The 62.1-mile-long river is in Colombia's Serranía de la Macarena national park, in the province of Meta, and is known as the “River of Five Colors.” This “liquid rainbow” – as it is also called – is one of the South American country's most spectacular natural wonders, thanks to its vivid colors.

The "River of Five Colors," scientifically known as Caño Cristales, is located in the Sierra de la Macarena National Park in the Meta department of Colombia. It is widely considered the most beautiful river in the world due to its vibrant shades of red, yellow, green, blue, and black. These colors are not caused by minerals or the water itself, but by a unique endemic plant called Macarenia clavigera that grows on the riverbed. The spectacular display is highly seasonal; in 2026, the best time to visit is during the "bloom" window between June and November, when the water levels are high enough for the plants to thrive but low enough for sunlight to reach them. The river is located in a remote area that was once inaccessible due to conflict but is now a well-managed eco-tourism destination. Visitors must fly into the town of La Macarena and can only visit with a licensed guide to protect the delicate ecosystem. It is a strictly "no-sunscreen, no-repellent" environment to prevent chemical damage to the aquatic plants, ensuring that the "Rainbow River" remains a pristine natural wonder for future generations.