La Manigua Lodge
Colombia
PERSONALITIES
Wildlife lovers. Bird watchers. Photographers. Geology enthusiasts. Cacao aficionados.
MOMENTS
Living in the heart of the Amazon. Surreal colours of the earth. Bird’s eye view of the jungle. The calls of scarlet macaws. Embracing new communities. Connecting to nature in its purest form.
BEST VISITING MONTHS
The best time to visit the Orinoquía region of Colombia, including attractions like La Manigua Lodge and Caño Cristales, depends on what you want to experience:
Color Season (June to November): This is the ideal time to visit Caño Cristales, often called the "River of Five Colors." During this season, unique aquatic plants called Macarenia clavigera bloom, turning the river into a vibrant display of red, yellow, green, blue, and black. The lush vegetation and flowing rivers make it a spectacular time to explore the region’s biodiversity.
Dry Season (December to March): This season is perfect for activities like hiking, bird-watching, and exploring landmarks such as Angosturas Canyon and Ciudad de Piedra. The dry weather makes navigating the trails and rock formations easier, and river levels may be lower, offering different perspectives of the landscape.
Both seasons provide unique opportunities, but visiting during the Color Season is particularly magical for witnessing the extraordinary beauty of Caño Cristales.
WHY STAY
Tucked away in the jungle of La Macarena in the heart of Colombia's breathtaking Orinoquía region, La Manigua Lodge is a remote sanctuary where raw nature and thoughtful design converge. Residing along the shores of Guayabero River and surrounded by dense tropical forests, the lodge immerses visitors in an untouched paradise, rich with biodiversity and vibrant ecosystems.
Just a short distance away lies Caño Cristales, often referred to as the "River of Five Colors" or the "Liquid Rainbow," a natural wonder of vibrant hues of red, yellow, green, blue, and black caused by unique aquatic plants and crystal-clear waters. This extraordinary river offers guests an unforgettable encounter with one of the world’s most beautiful natural spectacles.
The lodge’s commitment to sustainability is reflected in its eco-conscious design, blending seamlessly into its surroundings. Elevated on stilts to adapt to seasonal flooding, the structures minimize environmental impact while ensuring comfort and usability. With its deep respect for nature and focus on meaningful experiences, La Manigua Lodge is more than just a retreat—it’s a model for harmonious, sustainable travel that enriches both guests and the planet.
WHY WANDER
La Manigua Lodge offers an immersive experience for nature and wildlife enthusiasts, situated at the heart of Colombia's biodiverse Orinoquía region. The lodge is surrounded by the vibrant ecosystems of the Sierra de La Macarena National Park, home to an extraordinary variety of species. Guests can encounter capybaras grazing by riverbanks, marvel at the elegance of pink river dolphins gliding through the water, and listen to the calls of scarlet macaws as they soar above the treetops. Guided excursions, including jungle treks and river safaris, bring visitors face-to-face with this astonishing wildlife, while bird-watching tours provide opportunities to spot rare and exotic species in their natural habitat. A highlight for many is visiting the mesmerizing Caño Cristales, the “River of Five Colors,” where vivid hues created by unique aquatic plants transform the river into a living masterpiece.
Beyond its wildlife, the region's untouched landscapes offer breathtaking adventures into the heart of the Sierra de La Macarena National Park. Guests can explore the Angosturas Canyon with its dramatic rock walls, wander through the ancient rock formations of Ciudad de Piedra, and soak in the stunning vistas from El Mirador. These natural wonders provide not only a sense of awe but also a deeper appreciation for the area's geological history and unspoiled beauty.
For those seeking a cultural connection, La Manigua Lodge offers experiences that celebrate the traditions and heritage of the local community. Guests can enjoy enchanting river serenades, a harmonious blend of music and nature, or participate in artisan cacao workshops, while learning about the cultural significance of cacao in Colombia and its journey from bean to bar.
INDULGE IN
Guests are treated to regional dishes that reflect the unique flavors of La Macarena. A standout feature is the cacao experience, where visitors can savor the rich, chocolatey notes of locally produced cacao, a tribute to the region's agricultural heritage.
GETTING THERE
To reach La Manigua Lodge, fly to La Macarena via Bogotá or Medellín during the Color Season, or via Villavicencio during the Dry Season. From there, enjoy a 30-minute boat ride upstream along the scenic Guayabero River to arrive at the lodge.
WILD INITIATIVES
Powered entirely by solar panels, the lodge minimizes its carbon footprint while offering guests modern comforts. Efforts to restore native forests and protect biodiversity are central to its mission, ensuring the preservation of the surrounding ecosystems for future generations. The lodge collaborates closely with the local community, fostering partnerships for tour operations and environmental education, while promoting economic opportunities. Plastic-free operations, eco-friendly amenities, and facilities designed to adapt to the surrounding forest create an immersive experience that not only reduces impact but deepens the connection between guests and nature.
Photos property of La Manigua Lodge