Caño Cristales River Trip - 3 Days – Colombia – FlashpackerConnect Adventure Travel

Experience the wonder of Caño Cristales, often called the "Most Beautiful River in the World," on this 3-day guided tour. Journey through the stunning landscapes of Sierra de la Macarena National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, and witness vibrant colors caused by the unique aquatic plant, Macarenia clavigera, which transforms the river into a breathtaking spectacle. Ideal for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers, this tour combines scenic boat rides, thrilling hikes, cultural immersion, and delicious local cuisine.

Highlights:

Visit the extraordinary Caño Cristales River and Caño Cristiletos
Explore wildlife-rich landscapes in a remote Amazonian region
Discover the local culture with traditional Joropo music and dance
Enjoy a fully guided experience with eco-friendly practices

Best Time to Visit: June - November

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Departure Locations & Days:

Bogota - Direct Flights: Most Days depending on flight availability.
Medellin - Direct Flights: Monday & Friday
All days - By land from Bogota to Villavicencio (3.5 hours driving) and charter plane from Villavicencio

Trip Itinerary

DAY 1: Caño Cristiletos (smaller Caño Cristales River)

Commence your Bogota adventure by independently reaching the airport for your flight to La Macarena, which takes approximately 1 hour. Be prepared for an early presentation time, possibly as early as 5:00 am*. Upon your arrival at La Macarena airport, a FlashpackerConnect guide/representative will warmly welcome you. Following this, engage in an informative session with a representative from the National Park Sierra de la Macarena, featuring a video presentation and talk. Subsequently, you'll be transferred to your hotel for check-in.

Today's expedition takes you to Caño Cristalitos, a smaller branch of the Caño Cristales river. Here, you'll have the unique opportunity to witness a conservation project dedicated to local wildlife and gain insights into the rich cultural heritage of the region. Lunch will be served by the river, emphasizing environmental responsibility by utilizing banana leaves for packaging, ensuring no waste enters the parks.

Post-lunch, return to La Macarena for a well-deserved rest before an evening meal. Tonight's dinner will be at a local restaurant in the company of your guide, who will accompany you during all excursions and meals.

Important to note, your flight itinerary will be sent to you approximately one week before your reservation. Additionally, be aware that La Macarena, despite its remote Amazonian setting, offers comfortable accommodations with basic amenities, and most establishments do not provide hot water.

*Please note that specific presentation times may be communicated closer to your travel date.

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*Your flight itinerary will be emailed to you about 1 week prior to your reservation.

**Please note that La Macarena is a very remote Amazon town and while comfortable, accommodations come with only the basic amenities. Most do not have hot water.

DAY 2: Caño Cristales Full Day Tour

Kickstart your adventure with a satisfying breakfast at a local restaurant. Following this, embark on a 30-minute boat ride launching from La Macarena's boat ramp. As you cruise, seize the opportunity to spot monkeys and exotic bird species, including the prehistoric Hoatzan.

Transitioning from the La Cachivera district to Caño Cajuche in 4x4s, your journey to Caño Cristales begins. The trek will take you through the captivating landscape, with the route culminating at Los Ochos, renowned for its picturesque charm and distinctive geographic features resembling the number eight (approximately 6 hours in total). Throughout the hike, frequent breaks for photography and refreshing swims are encouraged, considering the often warm temperatures—remember to carry an ample supply of water (no single-use water bottles allowed).

Post-hike, return in 4x4s to the Guayabero River, tracing your path back to La Macarena. Take some well-deserved rest at your hotel before joining your guide for a delightful dinner. The evening promises an immersion into local culture with traditional Joropo music and the chance to learn and partake in local dances.

It's important to note that the specific route through the park is assigned on the morning of your trip by Cormacarena and the National Park. Although the park accommodates up to 350 people daily, the carefully planned trails ensure that you'll likely encounter no more than 20 fellow explorers, preserving the tranquility of your journey.

Day 3: Sunrise in Embrujo Sabanero - Departure Home

Rise and shine early as we embark on the journey where a breathtaking sunrise awaits. Dive into the daily tasks of the llanero, gaining insights into their typical activities. Following this immersive experience, savor a regional breakfast accompanied by the soulful melodies of llanera music. Concluding our adventure, we return to the hotel and prepare for the homeward flight.

Additional Trip Info

Round-Trip Flights: Flights from Bogotá to La Macarena are included. If flights are unavailable, transportation to Villavicencio for a charter flight will be arranged (with a hotel transfer included).

Fully Guided Tours: All tours are guided by Spanish-speaking experts, with an English translator headset available upon request (+$150 USD).

All Meals: Enjoy delicious Colombian dishes from lunch on Day 1 to lunch on Day 3 in local restaurants and on excursions.

Accommodation: Stay in single or double accommodations at a comfortable local hotel.

Transfers: All transfers within La Macarena are included, covering both boat and 4x4 transportation.

National Park Entrance: Entrance fees to Sierra de la Macarena National Park are covered.