Caño Cristales 3 Days 2 Nights - Manigua Ecohotel

3 days

Easy

Manigua Lodge: Sustainable Adventure at Caño Cristales

At Colombia Oculta, we take care of every detail of your experience. This expedition requires a brief review by our team before it's confirmed, to make sure everything is ready for you in the territory

Caño Cristales is an eco-tourism experience that connects travelers with one of Colombia's most breathtaking natural landscapes. Over four days and three nights, you will discover the Serranía de La Macarena, its rivers, tropical forests, and unique biodiversity.

The tour includes accommodation at Manigua Lodge, an eco-hotel located near the most beautiful river in the world: Caño Cristales. From here you will enjoy tranquility, privacy, and a special connection with nature, surrounded by birds, trees, and the sounds of the forest.

This lodge also promotes a model of responsible tourism focused on environmental conservation. Every element of the ecosystem is carefully protected, recognizing the importance of the wildlife, plant life, and natural resources that make this region so special.

Throughout the trip, you will travel along the Guayabero River and take 4x4 rides to discover the varied landscapes of the Serranía de La Macarena. You will also get to know a territory where nature and local communities work hand in hand for conservation.

Thanks to your visit, you contribute to strengthening community initiatives such as the village of La Cachivera in Caño Cristales, as well as environmental projects like Colombia Oculta's Madre Selva Private Nature Reserve.

Ultimately, Caño Cristales is the perfect destination for those seeking adventure, rest, and an authentic experience in one of Colombia's most iconic places.

Manigua Lodge – Eco-Hotel at Caño Cristales

Lodging in the Heart of La Macarena's Tropical Forest

Manigua Lodge offers a stay surrounded by nature, tranquility, and biodiversity. Its spaces allow you to rest comfortably while enjoying the unique atmosphere of the Serranía de La Macarena.

The eco-hotel's location also fosters a deeper connection with the land, letting you wake up to the sound of birds and enjoy a natural setting close to Caño Cristales.

What's included?
  • Food & drinks

Dedicated professional guiding by Colombia Oculta throughout the entire trip.
2 nights of accommodation at LA MANIGUA LODGE.
Round-trip river transfers along the Guayabero River.
Round-trip transfers in a 4x4 truck.
Full meal plan (breakfast, lunch, and dinner).
Hydration (water/lemonade).
Contribution to the La Cachivera community at Caño Cristales.
Contribution to the CONSERVATION of Colombia Oculta's MADRE SELVA Private Nature Reserve.
Medical assistance insurance.

Exclusions
  • Tip or gratuity

Airfare.
Expenses not specified.

National Parks (PNN), Cormacarena and Municipality tourist taxes:

  • Colombians aged 5 to 12: 2026 rate pending
  • Colombians aged 13 to 25: 2026 rate pending
  • Colombians aged 26 to 64: 2026 rate pending
  • Colombians aged 65 and over: 2026 rate pending
  • Non-resident foreigners: COP $230,000

(paid at La Macarena Airport upon arrival)

Airport fee (approx. COP $13,000).
Please bring this amount in cash.

Local English-speaking guide (COP $250,000 per group per day, subject to availability) or interpreter (price depends on availability and number of days).

Please note
  • Passport required

BEFORE TRAVELING TO THE MUNICIPALITY OF LA MACARENA

When planning your trip to Caño Cristales and the municipality of La Macarena in general, please keep the following in mind:

Key Considerations: Check well in advance whether entry spots to Caño Cristales and other nearby attractions are still available, as these sites have a limited daily visitor capacity. Reach out to local tour operators, who can provide up-to-date information on activities and tourism services available in La Macarena. Bring your ID and social security/health insurance documentation. Make sure you're vaccinated against tropical diseases such as yellow fever. If traveling independently, carry medical or accident assistance insurance. Allow enough flexibility in your schedule, as weather conditions can cause itinerary delays.

Additional Recommendations: Pack enough clothing for tropical weather, including sun-protective items such as long-sleeved shirts, a hat or cap, and sunglasses. Wear closed-toe shoes with good grip — sandals or flip-flops are not allowed inside Caño Cristales. Stay well hydrated before heading to La Macarena. Bring a camera, video recorder, or other device to capture your experience. Pack a trash bag to carry inorganic waste back with you to a major city. Bring sunscreen, but note that it cannot be worn while visiting Caño Cristales or Cristalitos. GET VACCINATED AGAINST YELLOW FEVER AND BRING YOUR VACCINATION CARD — THIS IS REQUIRED BY POLICE AT THE AIRPORT.

DURING YOUR STAY IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF LA MACARENA

Follow the protocols established by environmental authorities, the national army, and local tourism operators for visiting attractions. Follow the guidance of local guides and experts. Note that there are specific departure and return times between the town center and the tourist attractions. Ask which sites are currently authorized by environmental authorities and the national army, to help ensure your safety and compliance with regulations. Vehicle access to Caño Cristales and other attractions is not permitted, except for vehicles authorized by environmental entities.

WHEN LEAVING THE MUNICIPALITY OF LA MACARENA

Make sure to gather all your belongings before departing. We encourage you to complete the visitor satisfaction survey available at the tourist information point at the airport. Please take any inorganic solid waste generated during your stay back with you to your home city.

Please note: anyone not included in the official entry permit — whether a visitor, guide, or local expert — will not be authorized by environmental authorities or the national army to enter Caño Cristales or other tourist attractions. Substituting individuals listed on an entry request is not permitted. This policy exists to prevent entry slots from being reserved without confirmed visitors to occupy them.

What to bring

    Travellers should pack light, breathable clothing suited for tropical weather, along with sun protection such as a hat or cap, sunglasses, and long-sleeved shirts. Swimwear is recommended for enjoying the natural pools along the Caño Cristales trails, and a light jacket or warm layer is useful for cooler evenings in the mountains. Closed-toe shoes with good grip are required — sandals and flip-flops are not permitted inside Caño Cristales. Sunscreen should be packed, but note it cannot be applied while visiting Caño Cristales or Cristalitos due to environmental protection regulations. Travellers should also bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated, a camera or phone to capture the experience, and a small bag for carrying out personal waste, since inorganic waste must be taken back to the traveller's home city. Valid ID and social security/health documentation are required, and most importantly, travellers must carry their yellow fever vaccination card, as it's required by police at the airport in La Macarena.