Los Ochos
The most recognisable stretch of Caño Cristales, where the current has carved a string of '8'-shaped round potholes, with the surrounding rock covered in red aquatic plants.
Los Ochos is the iconic photo spot on the main channel of Caño Cristales. The river has long eroded the quartz sandstone, forming a chain of round potholes that look like the Arabic numeral '8' when seen from above. The red aquatic plants inside and around the potholes contrast strongly with the yellow sandstone, and this is the scene most often seen in promotional photos. It is usually visited on a guided hike together with the tourist swimming pools and the Cascada Los Cuarzos. The rock surface is slippery. Never step on the aquatic plants, and follow your guide's instructions when taking photos.
Opening hours
Open season with Crystal River; guide required
Nearby sights
- Caño Cristales
- Cascada Los Cuarzos
- Cascada Manto de la Virgen
- Caño Cristalitos
- Sierra de la Macarena National Park
- Guayabero River
- Caño Piedra
- La Macarena town