Things to Do in The Guajira Peninsula

A Guajira Sunset.

By Lorraine Caputo

Wajirra is a land of contrasts: Sea and desert. Colonial Riohacha and new Uribia, the indigenous capital of Colombia. Untouched landscapes and mega-exploitation of resources.

Sunsets and moon rises are breathtaking, especially at Cabo de la Vela, which also has stunning natural formations to explore. Beaches like Poportín and Palomino are virtually deserted during the low season.

This is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with many lagoons such as Laguna de Utta, Carrizal and Musichi giving haven to flamingos. Within the region are several important national parks, amongst them Macuira, Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta and Santuario de Flora y Fauna Los Flamencos. The region also boasts the world’s largest open-pit coal mine, El Cerrejón, one of the biggest wind-turbine electricity projects, Parque Eólico Jepirachi, and the greatest salt extraction at Manaure—all of which you can visit.

The woman-centered Wayuu culture remains one of the best preserved indigenous ways of life and is undoubtedly one of the most misunderstood. You can buy susu (bags), chinchorros (hammocks) or other weavings, spend an evening at a ranchería partaking of typical food and drink, or attend the great Festival de Cultura Wayuu, held annually.