A Family Adventure to the River of Five Colors

Off the Beaten Path in Caño Cristales

Today was a day of venturing beyond the main attractions of Caño Cristales, and it was absolutely rewarding. Isabella, Sofia, and I explored Caño Cristalitos and Cascada la Virgen, two spots that offered a more intimate connection with the natural beauty of this region. It's amazing how much more you can appreciate when you step away from the crowds and immerse yourself in the tranquility of lesser-known locales.


Explore the vibrant colors of Caño Cristalitos, Colombia's stunning 'Liquid Rainbow' and an unforgettable destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Our day began, as always, with a hearty Colombian breakfast at Hotel Punto Verde. I must say, this hotel is quickly becoming a favorite. The food is consistently good, and the staff are incredibly welcoming. After breakfast, we set off for Caño Cristalitos. The anticipation was high, especially for Sofia, who had heard stories about its smaller, yet equally mesmerizing, colorful pools. The morning was bright and sunny, perfect for hiking. I made sure we all had plenty of sunscreen, remembering my oversight from the first day. Isabella, ever the organized one, double-checked our backpacks to ensure we had enough water and snacks.

The hike to Caño Cristalitos was a bit more challenging than our previous days. There was a notable ascent that tested our endurance, but the stunning views along the way kept us motivated. Sofia, with her boundless energy, scampered ahead, eager to discover what lay around each bend. As we climbed, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride in my little girl, embracing the adventure with such enthusiasm. It reminded me of my own childhood in Armenia, exploring the hills and valleys with my cousins. Those memories are so vivid, and I'm grateful to be creating similar experiences for Sofia.

Nature always wears the colors of the spirit.

Reaching Caño Cristalitos, we were greeted by a series of smaller, yet equally vibrant, pools. The Macarenia clavigera plants were in full bloom, painting the water in shades of red, pink, green, and yellow. It was like a miniature version of Caño Cristales, but with a unique charm of its own. The kids were immediately captivated, eager to dip their toes into the cool water. We spent a good hour exploring the area, taking photos, and simply soaking in the beauty. The tranquility was a welcome change from the busier spots we had visited before. It felt like we had discovered our own secret paradise.

For lunch, we headed to EL Sazon DE Lily, a local restaurant known for its authentic Colombian cuisine. I had heard great things about their bandeja paisa, and it did not disappoint. Isabella opted for the ajiaco, a traditional chicken and potato soup, while Sofia devoured a plate of arepas with cheese. The food was delicious and the service was warm and friendly. It's these small, local establishments that truly capture the essence of Colombian culture.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Cascada la Virgen in La Macarena—a natural waterfall paradise in the heart of Colombia's lush landscapes.

After lunch, we made our way to Cascada la Virgen. This waterfall is named for its proximity to a small grotto dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The hike to the waterfall was relatively easy, and the path was surrounded by lush vegetation. As we approached, the sound of rushing water grew louder, building anticipation. When we finally reached the waterfall, we were mesmerized by its beauty. The water cascaded down the rocks, creating a refreshing mist that cooled us down after our hike.

We spent some time at Cascada la Virgen, taking photos and enjoying the serene atmosphere. Sofia was particularly fascinated by the grotto, lighting a small candle and saying a little prayer. It was a touching moment, seeing her connect with her heritage in such a meaningful way. I couldn't help but think about my own mother, who always had a deep faith and a strong connection to her Colombian roots. I feel like I'm honoring her memory by sharing these experiences with my family.

Before heading back to our lodge, we made a quick stop at Alex's Boutique. Isabella wanted to pick up a few souvenirs, and I was hoping to find a new hat to protect myself from the sun. The boutique was small but filled with local crafts and artisanal products. Isabella found a beautiful hand-woven bag, while I settled on a traditional sombrero vueltiao. Sofia, of course, wanted a colorful bracelet with her name on it.

Dinner tonight was at La Manigua Lodge, where we are staying. The lodge is an eco-lodge nestled along the Guayabero River, about 20 minutes by boat from La Macarena. The setting is simply stunning, with wooden cabins surrounded by lush vegetation and wildlife. The owner, Juan Pablo, has created a true paradise, blending comfort with sustainability. We enjoyed a delicious meal of fresh fish and local vegetables, savoring the flavors of Colombia.

As I sit here writing this, with the sounds of the jungle filling the air, I can't help but feel grateful for this incredible experience. Today was a reminder that the best adventures often lie off the beaten path. Tomorrow, we plan to visit Waterfall The Piano and Laguna del Silencio. I am excited to see what other hidden gems Caño Cristales has in store for us. And perhaps, after a long day of hiking, I'll treat myself to a drink at Rancho Ganadero. I've heard it's a great spot to unwind and enjoy the local atmosphere. For now, though, it's time to rest and recharge for another day of exploration.

This trip is not just a vacation; it's a journey of rediscovery, a chance to reconnect with my roots, and an opportunity to create lasting memories with my family. I am so grateful to be able to share this experience with Isabella and Sofia, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.