These images may seem out of a dream but they actually depict a very real place: the Caño Cristales (Crystal River, also known as Rainbow River) is found in the Amazon rainforest, not far from the Andes in Colombia.

This magical place has remained hidden for a long time until it was recently rediscovered by tourism, after the end of the civil war. This river’s incredible range of colors is due to the presence of freshwater algae, which in the driest season – between July and September – turn yellow, green, blue, black and red. As these colors mix, they create thousands of interesting and unique shades. Unfortunately, drought, deforestation and heavy tourism are threatening this paradise. Caño Cristales is a marvel of biodiversity and as such, it deserves to be studied and above all preserved.

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