SATENA Presents
La Macarena
Flights to La Macarena
La Macarena, in the department of Meta, is one of Colombia’s most surprising and captivating destinations due to its natural and cultural richness. Located at the convergence of the Amazon, the Andes, and the Eastern Plains, the region is home to the exceptional Serranía de la Macarena, a nature reserve of great biodiversity that protects unique ecosystems and endemic species. Its main attraction is Caño Cristales, known as 'the river of five colors', whose waters turn red, yellow, green, blue, and black thanks to the aquatic plant Macarenia clavigera. Additionally, the municipality offers diverse ecotourism experiences, hiking, wildlife and flora observation, sustainable tourism activities, Llanero culture, and close contact with local communities that preserve their traditions and ancestral knowledge.



What to do in La Macarena

- Caño Cristales: Explore ecological trails and enjoy swims in natural pools surrounded by the river’s colors, which vary between red, yellow, green, blue, and black thanks to the Macarenia clavigera plant. Visits are only allowed between June and November.
- Guayabero River: Ideal for boat rides, birdwatching, and exploring indigenous petroglyphs such as Angosturas I and II, which feature ancient symbols and stories from local communities.
- Serranía de la Macarena: Take guided hikes through the reserve and observe wildlife such as tapirs, jaguars, monkeys, and exotic birds.
- Hidden Waterfalls: Discover waterfalls like Caño Canoas, surrounded by virgin forest and untouched nature, perfect for photography and connecting with the environment.
Flavors of La Macarena
Local gastronomy combines Llanero traditions with Amazonian ingredients and native flavors, offering authentic and representative dishes of the region:
- Fiambre Macarenense: An emblematic dish that honors the colors of Caño Cristales. It includes rice, avocado, local proteins cooked in sauce, campesino cheese, and fried items, all carefully wrapped in a banana leaf, reflecting the creativity and richness of local cuisine.
- Mamona / Llanera-style veal: Traditional preparation of beef or young cow roasted over coals, cooked in a conical oven or using the typical “a la perra” technique from the Eastern Plains, highlighting the authentic flavors of the region and the culinary heritage of its communities.

Festivities and traditions
- Summer Festival: This annual event is one of La Macarena’s most important celebrations, dedicated to showcasing local culture through various artistic expressions. For several days, the town comes alive with live music, traditional dances, theater, and cultural activities involving the whole community. Visitors can enjoy performances by folkloric groups, participatory workshops, gastronomic fairs featuring local products, and contests displaying regional skills and traditions, making it a vibrant experience that reflects the cultural identity of the local population.
- Sierra de La Macarena Folkloric and Tourism Festival: This festival primarily aims to highlight regional folklore and promote sustainable tourism in the area. It features performances of traditional Llanero and Amazonian music and dances, local craft exhibitions, ecological tours, and talks on biodiversity conservation. The festival also encourages the participation of indigenous and rural communities, integrating their ancestral knowledge and cultural practices. Visitors can connect with nature, learn about ancient traditions, and enjoy the cultural and environmental richness that makes La Macarena unique.
Flights to La Macarena from Bogotá

Flights on
Seasonal flights
Route
Airport
El Dorado International Airport (BOG) (Bogotá)
Airport
La Macarena Airport (LMC) (La Macarena)
Flights to La Macarena from Villavicencio

Flights on
Monday and Friday
Route
Airport
Vanguardia Airport (VVC) (Villavicencio)
Airport
La Macarena Airport (LMC) (La Macarena)