Located in the northern region of Colombia, La Guajira is a place with unique characteristics, especially recommended if you are the type of traveler who loves the most challenging places.
In La Guajira you will live in a desert landscape, enjoying beautiful beaches and learning about the culture of the Wayuú communities.
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The Wayuu
The Wayuú Indigenous People occupy not only territories in Colombia but also in Venezuela and are the largest Indigenous people that inhabit these two territories. They call the territory of the Guajira peninsula, Wayunaki, which means “the land of the dead guajiros.”
A particular characteristic of these original inhabitants is that, although contact with European conquerors dates back to the 16th century, they were not conquered until the independence of Colombia and Venezuela. The harsh environmental conditions of the desert, which served as a refuge for the Wayuú, contributed to this.
Riohacha
Starting point to explore other areas of interest in La Guajira, such as Cabo de la Vela and Punta Gallinas, the city of Riohacha has attractive beaches on the Caribbean Sea. Its culture reflects the ethnic and cultural diversity of La Guajira with a population that includes indigenous communities such as the Wayuu that we already mentioned, as well as Afro-descendants, mestizos and Creoles.
Riohacha Malecon
It is a boardwalk along the beach where you can enjoy beautiful views of the Caribbean Sea and experience the sea breeze. It is a popular place to walk, relax and enjoy the surroundings.
Our Lady of Remedies Cathedral
This cathedral is an important place of worship in Riohacha and has interesting architecture. It is located in Plaza Padilla and is a historical site of the city.
Ethnographic Museum
Riohacha is home to a museum that showcases the culture and history of the region, with a particular focus on the cultural heritage of the indigenous Wayuu community. It can offer a unique insight into local traditions and customs.
Linear park
This park is another popular spot for residents and visitors alike. It offers green areas, walking trails, and is a good place to enjoy the outdoors and the warm climate of the region.
Beaches
Riohacha has several beaches, such as Playa del Pilón and Playa de la Bahía, where you can enjoy the sun and the Caribbean Sea. These beaches are often meeting points for tourists and locals.
Cabo de la Vela
This is one of the most popular destinations in La Guajira. It is a remote and picturesque place with beaches with rock formations.
Cabo de la Vela is no exception to the desert landscape of La Guajira with extensive sand dunes and scarce vegetation.
Some of the best-known beaches in Cabo de la Vela include Playa del Pilón and Playa de los Ojos de Agua. Cabo de la Vela is also a fishing town, and you will be able to experience the local life and culture of the Wayuu community, which is the predominant indigenous population in the region. The cape is famous for its stunning sunsets over the Caribbean Sea and is a great place to practice water sports such as kitesurfing and windsurfing.
Punta Gallinas
It is the northernmost geographical point in South America and is an impressive place.
Here you will find virgin beaches, dunes, salt lagoons and a unique opportunity to experience the Wayúu culture. Access to Punta Gallinas can be a bit challenging. It can be reached by road from Uribia, the indigenous capital of Colombia, to the city of Cabo de la Vela and then continue north.
The desert landscape but with beautiful beaches. The region is mainly inhabited by Wayúu indigenous communities. The Wayúu culture is rich and unique, and many visitors have the opportunity to learn about their traditions and lifestyle. As for the tourist infrastructure in Punta Gallinas, we can say that it is basic, with accommodation options ranging from hammocks to rustic cabins. It is advisable to prepare for a more “adventurous” experience. In addition to enjoying the beaches and natural surroundings, you can explore the Punta Gallinas Lighthouse for panoramic views of the region.
Guajira bays
Three bays are located between Cabo de La Vela and Punta Gallinas: Portete Bay is one of the most privileged because of its depth and the protection that the inlet provides.
Due to its characteristics and the proximity of the coal mines, it is one of the most important mining ports in the country. Bahía Honda and Bahía Hondita, located very close to the town of Chimare, are made up of the Punta Gallinas peninsula, which forms a very small channel and for this reason they consider it as an inland lagoon.
Honda Bay
A beautiful bay with calm waters. It combines the ochers of the desert with the green shades of the Caribbean Sea. To get to Bahía Honda you must first be in Riohacha, capital of La Guajira since this is the center from where all transportation leaves to go to the different tourist destinations in the department.
Macuira National Natural Park
You can reach this park by traveling about eight hours by land in a 4×4 vehicle from Riohacha. And yes… the American distances are extensive, but this park offers a unique biodiversity in the region. You can hike along natural trails, watch birds and enjoy the natural beauty of the La Macuira mountain range.
It is one of the most important natural areas in the region, characterized by its biological and landscape diversity. It contains a combination of ecosystems ranging from dry forests to cloud forests in the highest areas of the Sierra de Macuira. Its biodiversity The park is home to rich biodiversity, including species of birds, mammals, reptiles and plants. It is especially known for being the home of the yellow-eared parakeet (Pyrrhura calliptera), an endemic and endangered species.
Access to the Macuira National Natural Park is generally from the city of Uribia. It is advisable to contact local authorities or tour operators for up-to-date information on park access and conditions.
Macuira Mountains
It is a mountain range that is part of the park. This mountainous region features unique vegetation and is home to various species of flora and fauna.
Original population
In the vicinity of the park, there are Wayúu indigenous communities that have lived in the region for centuries. The park is important for their culture and spirituality.
Hiking and Ecotourism
The park offers opportunities for ecotourism and hiking. Visitors can explore trails that lead to places like the Mirador de los Flamencos, where beautiful panoramic views can be seen.
Manaure
One of the most notable features of Manaure are the salt flats, where salt is extracted in a traditional way. You can observe the salt collection process, which is an important part of the local economy. The salt flats create unique and photogenic landscapes.
As in other places in La Guajira, in Manaure you can experience the rich culture of the Wayuu indigenous community. You can find typical Wayuu crafts, such as colorful backpacks and hammocks. It is also possible to interact with the local population and learn about their traditions.
Manaure is located on the Caribbean coast, so there are beaches nearby that you can explore. The region has beautiful beaches with crystal clear waters and white sand. Playa Hondita, for example, is known for its natural beauty. La Guajira is largely desert and Manaure is no exception. The desert landscapes and nearby dunes offer a unique setting that contrasts with the nearby beaches. The port of Manaure is a place of economic activity, as it is used for the export of salt. You can observe port operations and enjoy sea views.
Alta Guajira
This region is home to Wayuu indigenous communities. You can explore their rancherías, learn about their traditions and customs, and purchase local crafts.
La Rancheria
A traditional Wayúu village where you can learn about the culture and lifestyle of this indigenous community. Here you can buy Wayúu crafts, which are famous for their colorful fabrics.
Guajira Desert
The desert is an iconic part of the region. You can explore the sand dunes, arid plains and experience life in the desert. Don’t forget to visit the town of Uribia, known as the “indigenous capital of Colombia.”
Dibulla
A less touristy but equally charming destination, Dibulla boasts quiet beaches and a relaxed atmosphere.
Puerto Estrella
A small fishing village that gives you the opportunity to experience the daily life of the local community and enjoy delicious fresh seafood.