Tour 3 Days La Guajira - The Desert Tip Of Colombia

Embark on a captivating journey through the enchanting landscapes of La Guajira, a region where the arid beauty of the desert meets the rhythmic waves of the Caribbean Sea. This short but immersive itinerary invites you to explore the northernmost point of South America, where the Wayuu people, known for their resilience and rich cultural heritage, call this remote corner of the world home. Discover the silent beauty of vast landscapes, witness lonely sunsets, and delve into the unique traditions of the Wayuu. This adventure promises a blend of natural wonders and cultural richness, offering a glimpse into the untamed allure of La Guajira.
Day 1

8:00 - 16 hr

Manaure, Uribia y Cabo de la Vela

Salt Mines, a Stunning Sunset, and Wayuu Indigenous

Starting your day early to maximize your experience you’ll be collected at 4 am from your Santa Marta hotel to start your journey into the Guajira of Northern Colombia.

Traveling from Rioacha, you’ll relax on this drive for around an hour and a half before arriving at the indigenous capital of La Guajira, Uribia. Once here you’ll enjoy a tour of this town with a special stop at the important Wayuu cultural center. Where your tour into the history of this ancient culture will really begin.

Then you're back into the vehicle for a short 20 min ride to the world-famous Salinas de Manaure (salt ponds of Manaure). Once here you’ll meet a community leader who will accompany you on a tour of the ponds, where you’ll discover the traditional methods used to extract the salt as well as enjoying a session of Thalassotherapy.

Following this it’s back to the car and a journey of approximately 2 hours to the amazing location of Cabo de La Vela. Arriving before lunch you’ll have some time to relax and get acquainted with where you’ll be resting your head before taking off on a hike with your guide to one of the sacred Wayuu locations called the Pilón de Azúcar. Next, it’s on to the wonderful beaches of Playa Dorada and Ojo de Agua to relax and enjoy an incredible sunset.

To complete your day, you’ll return back to your lodging for an enjoyable dinner and to learn more about the Wayuu indigenous. You’ll study the family structure and what kids are doing to develop and build upon this amazing culture. You’ll also learn of a sacred mountain nearby where all the Wayuu spirits must go to be judged upon their life’s deeds. And depending on the outcome they will travel to the next life to join the spirits of their ancestors or not.

Check In - Cabo de la Vela Rancheria

Get to know the high Colombian Guajira from the Ranchería, a rural accommodation located on the top of Cabo de La Vela, Vía al faro. La Ranchería offers spectacular landscapes of desert terrain in front of secluded beaches where you will enjoy the Caribbean Sea.

The facilities in yotojoro (dry cactus) and mud offer the perfect mix between Wayuú architecture and comfort in private cabins or handmade hammocks.

Here you'll also enjoy traditional Wayuú cuisine and the flexible menus in the restaurant.

Day 2

8:00 - 13 hr

Bahia Honda, Taroa Dunes, and Punta Gallinas

Beaches, Giant Sand Dunes, The Tip of South America

Following breakfast, you’ll continue your journey towards the most northern point of South America, Punta Gallinas. On the way, you’ll be making a stop in a beautiful bay called Bahia Honda. While there you’ll have time for a cooling swim and some lunch in a restaurant overlooking this wonderful ocean.

Next, it’s back to your vehicle to cross the arid desert and a stop in yet another world-famous location, Las Dunas de Taroa (The Taroa Dunes). Walking or running over these giant sand dunes feeling the wind in your hair and the sand between your toes will fill you with joy and a sense of dreaming in this magical place. Looking out to the sea and bathing in this special and unique landscape you’ll fall in love with this destination and contemplate how this corner of Colombia has given such a wonderful feeling of peace. In a place like this where time has little value, you can enjoy a swim in the ocean before setting off to Punta Gallinas, and yet another magical location, the beaches of Punta Aguja. Once here you’ll visit the lighthouse and soak in the beautiful atmosphere while waiting for the most amazing and stunning sunset to appear before your eyes.

Following this, you’ll travel back to your lodgings where you’ll try your hand at weaving as instructed by the Wayuu, along with learning about some local projects developed by the Bahía Hondita community. With one of these projects, you’ll get to release a turtle into the waters, as well as receiving a gift of a small turtle carved from the wood of a cactus. With another, you will learn and come to understand the cosmogony of the Wayuu and of the universe.

Check In - Punta Gallinas Rancheria

This family-run establishment is nestled in the northernmost point of South America, where silence reigns supreme, lonely sunsets paint the sky, and arid landscapes stretch as far as the eye can see.

Witness the most striking places in Alta Guajira. Take in the breathtaking views from El Mirador, explore the rugged beauty of Punta Gallinas, or wander through the mesmerizing dunes of Taroa. This is more than just a place to stay; it's a gateway to untouched landscapes and a glimpse into the daily life of the Wayuu people. testament to the resilience of both nature and the human spirit.

Day 3

7:00 - 12 hr

Mayapo Beach and the Gastronomy of La Guajira

Embarking on a later morning adventure around 7 am allows you to enjoy a more relaxed start to your day. The approximately 6.5-hour journey towards the picturesque Mayapo beaches provides ample time to soak in the diverse landscapes along the way. Upon arrival at Mayapo, you'll be greeted by the beauty of sandy shores and the inviting waters of the Caribbean. The late lunch offers a perfect opportunity to savor the local flavors while taking in the beach's natural charm.

Mayapo is renowned not only for its scenic beauty but also for being a haven for water sports enthusiasts, with its good winds and waves, making it an ideal spot for kitesurfing.

After a satisfying time at the beach, your journey continues in the mid-afternoon, allowing you to appreciate the changing landscapes as you head towards your final destination in Colombia's Caribbean. The 4 hour journey to Santa Marta marks the conclusion of your adventure into the amazing Guajira.

Whats Included

Accommodations

Permanent English-speaking guide

All meals

All land transport

All entrance fees

All airport transfers

24-hour support group

Whats Excluded

International & Domestic flights

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Travel Insurance

Meals and Services not mentioned