An arduous two-day journey into the desert of La Guajira will take you deep into the unknown, into the remote territory that characterizes Colombia’s northern coastline. Silent stretches of sand extend for miles, eventually spilling onto the Caribbean coastline, carrying you all the way to Punta Gallinas, the northernmost tip of South America.
Roll down sand dunes and into the waves at secluded Caribbean beaches before enjoying magical sunsets that turn into evening performances of light under star-studded skies. Getting to Punta Gallinas isn’t easy; however, it’s well worth the trip.
La Guajira & Wayúu Culture
La Guajira is one of Colombia’s 32 diverse departments and is known for its giant sand dunes, tiny remote fishing villages, and the Wayúu indigenous people who inhabit the area. Modern media often associates the Wayúu with the colorful woven bags they produce.
These bags are a significant aspect of the local tradition and an essential means of livelihood for the residents, apart from breeding livestock.
Given its remoteness, you won’t find many local shops to purchase food or water. Only a few locals sell water and other drinks at some of the most visited stops; therefore, it’s best to stock up on supplies before heading into the desert. With an average daily temperature of 91°F (32.7°C) and a high UV index, dehydration can occur quickly in this harsh environment.
How to Get to Punta Gallinas
Your journey to Punta Gallinas starts in Riohacha. Getting to Riohacha is quite simple by bus from larger coastal cities such as Santa Marta, Cartagena, or Barranquilla. Upon arrival, you can either travel by bus to the tiny town of Uribía and hire a guide from there or hire a guide directly in Riohacha. The latter option is more convenient and costs about the same.
In Riohacha, numerous tour companies along the sidewalks offer 4WD tours to Cabo de la Vela, Punta Gallinas, or both. Since the trip only varies by a day, it’s certainly worth the effort to venture all the way to Punta Gallinas.
While this adventure is suitable for solo travelers, traveling with friends can be more cost-effective. A small group can expect to pay around COP$300,000 (US$100) each for the roundtrip journey from Riohacha to Punta Gallinas, which includes meals and two nights’ accommodation in hammocks.
Day One: Arriving in Cabo de La Vela
From Riohacha, your journey towards Cabo de la Vela begins with thrilling moments racing through the desert sand in search of the refreshing waves at Playa del Pilon and Ojo de Agua. These two iconic beaches feature orange-hued sand that dances into the sea with high winds. Pass by iguanas and dive into the surf to wash off the dust of your explorations.
After a refreshing swim, hike up to the sacred hill of Pilon de Azucar for breathtaking 360-degree views of sand and sea, along with a unique perspective on the statue of La Virgen de Fátima. Stay to witness a sunset that transforms the landscape into a cinematic spectacle as the sun dips below the horizon.
Following a day filled with excitement, head to your accommodation, which is likely a makeshift shelter with hammocks stung across the ceiling. Enjoy dinner and let the tranquil sounds of nature and a stunning display of stars lull you to sleep.
Day Two: Exploring Punta Gallinas
Awakening early in Cabo de la Vela, pack up and have a light breakfast before loading up the 4WD for another day of thrilling desert driving.
Enter Punta Gallinas through Bahía Hondita, known for its burnt-orange cliffs, unique desert fauna, and exquisite views of the Caribbean Sea. Speed out on a small boat to get close to wild flamingos or stick near the shore and roll down the spectacular sand dunes.
The Taroa Dunes, towering up to 60m high, dominate the landscape. Currently, flying a drone in Colombia is permitted, making it the ideal location for capturing stunning images of sand and sea.
Make your way to the lighthouse, the symbolic point marking the northernmost tip of South America, for an unforgettable photo opportunity.
With not much else to do at this point, relax and enjoy a sunset that rivals the adventure you’ve just experienced. Savor a local beer like Polar or Aguila as the Colombian sky paints an unforgettable scene. Capture a few photos, relish the moment, and then retire to your hammock for a second night beneath the star-filled sky.
The following morning, spend your day navigating the desolate terrain as you make your way back to Riohacha, a fitting end to a unique journey that is just as much about the adventure as the destination. Wrap a bandana around your face, stick your head out the window, and let the wind carry you onward to your next Colombian adventure.
