The most remote rock formations of the Guiana Shield shape the southern region of the Department of Meta, located in the Colombian Amazon-Orinoquía and practically hidden from tourists despite its wonderful landscapes.
Although just ten years ago the region went unnoticed, it now attracts more and more travelers eager to explore its green rivers bordered by jungle and impressive waterfalls that, among ferns and heliconias, form natural pools of transparent waters.
The municipalities of San Juan de Arama and Mesetas are the gateway to the majestic Güejar River canyon and form the northern edge of the Parque Nacional Natural Sierra de La Macarena. A little further north, in Lejanías, fast-flowing streams predominate, filling natural pools where you can swim to regain energy.
It is hard to believe that this part of the country receives so few tourists given the many natural wonders it has to offer. If you decide to visit, you will soon have the pride of saying that you were a pioneer in such a wonderful region, as it is bound to become well known.
Güejar River Canyon
Even if you are already familiar with the beautiful landscapes of southern Meta, you cannot miss the imposing Güejar Canyon, which will take your breath away. You will be able to immerse yourself in its mystical beauty and feel transported to a new world as you raft along its green waters, walled by rock cliffs and surrounded by dense vegetation.
The scene includes more waterfalls than you can count, butterflies and birds of all colors, and otters and caimans that occasionally rise to the surface to sunbathe on the rocks. In the treetops, the acrobatics of monkeys will accompany your journey.
The rugged geography and the impenetrable jungle make rafting the best way to explore the canyon. You can begin the excursion outside Mesetas and finish near San Juan de Arama. The adventure through the river rapids takes about five hours, covering approximately 17 kilometers.
Outdoor Life, Adventure Sports, River
Charco Azul
On the northern edge of the Serranía de la Macarena, a group of waterfalls flows through dense vegetation, falling into a blue pool surrounded by sand inside an open cave. The path is challenging and the facilities modest, but once you are immersed in the waters of this waterfall in the heart of the jungle, you will know the effort was worth it.
Outdoor Life, Nature
Piscinas del Güejar
In the outskirts of Lejanías, the Güejar River forms natural pools that invite you to swim surrounded by nature. Unlike the agricultural lands upstream, the natural pools are completely peaceful. The main attractions here are the Caño Lajón waterfall and natural hydromassage areas, where you can enjoy the soothing pressure of the river’s swift waters.
Outdoor Life, Nature, Practical Details, Lodging
San Juan de Arama offers numerous lodging options suitable for low and medium budgets. From there, you can access all tourist points of the region. You can also stay on the outskirts of Lejanías, in the upper area of the Güejar River, where rural accommodations are available in a charming natural setting.
Getting There
The closest airport to the southern region of Meta is in the departmental capital, Villavicencio, about two and a half hours away by car. If you are looking for a wider range of flights, you can travel to and from El Dorado Airport in Bogotá in less than six hours.
