Beautiful lakes and rivers are often reason enough to plan a side trip from a particular destination. But there’s one river that’s a destination all on its own. The Cano Cristales is a unique and beautiful river located in Colombia. It is known as the “River of Five Colors” or the “Liquid Rainbow” due to its vibrant colors, which are caused by a variety of factors, including the presence of algae, minerals, and plants.
The river itself is about 100 kilometers long and 20 meters wide and is home to a variety of plants and animals, including the Macarenia clavigera plant, which is responsible for the river’s vibrant colors. The best time to visit the river is during the dry season, which runs from July to November. The river is a popular tourist destination, but it it can get crowded during the peak season, so it’s important to book your trip in advance.
Once you’ve arrived at Cano Cristales, you’ll be treated to some genuinely stunning scenery. The vibrant colors of the river are unlike anything else in the world. Believe it or not, you can actually swim in the river: the waters are clear and refreshing, but it’s also a great place snorkel and kayak. The area also offers the chance to see wildlife, including a wide variety of fish, birds, and monkeys, some of which visitors may be able to see up close.
Cano Cristales is located in the Serranía de la Macarena National Park in Colombia, which is about five and a half hours south of Bogotá. So one of the main challenges is simply getting there, as Cano Cristales is located in a remote area. This of course adds to the adventure, but it’s important to be prepared: bring plenty of food and water, and make sure you have a good map. The river can have strong currents and sharp rocks, and the water can be cold dangerous at times, so it is important to swim with caution.
One thing to keep in mind is that if you decide to go in the water is to avoid wearing bug spray or sunscreen as these products can harm the delicate ecosystem of the river. The best way to stave off bugs and the sun while visiting Cano Cristales is to wear long sleeves, pants, and a hat. This way you can protect yourself and the delicate ecosystem of the river at the same time.
Have you ever been to Can Cristales? Tell us about it in the comments below!
Leave a Reply