Serrania de la Macarena
Behold the Liquid Rainbow Running Through Colombia


Did you know Colombia is home to the most beautiful river in the world? Travelers who want to marvel at the most magical
waters can do so for four months yearly at the Caño Cristales River, aka “the River of Five Colors.” This ethereal wonderland
can be found in Serranía de la Macarena National Park, an adventure for travelers who wish to go off the beaten path. A
vibrant natural paradise like this is perfect for a peaceful outdoor excursion.
If you want to traverse into less-treaded lands, add Serranía de la Macarena to your itinerary. Nature lovers, photographers,
and adventurous travelers all agree that the trek to get here is worth it for the beautiful sights.
While exploring the national park, you may spend some time in the nearby city of La Macarena which has an eclectic culinary scene. Here you can find a combination of delicious international restaurants as well as some excellent Colombian spots, all being enjoyed by the diverse community of artists, ex-pats, and trendy residents. Explore the city in the morning and you’ll get to enjoy the exquisite pastries of Colombia, like pandebonos and torta de coco.
Embark on a jungle adventure in Serranía de la Macarena with kayaking excursions, hiking trails, and some exciting wildlife tours. While the Caño Cristales is certainly a highlight feature of this national park, adventurers should be ready to explore the rest of this mountainous terrain. La Macarena is also known as a destination for sport fishing if you wish to try your hand at a new activity while exploring.
The Caño Cristales river is one of the most magical sights you will ever discover in nature. If you’ve ever seen Disney’s Encanto, then you will be blown away by the rainbow river in real life. Accessing Caño Cristales is possible with a guided tour, which can be done with a combination of horseback rides and hiking on foot. Once you arrive, you’ll be able to take a swim in some of the designated areas and enjoy the stunning views.
One of the best ways to treat yourself to some rest and relaxation is by unplugging and reconnecting with nature. Serranía de la Macarena is the perfect destination to do just that. Spend a night in La Manigua Lodge, surrounded by the tranquility of this natural reserve.
When booking a luxury vacation to Colombia, we’ll keep your travel goals in mind so you enjoy the spoils of this
untouched Eden to the fullest extent. Be inspired by a few of our signature itineraries, then talk with one of our team
members to begin curating the ultimate luxury vacation to Colombia!
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For four months of the year, the colorful algae under the surface of the water come alive and make this
rushing river a liquid rainbow. If you want to see the spectacular display of natural art, make sure you visit
between July and October when the colors peak.
Cross Caño Cristales Off Your Bucket List Caño Cristales is a photographer’s paradise and natural wonder. This liquid river of rainbows is a must-see for adventurous travelers on a luxury tour of Colombia. Vibrant hues are created by the plants growing within the river, as the light bounces off the unique species of algae and creates enchanting pools of wonder. Take a swim after your hike to this river and explore this bucket list destination.
Laguna Del Silencio There’s more to Caño Cristales than its famous river, including the “Lagoon of Silence”: a 15-hectare lagoon that received its name for its peace and tranquility. A chance to see herons, corocoras, hummingbirds, turtles, and other endemic species, don’t miss this stop while visiting the famous park.
Macarena Botanic Garden Within approximately 650 hectares, the Macarena Botanical Garden has more than 4% of all of Colombia’s plant biodiversity. There are more than 1,200 species of plants and trees, 250 species of birds, and 70 species of fish within its boundaries, where you can hike, go wildlife viewing, or learn about their conservation efforts.
Organize An Excursion to Caño Canoas After your trip to the rainbow river, plan an excursion to the most beautiful waterfall in Colombia: Caño Canoas. This waterfall pours out over a cliff of lush green foliage, creating a dynamic scene that leaves visitors in awe. Getting to this waterfall will require a bit of a jungle trek, but with an expert guide by your side, you’ll be able to access the majesty with ease.
Punto Verde Punto Verde is a small, family-run hotel with a passion for its homeland that’s reflected in every dish they serve. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, their menu changes daily depending on what’s locally available, but there’s usually a delicious and fresh fish option that never disappoints.
El Caporal This absolutely huge space is often the center of entertainment in town, with live shows and music often blessing their stage and their patrons. Located conveniently close to the boats that take visitors into the national park, it’s a good place to stop and fill up on hearty plates of coal-cooked meat and fish either before or after your trip.
Café de Lithos If you want a cozy place to grab some refreshments after your jungle excursion, stop by Café de Lithos. Dining here feels like you are being hosted by a loving family who puts care into every dish they make. The menu spans various Latin American cuisine, so you’ll be able to choose between a diverse selection of offerings. Traditional Colombian food, Peruvian dishes, Mexican influences, and even some Italian inspiration can be enjoyed here.
La Manigua Lodge Reconnect with nature when you stay in La Manigua Lodge, one of the best destinations for travelers who wish to spend a few days in the peaceful Serranía de la Macarena park. Surrounded by a tropical forest, the cabins here offer an almost tree-house-like experience with huge nets to nap in and a design that coexists with nature. This lodge also participates in sustainability efforts to restore the forest of La Macarena..
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