Summary

The Guajira Peninsula is Colombia’s answer to the Australian outback. This untamed and sparsely populated region is an utterly unforgiving place to live. And yet, like the outback, there is something compelling about this remote peninsula.

Perhaps it is the resilience of the local Wayuu Indians, who eke out a living in almost complete isolation. Or maybe it’s the romance that comes from knowing you are standing on the edge of a continent? Because at Punta Gallinas, you find yourself on the northernmost tip of the South American continent. And it certainly feels that way, as you gaze out over the wild and dangerous sea. It might be the Caribbean, but the heavy swells and dangerous rips are a world removed from the aquamarine waters we associate with the tropics.

This trip to the Guajira Peninsula is a rugged adventure to  a land of extremes. There are no five-star hotels or luxury lodges out here! So, be prepared to overnight in rustic accommodation, including chinchorros (traditional hammocks) in an indigenous Wayuu community. Not to mention the potted, dusty roads! But, take our word for it. The captivating, stark landscape and edge-of-the-world feeling more than make up for any lack in creature comforts.

Yes, there is definitely something special about the magical Guajira Peninsula. Talk to our Travel Specialists about this and other off-the-beaten track adventures in Colombia today.

Highlights

• Stand on the northernmost tip of the South American continent
• Discover a wild and untamed corner of Colombia
• Get off the beaten track with this rustic adventure
• Connect with the Wayuu indigenous communities who will host you
• Roll down the towering sand dunes of Taroa into the Caribbean Sea
• Help local Wayuu develop their region for tourism – the area offers little other opportunities for paid employment
• Sleep in traditional chinchorros (hammocks) which are beautifully woven and more comfortable than you’d expect!

ITINERARY

Day 1 Riohacha/Cabo de la Vela

Arrive Riohacha Airport and transfer 60km to Manaure through the stark, barren landscape. After a brief stop in Uribia you will continue on dirt roads to Cabo de la Vela. Overnight in rustic but comfortable accommodation.

Day 2 Cabo de la Vela/Punta Gallinas

Depart for the northernmost tip of the continent, Punta Gallinas. You’ll experience the inhospitable nature of the region as we drive through Bahia Portete, Bahia Honda and the dunes of Taroa. Enjoy the solitude and silence during your overnight stay in hammocks at simple ranch.

Day 3 Punta Gallinas/Cabo de la Vela

Morning boat excursion to Punta Agujas with time for a swim. Return to Cabo de la Vela after lunch.

Day 4 Cabo de la Vela/Riohacha

Morning visit to Playa Pilon de Azucar where the Caribbean Sea breaks on golden sands. At the top of the Pilon you’ll get fantastic 360 views. After lunch return to Riohacha.

Day 5 Riohacha

Transfer to the airport after breakfast.

Reviews