Caño Cristales, known as 'The Liquid Rainbow' or the 'River of Five Colours', is a remarkable tributary in Colombia's Serranía de la Macarena showcasing five vivid colors.
Unlike typical rivers, whose colors might be influenced by silt, mud, or their bases, Caño Cristales stands out with red, green, yellow, black, and blue hues visible from late July to November.
The river's unique spectrum of colors makes it a significant natural attraction in South America, drawing visitors from around the globe
The distinctive colors of Caño Cristales are the result of the reproductive process of the Macarenia clavigera, an aquatic plant that flourishes in the river's clear, oxygen-rich waters.
The red color, which predominates the riverbed, contrasts strikingly with the natural blue and green water colors, creating a stunning visual effect
Other colors in the river are attributed to various types of moss and algae, contributing to its reputation as a river that “ran away from paradise”
Besides its visual beauty, Caño Cristales supports diverse wildlife, including endangered plant, freshwater fish, and turtles, in its nutrient-poor, crystal-clear waters