We’re excited to share details about Cano Cristales, also called the River of Five Colors, one of Colombia’s most breathtaking natural wonders.

This river is located in La Macarena, Meta Province, inside the Serranía de la Macarena National Natural Park.

The river spans around 100 kilometers and is famous for its vibrant colors—red, yellow, blue, green, and black—caused by a special underwater plant, Macarenia Clavigera.

The riverbed is clear and ancient, with rocks over a billion years old, making the experience not only beautiful but deeply connected to Earth’s history.

Best Time to Visit

To see the river at its most colorful, plan your trip between late July and early November. This period is when the unique algae bloom due to the right mix of rainfall and sunlight. Outside of these months, the colors fade, and the river looks more ordinary. The peak time to visit is usually August to October when the colors are brightest and most vibrant.

How to Get There

Getting to Cano Cristales requires some planning because it is remote. The nearest town is La Macarena, which serves as the base for all river tours.

- By Air: The easiest and fastest way is to fly from Bogotá to La Macarena Airport. The flight takes about one hour and several local airlines operate this route.

- By Road: You can also travel by land, but it’s a long and bumpy ride that can take up to 8-10 hours from major cities like Bogotá or Villavicencio. This option is less popular due to rough roads and time consumption.

Once in La Macarena, all visits to Cano Cristales must be done with authorized local guides. Independent access is not allowed to protect the environment.

Entry Fees and Permits

Visiting Cano Cristales requires a permit managed by the national park authorities to control the number of visitors.

- Park Entrance Fee: Approximately $20 USD per person (subject to change, so check before booking).

- Guide Fees: Hiring a guide is mandatory and usually costs between $30 to $50 USD per day, depending on the group size.

- Tour Packages: Many operators offer multi-day tours that include transportation, accommodation, meals, and guided trips to the river and surrounding natural sites. Prices for these packages range from $150 to $300 USD per person.

Booking in advance is highly recommended because daily visitor numbers are limited.

Opening Hours and Tour Details

The park is generally open for visitors from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM daily. Tours usually start early in the morning to make the most of daylight and favorable viewing conditions. Most tours last about 4 to 6 hours, including time for hiking along the river, swimming in safe spots, and photography.

What to Bring and Tips for Visitors

To enjoy the visit safely and comfortably, here are some practical tips:

- Wear sturdy hiking shoes or water shoes since paths can be slippery and uneven.

- Bring insect repellent to protect against mosquitoes.

- Pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for sun protection.

- Carry a reusable water bottle and snacks, as options in the park are limited.

- Bring a waterproof camera or phone case to capture the colorful scenes safely.

- Follow all guide instructions and park rules to avoid disturbing the fragile ecosystem.

- Avoid using plastic bags or any waste that might harm the environment.

- Respect local customs and the natural environment by staying on marked trails.

Additional Activities Near Cano Cristales

La Macarena and the surrounding park offer more than just the river. Consider visiting:

- Caño Sabana: A beautiful waterfall and natural pool perfect for a refreshing swim.

- Caño Piedra: Another river with crystal-clear waters great for relaxing.

- Birdwatching: The park is home to many bird species, so bring binoculars if you enjoy wildlife spotting.

Why We Should Experience Cano Cristales Together

Cano Cristales offers a rare chance to witness one of nature’s most stunning displays. When we visit with care and respect, we not only protect this vibrant river but also create lasting memories. This extraordinary place invites us to connect deeply with the natural world and reminds us how important it is to preserve such treasures. For those who love exploring, adventure, or simply discovering new wonders, Cano Cristales will leave a lasting impression.

Thank you for joining us on this journey! Have you ever dreamed of visiting a place like this? We’d love to hear your thoughts or questions as we continue uncovering amazing destinations together.