La Macarena
Feb 5-14 ‘27
A unique trip chasing monster Payara on the Guayabero River!
Each year, there’s a brief and electric window when migrating Bogochicko baitfish push through this region as water levels begin to drop—and the Payara follow! Home to the largest Payara in Colombia, this is one of the best places on earth to chase a true trophy. While much of the river is wadeable, most days are spent working riffles, deep holes, rocky runs, and current seams in search of these incredible fish. There will be slower stretches that require patience and persistence, but when the Payara switch on, the action can be explosive, with multiple fish coming in a short window. It’s truly world-class.
Beyond the fishing, the biodiversity of Colombia makes this trip unforgettable. Set within the Amazon jungle, the area is alive with countless birds, caiman, lush flora, and remarkable wildlife. It is breathtakingly beautiful in every direction.
The natural setting is extraordinary, and while Payara are the main focus, the river offers an exciting mix of additional species. Anglers may encounter Bicuda, Jamu (Matrinxa/Yatorana), Payarein, Pacu (Cachama), Palomenta—and, of course, catfish.
Several catfish species live in the region. Shovelnose catfish regularly take flies, while the massive Jau catfish are typically caught on bait. Bringing a dedicated large catfish rod is highly recommended, especially because this river can flood quickly. When flooding shuts down the Payara bite, it can ignite the catfish action. There is also a fun, smaller tributary that is far less prone to flooding and holds smaller Payara along with many of the other species listed above. It’s a perfect option for one to two days of exploration, regardless of river conditions. In my experience, only two out of eighteen fishing days have been completely lost to flooding, but it is worth knowing that it can happen.
This river system is an incredible place to explore. Upstream into Tinigua National Park, the section known as El Cajón is likely the highlight, offering dramatic scenery and unforgettable fishing. Downstream, huge riffles and overhanging trees have produced some of the largest fish. Rio Losada, the tributary, adds another layer of adventure, with a variety of species in water that feels more like a trout stream.
It’s a wild, beautiful, and thrilling place to fish.
Trip Cost: $3,900!
This trip includes six and a half days of incredible fishing and a helluva value! The price covers all travel within Colombia, hotels in both Bogotá and La Macarena, food and drinks in La Macarena, guides, and boats. It does not include your flight to Bogotá, fishing gear, baggage fees, excessive alcohol, or tips. A 7–10% tip is recommended.
Please keep in mind that this is a semi-DIY trip. There is no English-speaking guide and no formal lodge, but that is part of what makes the experience so special. In Bogotá, we stay at the Courtyard Marriott near the airport. In La Macarena, we stay at Casa Real Hotel, which is a comfortable and well-run hotel for a small jungle town. Each guest has a private bedroom, air conditioning, a shower, access to a swimming pool and Jacuzzi, and a relaxed setup just 300 meters from the river.
Breakfast and dinner are served across the street at a local restaurant with a simple menu of great-tasting local food. Lunch is packed to go and eaten on the river, usually in the shade with an amazing backdrop. Each day includes a cooler with bottled water, Coca-Cola, and beer. Because we rely on local vendors, we plan for about five beers per day. Hard alcohol can be purchased separately.
Laundry is available at the hotel for a small fee if needed. For packing help, see my Gear Guide. I recommend bringing an 8–9wt rod with an intermediate line for the smaller species and tributaries, plus a 10–11wt rod with a fast-sinking line for Payara. I have not heard of any major issues on fishing trips in this area, but you can also read my thoughts on jungle safety and potential hazards. This area is less remote and has cooler temps than any other trip I’ve done in Colombia. It makes the fishing that much more enjoyable.
Overall, this is a fascinating, unique, and adventurous trip—and an incredible way to experience Colombia’s jungle fisheries.
Schedule:
February 5th
Arrive in Bogota. Take the free hotel shuttle to the Marriott Courtyard Bogota. Grab dinner (the hotel restaurant is great) and get to bed early.
February 6th
Taxi arrives between 4-5am for a 3-4 hr drive down the mountains to Villavicecio. Once there we will board a private plane with Ecoturismo Macarena for a 90+ minute plane ride to La Macarena.
Once we arrive we check into the hotel, grab some lunch and head off for a few hours of fishing!
February 7-12
FISH!! Down river, up river, tributaries, etc. 6 full days of exploring this incredible area!
Highlight is usually El Cajon “The Box” at the mouth of Tinigua National Park.
Also a side opportunity to travel to Cano Cristales which is the river that inspired the movie Encanto! This is extra $ but there might be opportunity for Jamu and Sardinata there. I intend to try this for the first time.
February 13th
Breakfast then head to the airport for the plane ride to Villavicencio followed by the uphill 4-5 hour drive to the Marriott Courtyard hotel.
February 14th
Fly home from Bogota after an epic trip!
Questions? Would love to fish with you! Contact us here
