A Family Adventure to the River of Five Colors

A Symphony of Nature's Wonders

Today was a day of serene exploration and natural beauty as we ventured deeper into the heart of Caño Cristales. Leaving behind the familiar comforts, we embraced the tranquility and vibrant landscapes that this unique region of Colombia has to offer. It was a day filled with the soothing sounds of cascading water and the quiet whispers of untouched nature, creating memories that I know our family will cherish forever.

Our day began with a hearty Colombian breakfast at Caño Cristalitos. Isabella and Sofia were particularly excited to try arepas with cheese, a local favorite that I remember fondly from my childhood in Armenia. It's these little moments of sharing my heritage that make these family trips so special. After breakfast, we set off towards our first destination: Waterfall The Piano. The anticipation was building as we made our way through the lush landscapes, the air thick with humidity and the scent of tropical flora.

The journey to Waterfall The Piano was an adventure in itself. We hiked through trails teeming with life, the kids pointing out colorful birds and strange insects along the way. I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride, showing my family the natural beauty of my homeland. It's a stark contrast to the concrete jungle of Toronto, and I wanted them to appreciate the raw, untamed beauty of Colombia. As we approached the waterfall, the sound of rushing water grew louder, creating a symphony that heightened our excitement.

When we finally arrived at Waterfall The Piano, it was even more breathtaking than I had imagined. The water cascaded down a series of rocks, each level producing a different sound, much like the keys of a piano. The kids were mesmerized, running around and splashing in the cool water. I took a moment to simply stand and absorb the scene, the vibrant green of the surrounding foliage contrasting beautifully with the clear, rushing water. It was a perfect opportunity to capture some family photos, ones that I know we will look back on for years to come.


Explore Waterfall The Piano in La Macarena, Colombia - a breathtaking nature preserve filled with stunning cascades and rich biodiversity.

Nature always wears the colors of the spirit.

After spending a good amount of time at Waterfall The Piano, we made our way to Origen Bistro for lunch. The restaurant was a welcome oasis, offering a delicious array of local dishes. We feasted on bandeja paisa, a traditional Colombian platter that included beans, rice, plantains, and various meats. Sofia, surprisingly, loved the chicharrón (fried pork belly), a testament to her adventurous palate. It's always a joy to see her embrace new flavors and experiences.

With our bellies full, we embarked on our next adventure: Laguna del Silencio. The name itself conjured images of tranquility and peace, and I was eager to experience it firsthand. The journey to the lagoon involved a combination of hiking and a short boat ride, each offering its own unique perspective of the surrounding landscape. As we glided across the still waters of Laguna del Silencio, the silence was almost palpable. The only sounds were the gentle lapping of water against the boat and the occasional call of a bird.


Explore the tranquil beauty of Laguna del Silencio in La Macarena, a hidden gem offering breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity.

The lagoon was surrounded by lush vegetation, creating a sense of seclusion and serenity. We spotted several species of birds, including herons and kingfishers, their vibrant colors adding to the beauty of the scene. Isabella, who is an avid birdwatcher, was in her element, pointing out different species and sharing interesting facts about them. It's moments like these that remind me how lucky I am to share these experiences with my family.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way back to La Macarena, stopping at El Estadio D-M for dinner. The restaurant was bustling with locals, creating a lively and authentic atmosphere. We enjoyed a delicious meal of grilled meats and local vegetables, savoring the flavors of Colombia one last time before heading back to our accommodations.

Before calling it a night, we decided to check out Rancho Ganadero, a local bar known for its lively atmosphere. While Isabella and Sofia opted for refreshing juices, I indulged in aguardiente, a traditional Colombian liquor. It was a perfect way to end the day, soaking in the local culture and reflecting on the incredible experiences we had shared.


Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Rancho Ganadero, a must-visit bar in La Macarena, where local culture meets delightful drinks in a charming setting.

As I sit here writing this, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to share my homeland with my family. It's been a journey of discovery, not just of the natural beauty of Caño Cristales, but also of the bonds that connect us as a family. Tomorrow, we plan to explore Parque Nacional Natural Serranía de La Macarena and Raudal de Angosturas I, continuing our adventure into the heart of Colombia's natural wonders. I am particularly excited about visiting the park, as I have heard so much about its diverse ecosystem and stunning landscapes. Also, I plan to visit Panaderia Cristales to get some local breads and snacks for the family.

I am also glad that I remembered to buy sunscreen, as the sun has been quite strong. However, I am kicking myself for forgetting an extra memory card for my camera. I’ve already filled up one card with photos and videos, and I don’t want to miss out on capturing more memories. I guess I’ll have to be more selective with my shots tomorrow.

Looking ahead, I realize how important these trips are for us. Living in Toronto, it's easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of city life. But coming back to Colombia, even for a short time, allows us to reconnect with our roots and appreciate the simple things in life. It's a reminder of where we come from and what truly matters: family, culture, and the beauty of the natural world. I am already looking forward to tomorrow's adventures, and I can't wait to share them with you all.