Travel to the heart of Colombia’s natural and cultural richness in La Macarena, the region that inspired Disney’s Encanto and home to one of the most biodiverse ecosystems on Earth. This 5-day, 4-night adventure offers a unique opportunity to explore the landscapes of Caño Cristales, the famous “Rainbow River”, while learning directly from renowned wildlife veterinarian and conservationist, Dr. Izzy Hirji. Best known for his work on Nat Geo Wild’s Jungle Animal Rescue, leading study abroad groups internationally, and working with chimpanzees across Africa, Dr. Izzy brings years of field experience, storytelling, and global conservation knowledge. He's passionate about connecting to nature and local communities to experience travel and conservation firsthand. Throughout the journey, you’ll gain hands-on insight into how tourism, science, and local stewardship come together to protect this extraordinary region.

**Starting at $2300 inclusive of meals, accommodations, local transportation, domestic airfare, taxes and fees**

Explore Caño Cristales, the "Rainbow River" and inspiration for Disney’s Encanto—one of the most beautiful and ecologically significant rivers in the world.

Learn from Dr. Izzy Hirji, an experienced wildlife veterinarian and educator featured by Nat Geo Wild.

Participate in guided nature hikes, wildlife tracking, and conservation-focused discussions.

Encounter animals such as pink river dolphins, howler monkeys, caimans, and even jaguars (if nature allows) in their natural habitat.

Engage with local communities, experiencing traditional knowledge and sustainable practices.

Escape from the pressures of life, with guided sessions on connection, wellness, and mindfulness in a stunning natural setting.

Deepen your understanding of ecotourism, biodiversity protection, and the role of responsible travel.

Swim in natural pools and waterfalls, and enjoy the magic of the Guayabero River and its surroundings.

Experience ancient cave paintings dating back over 12,000 years and one of the world’s oldest geological formations, 1.2 billion years old.

This experience is designed for travelers seeking purposeful adventure. Whether you’re passionate about nature, conservation, wellness or cultural immersion, this program combines scientific learning with personal connection. With Dr. Izzy’s guidance and the local expertise of Guaya Ecotours, you will leave not only inspired but empowered to support biodiversity and community-led ecotourism. 

Dr. Izzy Hirji is a Canadian wildlife veterinarian, conservationist, and advocate for ethical and educational travel. He has worked on animal rescue missions across the globe and is widely known for his role in Jungle Animal Rescue (National Geographic) and for promoting compassion in science through public speaking, education, and storytelling.

Guaya Ecotours is a local operator based in La Macarena, committed to sustainable tourism, conservation, and inclusivity. We work directly with community members to ensure every experience supports environmental protection and cultural resilience.

• Morning:

  • Recommended arrival to Bogotá airport at 7AM.

  • Morning flight from Bogotá to La Macarena (8:30 a.m departure).

  • Welcome at the La Macarena airport by our local team.

  • Mandatory environmental briefing on conservation and rules for entering protected areas.

  • Sustainable welcome lunch.

  Afternoon – Tour to Mirador Cristalitos & Sierra de La Macarena

  • 30-minute canoe ride along the Guayabero River (Guaya Safari).

  • 25-minute hike to the viewpoint, offering unique views of the convergence of the Amazon, Orinoquense, and Andean biomes.

  • Visit to a historical site with prehistoric rock paintings approximately 12,000 years old.

  • 30-minute walk to Caño Cristalitos, with time for exploration and swimming in natural pools.

  • On the return route: visit to the Terecay turtle conservation project, a community initiative protecting this endangered species.

  • Canoe return with the opportunity to enjoy the llanero sunset.

  Check-in at La Manigua Lodge.
  
  

  Evening:

  • Dinner.

  • Group intention and reflection circle.

  • Overnight stay at La Manigua Lodge.

  
  Important Note:
  The itinerary is flexible and depends on flight arrival times. Since La Manigua Lodge is located upriver on the way to our activities, check-in will take place after finishing the Mirador Cristalitos tour. A designated location in La Macarena town will be available for participants to leave belongings, freshen up, and get ready for the first day’s adventure.
  
  This first day introduces travelers to the landscapes and biodiversity of La Macarena, while also reflecting the community’s commitment to managing tourism responsibly to protect their natural heritage.

• Morning:

  • Early breakfast (6:00 – 8:00 a.m.) at La Manigua Lodge.

  • Canoe ride on the Guayabero River (Guaya Safari, approx. 25 minutes), enjoying the scenery and biodiversity of the region.

  • 4x4 transfer to the starting point of the hike.

  Daytime – Guided Hike at Caño Cristales

  • Guided hike and exploration of Caño Cristales (5 – 6 hours).

  • Visit natural pools and waterfalls, with time for swimming and enjoying the surroundings.

  • Experience the extraordinary landscapes of the “Rainbow River,” considered one of the most beautiful rivers in the world and a magical inspiration for Disney’s Encanto.

  • Enjoy a sustainable lunch surrounded by nature during the excursion.

  Afternoon Return:

  • 4x4 transfer back from Caño Cristales.

  • Canoe ride to La Manigua Lodge, with the opportunity to admire the llanero sunset over the Guayabero River.

  Evening:

  • Dinner and time to rest.

  • Overnight stay at La Manigua Lodge.

  Important Note:
  Caño Cristales is recognized worldwide as one of the planet’s most breathtaking natural wonders. Its unique aquatic plants create vibrant colors that transform the river into a living rainbow. This natural treasure has attracted scientists, nature lovers, filmmakers, and even global figures such as King Charles III, who visited the site to learn more about its conservation.
  Visiting Caño Cristales is not only an awe-inspiring experience but also an opportunity to support local communities working to safeguard one of the world’s most iconic ecosystems.

• Morning:

  • Breakfast at La Manigua Lodge.

  • Canoe embarkation for a Guaya Safari on the Guayabero River, enjoying the region’s unique biodiversity and landscapes.

  • Arrival at the community of La Cachivera, followed by a 2 km walk to reach Laguna del Silencio.

  • Guided tour of the lagoon, a peaceful sanctuary perfect for birdwatching, photography, and soaking in the tranquility of nature.

  Daytime – Community & Cultural Experience

  • Visit to a local community, where participants will take part in a traditional plant-based cooking workshop.

  • Community lunch included, featuring typical regional dishes prepared with local ingredients.

  Afternoon:

  • Free time to explore, relax, enjoy the scenery, and capture memories.

  • Guided meditation and breathwork session, fostering introspection, well-being, and a moment of group reflection and connection.

  • Small canoe ride (potrillo) around Laguna del Silencio, followed by a walk back to the Guayabero River.

  • Canoe return to La Manigua Lodge.

  Evening:

  • Dinner at La Manigua Lodge.

  • Overnight stay at La Manigua Lodge.
    
    

  Important Note:
  Laguna del Silencio is not only a place of serene beauty but also a vital ecosystem that shelters countless bird species, amphibians, and aquatic life. Beyond its natural richness, this territory was once at the heart of Colombia’s armed conflict. Today, its people have transformed their way of life, embracing community-based tourism and ecotourism as a path toward peace, resilience, and sustainable development. By visiting, travelers contribute directly to this inspiring model of reconciliation, cultural preservation, and conservation.

• Morning:

  • Early breakfast at La Manigua Lodge.

  • First stop: Bocas del Río Lozada, searching for the pink dolphin while observing the river’s emblematic wildlife along the Guayabero River.

  • Canoe ride along the Guayabero River to Raudal de Angosturas I, where the river narrows forming impressive rapids and offering spectacular scenery.

  Daytime – Caño Aguas Claras Exploration

  • Visit to Caño Aguas Claras, enjoying its crystal-clear waters, natural pools, and surrounding landscapes. Conditions permitting, time for exploration and swimming.

  • Typical lunch at a riverside finca, enjoying local cuisine.

  Evening:

  • Farewell dinner.

  • Closing circle and reflections, sharing experiences and lessons from the trip.

  • Overnight stay at La Manigua Lodge.

  Important Note:
  This day highlights the diverse river landscapes and aquatic biodiversity of La Macarena, from wildlife spotting to tranquil clear-water pools. Visitors witness firsthand the harmony between community-led tourism and conservation, contributing to the ongoing protection of these remarkable ecosystems.

Morning:

• Morning meditation session at La Manigua Lodge.

• Breakfast at La Manigua Lodge.

Cacao Workshop & Legacy Activity:

• Learn about the traditional artisanal process of cacao production, from bean to cup.

• Apply a cacao face mask for a sensory and wellness experience.

• Take part in a tree planting activity, leaving a personal legacy in the territory.

Departure:

• Check-out from La Manigua Lodge (11:00 a.m.)

• Canoe transfer along the Guayabero River from La Manigua to La Macarena.

• Visit to the local artisan market for last-minute crafts and souvenirs.

• Transfer to the airport.

• Return flight from La Macarena to Bogotá via charter flight (1:00 p.m. departure). For those booking after September 1st, there will be an additional return flight (1:00 p.m. departure) from La Macarena to Villavicencio with ground transportation to Bogotá (approx. 2 hrs). Arrival will be in late afternoon/early evening.

Important Note:
The cacao experience and tree planting activity symbolize the deep connection between visitors and the territory, leaving behind a positive footprint for both community and environment. The farewell journey along the Guayabero River highlights once more the unique landscapes of La Macarena, offering a final moment of reflection and gratitude before returning to Bogotá.

Accommodation will be in shared cabins within the La Manigua Lodge complex (https://www.roomandwild.com/la-manigua-lodge), a cozy space in harmony with nature, perfect for relaxation and connecting with the surroundings. 

Dr. Izzy Hirji is a Canadian wildlife veterinarian, conservationist, and advocate for ethical and educational travel. He has worked on animal rescue missions across the globe and is widely known for his role in Jungle Animal Rescue (National Geographic) and for promoting compassion in science through public speaking, education, and storytelling.