La Guajira
La Guajira is an area shrouded in mystery, a part of Colombia with virtually no infrastructure and nothing that could be considered “advanced” tourism. But that is what draws La Guajira’s visitors to the zone. If you are looking for a real adventure, then La Guajira is where you will find it.
This destination is only available to clients booking an extended tour with The Colombian Way.
La Guajira is a desert-like area at in the Northeast of Colombia’s Caribbean coast, the region shares a border with Venezuela. The region is inhabited by the Wayúu indians living in typical rancherias in the vast expanses of the region. They still live by the traditional rules of their own culture, the capital of Wayúu culture is Wayúu Uribia.
A trip to La Guajira usually commences in Santa Marta or Taganga. You travel onwards to Riohacha and from there you can reach the most interesting destinations overland by 4×4 vehicle. Accommodation in the region is simple and practical, either cabins or typical chinchorro hammocks.
Probably the most notable destination in La Guajira is Cabo de la Vela, here you can see the striking contrast as the desert becomes an incredible Caribbean beach, then slopes away into the turquoise sea.
Other attractions include the salt mines of Manaure and the flamingo reserve. For those in search of something really special, there is Alta Guajira. The region cannot be travelled to as an individual as there is insufficient transportation, you need a local guide with a good knowledge of the area and a jeep. When it rains the few roads that there are become poor and impassable. A tour to Alta Guajira requires precise planning and preparation.
Important
- Temperatures can rise up to about 40 degrees celsius. Drink plenty of water and wear a hat. As always in Colombia, a high SPF sun block is important too.
- La Guajira is an emerging destination. We have done our utmost to ensure that our packages adhere to our portfolio standards, however you should be mindful that you are travelling to a less-charted region and some infrastructure and guidance standards may be inconsistent.
Programme
We have a range of inclusive packages to La Guajira Colombia, starting at 2 days to Cabo de la Vela, 3 days for Punta Gallinas and and extending to 4 days for Alta Guajira.
The tour begins in either Taganga or Santa Marta. Subject to your wishes, your tour will almost certainly include Cabo de la Vela from where visits to Manaure and the flamingo reserve can be added.
For the true explorer within, we absolutely recommend a visit to Alta Guajira also to see an absolutely unspoilt, untouched and largely undiscovered part of Colombia. A spectacular adventure with unforgettable destinations awaits you, the magnificent Macuira National Park, deserted beaches, sand dunes, and unique landscapes.
La Guajira promises everything to satisfy the explorer within you, We organise your trip from head to tail, including your personal driver, a 4×4 vehicle and a guide. Contact us for our package details.
