Prepare to be captivated by the untamed beauty of La Guajira, a region in Colombia that beckons the intrepid traveler seeking an unforgettable adventure.
I’ve been 4 times to La Guajira, and this guide will help you decide if you want to visit this remote and magic destination nestled on the northern Caribbean coast.
👉 Here, I review the best tours to explore La Guajira.
From traversing unmarked landscapes in a rugged Jeep to immersing yourself in the vibrant Wayuu culture, this hidden gem invites you to step outside your comfort zone and embrace the raw and riveting spirit of exploration.
Join us to learn everything you need to know about La Guajira in Colombia.
Since 2015, Tomplanmytrip (us) looks for the best local agencies in Colombia and put you in direct contact with them.
- Easy to join a group tour to La Macuira
- Exciting extra Wayúu experiences during the trips
- A small agency with excellent drivers
- Excellent prices & communication
5 Reasons to Journey to La Guajira, Colombia
Here is why La Guajira will steal your heart.
Immerse yourself in a unique culture: The Wayuu
There’s a beating heart at the core of La Guajira, and it belongs to the Wayuu.
This indigenous group, the largest in Colombia and Venezuela, presents a captivating matriarchal society that welcomes exploration.
The Wayuu women weave tales of their lives into vibrant mochilas (bags), turning each one into an expressive piece of art. These aren’t merely souvenirs; they’re a means to support the local economy while taking a piece of Wayuu artistry home.
The Wayuu are the stewards of La Guajira. They safeguard the sacred Macuira National Park and the awe-inspiring landscapes of Cabo de la Vela and Punta Gallinas. Their reverence for nature offers a worthy lesson to us all.
A visit to La Guajira is a deep dive into a distinct lifestyle. It involves understanding the world from a Wayuu perspective, savoring the local cuisine, and absorbing local myths and legends.
A Birdwatcher’s Dream: La Guajira
La Guajira’s diverse habitats, ranging from coastal wetlands to dry forests, mountains, and páramos, make it a birdwatcher’s wonderland.
The Flamingos Sanctuary is an absolute must-visit. Here, a flamboyance of flamingos (that’s right, a flamboyance!) graces their natural habitat. Seeing their pink plumage set against the azure sky is a spectacle to behold.
Next, traverse the Camarones Forest Reserve. This dry forest is a sanctuary for various bird species, so keep those binoculars ready. A rare bird could make an appearance at any moment.
Finally, venture to the Macuira National Park. Nestled within the heart of the La Guajira desert, this park is a birdwatcher’s paradise.
From the Perijá Metaltail to the Santa Marta Parakeet and the Chestnut-winged Chachalaca, some of the world’s rarest and most endemic birds call this park home.
La Guajira: A Natural Masterpiece
La Guajira is a place where nature’s palette comes alive. Here, the arid golden desert hugs the cobalt-blue sea, painting a vivid contrast that sears into your memory.
Along the coast lie beaches seemingly untouched by time. Whether you’re a sun-seeker, a water sports enthusiast, or a beachcomber, these sandy stretches have something to offer you.
And then there’s the Macuira National Park, an oasis amidst the barren desert. This cloud forest stands as a testament to nature’s tenacity and survival. It’s a place where you can immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature and find your inner peace.
Every evening, the sky morphs into a riot of colors. As the sun dips below the horizon, the heavens are set ablaze with orange, pink, and purple hues. It’s the showstopper of the day, a time to sit back and marvel at the grandeur of the universe.
When darkness descends, the spectacle doesn’t end. With zero light pollution, the night sky is a bedazzled blanket of twinkling stars. It’s a stargazer’s paradise, a mesmerizing sight you’ll feel like the stars are within your grasp.
In a nutshell, La Guajira’s sceneries are more than just a feast for the eyes; it’s a haven where you can form deep connections with nature and create indelible memories.
Ride the Winds: Kitesurfing in La Guajira
La Guajira, a kitesurfing utopia, beckons you. Blessed with consistent winds, a tranquil sea, and jaw-dropping vistas, it’s a destination that will fulfill your kitesurfing fantasies.
Kitesurfing schools are aplenty in Riohacha and Cabo de la Vela. If you’re a greenhorn, Riohacha is your go-to place.
Cabo de la Vela, a remote fishing village, is renowned for its gusty winds, making it a hotspot for kitesurfing. As you glide over the waves, the stark contrast of the yellow rocky cliffs and sea will leave you gobsmacked.
Then there’s Punta Gallinas, the northernmost point of the South American Continent. Picture yourself kitesurfing at the juncture where the desert, mountain range, and sea meet, with the backdrop of rolling dunes and turquoise waters. It’s an experience that’s as thrilling as it is sublime. 👉 Consider a 5-day kitesurfing journey with Oletto to fully enjoy this spot.
La Guajira: An Unparalleled Adventure Experience
La Guajira: it’s more than just a destination; it’s an adventure.
This place beckons the intrepid traveler, the one who seeks the roads less traveled, the paths untouched by the throngs of tourists.
Envision a Jeep ride traversing an unmarked landscape, a vast desert that stretches to the horizon, punctuated by solitary cacti. They stand tall, a testament to nature’s resilience in harsh and hostile desert climate conditions. The scenery is surreal, akin to a Salvador Dali painting coming to life.
As you journey further, you’ll stumble upon remote towns, seemingly frozen in time. These hidden gems provide an authentic window into the Wayuu culture. Engaging with the locals, you’ll experience their warm hospitality, a facet of Colombian culture that remains unscathed by time.
The thrill amplifies as you find yourself standing at the northernmost point of South America in Punta Gallinas. It’s the intersection of the vast desert and the infinite sea, a place where the world seems to end.
The adventure continues as night falls, and you find yourself sleeping in a chinchorro (hammock), lulled by the desert breeze and silence—except for the noise caused by potato chip-addicted goats that roam the rancheria.
La Guajira is a raw, real, and riveting adventure. It’s a place that invites you to step beyond the familiar, immerse yourself in nature, and craft memories that will endure a lifetime.
4 Reasons La Guajira, Colombia Might Not Be Your Cup of Tea
Some travelers might be disappointed by their trip to La Guajira. Find out why.
La Guajira: A Place With Surprises
La Guajira is a region that thrives on the unexpected. It’s an adventure with a capital A, where every twist and turn promises a new surprise.
Let’s set the scene: You’re traversing the expansive desert in a Jeep, surrounded by cacti stretching as far as the eye can see. Suddenly, the jeep grinds to a halt. But here’s the thing: this isn’t a disaster in La Guajira. It’s merely another facet of the adventure. The locals here have car repair down to a fine art.
Plus, these hiccups are less likely to occur with our recommended agencies,
And then there are the Wayuu strikes. They may cause a last-minute change to your travel plans, but they also offer a unique glimpse into the Wayuu people’s indomitable spirit and fight for justice.
After heavy rain, the paths can get muddy, and your journey might turn into a bumpy, slow ride. But remember: adventures aren’t always smooth sailing. Besides, the rain breathes new life into the desert landscape, offering a different perspective of La Guajira’s beauty.
Changes in the schedule are part and parcel of the La Guajira adventure. It’s about embracing the unexpected, adapting to surprises, and savoring every moment that comes your way.
So, pack up your sense of humor, embrace the spirit of adventure, and prepare for the ride of a lifetime!
A Taste of the Simple Life in La Guajira
The raw, unfiltered charm of La Guajira is part of what makes it so appealing. However, this also means the usual comforts will be limited.
Accommodations here are basic, with options ranging from cheap beds to hammocks. Although hammocks may take a little getting used to, they offer a surprisingly comfortable night’s sleep. Just be prepared for the strong winds that can add an extra dose of nature to your slumber.
Air conditioning is a rarity here— and electricity is cut at night anyway. But don’t fret; the desert nights are cool, and the wind can be refreshing.
In terms of food, La Guajira keeps things straightforward.
The arid climate makes it difficult to get fresh vegetables, and the menu might not be extensive. But what it lacks in variety, it more than compensates for in authenticity. You’ll be able to sample traditional Wayuu dishes, lovingly prepared with local ingredients.
In other words, La Guajira is not the place for the luxury-seeking traveler. It’s a place where the simple life is the norm, and the reward is an authentic, unforgettable experience.
La Guajira: You Must Deserve It
Are you a true adventurer at heart? Well, tighten those seat belts because La Guajira is about to challenge your spirit of adventure.
Picture this: You’re in a jeep, rumbling across vast landscapes for hours on end. The distance between destinations is nothing short of epic. As you journey, you share a camaraderie with six other bold explorers, swapping stories, sharing food, and wincing collectively when the jeep stumbles on an unusually uneven path.
Sure, this might sound a little daunting. But remember, you’re not merely on a journey; you’re on an expedition. You’re exploring the northernmost tip of South America, a feat not many can claim.
However, there’s a caveat:
La Guajira is often more of a visual spectacle than a cultural immersion. Much of your time will be spent in transit, absorbing the awe-inspiring landscapes through the jeep’s windows. This trip might seem a bit superficial if you seek to connect deeper with the locale and its people.
So, what’s the best approach?
Opt for a 4-day adventure. This allows ample time to explore, hike in places like the untouched Macuira National Park, and interact with the indigenous Wayuu culture. It’s a more leisurely pace and offers a more profound experience.
👉 Include an extra night in Punta Gallians with Beatrice
Remember, La Guajira is not a theme park. It’s a wild, untamed frontier with its unique rhythm. Embrace the unexpected, surrender to the flow, and let the adventure weave its magic.
The Stark Reality of La Guajira
La Guajira is a realm of raw beauty but also a region of harsh realities. It’s a place that will evoke a myriad of emotions, and not all of them will be comfortable.
You’ll encounter a side of Colombia that starkly contrasts the pristine streets of Cartagena or the verdant coffee plantations of the Andean region. La Guajira is among the poorest departments in Colombia, and this reality is palpable in the everyday lives of its people.
As you navigate the desert, you’ll find children stopping cars to ask for money, food, or water. It’s a heart-wrenching sight that will provoke deep thoughts and questions about our world.
The region also faces significant waste management issues. Litter is a common sight in La Guajira, a sad contrast to the pristine beauty of the desert and the sea. This is due to a blend of irresponsible tourism, lack of local awareness, and insufficient waste management systems.
However, travel is about embracing the unexpected and learning from it. It’s about witnessing the world as it is, not as we wish it to be. So, when you visit La Guajira, go with an open heart and a flexible mindset.
And most importantly, be a responsible traveler. Respect the local culture, bolster the local economy, and leave no trace behind. Your actions can create ripples of change.
Best places to visit in La Guajira, Colombia
La Guajira flaunts its charm in three distinct areas: Alta La Guajira, Media La Guajira, and Baja La Guajira.
Visiting Alta La Guajira
Alta Guajira is not just about the awe-inspiring locales; it’s about immersing yourself in the experiences. It’s about the sensation of the desert wind on your face, the rich narratives of the Wayuu people, and witnessing a side of Colombia that remains a secret to most travelers.
La Macuira National Park
Tucked into the heart of the desert, the small Wayuu village of Nazareth is your portal to La Macuira National Park. This park is an oasis of biodiversity, a cloud forest where rare flora and fauna thrive. In stark contrast to the arid desert, it is a cool haven of lush greenery. Adventure awaits on the hiking trails that wind through the park, leading to mesmerizing viewpoints and secluded waterfalls.
Cabo de la Vela
Next, we voyage to where the desert kisses the sea – Cabo de la Vela. This fishing town is a playground for kitesurfers, with its steady winds and calm sea. But there’s more to Cabo de la Vela than thrilling water sports. Climb the Pilon de Azucar hill for a sweeping view of the area, and meander on the golden beaches, perfect for a serene stroll. The sunsets here are a spectacle of colors that will etch themselves into your memory.
Punta Gallinas
Our journey culminates at Punta Gallinas, the northernmost point of South America. Punta Gallinas is a testament to raw, untouched beauty. The dramatic desert landscapes take a more intense turn, and the beaches become a tranquil sanctuary. Take a picture of the famous lighthouse, run down the Taroa dunes, and admire mesmerizing vistas.
Visiting Media La Guajira
Media Guajira, the pulsating core of La Guajira, stirs with a blend of cities and quaint coastal towns. Here are the must-see spots:
Revered as Colombia’s Indigenous Capital, Uribia is a cultural hotspot offering a fascinating glimpse into the Wayuu culture. The local market is a riot of colors, where Wayuu crafts and traditional flavors vie for attention.
As the capital of La Guajira, Riohacha buzzes with energy, but you’ll be quickly bored. Its picturesque beachfront promenade (paseo de la Marina) is perfect for a leisurely stroll, shopping for Wayuu crafts, savoring fresh seafood, or simply witnessing the sun melting into the Caribbean Sea.
There are 3 easy excursions you can plan from the city:
- Mayapo and its white sand beach
- Manaure Salt Mines: An intriguing visit to these open-air salt mines allows you to witness salt harvesting and understand its role in the local economy.
- Visit Santuario de Fauna y Flora Los Flamencos Park: This sanctuary is home to a large population of flamingos and numerous other bird species.
It’s also in Riohacha that you can plan the best multi-day tours to La Guajira.
Maicao, a border city with Venezuela, is a thriving trade hub and a cultural melting pot. The city’s mosque, one of Latin America’s largest, stands as a testament to the city’s sizable Lebanese community. It’s not interesting enough to include it in your Colombia itinerary.
Let’s end this tour of Media La Guajira with two coastal gems that offer the ideal blend of relaxation and adventure.
Palomino is the trendiest beach town in the area. You’ll find an array of eateries and accommodations. The area’s highlight is undoubtedly a languid float down the crystal-clear waters of the Palomino River, encased by lush greenery, culminating at the beach where the river kisses the sea.
Dibulla, a lesser-known treasure, offers pristine beaches (like La Punta de los Remedios) and retains an unspoiled, authentic vibe.
Visiting Baja La Guajira
Baja La Guajira, the southern region of the La Guajira department, spans the foothills of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta and the Serranía del Perijá, along with the valleys of Cesar.
It’s known for its fertile agriculture, livestock potential, rich biodiversity, and cultural diversity—like the Vallenato, a unique musical genre blending indigenous, African, and European influences.
Montes de Oca, a protected forest reserve, is a biodiversity hotspot, housing over 200 plant species, 67 mammal species, 47 amphibian species, and 177 bird species. It ranks amongst the Caribbean region’s most diverse areas.
Visiting La Guajira, Colombia: Travel Essentials
Let’s dive into some key advice you’ll need before embarking on your adventure to La Guajira.
When to Visit La Guajira
Don’t stress about the timing of your trip if you’re staying in Baja or Media La Guajira. With a dry season spanning December to March and plentiful sunlight even during the rainy season, you’re in for a treat anytime.
However, if you dare to explore Alta La Guajira, dodge the heavy rains of September and October to avoid the muddy, impassable paths.
Getting to La Guajira
Journeying to La Guajira is an adventure, but it’s simpler than it might seem.
Buses to Dibulla, Palomino, or Riohacha depart from Santa Marta, Barranquilla, or Cartagena. With just one main road, there’s no need to fret about losing your way.
Riohacha’s airport offers direct flights from Bogota and Medellin for those who prefer soaring through the skies.
To explore Alta La Guajira’s most remote places, you must take a tour from Riohacha, Uribia, or Cabo de la Vela.
Packing for La Guajira
No matter where you are, repellent is a must; those pesky bugs can be a real bother, so you’ll be patting yourself on the back for being prepared.
If Alta Guajira is your destination, pack a few more essentials. Despite the scorching days, the desert’s nighttime wind is chilly, so throw in a cozy jumper. You’ll be thankful for it once the sun dips below the horizon.
As you’ll be somewhat off the grid, electricity may not always be at your beck and call. Keep your phone juiced up with an extra battery or power bank, and a headlamp will be your best friend when darkness falls.
Lastly, don’t leave behind your favorite snacks (or veggies) to satisfy those hunger pangs in the middle of nowhere.
La Guajira: Interesting facts
Let’s take a moment to understand its rich history and culture.
The Historical Journey of La Guajira
La Guajira first welcomed European explorers in 1498. The adventurous sailor Juan de la Cosa was the first European to step onto this land. Its valuable pearl deposits were a bone of contention during the colonial era. in 1891 La Guajira became part of the Magdalena Department.
Throughout history, the indigenous Wayuu people, or “Guajiros” as the Spaniards called them, have been the key inhabitants of La Guajira peninsula. They have shown remarkable resilience, repelling invaders such as English pirates, Dutch smugglers, and Spanish pearl hunters. Today, their culture and traditions remain a vibrant part of La Guajira’s identity.
Immersing in the Wayuu Culture
The Wayuu people’s culture, deeply rooted in dreams and symbols, is a colorful tapestry of storytelling rituals, songs, and dances.
These cultural elements encapsulate their unique way of life. Historically, the Wayuu people organized themselves into clans, leading to frequent conflicts and blood feuds. To pacify these disputes, they instituted the system of palabreros – wise individuals who help settle disagreements and maintain peace and harmony among the clans.
Despite inhabiting a harsh desert environment and facing a humanitarian crisis due to water and food scarcity, the Wayuu people hold onto their resilience. Their strength and determination continue to inspire.
The Economic Landscape of La Guajira
La Guajira’s economy primarily thrives on the exploitation of natural resources. This includes coal mining at Cerrejón, one of the world’s largest open-pit coal mines, and natural gas extraction. The salt mines also contribute to the region’s economy.
However, La Guajira is no stranger to economic challenges. It’s a region grappling with extreme poverty and environmental issues like drought and pollution from coal dust. Particularly, the indigenous Wayuu people often bear the brunt of these hardships.
Tourism forms another critical part of La Guajira’s economy – with all the sites mentioned in this blog post. Many Wayuu families also earn their living by selling Wayuu mochila, goat rearing, and farming.
Bottom line: La Guajira
In conclusion, La Guajira, Colombia, is a destination that rewards those with an adventurous spirit and a deep appreciation for raw beauty.
It’s not for everyone; it’s for those willing to venture off the beaten path, embrace the unexpected, and immerse themselves in a place that challenges and inspires.
La Guajira demands your respect, but in return, it offers a truly extraordinary experience that will leave you forever changed. If you’re ready to earn the privilege of exploring this remarkable region, La Guajira awaits, ready to captivate and amaze.
Since 2015, Tomplanmytrip (us) looks for the best local agencies in Colombia and put you in direct contact with them.
- Easy to join a group tour to La Macuira
- Exciting extra Wayúu experiences during the trips
- A small agency with excellent drivers
- Excellent prices & communication
