Caño
Cristales
Caño Cristales, known as the River of Five Colours, flows through Sierra de la Macarena National Natural Park near La Macarena, Colombia. This three-day nature tour combines boat navigation on the Guayabero River, 4×4 transfers and guided hikes across tropical forest and rocky savannah to reach colourful river channels, waterfalls and natural pools. Daily routes depend on rainfall, water levels and national park regulations, making every departure slightly different.
3-Day Caño Cristales Tour Itinerary
Day 1. La Macarena – Caño Cristales
Upon arrival at La Macarena airport, meet your guide for an induction talk from National Natural Parks (PNN). Depending on your arrival time, enjoy lunch either in the village or at a local farm. Then, take a 25-30 minute boat ride along the Guayabero River, where you might spot squirrel monkeys, hoatzins, Scarlet Macaws, and more. Afterward, drive by 4×4 to Cajuche Spring and begin an ecological hike to the natural pools of Cristalitos. In the afternoon, return to La Macarena for dinner and overnight at a local standard accommodation. In the evening, enjoy local myths, legends, and stories around a campfire. (L, D)
Today we will explore another branch of Caño Cristales, featuring its vibrant colors, waterfalls, and natural swimming pools along a mostly flat 6.5–9 km hike. Along the way, we will see the colorful Macarenia clavigera, an endemic aquatic plant that, when touched by sunlight, paints Caño Cristales in stunning shades of red, pink, and green. After the excursion, we will return to La Macarena for dinner and overnight at a local accommodation. In the evening, you will enjoy a cultural integration event with traditional music, dance, and local gastronomy shared with members of the community. (All meals)
Day 3. Caño Cristales- La Macarena
We will visit Piscina Karol Cristal, Piscina del Turista or enjoy other activities that will be chosen by a local guide depending on the weather conditions and the time available. After the activity we will return back to La Macarena to continue our journey beyond. (B)
Caño Cristales Tour Information
Includes
Excludes
Accommodation
Difficulty
Luggage & More
When to go?
What to pack?
Includes
Transport
Transfers in open boats with outboard motors.
Land Transfers in all the excursions
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Meals
As indicated in the itinerary. (B, L, D / Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
The food is simple and very good.
If you are vegetarian or have specific dietary needs, please let us know in advance.
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Professional Guides
Professional guides are available at each destination, all fluent in Spanish and English.
Excludes
- Tips
- International airfare
- Travel insurance
- Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages
- Souvenirs
- Laundry and other extras
- Transfers to/from the Airport before and after the tour (available as an optional service)
Accommodation
Accommodation in comfortable inns with private bathrooms, fans, or air conditioning. We will provide you with a couple of options to choose from.
Difficulty
The excursion to Caño Cristales is of moderate to low difficulty, but it requires good physical condition to walk over rocks and trails that can last several hours (from 2 to 6 hours) and include sections like the “Pianos” trail (9.5 km).
On some days, the temperatures in the savannah region of the PNN La Macarena can be high, so we recommend carrying plenty of water and wearing hats.
It is essential to wear good footwear, stay with the guide, and follow the rules to protect the aquatic plant, although the area is currently safe and well protected.
Luggage & More
Maximum Weight: Airlines flying to La Macarena generally enforce a strict limit of 10 to 15 kg per passenger (including carry-on luggage), and all passengers are weighed on a scale.
Take a photo of your luggage and label it for identification.
You are solely responsible for your personal belongings. If you forget something at any camp, waterfall, or natural location, retrieving it may require additional costs for fuel, logistics, personnel, etc., which will be exclusively covered by you in cash and on-site.
When to go?
The recommended season for visiting the river runs from May to November. If you want to experience the “river of five colors” at its most vibrant, the ideal months are September and October.
During this period, the red hues are at their strongest, creating a truly unique spectacle. The phenomenon depends on having the right balance of rainfall—enough water for the Macarenia clavigera plant to flourish, but not so much that the river overflows.
Keep in mind that September and October are peak months, so you will encounter more visitors. If you prefer fewer crowds, consider traveling earlier in the season, such as May. Ultimately, the best time depends on your preferences—there is no right or wrong choice.
What to pack?
What to Pack
Clothing: Lightweight cotton or lycra, long sleeves (for sun and mosquitoes), swimsuit, and a small towel.
Footwear: Sneakers or sandals that can get wet and provide good grip, plus an extra pair.
Accessories: Hat or cap, sunglasses, rain jacket or poncho, insect repellent.
Hydration: Essential! Bring a canteen, thermos, or CamelBak (no plastic bottles).
Documents & Money: ID, Passport, health insurance card, and cash in Colombian Pesos only for expenses on-site.
Other: Small personal hygiene kit and camera
What NOT to Bring
Plastic bottles: Do not bring plastic bottles to the river—this is a protected ecosystem.
Excess luggage: Do not exceed 10–15 kg; overweight bags may incur extra costs or may not be allowed.