An aquatic plant called Macarenia clavigera paints Caño Cristales, the ‘River of Five Colors,’ with magic in the municipality of La Macarena, located in the department of Meta. Green, yellow, and violet are just some of the shades you can admire in its waters—a true visual spectacle that makes it one of Colombia’s most renowned and breathtaking tourist attractions worldwide.

The vibrant colors of Caño Cristales flow through the Sierra de La Macarena National Natural Park, a protected area where, guided by experts, you can experience wildlife and flora observation, cultural tourism with local communities, geological wonders, and the mysteries hidden in ancient pictograms. You can also explore the stunning landscapes through hiking, with ten different trail options available in the Caño Cristales sector.

If you want to visit this destination, also known as ‘the melted rainbow’ or ‘the most beautiful river in the world,’ it is best to do so in the second half of the year when the aquatic plants are at their most colorful, dazzling in the clear waters. Before planning your trip, it is important to check whether the park is open to visitors. You can find updated information through National Natural Parks, Cormacarena, or authorized tour operators.

One of the most popular routes to Caño Cristales is traveling to the municipality of La Macarena and then embarking on a boat journey along the Guayabero River. As you navigate its waters, you’ll be enchanted by the lush flora and diverse wildlife, making it the perfect opportunity to capture stunning photographs and create unforgettable memories. This aquatic journey brings you closer to the Sierra de La Macarena National Natural Park, where the adventure continues.

Once inside the park, you can enjoy wildlife and flora observation. The area is home to at least 420 bird species and 10 species of amphibians. To cool off, you can take a dip in the crystal-clear water pools, which resemble natural open-air swimming pools—just make sure to do so only in designated areas.

This journey is not just about the breathtaking river and its biodiversity but also about the warmth of the local people, whom you meet from the very start of your adventure. Ecotourism plays a vital role in the economic development of this region, meaning that your visit directly supports the communities providing these services.