Journey to remote Colombia and discover the River of Five Colors

The River of Five Colors is a hidden natural wonder. Not yet well known by travelers, the river is located in a secluded area of Colombia in the beautiful Serranía de la Macarena National Park. On this 3-day tour, we’ll take care of all the details of your trip so you can relax and take in the exotic paradise.

You’ll travel La Macarena, a charming Colombian town near the river, where a local guide will introduce you to the culture and lead you along natural paths to waterfalls, swimming holes, and vibrant streams. This 3-day experience allows you to trek the stunning trails along the River of Five Colors and spend an evening enjoying music, dance, and food with the local community.

Your guide will also teach you about the unique wildlife of the region. As you wade in the vivid waters of the River of Five Colors, you’ll hear a symphony of bird calls, and you may even spot one of the many howler monkeys that live in the national park. Be sure to visit between July and December, when the river runs all five colors in a fantastic display that happens nowhere else on Earth.

Important Notes

The best time to go is from July to December.
Availability:
- Starting from Villacencio (airport) – Departing every day
- Starting from Bogotá (airport) – Departing every Thursday and Saturday

Highlights

Visit one of the world’s natural wonders, the famous River of Five Colors
Observe beautiful waterfalls and take a refreshing dip in natural swimming pools
See the exotic birds, reptiles, amphibians, and primates that inhabit Serranía de la Macarena National Park

Itinerary

Day 1 : Enter the lush region of La Macarena

Take an early morning flight from Bogota or Villavicencio to La Macarena.
Enjoy lunch and introductory talks in the charming city center.
Go on a late-afternoon trek in the national park, where you’ll get your first taste of the region’s natural beauty.
After you return to La Macarena, enjoy local cuisine and get good night’s sleep to prepare for the next day’s excursions.

Day 2 : Experience the spectacle of the River of Five Colors

After a hearty breakfast, take a morning boat ride on the Guayabero River. Your guide will point out unique plants and animals on the river’s banks.
Go on an ecological hike toward the River of Five Colors, where you’ll have time to swim and take pictures of the stunning natural wonder.
Enjoy a lunch of local products as you rest on the banks of the river.
In the evening, meet members of the local community for a “night of integration.” Watch a folkloric show, learn about the gastronomy of the region, listen to music, and participate in dances.

Day 3 : Last trek in the national park

Depart early in the morning for a final trek in the park, where you’ll discover waterfalls, swimming holes, and unique rock formations.
Return to La Macarena in the afternoon for lunch.
Take a flight back to Bogotá or Villavicencio (wherever the tour began).

What’s Included

Air transport from Villavicencio or Bogotá
Land and river transport in the area (for the trips described)
Permits, entrance fees, and taxes
Meals: Day 1 (lunch and dinner), Day 2 (breakfast, lunch and dinner), Day 3 (breakfast and lunch)
2 nights private accommodation in La Macarena
Spanish-speaking tour guide
Assistance insurance
Tourism Tax contribution to the municipality of Macarena

What’s Not Included

Beverages, water, and snacks
Personal expenses (tips for guides, souvenirs)
Pick up from your Hotel in Bogotá or Villacencio to the National Airport.

What to Bring

Clothes suitable for hot weather: shorts, lightweight long pants (no jeans), long sleeve shirt for sun protection, light socks
Bathing suit, swim goggles or swim mask
Waterproof and anti-slip shoes: sandals, comfortable walking shoes, good hiking boots
Water bottle
Flashlight with batteries and spare batteries.
Sunscreen, sunglasses and hat
Insect repellent
Toiletries
ID and travel documents
Personal first aid kit
Camera

Additional Notes

Prices: Depart from Bogota ($835 USD per person) or Villavicencio ($775 USD per person)

You must have a valid yellow fever vaccination and certificate of proof.

Try not to schedule your trip over a holiday, as access to the national park will be limited.

Remember you will be in a place where clothing and footwear will be constantly wet, so it needs to be lightweight and fast to dry. If you plan to swim in Rainbow River, keep in mind that you won’t be allowed to use any body lotions, sunscreen, insect repellent, or soap. Protect your skin with long-sleeved, light clothing.

La Macarena is a small, traditional town with no luxury hotel infrastructure. All the hotels are comfortable but basic. They have a private bathroom, however, they do not have hot water.