Columbia ’ s Rainbow River
Each year from July through October , tens of thousands of tourists visit Caño Cristales , Columbia ’ s Rainbow River . The result of a funky aquatic plant called Macarenia clavigera , in the time between the region ’ s wet and dry seasons , Caño Cristales ’ usually dully-colored riverbed undergoes a curious metamorphosis , after which it resembles a liquid rainbow , boasting vibrant shades of green , blue , yellow , red and purple . To witness the bloom in all its glory , visitors will want to choose a day that ’ s full of sun , as light reflects and amplifies the bounty of colors .
Blooms of Macarenia clavigera paint Caño Cristales in rainbow-colored hues . SPRING 2024 / THE COMPASS / 39
VARNAK / SHUTTERSTOCK . COM