Colombia is a country known for its landscapes and natural beauty, but today we are going to tell you about one of the most unusual, exceptional and incredibly beautiful places in this country: Caño Cristales. It is a river modestly called “the most beautiful river in the world” or “the river that escaped from paradise”. This seems a bit pretentious, but once there you will see that its beauty is exceptional and undeniable!
Cano Cristales is located in the south of Colombia, more precisely in the Serranía de la Macarena nature reserve, a 1-hour flight from Bogota. The plane is currently the preferred means of access because the roads are in very poor condition. It is possible to get there from Bogota, and also from Medellin and Villavicencio. The accommodations are simple and yet comfortable, but the main interest is to discover the magnificent colors of Caño Cristales.
“The River of Five Colors” by Caño Cristales
Declared a UNESCO Natural Heritage Site, the Macarena Natural Park and Reserve, and specifically Caño Cristales, is a very fragile natural ecosystem. Only 170 people per day are admitted to the park in order to preserve its vast biodiversity. More than 420 species of birds, 10 amphibians, 43 reptiles, 9 primates and many species of plants, but perhaps the most exceptional of all is the Macarenia Clavigera. This is the endemic aquatic algae (meaning that it only exists in this place in the world) that gives Caño Cristales its name of “the river of five colors”. It lines the riverbed with, you guessed it, five different colors: yellow, blue, green, black and red!
In addition to the sublime colors that seem to come out of an impressionist painting, the thousand-year-old geological formations give shape to tunnels, natural pools, waterfalls, whirlpools, it is simply incredible. Considered the oldest geological formation in the Andes, you will discover it by walking along the 4 paths available to appreciate this unique spectacle of nature. On the other hand, swimming is prohibited in order to protect the fragile balance and preserve the existence of algae. Watch this video to have your eyes full!
The Macarena
No, it’s not Spanish dancing. La Macarena is a town in Colombia, in a region that has been isolated for a long time. The situation of Colombia in the past, as well as the state of the roads, has made its inhabitants remain indigenous. It is a region with strong folkloric expressions, especially in everything related to dance and music. Make sure not to miss a demonstration evening!
Caño Cristales is a protected area that you should hurry to discover! Are you ready to go? Don’t hesitate to look at our stay idea by clicking here or contact us now to create a travel project adapted to your needs.
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