The Caño Cristales site opened its doors on June 1, and Terra Colombia’s Galvin was the first on the scene to report on the park’s entry conditions, possible tours (the site is extremely protected), and visit the village’s accommodation. Here’s his exclusive review of this totally exclusive place. Caño Cristales is the new off-the-beaten-track destination that’s starting to make a name for itself, and which I was lucky enough to discover. Between jungle and colorful river, from green to red, here’s a look back on a few colorful days. The park where the 7-colored river flows is only accessible by airplane from Bogota, arriving in the small village of La Macarena (Meta department).
Green, like my face when I realize that I’m going to have to cross this long ocean of green in a small plane. Fortunately, it’s so beautiful that I get used to it and my face soon takes on colors more in keeping with my destination.
On arrival, all the lights are green and it’s time to see life in the pink. La Macarena, a small village lost in the plains of Meta, exudes calm and good humor. Between its square, where people gather to take advantage of the region’s only Wifi access, and its small church with its typical paintings.
In the middle of nowhere, it’s an adventure. Between a typical boat and a 4X4, I slowly approach the site. The rest is done on foot on one of the many trails in the national park, between waterfalls and breathtaking viewpoints. On arrival, my mouth is agape… This is truly a unique place. The blue of the river blends with the colors of this endemic aquatic plant, the Macarenia Clavigera, creating a rainbow of colors in an unspoilt natural setting. Caño Cristales is truly THE destination not to be missed…
