Caño Cristales

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Today, we’re venturing to Caño Cristales, also known as the "Liquid Rainbow," located in a remote corner of Colombia.

Caño Cristales is a natural wonder, known for its out-of-this-world display of colors that fill its riverbed during certain times of the year.

To give you an idea of how isolated this marvel is, it was only discovered in 1969.

Caño Cristales

As you hike through the barren lowland hills of the Serranía de la Macarena, you’ll be surprised when you come across gushing streams of vibrant purple, fuchsia, golden, and green plants swaying in the waters of Caño Cristales.

The tiers of waterfalls and surrounding rock formations also offer an incredible sight.

The rainbow of colors is created by a plant called Macarenia Clavigera that lines the rocks and only blooms from June to November, during the rainy season.

To make things more interesting, they change color depending on exposure to the sun.

So, seeing the Rainbow River in full force is a mix of skilled planning and a bit of luck.

Hiking to the Liquid Rainbow

There are several options to see Caño Cristales up close.

The most popular trek is a half-day trip that starts with a quick boat ride up the Río Guayabero from the town of La Macarena, a truck ride, and a one-mile hike to Caño Cristales.

If you have more time and energy, there are longer trips you can take to see the nearby ancient petroglyphs, intense white water rapids, and the rock formations of Ciudad de Piedra.

Explore More

If you would like to learn more, here are some links you can check out to get more information about Caño Cristales.

• Hiking Caño Cristales (article)

• Floating Along Colombia’s Rainbow River (video)

How to visit Caño Cristales

The small town of La Macarena on the Río Guayabero is the gateway to Caño Cristales.

To visit Caño Cristales, you need a minimum of one full day and two nights, but staying a day or two longer is worthwhile. All excursions require a guide.

The best time of the year to visit is during the rainy season, from May until November when you can marvel at the Macarenia clavigera in bloom.