Caño Cristales Travel Guide: Visit Colombia’s Rainbow River

June 20th, 2025 | by E.M.H | Posted in Featured, Nature, Tourism

Hidden deep in the Colombian wilderness lies a river so surreal it looks Photoshopped. Caño Cristales, known as “The River of Five Colors” or “Liquid Rainbow,” is a natural wonder that seems to defy reality, with flowing reds, greens, yellows, and blues glowing beneath crystal-clear water.

Located in the remote Sierra de la Macarena National Park, this vibrant river is one of Colombia’s most unique and breathtaking experiences. And the best part? It’s still off the radar for many tourists.

In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know to visit Caño Cristales, from the best time to go, to how to get there, what to pack, and how to experience it responsibly.

Water that appears to be tinged red a result of the abundance of the Macarenia clavigera plant in Caño Cristales — Water that appears to be tinged red as a result of the abundance of the Macarenia clavigera plant in Caño Cristales, Colombia. Photograph by Mario Carvajal, licensed under Creative Commons Attribution 3.0.

What Is Caño Cristales?

Caño Cristales is a 100-kilometer-long river in the Meta Department of central Colombia. Its unique coloration comes from an aquatic plant called Macarenia clavigera, which thrives in specific conditions (clear water, sunlight, and just the right balance of water levels).

This biological marvel only appears during the rainy-to-dry season transition (June to November). Outside that window, the river returns to a more typical appearance.

Its remoteness and seasonal bloom make Caño Cristales a rare and sought-after gem for nature lovers, photographers, and adventurous travelers.

Best Time to Visit Caño Cristales

Timing is everything when planning a trip to Caño Cristales.

Best months:

June to early December: This is when Macarenia clavigera blooms and the river transforms into a living rainbow.

Avoid:

January to May — The river is closed to visitors to allow the ecosystem to recover.

Tip: Try to plan for late July to early October for the most vivid colors and stable weather.

Caño Cristales where its waters and vegetation present us with a palette of colors. Photo by Gicaman via Wikimedia Commons.

How to Get to Caño Cristales

Getting to Caño Cristales isn’t as easy as hopping on a bus, but that’s part of the adventure.

Step 1: Fly to Villavicencio

From Bogotá, take a 1-hour domestic flight or a 4–5 hour drive to Villavicencio.

Step 2: Fly to La Macarena

From Villavicencio, board a small plane (e.g., SATENA or charter) to La Macarena, a small town and the gateway to Caño Cristales. These flights usually operate seasonally.

Step 3: Register and Tour

Upon arrival, you’ll check in with CORMACARENA (the regional environmental authority). All visitors must book a certified local guide, as independent trekking is not allowed.

You can book:

A multi-day tour from Bogotá or Medellín
Or arrange a shorter La Macarena–based tour (1–3 days)

For tours, reputable companies like Impulso Travel offer sustainable packages with bilingual guides.

What to Pack

This is a rugged experience in a fragile ecosystem. Here’s what you’ll need:

Long pants & long sleeves (for sun and mosquito protection)
Biodegradable sunscreen & insect repellent
Hiking shoes or water sandals (you’ll cross shallow streams)
Water bottle (plastic is banned—bring a reusable one)
Light rain jacket (weather shifts quickly in the Amazon fringe)
Cash in Colombian pesos (ATMs are limited or non-existent)

There’s no cell signal deep in the park, download maps and content offline.

What You’ll See and Do

Caño Cristales is more than just a river, it’s an ecosystem of jungle trails, waterfalls, natural pools, and biodiversity.

Top Sites Inside the Park:

Los Ochos: A network of natural pools with vividly swirling colors
El Tapete: “The Carpet” – one of the river’s most iconic red-pink stretches
Cascada de la Virgen: A picturesque waterfall surrounded by lush forest
Piscina del Turista: A popular swimming hole (yes, swimming is allowed in designated areas)

Wildlife lovers may spot howler monkeys, toucans, or even river otters.

Sustainable Tourism & Local Impact

Visiting Caño Cristales is a privilege and a responsibility. The region was once closed off due to armed conflict and remains ecologically fragile.

Tips for visiting responsibly:

Only use certified local guides
Stick to trails; don’t touch the aquatic plants
Use biodegradable toiletries only
Leave no trace, pack out all trash
Respect Indigenous and campesino communities

The tourism model here is community-based, meaning locals directly benefit from tours, lodging, and services. Your visit supports reforestation, peacebuilding, and conservation efforts.

Where to Stay in La Macarena

Accommodation in La Macarena is simple but charming. A few traveler-recommended spots:

La Manigua Lodge: Eco-luxury glamping just outside town
Casa Real: Clean, locally-owned hotel with meals and tours
Hostal Caño Nevera: Budget-friendly option with good reviews

While you’re in La Macarena, be sure to try regional specialties like arepas de arroz and sancocho llanero. If Colombian cuisine fascinates you, explore our full Food Guides for everything from street eats to fine dining.

La Macarena Church Colombia — La Macarena Church, Colombia. Photo by Peter Fitzgerald via Wikimedia Commons.

Nearby Attractions

If you’re making the effort to reach La Macarena, consider extending your trip:

Raudal Angosturas: Impressive rock formations and river landscapes
Serranía de la Macarena National Park: Explore biodiversity beyond the river
Cascada del Cuarzo: A lesser-known but equally magical crystal waterfall