We invite you to explore the heart of the Colombian Guajira desert, from its idyllic beaches to the northernmost point of South America. Exploring La Guajira means diving into one of the most impressive and extreme landscapes along the Colombian Caribbean. This natural gem, located in the far north of Colombia, is a land of contrasts: dunes that merge with turquoise beaches, endless deserts, and indigenous communities that preserve their traditions.
Guajira is known for its desert landscapes, idyllic beaches, and the presence of the Wayuu indigenous community. It’s also home to the northernmost point in South America: Punta Gallinas.
The 3-day, 2-night La Guajira tour costs 820,000 COP per person. You can use the code “Traveltoblank” and save 5% on your tour package.
Where is La Guajira?
La Guajira is a department located in the northeastern corner of Colombia, in the Caribbean region. It borders the Caribbean Sea and Venezuela to the north and east, the Cesar department to the south, and the Magdalena River to the west.
Best time to visit La Guajira?
To enjoy the desert landscapes and beaches, the best months to visit La Guajira are during the dry season from December to April. While any time is possible, you may experience rain or flooding in May and from October to November, which affect travel and activities across the region.
How to get to La Guajira?
The closest airports are Riohacha or Santa Marta. This is a perfect destination to combine with a trip to Tayrona National Park. If you’re visiting both destinations, I recommend flying from one airport and departing from the other to avoid extra transportation. Transportation from Tayrona National Park to Riohacha by shared taxi costs $80,000 COP per person.
Why visit La Guajira?
From Riohacha to Punta Gallinas, every corner of La Guajira has something unique to offer. It’s a perfect destination for those seeking adventure, authentic contact with ancient cultures, and landscapes that seem like they are from another planet. Plus, by traveling with Huellas Walekett, you’re not only enjoying an unforgettable experience, but you’re also supporting charitable tourism: with each expedition contributing to sustainable projects in Wayúu communities.
Points of interest we visited in La Guajira:
- The Manaure Salt Flats: owned by the indigenous people of the area. Next to it is another salt flat that is owned by the Colombian state and is more industrialized. 70% of all the salt consumed in Colombia is produced in this area.
- Rainbow Beach: where we witnessed a beautiful spectacle of the waves crashing into the rocky coast, forming a rainbow in the air.
- Pillón de Azúcar: where you can enjoy a spectacular panoramic view. The walk is easy, but it’s very windy.
- Dorada Beach: I fell completely in love with the beach and the handicrafts sold at the beach.
- Ojo de Agua: where you can also hike to the Turtle Shell viewpoint.
- The Lighthouse
- Wind Farm: a quick photo stop
- Portete Bay: where we went birdwatching.
- Soldado Bay
- Taroa Dunes: where you can sandboard all the way into the sea. This magical experience costs $10,000 COP.
- Punta Gallinas Lighthouse
- Casares Lookout
- El Pájaro Beach
3-Day Itinerary: Cabo de la Vela and Punta Gallinas
I recommend taking the 3-day, 2-night tour to la Guajira, which allows you to explore the region’s main tourist attractions in an organized and comfortable way.
Day 1: Cabo de la Vela
The first day departs from Riohacha. The first stop is the Manaure Salt Flats, where you witness the ancient process of salt harvesting. From there, you continue to Uribia, the indigenous capital of Colombia. The tour continues on to Cabo de la Vela, where you can enjoy a swim at Playa Dorada, a hike along the Pilón de Azúcar, and a magical sunset from the lighthouse. At night, the tour includes a traditional dinner, and if you choose the most affordable option, you’ll sleep in a chinchorro (hammock), in the traditional Wayúu style.
Day 2: Otherworldly dunes and beaches
Start the day by visiting the Wind Farm, then continue to Bahía Honda and the majestic Bahía Hondita. Visit the incredible Taroa Dunes, where the desert meets the sea, where you can go sandboarding straight into the waves. End the day with a sunset at the Punta Gallinas Lighthouse, the northernmost point in continental South America.
Day 3: Return to Riohacha
The last day is our return to the city, with several amazing stops along the way. For example, we visited the Mirador de Casares and El Pájaro beach, where we stopped for lunch.
Practical tips for visiting La Guajira
- Wear comfortable clothing, sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of hydration.
- The accommodations are basic but authentic: you’ll sleep in hammocks under the Guajira breeze.
- The food is based on local ingredients: fish, meat, and goat (there are limited options for vegetarians).
- I recommend bringing water, snacks, and cash with small bills
What to pack for your trip to La Guajira?
- Towel
- Hat or cap
- Water bottle
- Comfortable clothing
- Hiking shoes
- Beach shoes
- Swimsuit
- Sunscreen
- Toiletries
- Power bank
- Windbreaker
- Insect repellant
- Small pillow
- Travel blanket
A transformative experience
Visiting La Guajira is much more than just sightseeing. It’s opening your heart to an ancient culture, allowing yourself to be enveloped by landscapes you never see twice in your lifetime, and contributing to a greater cause: the well-being of the communities that have lived for centuries in harmony with this arid but fascinating environment.
How much does it cost to visit La Guajira?
The 3-day, 2-night La Guajira tour costs 820,000 COP per person. You can use the code “Traveltoblank” and save 5% on your tour package.
You can pay by bank transfer or credit card (with a surcharge for using the card)
What does the tour include?
- Entrance to points of interest
- Travel insurance
- 2 breakfasts
- 3 lunches
- 2 dinners
- Accommodation in a hammock-style tent. If you prefer a private room, you can pay an additional fee.
- Transportation from Riohacha and the entire tour in a 4×4 vehicle
- Sponsorship of sustainable projects in communities in Alta Guajira
The tour was spectacular. The car was super comfortable, the food delicious, and the other passengers very pleasant. Colombia is waiting for your next adventure!
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