La Macarena Essentials 3D/2N: Colors, Cacao & Coca Leaves

logo

Overview

La Macarena Essentials 3D/2N: Colors, Cacao & Coca Leaves
La Macarena, Meta, Colombia
Duration: 3 days
Group size: 4 - 7
Guaya Ecotours image
Guaya Ecotours
$900
Deposit: $500

About your trip

This 3-day / 2-night experience invites you to explore La Macarena, one of Colombia’s most remarkable natural and cultural destinations. Curated by Guaya Ecotours, a local travel company committed to sustainability, inclusion, and conservation, this journey offers a purposeful immersion into the territory's biodiversity, traditions, and community-led initiatives.


The itinerary combines guided ecotourism with cultural interpretation, highlighting places such as the Rainbow River (Caño Cristales) and Mirador Cristalitos. Along the way, you'll encounter endemic plant species, wildlife in its natural habitat, and ancient rock paintings that speak to the region’s ancestral heritage.


You will also participate in meaningful, hands-on workshops exploring the social and cultural context of the coca leaf and the importance of cacao cultivation in the territory. These activities are designed in collaboration with local knowledge holders and support community-led education and preservation efforts.


With lodging at Makalombia Ecolodge, guided safaris, plant-based meals, and small group travel, this experience allows for deeper connection — with nature, with local communities, and with yourself.


At Guaya Ecotours, we believe travel should create positive impact. By joining this trip, you are contributing directly to conservation programs, local livelihoods, and sustainable tourism development in the region.


Discover a colorful world — responsibly.

What's included

Roundtrip Flights

Bogotá – La Macarena – Bogota airfare with local airlines.

Transfers

Airport - Hotel - Airport transfers and transportation to all activities.

Accommodation

2 nights at Makalombia Ecolodge

Meals

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner each day (including snacks and beverages).

Certified Local Guides

Bilingual guides specialized in eco-tourism and community experiences.

Caño Cristales Tour

Full-day guided experience to the "Rainbow River," including swimming and nature walks.

Mirador Cristalitos tour

Half-day guided hike to Mirador Cristalitos, featuring panoramic views, endemic plants, ancient rock paintings, and wildlife observation.

Guaya Safari

Guided boat safari to observe wildlife around the Guayabero River.

Conservation Activities

Tree planting activity supporting local environmental projects.

Workshop

Cacao workshop at La Manigua Lodge

Coca in La Macarena

Visit Interpretacion Center Of La Macarena.

Transportation

All local transportation by boat and 4x4 vehicles.

Travel Insurance

Basic travel insurance coverage for the duration of the trip.

Group Leader Support

Assistance and coordination from your dedicated group leader throughout the entire trip.

Taxes & Entrance Fees

All mandatory taxes, park entrance fees, and community contributions are included.

What's not included

International Flights

Flights from your country to Bogotá, Colombia.

Extra Drinks & Snacks

Any additional beverages or snacks not specified in the meal plan.

Personal Expenses

Souvenirs, tips for guides, laundry services, and any personal shopping.

Optional Activities

Additional tours or activities not listed in the itinerary (offered upon request).

Vaccinations

Health and vaccination requirements are the responsibility of each traveler.

Day 1

Day 1 image

Welcome to La Macarena & Cristalitos Viewpoint

 

  •  Morning:
    Flight from Bogotá (El Dorado International Airport) to La Macarena.
     
  • Arrival in La Macarena:
    Meet and greet at La Macarena Airport with our local team and certified bilingual guides.
     
  • Environmental Briefing:
    Attend a mandatory environmental orientation led by local environmental authorities, required for entry into the protected areas of the Sierra de La Macarena National Park.
     
  • Transfer & Check-in:
    Transfer to Makalombia Ecolodge, nestled in the heart of the Colombian jungle. Enjoy a welcome drink, check-in, and lunch with local flavors.
     
  • Afternoon – Guided Nature & Culture Experience:
    Begin your adventure with a scenic boat ride on the Guayabero River, entering the Sierra de La Macarena National Natural Park. Embark on a half-day hike to El Mirador de Cristalitos, where you’ll:
     
    • Take in breathtaking panoramic views.
       
    • Explore prehistoric rock art and endemic flora.
       
    • Encounter native wildlife with our Guaya Safari experience.
       
    • Refresh yourself with a swim in the crystal-clear waters of Caño Cristalitos.
       
  • Sunset & Return:
    Return to the ecolodge, stopping at a natural viewpoint to enjoy a stunning sunset over the Llanos.
     
  • Evening – Cultural Encounter:
    After dinner, visit the Interpretation Center of La Macarena. Discover the rich biodiversity, cultural heritage, and the historical context of the coca leaf in the region.
     

Day 2

Day 2  image

Full-day at Caño Cristales: The Rainbow River


  • Morning:
    Enjoy a traditional breakfast at Makalombia Ecolodge.
     
  • Transfer & Environmental Checkpoint:
    Travel to Puerto Los Mangos, where your 4x4 adventure begins.
    Upon arrival at the environmental checkpoint, park rangers will inspect for restricted items such as:
     
    • Chemical-based products
       
    • Single-use plastics
       
    • Sunscreens or insect repellents (even biodegradable ones)
       
    • Any non-permitted items as explained during the mandatory briefing
       
    • This inspection is essential to preserve the fragile ecosystems of Caño Cristales.
       
  • Full-Day Guided Tour – Caño Cristales:
    Explore the stunning Rainbow River with a certified guide.
    Highlights include:
     
    • Scenic hikes through colorful river trails
       
    • Swimming in crystal-clear natural pools
       
    • Discovering the unique aquatic plant Macarenia clavigera and other endemic species
       
  • Picnic Lunch:
    Enjoy a picnic-style lunch in a designated natural area within the park.
     
  • Return to the Lodge:
    Hike back and take the 4x4 ride to the ecolodge for some well-deserved rest.
     
  • Evening – Llanero Night Celebration:
    Experience a vibrant Llanero cultural night featuring:
     
    • Live traditional music (joropo)
       
    • Authentic regional food
       
    • A local artisan market showcasing handmade crafts from the community

Day 3

Day 3 image

Sunrise, Cacao Workshop & Farewell

  • Early Morning – Llanero Sunrise Safari:
    Begin your day with a peaceful boat ride at dawn along the Guayabero River.
    Witness the beauty of a llanero sunrise and spot native wildlife, including the iconic pink river dolphin (Inia geoffrensis).
     
  • Cacao Experience at La Manigua Lodge:
    Stop at La Manigua Lodge for a hands-on cacao workshop:
     
    • Learn the full bean-to-bar chocolate-making process
       
    • Discover ancestral and sustainable cacao traditions
       
    • Taste locally crafted chocolate
       
  • Conservation Activity – Tree Planting:
    Take part in a tree planting ceremony, contributing to reforestation and giving back to the land that hosts you.
     
  • Breakfast:
    Return to Makalombia Ecolodge for a final breakfast prepared with local ingredients.
     
  • Transfer & Farewell:
    After breakfast, transfer to La Macarena Airport for check-in.
    Farewell from our team and flight back to Medellín.
     

Accommodation

Accommodation image

MAKALOMBIA ECOLOGDE

Your stay will be at Makalombia Ecolodge, a charming and sustainable lodge nestled in the heart of the . Designed in harmony with the natural environment, this eco-friendly retreat offers the perfect balance between comfort and authenticity. Surrounded by lush landscapes and the soothing sounds of nature, Makalombia provides an ideal setting to relax, recharge, and fully immerse yourself in the magic of La Macarena

Map of the trip locations

A. La Macarena, Meta, Colombia

La Macarena, Meta, Colombia

About your organizer

Guaya Ecotours is the first and only locally-owned vegan and LGBTQ+ travel agency dedicated to sustainable tourism in La Macarena, Colombia. We offer immersive, authentic experiences in Caño Cristales and its surrounding natural wonders, connecting travelers with the region's rich culture, vibrant ecosystems, and welcoming communities. Our mission is to promote responsible travel, environmental conservation, and inclusivity, ensuring every journey respects both nature and local traditions.

Reviews

Photo gallery

Image 0
Image 1
Image 2
Image 3
Image 4
Image 5
Image 6
Image 7
Image 8
Image 9
Image 10
Image 11
Image 12
Image 13
Image 14
Image 15
Image 16
Image 17
Image 18
Image 19
Image 20
© 2026 Guaya Ecotours
TermsPrivacyYour Privacy Choices
Preferences
Powered bywetravel logo