La Manigua Lodge
Nestled in the dense rainforest, where the Colombian Amazon region meets the Orinoco region, lies the La Manigua Lodge on the banks of the Guayabero River. Biologist Juan Pablo transformed a former cattle ranch here into a biological corridor and created a place where the forest reclaims its terrain. The eight stilted Cabañas blend into the surrounding trees, powered by solar energy and equipped with biodegradable toiletries. The paths between them were designed to avoid the roots and trails of the capuchin monkeys. There is no reception in the Cabañas; the sounds of the forest and the rhythm of the river structure the day. From here, the routes lead to the colorful Caño Cristales and the quiet lagoons of the Sierra de La Macarena.
Details
Country
Colombia
Place
La Macarena
Price
From €120 per night/person
Best travel time
July - August & December - March
Cabins
Eight Cabañas stand alone on stilts between the trees, each positioned so that it is hardly visible from the path. You shower under the open sky, lounge in the taut catamaran net in the afternoon, and fall asleep behind a mosquito net while the forest goes on outside. Those wanting more space choose one of the two deluxe cabins with king-size bed, bathtub, and large private terrace; they are the only units with hot water. Families find a loft in the larger cabins designed especially for children, usually claimed even before the luggage is unpacked. And then there is the canopy cabin, wall-less and 106 steps above the ground: Here, the sunrise wakes you, the wind sweeps through unobstructed, and the macaws fly by at eye level.
Culinary
The house's kitchen captures the essence of the rainforest and combines it with the authentic flavors of the region. In the restaurant, fresh ingredients from the surroundings are served, and the high, open construction towards the forest offers a view of the wildlife without having to leave your seat. The menu easily adapts to vegetarian and vegan diets, as well as gluten-free options. Right by the riverside, the cozy Guayabero Bar invites you to enjoy a refreshing drink while taking in the view of the Sierra de La Macarena and the sunset. While you relax here, the soft sound of the river and the visits from curious capuchin monkeys in the afternoon create a truly special atmosphere.
Activities
What you do depends on when you come — the region operates in two seasons. In the color season from mid-June to mid-November, the path leads to Caño Cristales, where the aquatic plant Macarenia clavigera colors the riverbed: in the more open upper course in vibrant red, in the shaded section Caño Cristales Selva in deep green, and in between, hidden natural pools to swim in. During the dry season from December to the end of March, the water level drops and reveals the Angosturas Canyon, which you traverse by boat between the rock walls of the Guayana Shield. There are also the stone labyrinths of Ciudad de Piedra and the viewpoint El Mirador, from which the Guayabero winds through the landscape, as well as peaceful paddle tours on the Laguna del Silencio. Along the way as well as directly at the lodge, you can observe much: exotic birds and monkeys, turtles on the riverbank, and with a bit of luck, pink river dolphins in the river.
Location
The lodge is located in a privileged position directly on the banks of the Guayabero River, just a 30-minute boat ride upstream from the town of La Macarena. This river journey already serves as the first opportunity to spot birds, turtles, or dolphins in their natural habitat. Accessibility to La Macarena is conveniently achieved by plane from Bogotá, Medellín, or Villavicencio.
Contact person
Senior Travel Designer
