Caño Cristales

Cano Cristales is an amazing Colombian river that has no analogues in the whole world. The name of the river means "crystal river", among the local population you can hear "Liquid Rainbow" or "River of five colors". The river has a very beautiful view, and all thanks to the algae blooming in it, which sometimes change their color.

Caño Cristales flows through a mountainous area, occupying the territory of the Serrania de la Macarena Nature Reserve. River water is simply amazing for its purity and transparency, and its composition is similar to distilled water. An analysis of the local waters has shown that there are no salts or minerals in them. The bottom of the river is not covered with silt, which does not provide normal conditions for the existence of fish. The water in the Cano Cristales River is also not drinkable.

Wells of round shape and various colors have formed in the deep-water parts of the river. These specific depressions are called "moyas". Tourists in this area are invited to swim in such a well, after which, according to people who have tried this procedure, they feel a special lightness in their head.

For a long period of time in a year, the river does not stand out from other rivers on the planet. But as soon as algae bloom in its waters, from September to November, it immediately turns into a colorful picture. The local plants give the river all kinds of tones of red and green. This area takes on yellow and black colors due to the saturated color of the sand, as well as other plants growing here. The reflecting sky in the water surface brings rich turquoise colors to Canyon Cristales. In hot weather, it is always crowded here, because the river has a particularly rich color on such days.

For a long time, the beauty of the Cano Cristales River was revealed from the public, because access to it was closed due to military operations in the country. The first trips for travelers to this area were made in 2009.

This magnificent natural landmark is located far from civilization, so it's not so easy to admire its beauty. The road to the Cano Cristales River consists of a segment of the path that must be overcome by plane, then transfer to a boat and walk the rest of the way or with the help of local animals (horse, donkey).

The Cano Cristales River, along with its adjacent territory in Colombia, is under protection, and it is also part of UNESCO. Visitors to this area are not allowed to light a fire or spend the night here. This area is also closed to tourists during the winter and spring periods.