayo Colombia

Explore the stunning waterfalls and lush landscapes of Fin del Mundo, a captivating natural attraction in Mocoa, Putumayo, Colombia.

4.8

Best restaurants in Putumayo

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Mazorca Desgranada

Experience authentic Colombian cuisine at Mazorca Desgranada in Puerto Asís, where local flavors meet warm hospitality.

4.3

Kilote Restaurante Bar

Experience the flavors of Colombia at Kilote Restaurante Bar in Mocoa - where local cuisine meets vibrant atmosphere.

4.5

Al Humo

Discover delicious local and international cuisine at Al Humo in Mocoa – where every meal tells a story.

4.3

Restaurante Mesón Antioqueño

Discover authentic Colombian cuisine at Restaurante Mesón Antioqueño in Puerto Asís—where local flavors meet warm hospitality.

4.2

Best bars in Putumayo

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Chente (Rumba- Ranchera y Vallenato

Experience the vibrant rhythms of Rumba, Ranchera, and Vallenato at Chente, Puerto Asís' premier music bar.

4.2

Cava Licores

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Puerto Asís at Cava Licores, where delicious drinks and a lively atmosphere await you.

4.2

IBIZA DISCO BAR

Dive into the lively atmosphere of Ibiza Disco Bar, Puerto Asís – a perfect spot for nightlife, music, and delicious cocktails.

4.5

Euforia Rock Bar

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Puerto Asís at Euforia Rock Bar, where live music and delicious drinks await.

4.7

Best nightclubs in Putumayo

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Ficus Plaza Puerto Asís

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Ficus Plaza Puerto Asís, where music, dance, and local culture come alive in a dynamic disco atmosphere.

4.2

Discoteca COCO LOCO

Discover the vibrant nightlife at Discoteca COCO LOCO, a top disco club in Villagarzón, Putumayo, where the rhythm of Colombia comes alive.

4.4

Regal Disco Bar

Discover the vibrant nightlife at Regal Disco Bar in Mocoa, where music, dancing, and fun come together for an unforgettable experience.

4.0

WelcomeParadise

Discover the lively nightlife of WelcomeParadise, a premier night club in Orito, Putumayo, where fun, music, and culture collide.

4.7

Best shops in Putumayo

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Fin del Mundo Extremo Mocoa Putumayo Colombia

Discover the breathtaking beauty and adventure of Fin del Mundo Extremo in Mocoa, Putumayo, Colombia – a paradise for nature lovers and thrill-seekers.

4.8

Hornoyaco

Explore Hornoyaco: A Natural Paradise in Mocoa, Putumayo with Stunning Waterfalls and Rich Biodiversity.

4.8

The End Of The World Waterfall / Cascada Fin Del Mundo

Discover the breathtaking Cascada Fin Del Mundo, a stunning waterfall in Putumayo, Colombia, surrounded by lush landscapes and pristine nature.

4.8

Mariposario Paway

Experience the breathtaking beauty of butterflies at Mariposario Paway, a serene sanctuary nestled in Colombia's lush Putumayo region.

4.3

Explore Putumayo on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Putumayo, mapped for you.

Putumayo Essentials

Putumayo can be accessed by air and road. The nearest major airport is Antonio Nariño Airport in Pasto, Nariño, which is about a five-hour drive from Mocoa, the capital of Putumayo. From Bogotá, you can also take a domestic flight to Villagarzón Airport, located closer to Mocoa. Alternatively, long-distance buses operate from cities like Bogotá, Cali, and Neiva. These journeys can take upwards of 10-15 hours due to the terrain.
Within Putumayo, travel is primarily by road. Local buses and colectivos (shared taxis) are the most common forms of public transport. For more remote areas, hiring a 4x4 vehicle or arranging transportation through local tour operators is advisable due to rough and sometimes unpaved roads. Motorbike taxis are also available for short distances. Car rentals are limited but can be arranged in larger towns.
The official currency of Colombia is the Colombian Peso (COP). Major towns like Mocoa have ATMs, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially when traveling to rural areas. Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but smaller establishments often deal in cash only. Ensure you have sufficient cash before heading into remote areas.
Putumayo is generally safe for tourists, but caution is advised. Avoid travel to remote areas without a local guide, as some regions have historically been affected by conflict and illegal activities. Areas like Puerto Asís and Puerto Leguízamo are generally safer but stay updated on current travel advisories. Avoid displaying valuables and be cautious when walking alone at night.
In case of an emergency, dial 123 for immediate assistance. Mocoa has a hospital and several clinics, but medical facilities are limited in rural areas. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuation. Pharmacies are available in major towns for minor health issues. Always carry a basic first-aid kit.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially in rural and indigenous areas. Avoid flashy jewelry and revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. If visiting indigenous communities, follow their guidelines and ask before taking photos. Public Transport: Do be respectful of fellow passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake or a nod. Avoid overly familiar gestures. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food graciously when offered. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
For an authentic experience, visit local markets such as the Mocoa market, where you can buy fresh produce and artisanal crafts. Engage with locals, who are often willing to share stories about their culture and traditions. Don't miss the chance to explore the natural beauty of Putumayo, including the Fin del Mundo waterfall and La Laguna de la Cocha. Consider eco-tourism options, which are popular in the region and support local communities.

When is the best time to visit Putumayo?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Putumayo

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Putumayo. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHola
  [Ola]
- GoodbyeAdiós
  [A-dios]
- YesSí
  [See]
- NoNo
  [No]
- Please/You're welcomePor favor/De nada
  [Por fa-vor/De na-da]
- Thank youGracias
  [Gra-sias]
- Excuse me/SorryPerdón
  [Per-don]
- How are you?¿Cómo estás?
  [Ko-mo es-tas]
- Fine. And you?Bien. ¿Y tú?
  [Byen. Ee tu]
- Do you speak English?¿Hablas inglés?
  [A-blas in-gles]
- I don't understandNo entiendo
  [No en-tien-do]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMe gustaría ver el menú, por favor
  [Me gus-ta-ria ver el me-nu, por fa-vor]
- I don't eat meatNo como carne
  [No ko-mo car-ne]
- Cheers!¡Salud!
  [Sa-lud]
- I would like to pay, pleaseMe gustaría pagar, por favor
  [Me gus-ta-ria pa-gar, por fa-vor]
- Help!¡Ayuda!
  [A-yu-da]
- Go away!¡Vete!
  [Ve-te]
- Call the Police!¡Llame a la policía!
  [Ya-me a la po-li-cia]
- Call a doctor!¡Llame a un doctor!
  [Ya-me a un doc-tor]
- I'm lostEstoy perdido
  [Es-toy per-di-do]
- I'm illEstoy enfermo
  [Es-toy en-fer-mo]
- I'd like to buy...Me gustaría comprar...
  [Me gus-ta-ria com-prar]
- I'm just lookingSolo estoy mirando
  [So-lo es-toy mi-ran-do]
- How much is it?¿Cuánto cuesta?
  [Kwan-to kwes-ta]
- That's too expensiveEso es muy caro
  [E-so es muy ca-ro]
- Can you lower the price?¿Puedes bajar el precio?
  [Pwe-des ba-har el pre-cio]
- What time is it?¿Qué hora es?
  [Ke o-ra es]
- It's one o'clockEs la una
  [Es la u-na]
- Half past (10)Y media (10)
  [Ee me-dia]
- MorningMañana
  [Ma-nya-na]
- AfternoonTarde
  [Tar-de]
- EveningNoche
  [No-che]
- YesterdayAyer
  [A-yer]
- TodayHoy
  [Oi]
- TomorrowMañana
  [Ma-nya-na]
- 1Uno
  [U-no]
- 2Dos
  [Dos]
- 3Tres
  [Tres]
- 4Cuatro
  [Cua-tro]
- 5Cinco
  [Cin-co]
- 6Seis
  [Seis]
- 7Siete
  [Sye-te]
- 8Ocho
  [O-cho]
- 9Nueve
  [Nwe-ve]
- 10Diez
  [Dyez]
- Where's a/the...?¿Dónde está un/una...?
  [Don-de es-ta un/una]
- What's the address?¿Cuál es la dirección?
  [Kwal es la di-re-cción]
- Can you show me (on the map)?¿Puedes mostrarme (en el mapa)?
  [Pwe-des mos-trar-me (en el ma-pa)]
- When's the next (bus)?¿Cuándo es el próximo (bus)?
  [Kwan-do es el pro-xi-mo]
- A ticket (to ....)Un boleto (a ...)
  [Un bo-le-to (a ...)]

History of Putumayo

Putumayo is home to several indigenous groups, including the Inga and Kamentsá. These communities have lived in the region for thousands of years, preserving their rich cultural heritage through traditional practices, languages, and rituals. The Inga people are known for their intricate weaving and complex spiritual traditions, while the Kamentsá celebrate the Bëtsknaté, a festival that marks the New Year with vibrant dances and ceremonies.
During the Spanish colonization in the 16th century, the Putumayo region saw the arrival of missionaries and explorers. The Jesuits were among the first to establish missions, aiming to convert indigenous populations to Christianity. This period significantly impacted the local cultures and led to the establishment of new settlements and the introduction of European agricultural practices.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Putumayo experienced a rubber boom that attracted many settlers and entrepreneurs. The demand for rubber led to the exploitation of both natural resources and indigenous labor. The infamous Casa Arana, a rubber company led by Julio César Arana, became notorious for its brutal treatment of indigenous workers, a dark chapter in Putumayo's history that drew international condemnation.
In the latter half of the 20th century, Putumayo became a significant area for coca cultivation, driven by the global demand for cocaine. This brought both economic opportunities and severe challenges, including violence from armed groups and the impact of aerial fumigation policies. The region became a focal point in Colombia's internal conflict, affecting the lives of many local communities.
Putumayo is part of the Amazon rainforest and is renowned for its rich biodiversity. The region is home to numerous species of flora and fauna, many of which are endemic. Efforts to conserve this unique environment have led to the establishment of protected areas such as the La Paya National Natural Park. These conservation efforts aim to preserve the region's natural heritage while promoting sustainable tourism.
In recent years, there has been a cultural renaissance in Putumayo, with a renewed focus on indigenous traditions and local arts. Festivals, music, and crafts are being promoted as part of the region's cultural identity. This revival is not only a celebration of Putumayo's diverse heritage but also an effort to heal and rebuild communities affected by decades of conflict.