Which river is known as the 'River of Five Colors'?

Caño Cristales is known as the “River of Five Colors,” or the “Liquid Rainbow.” This Colombian river becomes vividly red, yellow, green, blue, and black when aquatic plants, clear water, and exposed riverbed combine under the right seasonal conditions.

Caño Cristales lies in Colombia's Serranía de la Macarena in Meta Department. It rises in the mountain range and eventually joins the Guayabero River, placing it within the Orinoco basin. The river is about 100 kilometres long and is famous for its rapids, waterfalls, and unusually clear water.

The strongest red and pink shades come from the aquatic plant Rhyncholacis clavigera, widely known by its former name, Macarenia clavigera. The plant attaches to rocks in fast-moving water and changes colour as it matures. The display is usually most striking from late July through November, after seasonal rains create suitable water levels and sunlight.

A common misconception is that the river contains no fish because of its clarity and plant-filled bed. In fact, Caño Cristales supports fish, freshwater turtles, and other aquatic animals. Tourism has grown sharply, so visits are managed to protect its fragile ecosystem.