La Guajira is Colombia’s northernmost department and a world apart: a desert meeting the Caribbean Sea, home to the Wayuu, the largest indigenous people in Colombia. Sunsets here, red cliffs, white-and-turquoise bays and miles of dunes feel like another planet.
What to do in La Guajira
- Cabo de la Vela. A fishing village and sacred Wayuu place. Visit the Pilón de Azúcar and Ojo de Agua viewpoints, the lighthouse and the beaches, and watch the sunset over the sea.
- Punta Gallinas. The northernmost point of South America, with cliffs, a lighthouse and the beaches of Bahía Hondita.
- Taroa Dunes. Huge dunes that drop straight into the sea.
- Kitesurfing. Strong winds make Cabo de la Vela one of the best kite spots in Colombia from December to April.
- Wayuu culture. Learn about weaving, mochilas, the chinchorro hammock and the yonna dance.
- Flamingos. Los Flamencos Fauna and Flora Sanctuary, near Riohacha, and the lagoons of the area.
- Manaure salt flats. Salt production on a pink-and-white landscape.
How many days in La Guajira?
| Days | Suggested plan |
|---|---|
| 2 | Riohacha to Cabo de la Vela and back (limited) |
| 3 | Cabo de la Vela and Punta Gallinas |
| 4 | Add Taroa Dunes and Bahía Hondita, or the Macuira mountains |
Best time to go
December to April is dry and windy, with the best conditions for the desert and kitesurfing. The rest of the year brings more rain and some heat, and tracks can be slower. Nights can be cool and the sun is strong during the day.
How to get there
Fly to Riohacha (RCH) or drive from Santa Marta (about 3 to 4 hours). From Riohacha, a 4x4 trip through Uribia leads to Cabo de la Vela and Punta Gallinas. The trip is long and rough, so a private guided tour is the safest and most comfortable way.
Tips
- Bring cash in small bills; ATMs and cards are very limited.
- Pack water, sun protection, a hat and light long-sleeve clothes.
- Lodging is simple: hammocks or basic rooms, often with limited electricity.
- Respect the Wayuu: ask before taking photos of people and buy mochilas directly from artisans.
Recommended guide
- Cabo de la Vela and Punta Gallinas guide: 3-day itinerary, where to sleep and what to bring.
Plan your La Guajira trip with us
La Guajira needs local logistics. Tell us your dates and group and we will design a trip that combines the desert with Santa Marta or Cartagena.
