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• South America
• The Ultimate Guide For Visiting...

The Ultimate Guide for Visiting La Guajira: Colombia's Northern Desert

La Guajira is Colombia’s most northerly region: a vast and wild desert on the Caribbean coast bordering Venezuela, populated by Colombia’s largest indigenous group, the Wayuu. It is a desperately poor and deprived place, and the Wayuu live hard lives, but tourism is providing some much-needed income, and it is increasingly popular as a backpacker destination. So here’s our ultimate guide for visiting La Guajira.

What to see and do in la guajira.

La Guajira is a vast region, but much of it is barely accessible and very isolated, with tourism focused on a few specific areas. The most popular place to visit is the small coastal village of Cabo de la Vela. Cabo is where the majority of travelers head first. There’s not much to actually do when you’re in Cabo, but the beaches and sunsets here are some of the best in Colombia. Most travelers hire a mototaxi for a loop that includes the wild beaches of Playa del Pilon and Ojo de Agua (although El Pilon is by far the more beautiful of the two), the sacred hill of Pilon de Azucar (which you can climb for breathtaking views over the desert) and El Faro lighthouse – the best spot in town for sunset.

The other major attraction of visiting Cabo de la Vela is to practice kitesurfing in one of the best kitesurfing spots in the world. The calm waters and daily winds make the bay in front of the town the perfect place to learn or practice, and there are two kitesurf schools/hostels located in the town. You can either sign up for an immersive course or simply take a lesson.

Most visitors to Punta Gallinas opt to take a jeep tour from the only hostel in town (Hosepedaje Alejandria, where all Punta Gallinas tours will take you to stay) – this trip leads you to the lighthouse that marks the most northerly point, the spectacular Taroa Dunes (where you can roll down giant sand dunes into the Caribbean waters) and a viewpoint over the turquoise waters of Bahia Hondita. It’s then fantastic to hike to a nearby beach to enjoy the sunset before falling asleep in your hammock to the sound of the wind.

Wildlife lovers will want to take a detour on the way up to Cabo to the small village of Camarones, alongside the Protected Natural Area of Los Flamencos – a bird sanctuary which, as well as being home to many endemic species of bird, is also famous for its large population of American flamingos. You can take a small wooden canoe – powered only by a sail so as to avoid disturbing the birds – out to see the flocks of surreal pink birds before enjoying a seafood lunch on the beach.

How to get to La Guajira

Traveling in La Guajira can be tricky at times due to the huge distances involved and the poor roads in the region. The capital of the region is Riohacha, and this city is easy to get to from Santa Marta, Tayrona, or Palomino – simply get a four-hour bus from the Santa Marta terminal, or flag down an eastbound bus on the road from the latter two spots. From Riohacha to Cabo de la Vela is a little more complicated: you will need to take a shared taxi to Uribia (about an hour and a half and 10.000 COP), then switch to a jeep for Cabo. These can take a while to fill up with people and goods before they leave and get very packed, so be patient. This trip takes another hour and a half before arriving in Cabo. No trucks make this trip after mid-afternoon, so it’s a good idea to start early.

Getting to Punta Gallinas is not exactly cheap, but it’s quite easy these days. Simply book a tour in Cabo: it costs around 150.000 COP for a round-trip jeep (about three hours) and the price includes a tour at Punta Gallinas.

La Guajira is a very poor region and services aren’t exactly top quality for tourism. Showers are generally taken from a bucket of cold water, and the food is very limited: fish and goat are generally the main items on any menu. The region is also extremely poor so remember that when you haggle over trips and items – that beautiful Wayuu bag might be the height of fashion, but the woman who made it likely needs the money a lot more than you, so be sensitive to that before you haggle. The area is also very hot and dry, so drink plenty of water and pack a hat and lots of sunscreen.

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Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

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PUNTA GALLINAS (3DAYS/2NIGHTS)

Enjoy an unforgettable trip through the desert of La Guajira, until   the northernmost point of Colombia!

CULTURAL TOUR (4DAYS/3NIGHTS)

Extend your experience with an extra day to learn about the ancestral culture of the Wayuu Indigenous!

CABO DE LA VELA (2DAYS/1NIGHT)

Pnn macuira tour (4days/3nights).

Enjoy the tranquility of the beaches of Cabo de la Vela with its crystal clear waters and magical sunsets!

Explore all the Alta Guajira including the PNN Macuira and be surprised by the biodiversity of this magical place!

CUSTOMIZE YOUR OWN PRIVATE TOUR

Add some   extra activities like : Kitesurfing, Pink Flamingo sanctuary  or the Mayapo Beach.

PUNTA GALLINAS TOUR • 3 days / 2 nights

Itinerary & info.

• Day 1 – Cabo de la Vela

The tour begins in the city of Riohacha at 8 AM. The first stop is Manaure, a small fishing village famous for its natural and colorful salt flats. The extraction of its salt is around 70% of all Colombia. After a short technical stop in Uribia, you will arrive at Cabo de la Vela just in time for a delicious lunch on the beach. In the afternoon you will visit the tourist attractions of: Punta Arcoíris, Pilón de Azúcar, Playa Ojo de Agua and the Lighthouse , where you can enjoy one of its famous sunsets.

• Day 2 – Punta Gallinas

On the second day of the tour, the journey to Punta Gallinas begins passing through the Jepirachi Wind Farm, Bahia Portete and Bahia Honda until reaching the northernmost point of Colombia. Here you can enjoy the Taroa Dunes , a masterpiece of nature where, in addition to contemplating and bathing in the Caribbean waters, you can rent Sandboarding boards and ATVs with locals in the area. Finally, you will pass by the emblematic Punta Gallinas Lighthouse and then arrive at the Ranchería de LuzMila with a spectacular view over Bahia Hondita and end the day under a sky full of stars.

• Day 3 - Riohacha

The third day is the return trip, leaving at 8 am to be able to start the route again until reaching Uribia (Indigenous Capital of Colombia ) for a last lunch and to admire handicrafts made by the Wayuu. Arrival time to the city of Riohacha is around 4 pm.

What's the price?

SHARED TOUR

Up to 6 people 

⇢ 730.000 pesos por person

PRIVATE TOUR

group of 5 people: 

⇢ 800.000 pesos por person

group of 4 people:

⇢ 1.000.000 pesos por person

group of 3 people: 

⇢ 1.150.000 pesos por person

group of 2 people: 

⇢ 1.400.000 pesos por person

Includes: 

• All meals 

(3 lunches, 2 dinners, 2 breakfast)

• Accommodation in Chinchorros Wayuu

(handmade hammocks). Private rooms are available upon request with extra cost.

• Transport on a 4x4 with an experienced driver

(Spanish speaking only, we can arrange translator if needed with an extra cost and upon request)

• Insurance 

CULTURAL TOUR • 4 DAYS / 3 NIGHTS

On the second day of the tour, the journey to Punta Gallinas begins, passing through the Jepirachi Wind Farm, Bahia Portete and Bahia Honda until reaching the Taroa Dunes , a masterpiece of nature where, in addition to contemplating and bathing in the waters of Caribbean, you can rent sandboarding boards and ATVs with locals in the area. Then the visit to the emblematic Punta Gallinas Lighthouse will continue for another beautiful sunset.

• Day 3 – Punta Gallinas

The third day begins with a boat ride through Bahia Hondita where you can enjoy bird watching, mangroves and flamingos (in season) until you reach Playa La Boquita, a beautiful virgin beach with no tourists. In the afternoon a "Tarde de Rancheria" awaits you; a cultural activity with a Wayuu family that will show you a little bit about their ancestral culture, traditions and how they live from day to day.

• Day 4 - Riohacha

The last day is the return trip, leaving at 8 am to be able to start the route again until reaching Uribia (Indigenous Capital of Colombia) for a last lunch and to admire handicrafts made by the Wayuu. Arrival time to the city of Riohacha is around 4 pm.

⇢ 950.000 pesos por person 

group of 5 people:

⇢ 1.050.000 pesos por person

⇢ 1.200.000 pesos por person

group of 3 people:

⇢ 1.500.000 pesos por person

group of 2 people:

⇢ 1.800.000 pesos por person

(4 lunch, 3 dinners, 3 breakfasts)

(handmade hammocks). Rooms are available upon request with extra cost.

PNN MACUIRA TOUR • 4 DAYS / 3 NIGHTS

The tour starts in the city of Riohacha at 8 am. First stop is Manaure, a little fisherman village famous for its natural and colorful salt flats. They estimate the extraction is around 70% of the salt consumed in Colombia. After a quick stop in Uribia, you’ll reach Cabo de la Vela just in time for a tasty lunch by the beach. In the afternoon you’ll visit the following attractions: Punta Arco Iris, Pilon de Azucar, Playa Ojo de Agua, and El Faro (the lighthouse ), before closing the day with one of its famous sunsets.

• Day 2 – Nazareth

After breakfast the proper journey into the Alta Guajira region begin stopping by few remarkable viewpoints until reaching the remote town of Nazareth for lunch. After recharging some energy you'll go to the office of La Macuira National Park for a quick briefing with a local guide who will explain the unusual vegetation that makes the park home of numerous species of birds and animals. The guide will then accompaing you for a 2 hours walk into the reserve until reaching the hidden dunes and then back another 2 hours (approx) to the starting point.  

Few hours in the car after leaving Nazareth and you'll be reaching Punta Gallinas just in time for a tasty lunch. In the afternoon you'll be able to enjoy the massive dunes of Taroa, such a beautiful and unique landscape (a masterpiece of nature!) before ending the day by the lighthouse (the actual northernmost point of South America).

The third day is the return trip, leaving at 8 am to be able to start the route again until reaching Uribia (Indigenous Capital of Colombia) for a last lunch and to admire handicrafts made by the Wayuu. Arrival time to the city of Riohacha is around 4 pm.

ONLY PRIVATE TOUR

group of 6 people  

⇢ 1.200.000 pesos por person 

group of 5 people  

⇢ 1.350.000 pesos por person 

⇢ 1.500.000 pesos por person 

⇢ 2.200.000 pesos por person

(handmade hammocks. Private rooms are available upon request with extra cost)

• Entrance fee of the Macuira National Park

CABO DE LA VELA TOUR • 2 days / 1 night

The tour begins in the city of Riohacha at 8 AM. The first stop is Manaure, a small fishing village famous for its natural and colorful salt flats. The extraction of its salt is around 70% of all Colombia. After a short technical stop in Uribia, you will arrive at Cabo de la Vela just in time for a delicious lunch on the beach. In the afternoon you will visit the tourist attractions of: Playa Ojo de Agua and the Lighthouse , where you can enjoy one of its famous sunsets.

• Day 2 – Riohacha

On the second day you will visit Punta ArcoIris and then the Pilon de Azucar and Playa Dorada , which with its crystal clear water is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. Later on you will enjoy a delicious lunch at Cabo de la Vela to start the return trip. The arrival time to the city of Riohacha and end of the tour is around 5 pm.

ONLY PRIVATE TOUR 

group of 5/6 people:   

⇢ 450.000 pesos por person  

group of 4 people: 

⇢ 500.000 pesos por person  

⇢ 650.000 pesos por person

(2 lunches, 1 dinner, 1 breakfast)

RNT 63430 

Todos los derechos reservados

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At the northernmost tip of Colombia is a vast, untamed desert that juts into the Atlantic Ocean. I spent a week traveling through the area — here's what it's like.

• La Guajira is a Colombian department comprised of a desert peninsula that juts into the Atlantic Ocean.
• In January, my mother and I took a week-long journey through the area.
• Our journey took us through rocky desert trails, sand dunes that ran straight into the sea, and beach towns full of hostels and backpackers.
• Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories .

Flamingos in the wild, sand dunes in the desert that run into the sea, the crafts and culture of the Wayuu indigenous people — all at the northern most tip of South America. This is La Guajira, a Colombian department comprised of a desert peninsula that juts into the Atlantic Ocean.

It sounded idyllic. My mother and I were planning to go to Colombia in January 2020 to visit family. A cousin of ours suggested we take a week-long trip to this magical part of the country, unknown to all of us. First, there would be bird watching at the beach. Then, on to rocky trails through the desert in a Toyota Land Cruiser, staying in hostels, sleeping in hammocks like the locals.

But this is not for those in need of creature comforts, our cousin warned us. Water is scarce. Poverty is endemic. Cell phone reception, spotty. Electricity and showers are not a given.

We said yes.

We flew Avianca Airlines from Colombia's cosmopolitan capital into Riohacha, the largest city in La Guajira. A small coastal town, Riohacha has major bank branches, hotels and grocery stores, but none of Bogota's hipster sheen. First stop: Purchase drinking water.

In La Guajira, what comes out of the faucet can be used for bathing, but anything that goes on your face or in your mouth must come out of a sealed bottle. We purchased four two-gallon containers. We transferred the water to smaller bottles to keep handy throughout our trip.

From Riohacha, we traveled by car to Camarones, a village next to the Los Flamencos national park. Hostel La Consentida had charming, well-kept grounds. The room was basic but comfortable and had air conditioning. Dinner was excellent, consisting of local fresh fish, rice and plantains.

That night, however, the neighbors had a party that went well into the wee hours. Worse: They didn't invite us.

We rose before dawn to meet our birdwatching guide. Motorized boats are prohibited in Camarones Bay, so he took the three of us out in a canoe made from a single tree trunk.

We saw at least 20 species of birds, including herons, pelicans, and osprey, and we were fortunate enough to witness a flyover of approximately 1,500 flamingos.

Pink on the outside, pitch black underneath, they circled the bay over our heads, their long necks flat out front, feet pointed straight back, a flying symphony of bleating squawks.

Next stop: Palomino. A tiny beach town, Palomino is in the grips of a travel gold rush. Foreigners have been buying lots, starting restaurants and bars.

Driving on the rutted dirt road through the woods along the San Diego river, we passed construction sites and heard the distant buzz of a chain saw. We followed a muddy trail to the river, where our guide helped us into our inner tubes. A hundred feet downstream, we bought beers from a man set up with a cooler under a thatched roof.

After a beachfront lunch of fresh fish, we walked along the coastline back to Hotel Hukumeizi, where we swam in the pool under towering palm trees.

The next morning, we returned to Riohacha to meet our guide, who would take us north, into the desert.

Benancio, from Guajira Tours, is an indigenous Wayuu who grew up in the region. Having an indigenous guide was definitely one of the highlights of our trip. Benancio answered every question, and no topic was off limits. How often does it rain? Only once this past year. How do they bury their dead? With big parties in the cemeteries in the village where the deceased born. The cemeteries have kitchens.

On our way out of town, Benancio stopped to purchase a bag of candy that he said was to pay the tolls throughout the desert. The tollbooths were local children holding string with colored fabric across the road. To lower the string, they demanded payment in full.

After stopping in the city of Uribia for lunch ...

... we headed to Cabo de la Vela, a favorite beach to watch the sunset.

The next morning, it was on to another beach, Pilón de Azúcar, and a brief stop at the salt mines.

Then on to the sand dunes at Taroa, then to see the sunset at another beach, Punta Aguja. We wore bathing suits, but never got in the ocean. The water was glacial, a stunning contrast to so much sun and sand.

In between all these beaches: miles of bumpy, hot, desert trails. Once or twice an hour, a small groups of huts would appear over the crest of a hill, the sign of an indigenous community.

And always the children would be on the road with the string, demanding payment. In the distance a female family member stood watch, weaving a mochila, an indigenous purse, with others for sale at her feet or hanging from the overhead branches of a scrubby tree.

Pro tip: Bring anti-diarrheal medicines. Two-thirds of our party were hit with severe diarrhea. Imagine being laid low and setting out on a rocky, bumpy, four-hour trip across the desert with no facilities.

The next two nights were spent at a hostel named for the owner, Luz Mila, in Punta Gallinas, the northern-most settlement on the continent.

Most of the guests were twenty-something Europeans or Canadians on group kite surfing trips. 

On our last afternoon we went bird watching in La Hondita Bay and saw pelicans and more flamingos. Sleeping in my hammock that night, I was dazzled by the Milky Way wrapping itself around the sky above.

The next day, we returned to Riohacha, grateful for hot showers and ice made from drinking water. Hotel Taroa was right on the beach, where we shopped for crafts.

That night, the nightclub next door played loud music late into the night.

As our trip began, so it ended.

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LA GUAJIRA: A TRULY OFF THE BEATEN TRACK DESTINATION IN COLOMBIA

March 5, 2024, 6:11 pm

If you are planning to visit the Colombian Caribbean coast, you are most likely considering visiting Cartagena and/or Tayrona Park. However, if you have a bit more time and want to explore a different landscape and have an adventure where you will be truly disconnected from modern life, La Guajira is the perfect destination to include in your Colombia tour .

La Guajira with its desert and almost alien landscapes and the proud heritage and traditions of its indigenous inhabitants (the 'Wayuu') is one of the most amazing and remote places you can visit in Colombia. La Guajira is a peninsula full of contrasts provided by the sea, sand, cactuses, and a green oasis the "Macuira National Natural Park". It is a truly remote place where you can be one with the sea and have the tranquillity to just contemplate the world around you.

Your journey around this region of Colombia will start in Riohacha, the capital of La Guajira, where you will probably stay overnight before starting your trip to Cabo de la Vela and other areas in the region. Riohacha is a small city that can be explored in a few hours. You can start with a walk along the beachfront "Paseo de la Marina" and then continue with a visit to the Plaza Colonial and the Cathedral "Nuestra Senora de los Remedios"

The most popular destination in la Guajira is Cabo de la Vela , documented as the first point in the South American continent where a European laid foot (the credit goes to Alonso de Ojeda back in 1499). Cabo de la Vela is a truly off-the-beaten-track destination where you will get stunning views of the coast and the Alta (high) Guajira. The most beautiful places at Cabo de la Vela are The "Pilon de Azucar, a small peak, from where you will see the stunning views of the region, and the beach "Ojo de agua" a very nice beach to relax, enjoy the spectacular landscape and take a refreshing bath in the Caribbean sea.

At Cabo de la Vela, you will spend the night in one of the Rancherias managed by the local community, where you will have plenty of time to relax and learn a little bit about the Wayuu culture.

Depending on how many days you want to spend in this region, from Cabo de la Vela you can carry on the journey towards Punta Gallinas, the northernmost point in South America. It is located approximately 75km north of Cabo de la Vela and it is one of the most dazzling landscapes in South America. Punta Gallinas is accessed via Bahia Hondita, a beautiful bay with translucent waters that stretch kilometres out to sea. There is absolutely nothing there except a large colony of pink flamingos. You will be amazed by the unique beauty of this place.

Other places to visit in La Guajira are:

• The Sanctuary of flora and fauna of "Los Flamencos" ("The Flamingos"), 20km west of Riohacha, is a natural reserve of marshes, lagoons and dry forest where you will see a high concentration of West Indian Flamingos and many other bird species.
• The salt mines in Manaure. You can go there on your way to Cabo de la Vela.  Manaure is famous for its salt flats and salt production. Here, you can tour a salt production plant as well as see the salt drying out in the salt flats. You can also swim in some of the saltiest water in Colombia—in fact, the water is almost white due to the high salt concentration.
• Serrania de Macuira National Natural Park

As you can see from this article, La Guajira is a truly unique place where you can see the immaculate collision of desert and sea, and get in contact with nature.

If you have any questions or wish to plan a tour in La Guajira just get in touch , we are here to help you. You can also check one of our tours including La Guajira, if you like it we can also customise it according to your requirements.

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Nidia Penagos

Nidia started Uncover Colombia after feeling the tug to promote her native country through a positive perspective. What better way to do that than showing visitors the beauty and diversity of her homeland? She was well-aware Colombia didn’t have the best reputation and she wanted to change that. So in 2012, with the help of her Colombian husband and close group of friends, she laid the foundation to build a Colombian tour operator that offers unique adventures, safe experiences and utilises local knowledge on each and every tour. 

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THE 10 BEST La Guajira Department Tours & Excursions

La guajira department tours.

• Multi-day Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Motorcycle Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Private Tours
• Walking Tours
• Ports of Call Tours
• Archaeology Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. 2-Day Coastal Motorcycle Tour

2. Palomino Natural Pool Hiking Activity

3. Seviaka Indigenous People and Tubing Tour in Palomino

4. 3 Days La Guajira, Cabo De La Vela And Punta Gallinas

5. The Magic and Ancestral Guajira-Cabo de la vela & Punta Gallinas-2 nights 3 Days

6. Sanctuary Los Flamingos Tour

7. Sanctuary of Flamingos Day Tour

8. Tungueka Indigenous Village Tour

9. Palomino Horseback Riding Tour

10. Ciudad Perdida "Teyuna" 4 Days Tracking Tour

11. 7 Days 6 Nights Alta Guajira Photographic Route Tour with Pick up

12. Private transportation service from Palomino to Santa Marta

13. 5 Day Punta Gallinas Motorcycle Tour

14. Palomino - Private Quadbike Adventure! - MINIMUM TWO PEOPLE

15. Expedition Cabo de la Vela, Punta Gallinas and Dunes of Taroa (3 days / 2 nights)

16. Tubing Across Palomino River Including a Hiking Tour

17. Relaxing Day in Valencia Natural Waterfall with Hiking

18. Vibra in the Desert of Cabo de Vela (2 days 1 night)

19. Tubing Adventure with Seviaka Indigenous Village Tour • Half-Day

20. Private Quad Bike Tour in Palomino

21. Palomino and Ceviaka Village Tour

22. Paddle Board Adventure in Palomino River Tour

23. Horse Riding at La Mello Adventure Lodge

24. Tunkeka Indigenous People Cultural Tour

25. 6-Day Expedition Between the Sierra and the Sea to the Lost City

26. La Guajira Desert + Punta Gallinas 4 Days Tour

27. Private transportation from Palomino to Minca police station

What travelers are saying.

• Tubing Across Palomino River Including a Hiking Tour
• Sanctuary of Flamingos Day Tour
• Palomino - Private Quadbike Adventure! - MINIMUM TWO PEOPLE
• Seviaka Indigenous People and Tubing Tour in Palomino
• The Magic and Ancestral Guajira-Cabo de la vela & Punta Gallinas-2 nights 3 Days
• Pura Guajira Travel
• History Travelers
• Kaishi Travel
• Alta Guajira Tours
• IISHO TOURS
• Horseshoe Tours
• Expediciones Walekett
• Macuira Tours
• Tubing in Palomino River
• Guajira Tours

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La Guajira Peninsula

The Guajira Peninsula, the vast swath of sea and sand that is Colombia's northernmost point, is home to the indigenous Wayuu people, who historically repelled invaders – including English pirates, Dutch smugglers and Spanish pearl hunters – for centuries. The Wayuu's complex and autonomous political and economic structures meant they were ready to mount a staunch defense of their lands – on horseback and with firearms.

Leave the planning to a local expert

Experience the real La Guajira Peninsula. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Playa Taroa

This exceptional and extremely remote beach at the very northern tip of the South American continent is La Guajira's highlight. Massive sand dunes drop…

Santuario de Fauna y Flora Los Flamencos

Pink flamingos inhabit this tranquil, 700-hectare nature preserve in great numbers: up to 10,000 in the wet season (usually September through December)…

Pilón de Azúcar

Pilón de Azúcar looms over the eponymous beach and provides the area's most telescopic viewpoint, with the whole of Alta Guajira displayed before you and…

Playa del Pilón

Playa del Pilón, far and away the most beautiful beach in Cabo, is a vivid orange-sand beach lapped by surprisingly cool waters and framed by low, rocky…

Bahía Hondita

This gorgeous bay has several islands, to which boat trips are often made on tours. A large colony of flamingos also calls the shallow waters of this…

Ojo de Agua

This remote-feeling and craggily beautiful crescent-shaped dark-sand beach is bound by 5m-high cliffs where iguanas roam. The beach gets its name from a…

Wayuu and tourists alike head to El Faro, a small lighthouse at the edge of a rocky promontory, for stiff winds and tangerine sunsets. The view is…

Camellón de Riohacha

Built in 1937, this impressive wooden pier is lovely for a stroll late in the day.

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Latest stories from La Guajira Peninsula

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Mar 10, 2020 • 5 min read

Getting to Punta Gallinas isn't easy, but the promise of sand dunes, stars and magical sunsets makes it worth the trip.

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Sep 6, 2017 • 6 min read

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La Guajira Peninsula and beyond

Guajira Travel Guide

Explore La Guajira's beauty with tips on essentials, local customs, and must-see spots.

Introduction to La Guajira

La Guajira Desert is a stunning canvas of vibrant blues and burnt oranges, a place where the arid land kisses the Caribbean Sea. This northernmost point of South America is not just a geographical wonder, it’s a cultural treasure trove, home to the resolute Wayuu people who have thrived in these harsh conditions for centuries.

Best Time to Visit

La Guajira’s weather is consistently hot and dry. However, rainy seasons from September to November can turn dirt roads into impromptu rivers. Dry season, particularly between December and April, offers the most accessible conditions for travel.

Transportation to La Guajira

Flights and buses from Bogotá , Medellín , and Santa Marta reach Riohacha, the desert’s gateway. From there, shared jeeps or private vehicles are the norm for the sandy stretch ahead. Remember, this is no place for a low-slung sedan – think sturdy and four-wheel drive.

Must-See Attractions

Cabo de la vela.

An otherworldly landscape with beaches where the desert meets the sea. Sunsets here are not just beautiful; they’re a full-blown celestial spectacle.

Punta Gallinas

The ‘end of the world’ for South America, marked by the continent’s northernmost point. It’s wild, remote, and utterly breathtaking.

El Pilon de Azucar

A sacred hill for the Wayuu, offering panoramic views that justify the sweat to get up there. Spoiler alert: it’s a heart-pumper.

Cultural Experiences

Wayuu indigenous community.

Share a smile with the locals and you might just be invited for a chicha . Understanding their culture and traditions is like finding a hidden level in your favorite video game.

Crafts and local markets

Wayuu bags are not just a fashion statement; they’re a story in woven form. Markets also offer a colorful array of hammocks, bracelets, and more.

Cultural etiquette and norms

When visiting, don’t act like a bull in a china shop. Respect local customs, ask before clicking pictures, and remember, haggling is an art form here.

Adventure Activities

• Sandboarding in the dunes is like snowboarding, minus the cold and wetness.
• Kitesurfing in Cabo de la Vela is prime, with consistent winds that could probably send messages to Mars.
• Flamingo Sanctuary exploration is a must-do for birdwatchers and anyone who appreciates the sight of these pink dancers in their natural habitat.

Accommodation and Dining

Accommodations range from basic hammocks under the stars to eco-lodges. As for dining, try the goat meat or lobster if you fancy yourself a bit of a food critic. Not to forget arepas and suero, a local sour cream that’s nothing short of addictive.

Travel Tips and Safety

Pack light-colored, breathable clothing, a sturdy hat, and sunscreen for the unforgiving sun. Hydration is key, so consider a camel pack your new best friend. When exploring, don’t trust paths that seem less traveled – they’re not gems, they’re tricks.

La Guajira is not your average vacation spot; it’s a journey through a land of contrasts and cultures. Visit with respect, tread lightly, and your stories from this desert will be as endless as its horizon.

At the helm of Remote Expeditions, Tristan adeptly combines exploration, photography, tour design, web development, and tour leadership, encapsulating the essence of a versatile travel entrepreneur. His mission is to offer a limited number of high-quality tours each year, ensuring an unparalleled travel experience steering clear of mass tourism. He aims to guide you towards the true essence of each destination, facilitating a deep connection with both nature and yourself.

Visiting La Guajira, Colombia: Everything You Need to Know

La guajira is a stunning and unique destination in colombia, with a desert landscape, pristine beaches, and a rich culture., however, it is important to know some key things before planning your trip. in this blog post, we’ll cover what to know before traveling, what to expect, what to bring, where to stay, and how to organize your trip..

What to Know Before You Travel

While Spanish is the official language in Colombia, the indigenous Wayuu language is widely spoken in La Guajira. It’s always helpful to know a few key phrases in Spanish, and if you’re interested in learning Wayuu, many locals are happy to teach visitors.

La Guajira is a desert region, so expect hot and dry weather year-round, with little rainfall. The best time to visit is between November and April when it’s slightly cooler.

What to Expect

La Guajira is home to the indigenous Wayuu people, who have maintained their customs and traditions for centuries. Visitors can expect to see colorful Wayuu dresses and elaborate beaded jewelry, as well as taste traditional Wayuu dishes like goat and yuca. It’s important to respect the Wayuu way of life and customs when visiting.

La Guajira’s desert landscape is unlike anywhere else in Colombia. Visitors can expect to see sand dunes, rocky mountains, and stunning coastlines. The region is also home to unique wildlife and flora, like the majestic cactus.

Transportation

Transportation in La Guajira can be tricky, as many of the roads are unpaved and public transportation is limited. It’s recommended to hire a local guide who can help you navigate the region and ensure your safety. In YAY we can organise this for you.

What to Bring

Because of the hot and dry weather, it’s recommended to pack lightweight and breathable clothing, as well as a hat and sunglasses. If you plan on hiking or spending time outdoors, be sure to pack sturdy shoes.

Be sure to bring mosquito repellent and sunscreen, as well as a reusable water bottle and a first-aid kit. It’s also a good idea to bring some cash, as some areas may not have access to ATMs or credit card machines.

If you plan on visiting a Wayuu community, it’s considered polite to bring a small gift as a token of appreciation, such as a bag of coffee or a local craft.

Where to Stay

Cabo de la vela.

Cabo de la Vela is a popular destination in La Guajira with stunning beaches, like Playa del Pilón, and incredible sunsets. There are several (basis) accommodations options available, including beachfront hammocks and rustic cabins.

Punta Gallinas

Punta Gallinas is located on the northernmost point of South America, and is home to vast sand dunes, towering cliffs, and crystal-clear waters. Visitors can stay in traditional Wayuu huts called “rancherias”, where they can learn about the Wayuu way of life.

How to Organize Your Trip

The best way to organize your trip to La Guajira is by hiring a local guide or tour operator. They can help you plan your itinerary, navigate the region, and ensure your safety. They can also provide insight into the indigenous Wayuu culture and traditions, making your trip a truly unforgettable experience.

Visiting La Guajira is an adventure like no other, offering breathtaking landscapes, unique indigenous culture, and an unforgettable travel experience. By following our guide, you’re more than ready to start planning your trip to this magical destination!

After that adventure, you can recover in YAY Sustainable , eat nutritious and delicious food, enjoy the sacred waters of the Guachaca River, practice yoga, chill in our natural spring-fed swimming pool, and sleep in cozy cabins, suites, or ensuites surrounded by nature.

Book now your stay after La Guajira.

Guajira Desert Tour

the most north of latin america arrives

• All Inclusive

GUAJIRA DESERT TOUR

The guajira desert tour is a dynamic and eventful trip that will let us know this wonderful corner of colombia. a desert region that offers an extraordinary landscape of strong colors and contrasts., one of the must-see and “magical” places in colombia. also, as locals consider it, located in the extreme north of the country, a distant, isolated peninsula that extends towards the caribbean sea., we begin our tour from riohacha, passing through cabo de la vela with the pilon de azucar and playa dorada, to punta gallinas with the taroa dunes ., where we can become children and jump from the desert dunes that plunge directly into the caribbean sea, to end with the colorful and fascinating bahía hondita., to get to cabo de la vela , one of the most interesting places in alta guajira. in the guajira desert tour you have to travel 80 km with a 4×4 jeep., it begins with an uncovered road in good condition that runs parallel to the railway line where coal is transported from the cerrejón mines to puerto bolívar., however, the last 20 km of trails are sand and mud where prickly pears and cacti reach considerable heights. it is the alta guajira desert, an impressive landscape with strong contrasts., we are in the territory of the wayuu, the indigenous people of alta guajira. a nomadic people who have lived for centuries in these deserts raising their own goats, fishing in the waters of the caribbean and moving from one place to another in search of rain., therefore, the wayuu store rainwater in wells called «jagüeyes», because in this hostile land there is no water on the surface., in any case, we do not let ourselves be scared by the kilometers to travel because the landscape during the guajira desert tour will leave us breathless all the way where the desert sand acquires indescribable colors., in any case, we cannot miss the suggestive hondita bay where the mangroves sink into its emerald green waters and the very famous taroa dunes where the desert dunes plunge directly into the caribbean sea..

• The management of the Tour is entrusted to guides with experience in the area.
• Also included are all services that are not mentioned and appear in the program.
• The cost of the Guajira Desert Tour must be paid with 50% at the time of confirmation and the remaining 50% at the time of departure.
• Notify if you are Vegetarian or Vegan at the time of booking.

Another option to this tour is the: Desert La Guajira Tour 1 Night

Menú

1° DAY / Riohacha - Cabo De La Vela:

2° day / cabo de la vela - punta gallinas:, 3° day / punta gallinas - riohacha:.

CLOTHING AND USEFUL THINGSS Light pants or Bermuda shorts and a T-shirt. Camera or Camcorder. Bathing suit and towel. Sports and trekking footwear Hat. Mosquito repellent. Solar protection. Thermos for water.

RECOMMENDATIONS TO THE TRAVELER Respect the environment and leave garbage in the proper containers. Do not cause damage to structures or the environment.

VACCINES No particular vaccinations are required. The yellow fever vaccine is recommended only as a preventive measure, as there are no cases in this region.

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS At the time of departure present identification documents Passport, DNI or CC. During the Tour the traveler can bring a photocopy of their identification document.

Tour Reviews

the tour is very adventurous, the desert is beautiful

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• DESTINATIONS
• EXPERIENCES

Explore La Guajira: A Remote Desert Paradise in Northern Colombia

We are Lucas & Maira from Sao Paulo, Brazil. Nice to meet you and thanks for checking out our La Guajira article! Before we reveal the secrets of this incredible hidden gem of Colombia, allow us to share our journey with @adiantes and how we got started traveling the Americas in our car.

Our passion for travel came, first of all, through the influence of our parents who always encouraged us. In 2012, we took our first trip together as a couple to Ilha Grande with nothing more than a backpack and a roof tent.

From those hardships in the rain, through dense forests, long hikes and all the wrong gear – our relationship went from strength to strength! After this experience we knew that we could count on each other through future adversities in life, in addition to the many trips we still intended on taking.

After some journeys in Brazil and Europe, we decided to visit Asia and Africa in 2019. At the end of these two life-changing trips, we left with a bold plan written on a sheet of paper: travel across South America by car!

Our Road Trip Across South America

The American continent seemed like a great option for discoveries on land, and we dreamt of having new and genuine experiences in an adapted car along thousands of national highways. Inspiration can come in many forms and, for us, it was through inspiring photos and stories. Today, four years later, we use these tools to have the same type of impact on other travelers.

So, where did our adventure begin? Well, we started in the southeast of Brazil in the states of Sao Paulo, Minas Gerais and Rio de Janeiro – and then headed along the Sao Francisco River (with a length of more than 2,800 kilometers) and connected up with the northeast part of the country.

We explored our own country for over a year, visiting practically every state. After Brazil, we left for other South American countries – and since then have been to Argentina, Chile, Bolivia, Peru, Ecuador and Colombia .

On this trip we achieved one of our goals: visiting the four extreme points of South America (Punta Gallinas in Colombia, Ushuaia in Argentina, Ponta do Seixas in Brazil and Punta Parinas in Peru). In total we traveled for 1,000 days, covered 100,000 kilometers and visited seven different countries!

Unforgettable Encounters in Colombia

Traveling by car through Colombia means experiencing a constantly changing landscape, rhythm, cuisine and culture. There are many diverse experiences on offer: from the Caribbean beaches, through the mountains of the Coffee Axis, the history and architecture of the great metropolises, to the wide range of fauna and flora of the Amazon rainforest.

That being said, exploring Colombia by car is not exactly an easy task. The altitude is always changing – there are lots of tolls, taxes and insurances to be paid – and the highways and roads are constantly under construction.

But what makes up for it are the unforgettable encounters like the coffee “fincas” in Salento, the walking tours of Medellin , the collection of flavors in Bogota, the blue of the Caribbean beaches and of course one of the greatest adventures we’ve ever experienced: crossing the La Guajira desert!

What La Guajira is Like as a Destination

Exploring the La Guajira desert is experiencing the unprecedented, the natural and the uncertain. One of the most isolated communities in the country shows you, right away, the inequality of opportunity that is common in South America. Yet, the smiles of the children with a piece of candy or bottle of water in hand is real, sincere and pure!

In La Guajira, nature is exuberant and untouched. Our goal was to reach the northernmost point of South America but the path there taught us more than we could’ve imagined. We passed by immense dunes, inlets by the sea, indigenous communities, train tracks and kitesurfing paradises. We didn’t really know what to expect from such an inhospitable region!

The accommodation of La Guajira is simple and rustic, but offers many of the basic amenities: safe sleeping, delicious food and the most beautiful nature. The bathrooms of the inns have salt water, both in Cabo de la Vela and Punta Gallinas. It’s important to prepare for wind, heat, hammocks and dozens of stops at local communities. For us, it was worth it!

6 Amazing Things To Do in La Guajira

1. go kitesurfing in cabo de la vela.

Considered one of the best kitesurfing paradises on the planet, Cabo de la Vela has the perfect combination of wind and calm waters to enjoy the sport. In fact, it’s the birthplace of the kitesurfing national champions in Colombia and it offers structure to practice the sport all year round.

2. Watch the Sunrise at Las Dunas del Taroa

In this remote part of the world, the day starts much earlier than normal. So there’s nothing better than being able to experience the immense sand dunes blanketed in golden light than through a peaceful morning walk!

3. Witness the Sunset from Punta Gallinas Lighthouse

Celebrating our arrival at the northernmost point of South America was special for us and the sunset tones were perfect for such a moment. The energy of the wind, waves and rocks is strong – and worth witnessing.

4. Enjoy a Fish Lunch at a Local Restaurant

For seafood lovers, there’s nothing more special than tasting fresh fish from a local fishing community in La Guajira. In addition to the unique flavor of the fish, the coconut rice and delicious “ patacones ” (mashed and fried plantains) that get served alongside it are true gastronomic delights.

5. Have a Beach Day in the Calm Caribbean Waters

La Guajira is home to the Caribbean Sea and it’s the perfect invitation for a refreshing swim. The different colors of water on display are impressive, as is the calm serenity of practically all of the accommodations in the area.

6. Engage with the Local People of La Guajira

Apart from the main tourist attractions, socializing with the locals is special and it left a deep impression on us. A sense of simplicity and purity exists in everyday life here, and the quality of the produce is outstanding, so our tip is to book a guesthouse and try something new at every opportunity.

Tips for Your Journey in La Guajira

• Do your shopping in Riohacha, the capital and entrance point to the La Guajira peninsula. Make sure this is done properly before you journey further north. For anyone traveling by car, this tip is extra crucial!
• Bring at least two liters of water per person for each day. Access to drinking water in La Guajira, especially the more isolated communities, is greatly reduced. Being in the desert can also make you more thirsty!
• Buy lots of snacks (fruit, cookies, chocolate, etc.) for both you and the people you might meet in the local community. It’s a special feeling being able to give the kids something as simple as a piece of candy.
• Hire a local guide to accompany you along the way. By doing this, you won’t get lost in one of the many alternative paths that exist in the desert. A tour guide can also share local knowledge about La Guajira.
• Tours to the desert with tourism agencies normally leave from Riohacha or Palomino, two cities that are located in the state of La Guajira. The Simon Bolivar International Airport, also known as Santa Marta Airport, is the closest you can get by plane and is located in Santa Marta.
• Prepare for intense heat and wind in La Guajira. The days are hot all day, and the winds arrive in gusts and can interfere with the assembly of your camping, drone flights, or even a simple hike or day at the beach.

BY LUCAS & MAIRA WWW.ADIANTES.COM.BR

Author:  Lucas & Maira

Lucas and Maira are a Brazilian travel couple who set off on an incredible journey across South America by car. You can follow their inspiring travels on their Instagram @adiantes.

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Guajira Tours

Our Guajira tours are private, dedicated tours in air-conditioned company Toyota Land Cruisers with a fluent English-speaking driver handling every aspect the Guanabana way, with total professionalism, punctuality and above all, dedication to you and your party only. 

This is an unforgettable experience through a huge expanse of some of the driest, most isolated, most inhospitable dry forest and outback no-man’s-land on the planet.

The Guajira is a desert that covers the northernmost tip of Colombia and South America. It is the largest desert in South America north of the equator. Its native inhabitants are the wayuu (spelled either wayuu or wayú, and always beginning in small-cap unless at the beginning of a sentence) that have thrived in the Guajira for thousands of years.

​ While traveling through the Guajira desert it’s hard to believe that you are only a couple of hours flight time to major points of civilization such as Miami or Bogotá; you might as well be in the Australian outback, the Sahara, or Mars!

​ Our Guajira expedition is true to its word, an expedition into the great harsh expanse, a journey that requires the utmost attention in planning, preparing, and carrying out.

A Colombia tour that you will never forget!

Meet the wayú people of the desert.

Who have inhabited and tamed the harsh outback of the Guajira desert for millennia, and who always have a smile on their faces!

SUV Guajira tours & motorcycle tours

We do both SUV  and motorcycle tours to the Guajira.

In SUV tours you will be traveling in your own private 4×4 Toyota Land Cruiser with air conditioning. In the car or caravan, there will always be an English-speaking driver/lead guide.

There will also be one Toyota Land Cruiser just with supplies and as back up.

Guanabana goes all out when it comes to our Guajira tours, we do not believe in cramming folks into vehicles for the long drives into the desert, we carry tons of supplies, and we take all the safety and precautionary measures required.

As for Colombia tours go, this one is pretty far out, literally!

You will be traveling into a lost world speckled by the sporadic ranchería   of wayuu aboriginals that live off of goat herding and you will learn directly from them their fascinating and beautiful traditions and culture.

There will be desert eagles circling in the sky, dust storms coming out of nowhere, sand dunes that reach the sea, and pink flamingos feeding in secret coves.

You will witness amazing sunsets followed by star-filled nights and you will visit the farthest most tip of the Guajira desert, where few operators go, a green mountain range isolated and surrounded by desert -like an island- that reaches 864 m (2,835 ft), enough elevation to catch humidity from the Caribbean trade winds creating an incongruous cloud forest called la Macuira , home to numerous species of fauna and flora.

And during it all lots of fun and adventure speeding over the salt flat plains.

It must be clear though that the Guajira tour is not for the faint of heart. It is an expedition that is short on amenities, big on physical discomforts, and demands patience and resilience. Each Guajira tour is a true adventure, as the blog post Lost in La Guajira  from one of our guides can tell. But what it lacks in luxuries and creature comforts it totally makes up for in unforgettable photos, experiences, and memories. Each trip is a unique adventure .

Guarija et Macuira séjour hors du commun!

Nous avons fait un voyage de 4 jours exceptionnels dans le désert de la Guarija. L attention et le professionnalisme de notre chauffeur Juan nous a permis de profiter pleinement de ce séjour . Nous garderons d excellents souvenirs . Juan à une connaissance parfaite de la conduite dans le désert et sans lui jamais nous n aurions pu profiter de tant de beauté . Merci encore pour tout et pour leur gentillesse . Otto le guidé wayúu saurait lui se reconnaître dans le désert les yeux fermés !

We have different itineraries for our Guajira tours!

For the iron butts that don’t mind, or actually love, the Overlanding experience we have itineraries that start from Cartagena (well, even in Medellín but that’s another story you will find in our Overlanding section) and go from there to Santa Marta, Riohacha, Cabo de la Vela, Punta Gallinas, and all the way to the end of the Guajira on its northeast corner, the mystical and magical Macuira park.

We have many ways of touring the Guajira, from 6-day tours starting in Cartagena to day trips from Riohacha. Just talk to us and we’ll work out a custom itinerary that fits your needs and we’ll take you to visit the Guajira in top-notch perfectly maintained vehicles, backup vehicles, and professional staff to show you this wonder of nature for an experience of a lifetime!

Watch this 1:45 minute video of the Guajira

In this video of one of our Guajira tours, you can grasp what the terrain looks like. Furthermore, you can see the beauty of contrasts between harsh dry forest, sand, and sea. There is no end to the amazement experienced during our Guajira tours. We travel over stunning barren expanses of territory that still sustain life. Meanwhile you get to meet the wayuu people and learn how they manage to survive in the desert and keep alive their traditions for eons. 

We start with the 3 day tour:

Day 1: Riohacha to Punta Gallinas.

Day 2: Punta Gallinas to Cabo de la Vela, spend the night in Cabo.

Day 3: Cabo de la Vela to Riohacha with stops in Uribia and Manaure.

Cost ………. USD $380 per person, four persons min.

GUAJIRA 3-DAY TOURS INCLUDE:

• Transportation in 4×4 SUVs.
• Meals: 3 lunches, 2 dinners, and 2 breakfasts.
• Accommodation: 1 night in Punta Gallinas and 1 night in Cabo de la Vela.
• Sleeping in beds in private rooms with bathroom.
• Guanabana Tours Garmin satellite communicator.
• Tour through: Salinas de Manaure, Uribia, sunset at the lighthouse in Cabo de la Vela, beaches of Pilón de Azúcar, Puerto Bolívar.
• Boat tour through Bahía Hondita, Punta Soldado, Punta Aguja.
• Taroa Dunes, Punta Gallinas Lighthouse.
• Travel insurance.
• Biosecurity kit.
• English (fluid)/Spanish bi-lingual driver/guide.
• NOT INCLUDED:
• Expenses not specified in the plan.

ITINERARY FOR THE 3 DAY GUAJIRA TOUR STARTING IN RIOHACHA

Day 1: Riohacha – Uribia- Punta Gallinas

Riohacha. 8:00 a.m. Departure from Riohacha to Uribia, known as the Indigenous Capital of Colombia.

Uribia. 10:00 a.m. We continue our journey towards the high Guajira through trails and desert outback, allowing us to witness the unique landscapes of Bahía de Portete and Bahía Honda.

Bahia Honda. 12:00 p.m. Lunch at Bahía Honda.

Taroa Dunes. 2:00 p.m. Transfer to the Taroa Dunes.

Taroa Dunes. 3:00 p.m. We visit the beautiful dunes and beaches of Taroa.

Punta Gallinas, Luzmila hostel. 5:30 p.m. Arrival at Hospedaje Luzmila: This rancherías (as the native settlements are called) has converted itself as lodgings to serve tourists. Check-in at the wayuu lodge.

Dinner and accommodation in cabins with beds. We accommodate our clients this way, not in the traditional large hammocks called chinchorros.

Day 2 Bahía Hondita – Bahía Honda and Cabo de la Vela

Punta Gallinas. 7:00 a.m. Breakfast at Punta Gallinas.

Bahía Hondita. 8:00 a.m. Boat ride on a journey that lasts approximately 20 minutes through one of the channels of Bahía Hondita. 10:00 a.m. From La Boquita, we’ll continue our journey towards Cabo de la Vela aboard 4×4 vans.

Cabo de la Vela. 12:00 p.m. Lunch at Cabo de la Vela.

Ojo de Agua. 4:00 p.m. Visit the Ojo de Agua Beaches.

6:00 p.m. Back at the Inn, everything will be ready to again savor the flavors of this place with a traditional dinner. Night arrives, and the stars come out to tell incredible stories, while shooting stars get lost in the sea or the desert. Dinner and Accommodation in wayuu lodges, again in rooms with beds and bathrooms.

Day 3 – Cabo de la Vela – Salinas de Manaure – Riohacha

Cabo de la Vela. 7:00 a.m. Breakfast at the ranchería.

Punta Arcoíris. 8:00 a.m. Visit to Punta Arcoíris.

Pilón de Azucar . 9:00 a.m. Visit Cerro Pilón de Azúcar,  a natural pyramid that is a sacred place for the wayuu because they believe all the spirits of their dead reside there.

Manaure salt mines. 10:00 a.m. We will continue our journey to the open air sea sal mines of Manaure.

11:30 a.m. In Manaure, a tour through the ponds (salt harvesting areas) allows us to observe the wayuu indigenous people in their daily tasks in the production process of sea salt in the artisanal ponds.

1:00 p.m. Lunch in Manaure.

3:00 p.m. Return to Riohacha.

Cost per person with a minimum of 4 people ………. USD $380.

IMPORTANT:  THIS ITINERARY IS TO BE CONSIDERED A FRAMEWORK, AND WE DO COVER ALL THE IMPORTANT PARTS, BUT PLEASE KEEP IN MIND THAT THE HIGH GUAJIRA IS A VERY HARSH AND DEMANDING PLACE, IT IS A TRUE ADVENTURE, EACH EXPEDITION IS UNIQUE AND AS ALL TRUE ADVENTURES THERE CAN BE CHANGES IN ROUTES AND ADJUSTMENTS IN THE ITINERARIES THAT CAN AND WILL AFFECT ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE TIMES. IT’S THE NATURE OF ADVENTURE!

What makes our Guajira private tours special

At Guanabana Tours we believe in exploring the farthest and wildest parts of Colombia, but we make sure you are safe, comfortable, and well attended to. We only do private tours, w e only work for you! Consequently, you will be accompanied by a fluent English-speaking guide and there will be a team that will handle every detail of the trip. As a result, all you will have to worry about will be taking in the incredible scenery and local culture. You will find plenty of nightmare stories on the review sections for Guajira tours due to late or non-appearing staff, lack of communication from operators of paid tours, and being stranded for hours in the harsh Guajira desert in broken-down cars. This is not the Guanabana way, ever!

ITINERARY FOR THE 3 DAY GUAJIRA TOUR STARTING IN SANTA MARTA

• Santa Marta .  5:30 a.m. departure from Santa Marta to Riohacha. Travel time will be 2.5 hours to 3 hours. Distance 170 kms.
• Riohacha.  Arrival in Riohacha. You can stop to catch a bite if you wish, stretch your legs, or do some quick shopping for essentials you might want like sunblock, insect repellent etc. In the Land Cruiser there will be plenty of drinking water and snacks for the ensuing trip to the High Guajira (that’s everything past a city called Uribia, the territory is called  La Alta Guajira ).
• (*Note: In the Landcruiser will also be lots of small bags with items such as coffee, sugar, salt, rice, candles, beans, sweets, cooking oil, etc. These items will be broken down into small care bags by our team members before you are picked up. These bags are needed to pay the dozens and dozens of “tolls” in the high desert to the wayuu aborigines, otherwise there’s no getting in our out.)
• Manaure .  From Riohacha you continue north 1 hour 75 kms on an oceanside road passing a popular beach called Mayapo, then continuing north (always north) to visit the salt mines of a town called Manaure. You will go into the salt mines and see how this immense sea salt production works.
• Uribia.  Continuing from Manaure we reach the town of Uribia, 20 minutes/20 kms until reaching the town of Uribia. Uribia is known as the indigenous capital of Colombia. Uribia is basically a commercial supply post that supplies all the food, tools, spare parts, household utensils, etc. everything that the wayuu population up in the high Guajira needs. Beyond Uribia begins the true outback desert. You take a tour around Uribia and then continue to Cabo de la Vela. The road to Cabo has been paved a lot these past years, but the last 10 kms are total desert trails, and it will continue this way all the way to Punta Gallinas and back.
• Cabo de la Vela.  Arrival in Cabo after 1.5 hours/63 kms. ETA Cabo 12 noon to 1 pm, just in time to get settled in your lodgings (private room with bathroom) and lunch. After lunch time to rest and take a walk on the beach. Afternoon activities in Cabo will be visit to Punta Arcoíris, a beach on a farther end of the desert with colored sands, then visit to Cerro Pilón de Azúcar, a natural pyramid that is a very sacred place for the wayuu because all the spirits of their dead reside in the Pilón de Azucar. The day ends with the local tradition in Cabo to go watch the sunset at the faro, the light house at a bluff in the farther end north.   It’s a tradition for everyone visiting Cabo, there will be lots of people always watching one of the most beautiful sunsets on the planet.
• Punta Gallinas.  The night is spent in Cabo (if you are into star gazing you are in for a spectacle) and early 5:30 a.m. departure to Punta Gallinas. This is now full on high desert. During the drive there will be stops to take in some beautiful views. There will also be the sporadic wayuu settlement called “rancherías” where all the “tolls” begin. One must be patient, all the tolls can seem overwhelming at times. Arrival to Punta Gallinas after 5-6 hours/120 kms to the dunes of Taroa. There you will get to walk the dunes, sand board if you wish, and take a splash in the Ocean. Lunch at Taroa Dunes.
• Hospedaje Luzmila.  From the dunes of Taroa we transfer to our lodgings. It’s like a big encampment and its called  Hospedaje Luzmila, after the matriarch that founded it years ago (wayuu’s have a matriarchal social structure). You get to settle in, rest a while, walk the surroundings and look down at the bay, there’s also wifi.
• Faro de Punta Gallinas.  After rest and leisure there’s a 5-minute drive to a famous landmark called El Faro de Punta Gallinas. This is a lighthouse that is located on the northernmost tip of Colombia and South America. There is no land in South America north of el faro de Punta Gallinas.
• Riohacha/Santa Marta.  At daybreak ready to depart. You will have breakfast and then go for a boat ride through a bay and channel called Bahía Hondita. At 10 a.m. departure heading south. It is 6.5 hours/256 kms from Punta Gallinas to Riohacha, ETA Riohacha 4 p.m. A 30-minute leg stretch in Riohacha and then the 2.5 – 3 hour drive to Santa Marta. ETA Santa Marta 8 – 9 p.m.
• Bilingual driver.  You will have with you a 100% fluent bilingual driver that has 20 years doing the Alta Guajira and will take care of all your requirements full time. He is very punctual, resourceful, responsible, and with a great attitude. (He only works for us).

IMPORTANT:  THIS ITINERARY IS TO BE CONSIDERED A FRAMEWORK, AND WE DO COVER ALL THE IMPORTANT PARTS, BUT PLEASE KEEP IN MIND THAT THE HIGH GUAJIRA IS A VERY HARSH AND DEMANDING PLACE, IT IS A TRUE ADVENTURE, EACH EXPEDITION IS UNIQUE AND AS ALL TRUE ADVENTURES THERE CAN BE CHANGES IN ROUTES AND ADJUSTMENTS IN THE ITINERARIES THAT CAN AND WILL AFFECT ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE TIMES. IT’S THE NATURE OF ADVENTURE!

• All ground transportation in air-conditioned 4x4s
• Fluent English speaking driver/guide
• Sleeping arrangements
• Plenty of water and snacks
• Risk insurance 
• Airfares to pickup or departure cities
• Alcoholic beverages

And don’t forget all our other cool stuff!

Whitewater Rafting

Guatapé Adventure Day

Mountain Biking

Paragliding

Skydiving Cartagena

Sailing Cartagena

Kitesurfing 

Safari & Dude Ranch

Journey Through La Guajira, Colombia: The Land of Wind & Fire

A journey through La Guajira, Colombia is an opportunity to meet the Wayuu people, visit remote villages and see the colorful coastal desert.

Editor’s Note: We share travel destinations, products and activities we recommend. If you make a purchase using a link on our site, we may earn a commission.

We were floating in the blue-green waters where Bahia Honda reaches the sea. It was 8 am on the third and last day of our trip to La Guajira Peninsula in Colombia . We had taken a motorboat around the bay to this beach where a jeep would pick us up and take us back to Rioacha.

As we left the bay the water changed from dark green to a more transparent shade. But the contrast with the dark yellow sand remained. We had seen pink flamingos, colorful birds, green mangroves and golden cliffs. The day was beginning and we were, once again, in awe. 

The People of La Guajira, Colombia

This is the land of the Wayuu people. A nomadic tribe who were never subjugated by the Spanish. They remain, to this day, proud, serious, borderline hostile but beautiful people. Just like their land. They make a living herding goats, weaving, fishing and, more recently, with tourism. 

We had departed from Rioacha, the capital of the La Guajira district. Four travelers and Fredy, our driver. After an hour on paved road we entered a dirt path following the train track that connects the coal mine of Cerrejón to Puerto Bolivar.

The lush green vegetation that characterized the north coast of Colombia up until Rioacha was replaced by yellow earth, occasional green cacti and grey, dry shrubs. 

After a while, the track became harder, full of holes and the landscape even more desolate. We seemed to be driving towards nowhere. We had reached the Upper Guajira desert. 

Proof of life came from the ropes stretched across the road. Children held them at each end. Fredy sounded the horn, slowed down, but tried not to stop. He explained that the children are making road stops to get candy, or money, from the tourists.

He had been instructed not to stop or give anything as that would only contribute to the problem. I nodded in agreement. Not only is it a commodification of visitors, but it is also not safe. Children have been hurt because they stand too close to the road holding the rope. 

La Guajira, Colombia is in a state of emergency from the lack of water and these children may need many things they cannot get because of the difficult life they lead here. Candy is not one of them. 

Village of Cabo de la Vela

After 20 minutes we saw green in the horizon. The sea. There was absolutely no vegetation around, just a brownish plain under our wheels. As we approached, the car ran parallel to the water, a few meters away. The desert to our right, and the sea to our left. I had never been to a coastal desert before. It felt surreal. 

That night we would be sleeping in Cabo de la Vela. The village named after the nearby by cape was originally just a Wayuu fishing community. However, now it is a popular kitesurfing and beach destination.

It consists of a dozen houses on both sides of a dirt road that runs parallel to the seashore. The contour of the land forms a blue bay, with the cape at the end of it. 

Most of the companies operating in the area have connections to the Wayuu. It is in their rancherias that accommodation is provided. Options are traditional hammocks, the chinchorros, under a palm leaves rooftop, or in very simple cabanas made of yotojoro, the heart of a big local cactus.

There is no running water and electricity is provided by generators or solar panels. During our visit in November, there were almost no tourists, but December and January bring crowds of Colombian visitors. 

We dropped our backpacks at the rancheria and enjoyed a small rest from the bumpy three-hour ride. Then we drove away from the village to explore the surrounding area.

The Colorful Coastal Desert of La Guajira

At the top of the cape, our hair was flying in all directions and our skin was sprayed with saltwater rising from the clash of waves against cliffs. All we could hear was the howling of the wind and the gushing of the sea.

I sat down, enjoying the brightness of the colors. Greenish-grey rocks sprinkled in rusty yellow, orangey-yellow sand, cyan blue sky, turquoise blue water and white foam waves. The strength and contrast of the colors were something that never ceased to amaze me. 

From the top of Pilon de Azucar, a 100m hillside, we could see the path we had taken in the morning and the whole of Upper Guajira beyond. Mountains in the distance, then miles of vastness.

The whole area of Cabo de la Vela, Jepira, in Wayuu, is sacred for its people. It represents the place where the spirit of the dead wander when they begin their journey to the unknown. 

Pilon de Azucar is one of the spots they pass by. On top of it is a statue of Our Lady of Fatima and behind it someone graffitied an eye. Old and new beliefs mingle in the wind. It seemed strangely appropriate. 

Sleeping in Hammocks and Watching the Sunrise

Dinner is included in the price of the tours. You can enjoy good fried fish or goat. We decided the extra 20000COP ($6 USD) for fresh lobster was worth the splurge.

One hour later we were cracking legs, sucking heads and laughing at our buttered fingers and lips. We were feeling full and happy under a sky full of stars. Lights went out at 9 pm and we sunk into our hammocks, cradled by the breeze and the rustling sound of the sea. 

I woke up to a pink sky. By the time I walked the 10 meters to the beach, it had gone from pink to orange and the sun was just over the horizon. Everything was tinted gold. The sea was a mirror, the trees were black silhouettes and pelicans flew by grazing the water. 

There were five or six people on the sand. We whispered good morning and sat down at different places, in silence, facing the sun. It is said the spirits who wander here can talk to us in our dreams. I don’t know what we all dreamt of that night, but it must have been good. 

Exploring the Remote Peninsula & Taroa Beach

The second day was spent making our way north across the Peninsula. First on a path surrounded by cactus, grey stones and dry grey bushes. Then crossing miles and miles of sandy, flat desert with nothing in sight but the undulating hot air. Unlike Cabo, there is no public transport and tourism is just beginning here. 

Sometimes we would see a couple of rancherias and Fredy would tell us the name of the village. They looked deserted, but every now and then people would pass by, walking or riding bicycles.

There were no cars in sight other than the occasional truck passing us. From my air-conditioned seat, I felt a knot in my throat passing by a teenager cycling with two large plastic containers on the back. “Água” Fredy pointed.

Water in this area is stored from the rain in big containers, but it hasn’t rained in many months. Drinking water comes in trucks from Rioacha, at very high prices. 

We reached Taroa beach at 2 pm. The jeep stopped at the base of the 60 meters dunes. We couldn’t see past the sand. It flew around and hit our skin like needles. From the top, the sea opened in front of us.

The dunes tumbled down straight into the water. We rolled and played around in the warm waves for an hour feeling, yet again, blessed to have such an incredible place all to ourselves. 

The Rocky Road to Punta Gallinas

From there to Punta Gallinas, the northernmost point of South America , the road got even bumpier. There were rocks all over the path.

The point itself is a stretch of sand with an abandoned house, a white and red light post and a garden of cairns on the seashore. We stacked small stone contributions to one of the cairns and drove on. 

Our stay for the night was in a rancheria atop a cliff with Bahia Honda on one side and the sea on the other. A scenery of dark green water, golden yellow sand, green mangroves, cactus and shells in unlikely places, a testimony of different water levels.

A roaring wind never allowed for silence but relieved us from the scorching heat. That night the stars were even brighter. I sat by myself pondering on how lucky I was to be there.

I also wondered how the region would develop in terms of tourism and feared for its effects. I wished upon one of the shooting stars it wouldn’t ruin the beauty that had caught my breath so many times in so few days. 

Author Bio: Filipa is a Portuguese writer and travel leader. She loves the world but has a soft spot for Latin America and the Argentinian accent in particular. You can find her traveling, researching and volunteering on sus tainable projects, and searching for stories about people and places that inspire change and empathy towards others.

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Conexión a La Guajíra

desde las terminales áreas de CTG, BAQ, SMR, y VUP.

Pago seguro

y múltiple canales para transacción.

Servicio personalizado

acompañamiento permanente durante los tours.

Viaje seguro

Protocolo de bioseguridad aprobado.

¿Qué hacer en La Guajira?

Recorre parte del desierto y deslumbrarte con los paisajes marino – costero existentes sólo en la península de La Guajira.

Siempre una aventura te espera: kilómetros de rutas únicas para travesías 4x4, bicicletas y caminatas; vientos 300 días al año para la práctica del kitesurf.

Baila al ritmo de un buen vallenato, y conoce más del legado de Francisco el Hombre en nuestros festivales.

Observa como las montañas se elevan sobre el mar y dejan caer sus aguas a través de múltiples ríos al Caribe.

Vive una tarde de ranchería wayuu y conoce mucho más sobre esta cultura ancestral.

Embárcate en un viaje de luz y color, para encontrar a los flamencos rosados en su hábitat.

Sumérgete en mitos y leyendas que te transportarán al verdadero mundo del realismo mágico de Colombia.

Camina por playas vírgenes y deja que tus huellas en la arena sean apropiadas por el mar.

Un city tour te mostrará a la Riohacha ancestral y cultural, festiva y comercial del Caribe.

Llénate de los sabores de la tierra y el mar con nuestra gastronomía. Toda una experiencia cultural que te conectará con las tradiciones.

Vamos de pesca

Atrapa para siempre un arcoíris y siente la energía y el poder de las olas en el mar Caribe.

Contemplar atardeceres y amaneceres de ensueños al lado del mar y el desierto, de las montañas y los ríos.

Experiencias

¡Vive tu propia experiencia!

Tour de luz y color natural: Avistamiento de Flamencos Rosados

Santuario de los flamencos

1 - 4 personas

Tour Cabo de la Vela, vive una experiencia unica

Cabo de la Vela

1 - 6 personas

Tarde de ranchería: Vive por unas horas el mundo Wayuu

1 - 4 personas, 1 - 6 personas

Palomino paraíso escondido en el caribe: Nibuni

Hotel Hukumeizi

Magdalena y La Guajira: Naturaleza, Historia y Cultura

Hotel Gimaura y más

2 - 4 personas

La Guajira tierra de encanto: Cabo de la Vela – Mayapo

Hotel Taroa

Hotel Arimaca

Hotel Gimaura

La Guajira Fantástica: Punta Gallinas, Cabo de la Vela, Parque de los Flamencos

Jepirra – Cabo de la vela, un mundo de nuevas sensaciones

Posada turística

Guajira Aventura: Parque Macuira – Punta Gallinas – Cabo de la Vela

Guajira Aventura, Parque Macuira – Punta Gallinas – Cabo de la Vela

Gran Caribe Colombiano: La Guajira, Valledupar y Mompox

Riohacha - Valledupar y otros

Experiencia Valledupar y La Guajira: Naturaleza, Gastronomía, Historia y Cultura

Experiencia Tejeduría Wayuu

Experiencia La Guajira Artesanal

Descubre La Guajira, Punta Gallinas – Cabo de la Vela – Mayapo

Descubre el origen del tejido Wayuu

Tour cabo de la vela, experiencia compartida

Punta gallinas y Cabo de la Vela: Paraíso tropical

Chinchorro, cabaña

1 - ilimitado

2 Noche - 3 Días

Infórmate de nuestras novedades

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Go off the beaten track and be rewarded with the stunning sceneries of the northernmost spot of South America.

La Guaijira is where ocean meets desert and where time seems to stand still. It is home to  the indigenous Wayuu people, whose women wear typical colorful dresses that flare gorgeously in the neverending winds.

Time passes by slowly as every day is hot and the climate dry. The sandy landscapes are dotted with cacti, bushes, goats, and blueish lagoons where you can spot amazing birds.

It is a windsurfers´paradise but anyone up for some adventure, relaxing time, delicious lobster, and with a sense of curiousity to one of Colombia´s most peculiar regions will definitely enjoy their visit!

INFORMATION

Population: 902.000 inhabitants

Altitude: 50 masl

Average temperature: 27.3 °C

Best time to visit: All year round

Population:

902.000 inhabitants

Average temperature:

Best time to visit:

All year round

AVAILABLE TOURS

Vast desert adventures in La Guajira for 3 days!

Discover the amazing mix of deserts with the Caribbean Sea. Our 3-day tour of La Guajira is your best option to get the most of this magical place.

ACCOMMODATION

Your trip to La Guajira includes all accommodation. You will sleep in different locations as you will drive to a new destination each day.

Traditionally, the local people sleep in hammocks. You can opt to sleep in a hammock too and in this way enjoy a typical experience from the region.

However, it is also possible to sleep in basic rooms that come with a private bathroom. There will be no hot water available but it is a desert so no real need for hot showers.

Check drone images of La Guajira  here .

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At Lulo Colombia Travel, we create amazing travel itineraries that are tailor-made to your travel style and preferences.

Let us help you come up with an ideal route for your trip in Colombia. By answering the following short questions we will provide you  on the spot  with a  free  and  personalized  itinerary that will serve as a starting point for an unforgettable journey!

Guajira: the 6 must-sees

Do you want to discover a unique destination, still preserved from mass tourism, close to the indigenous communities? We advise you to travel to the heart of the Guajira desert. In La Guajira you will go a little further into the Caribbean coast, not far from the Tayrona Park but in a completely different landscape,…

Do you want to discover a unique destination , still preserved from mass tourism, close to the indigenous communities? We advise you to travel to the heart of the Guajira desert. In La Guajira you will go a little further into the Caribbean coast, not far from the Tayrona Park but in a completely different landscape, while remaining close to the sea.

In this article we will give you our advice, the areas to visit, the unmissable. From Riohacha to Punta Gallinas, get ready for an extraordinary journey, between sand dunes and flamingos!

The essentials of Guajira

• Introduction
• What to see in La Guajira? Riohacha and the Los Flamencos Wildlife Sanctuary, Puntas Gallinas, Cabo de la Vela and the Macuira National Nature Park
• What to do in La Guajira? Take a trip between sea and desert
• Practical information
• When to go to La Guajira? Avoid October/November
• Health and equipment needed during your stay in La Guajira: bring clothes for cool nights and the necessary equipment for travelling in an arid area.
• What are the main events in La Guajira? Don’t miss the cultural festival in Uribia, capital of the Wayúu community.
• How to get to La Guajira? By plane from Riohacha airport or by bus from Santa Marta.

La Guajira in video :

Guajira peninsula, the caribbean desert.

A Caribbean desert land , the department of Guajira offers a multitude of incomparable images and colours . Its diversity of landscapes makes it a magical destination where the thousand-year-old tradition of the Wayúus, a pre-Columbian people who never gave in to Spanish colonisation, is preserved.

Even today, the Wayúu represent more than 45% of the population of the Guajira, making them the first indigenous people of Colombia (500,000 individuals). Skilled craftsmen and traders, the Wayúu know the land where they were born, and remain essential to its development, particularly by welcoming lovers of wild and arid nature who come to visit this desert of a thousand colours.

What to see and do in La Guajira?

Flamingo sanctuary.

Before arriving in Riohacha, this sanctuary is well worth a stop on your journey to Guajira. You will find it 20 kilometers from Riohacha, on the Troncal del Caribe road, which first passes through Tayrona and Palomino. The Flamingos sanctuary is a 7,682 hectare reserve with mosaics of lagoons , dry forests and swamps.

If you are lucky, you will be able to see over 185 species of birds (80% of which are migratory), such as eagles and the roseate spoonbill. Four species of sea turtles come here to lay their eggs.

Why visit the sanctuary? To see the flamingos of course! In season, you will see thousands of them, the show is amazing! But be sure to check with the park beforehand to see if the flamingos are there or not, so you don’t come for nothing!

Riohacha is the town where you will stop before your expedition into the heart of the Guajira desert. It is a pleasant stop for a day, where you can stroll along the “ Paseo de la Marina ” promenade along the beach and do some shopping for typical Wayúu handicrafts. You can also go and admire the sunset on the pier and rest in the shade of the large palm trees that line the beach.

What else can you do? A great option is to watch the fishermen at work , take a walk in the José Prudencia Padilla Park or visit the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Remedios.

Some additional information : Riohacha is the capital of the department of Guajira, 170 km from Santa Marta. It has 170,000 inhabitants and was founded in 1535 by the German explorer Nicolas de Federman. The predominant economic activities are all related to the port, which is located in the city.

Cabo de la Vela

If you are touring the Guajira, your first stop is Cabo de la Vela. This is the most visited destination in the Guajira, for several reasons. 

Not to be missed : The beach and kitesurfing!

In Cabo de la Vela you will find large beaches with orange sand and warm, clear water. The lunar landscapes where the rock is eaten by the sea are sublime.

Cabo de la Vela is also the ideal place (one of the best in the world!) to practice kitesurfing and windsurfing, thanks to its favorable winds.

Did you know that? Cabo de la Vela is above all a spiritual place for the Wayúu. It is here, at the foot of the Pilon de Azucar , an incredible rocky viewpoint overlooking the desert and the sea, that the souls of the deceased rest.

In this waterside village, 160 km from Riohacha, don’t forget to enjoy a beautiful sunset from Punta Faro.

Punta Gallinas

• The second must-see during your stay in La Guajira is Punta Gallinas! Its bay by the sea is a place full of spiritual energy, perhaps because it is the northernmost point of the South American continent. It is for us the best spot in Guajira to admire a sunset, feet in the water. It is a peaceful and wonderful moment.

A little anecdote: Here, people balance a stone and make a hopeful wish for the future. If the stone falls, the wish is not granted. This custom creates a moon-like setting in this sublime place.

• Where to ride the dunes? The most beautiful part of Punta Gallinas remains for us the Taroa Dunes. The highest one is 60 meters high and looks like a wall facing the sea . It is an enchanting sight, as if the desert was flowing into the sea.
• Fancy a boat trip? Bahia Hondita is the place to go. Here, a piece of sea has been lost, surrounded by rocks and desert. This water formation has created an ecosystem of mangroves and you can admire many birds!

Macuira National Nature Park

If you have 2 more days in the Guajira, we advise you to go further into the desert to discover this superb national park. This semi-desert is an extraordinary place. Microclimates form oases that resemble tropical forests ! It is a destination that is not yet open to mass tourism, which makes it totally authentic, far from the beaten track.

Macuira, land of the Wayuus!  

The Serranía de Macuira , which owes its name to the ancestors of the Wayúus: the Makui . It is above all a refuge for the Wayuu community, which is little influenced by the outside world and lives from local agriculture. The forest rangers are all very welcoming natives.

A bit of geography! The Macuira National Park is made up of a mountain range 500 metres high. The highest point is Cerro Palúa , at 865 metres. Macuira’s isolation gives it an interesting f lora and fauna and a notable wildlife , which includes the Cardinalidae, as well as 15 species of snakes, such as the coral snake.

Expert advice: We highly recommend a walk to the El Chorro waterfall . It is a lush and charming green area.

We advise you to stop for a day in Palomino, before heading to Riohacha. It is one of the last villages of the Guajira bathed in virgin forest before arriving at the desert climate. It is a good stopover for a relaxing moment by the sea, between the Tayrona Park and the desert of La Guajira.

Did you know that? This is the only place where you can see the snow-capped peaks of the Sierra Nevada from the beach! Take advantage of a beautiful morning to go up the Sierra Nevada and float down the beautiful Don Diego River , close to nature and the birds.

Warning : This small fishing village is rather a victim of its own success and is experiencing a tourist boom. But the area remains authentic.

What to do in La Guajira? Aventure Colombia activities

Contact Aventure Colombia for more information and/or to book tours in Guajira ( [email protected] ). Example of what we offer:

Between sea and desert

In the extreme north of Colombia and South America, you will discover Punta Gallina, a magnificent landscape of sand dunes, plateaus and rocky cliffs that emerge from the sea, embracing the magnificent Bahia Hondita. During this 3 or 4 days tour of Guajira, in private or in group (your choice), you will discover Cabo de la Vela, Colombian temple of Kitesurfing and its superb beaches.

You can enjoy beautiful sunsets in Punta Faro and Punta Gallinas, ride down the dunes of Taroa and take a boat ride through the mangroves. You will also be able to see flamingos in the middle of the desert and get to know the daily life of the Wayúu community a little better. On your way, you will discover the indigenous capital of Uribia and the fishing village of Riohacha. Prepare yourself for a unique journey, in an area still preserved from mass tourism, and absolutely magical!

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The Guajira Peninsula

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Colombia’s northernmost point, Guajira Peninsula has a hostile desert climate that has kept it largely isolated since colonial times. As a result it’s one of those special places where independent travellers can still feel as if they’re leaving fresh tracks. Some 240km long and no more than 50km wide, the barren peninsula is empty except for the semi-nomadic Wayuu, a beguiling mix of desert and sea, a smugglers’ haven that English pirates once tried to conquer. More challenging to explore than the rest of the Caribbean coast, the Guajira Peninsula rewards those who make the effort with the end-of-the-world feel of Cabo de la Vela and Punta Gallinas. Cabo de la Vela is a remote Wayuu fishing village, 180km northwest of Riohacha, the capital of the Guajira Peninsula that in itself is 175km northeast of Santa Marta. On the journey to Cabo you pass through a landscape of sand, baked mud huts of the Wayuu and goats grazing under the sparse shade of the acacia trees.

Cabo de la Vela

Punta gallinas, tailor-made travel itineraries for colombia, created by local experts.

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Spend your first days in Colombia exploring its capital city Bogotá before heading further to the coast: Cartagena and Santa Marta will be next on the agenda. From wandering the historic city center to hiking the jungles to a virgin beach, Colombia will be an unforgettable trip!

18 days  / from 3664 USD

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If you are a lover of the arts than look no further. This trip will bring you culture, art, architecture, music and dance: visit local markets and workshops, admire the graffiti in Bogotá, discover historical city centers and “Fondas” – local bars with exotic decoration and typical Colombian music.

10 days  / from 4650 USD

Colombia for nature & adventure lovers

Do you like adventure and nature? Then you're in luck, this trip combines the best of both. Go horse riding through the Risaralda valley and join a bike tour through Cartagena, visit the beautiful Cocora Valley and discover the Coffee Cultural Landscape. There's something for everyone!

A dusty one-street settlement strung out along an aquamarine bay, CABO DE LA VELA’s main draw is the spectacular landscape: a long sliver of beach, rocky cliffs and cactus-studded arid plains. In December and January the village is inundated with holidaying Colombians, but the rest of the year it’s a tranquil spot for sunset viewing, particularly from the westernmost hill at the far end of the bay, El Faro, kitesurfing and lazing on the sand.

If Cabo is insufficiently remote, then perhaps Punta Gallinas will suffice. Consisting of a turquoise bay fringed by what is perhaps Colombia’s most beautiful beach, home to a large colony of pink flamingos and around sixty Wayuu, Colombia’s northernmost tip is only reachable by organized tour. Contact Kaí Ecotravel in Riohacha (311 436 2830, www.kaiecotravel.com), a reputable operator that also runs trips to Cabo.

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written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 26.04.2021

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