La Guajira adventure on fire

Label

Adventure

Contact

Where is La Guajira?

La Guajira is located in the northern part of Colombia, bordered by the Caribbean Sea to the north and Venezuela to the east. It is Colombia's northernmost department and is characterized by its arid desert terrain, including the famous sand dunes of Punta Gallinas.

How to Arrive: The main gateway to La Guajira is the city of Riohacha, which serves as the department's capital. Here's how to arrive in La Guajira:

By Air: The most common way to reach La Guajira is by flying into Riohacha. Riohacha has an airport called "Almirante Padilla Airport" (RCH) that receives domestic flights from major Colombian cities like Bogotá, Medellín, and Cartagena.
By Bus: If you're already in Colombia and prefer a more budget-friendly option, you can take a long-distance bus to Riohacha from cities like Bogotá, Barranquilla, or Santa Marta. The journey may take several hours, so be prepared for a comfortable but lengthy ride.
By Private Transportation: Some travelers opt to hire private transportation, such as a car or van with a driver, to reach La Guajira.

Before starting here our recommendations:

Buy groceries: Yes, and try to make five or six different packs (save some for the return). Why to go and come back, you’ll find illegal tolls where people can ask for money but normally is for food. There is too much poverty in La Guajira and they do it to survive.
You need a guide: This is not an option.

Day 1: Arrival in Riohacha and Cabo de la Vela

Morning:

Arrival in Riohacha: Start your journey by flying or driving to Riohacha, the capital of La Guajira department.

Lunch:

Riohacha Seafood: Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch at a local restaurant overlooking the Caribbean Sea.

Afternoon:

Drive to Cabo de la Vela: Embark on a scenic drive (about 3-4 hours) to Cabo de la Vela, a remote and breathtaking desert paradise.
Check-in to Accommodation: Arrive in Cabo de la Vela, check in to your chosen hotel, which normally are rustic beachside huts or hammock by the sea.
Sunset at El Faro: This is magical, you can’t miss it! Witness a stunning sunset at El Faro, the lighthouse at Cabo de la Vela.

Dinner:

Dinner by the Beach: Savor fresh seafood for dinner at a local eatery, enjoying the sound of the waves.

Day 2: Cabo de la Vela Exploration

Morning:

Desert Breakfast: Start your day with a simple breakfast and energize yourself for a day of exploration.

Activities:

Pilón de Azúcar: Take a 4x4 ride to Pilón de Azúcar, a desert hill with panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes and the Caribbean Sea.
Swimming at Playa del Pilon: Enjoy a relaxing swim at the nearby Playa del Pilon beach.

Lunch:

Lunch in Cabo de la Vela: Return to Cabo de la Vela for a traditional Wayuu lunch.

Afternoon:

La Laguna: Visit La Laguna, a small saltwater lake, to cool off and relax in a natural pool.
Beach Time: Spend your afternoon leisurely exploring the pristine beaches of Cabo de la Vela.

Day 3: Punta Gallinas Expedition

Morning:

Early Departure: Wake up early and prepare for your journey to Punta Gallinas, the northernmost point of South America.

Activities:

Desert Scenic Drive: Take an adventurous 4x4 ride through the stunning desert landscapes of La Guajira.
Wayuu Communities: Visit Wayuu communities along the way to learn about their traditions, crafts, and way of life.
Kitesurfing: If you practice Kitesurfing, this is the perfect spot to get out your equipment and enjoy your practice.

Lunch:

Lunch in Punta Gallinas: Arrive at Punta Gallinas and enjoy a simple lunch at a local hostel.

Afternoon:

Lighthouse and Dunes: Hike up to Punta Gallinas Lighthouse for panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea and surrounding dunes.
Beach Relaxation: Spend your afternoon relaxing on the white sandy beaches of Punta Gallinas.