La Guajira – Where the Desert Meets the Sea

 

MY TRAVEL EXPERIENCE

Have you ever thought about how nice it would be to stand in a deserted area, then gaze out onto the blue Caribbean ocean? For as long as I can remember I have had this fantasy about standing in that exact location and last year I finally made that dream happen by travelling to La Guajira, and I wasn't disappointed. After a very early morning drive from Riohacha, I checked myself into my guesthouse on the malecón, then walked outside to feel how warm the desert wind was blowing on me. I had always liked travelling to green areas when going on vacation, yet leaving La Guajira helped me appreciate open spaces and natural scenery much more than I ever thought I would. My first whole night in La Guajira was spent walking along the beach, being awed by the starry sky, and feeling an overwhelming sense of discovery about this country. If you've never been to La Guajira, go! La Guajira should be viewed at least once in life because after visiting this place, your perspective on everything will change.

WHERE TO GO

I began my journey to Mayapo, a peaceful beach where at sunrise I saw my first sighting of the flamingos. It was such a unique thing to see! After that, I headed to Riohacha, where I walked along the malecón and ate some fresh-baked fish and patacones at a small local restaurant. Be sure not to miss the view of the sunset from the pier. After that, I visited a Wayuu community and met with a family, learning about their weaving traditions and their relationship with the land. Then it was on to Cabo de la Vela, where I climbed up to El Faro and then to Pilón de Azúcar if you stand at the top looking down over the cliffs dropping into the ocean below you, you will see a view unlike any other place in Colombia!

 WHAT TO DO

There are a hundred and one awesome activities that La Guajira has to offer you! For example, if you can go out to Cabo de la Vela for a kite surfing session, and the wind is blowing by afternoon, then you will undoubtedly have the time of your life during this adventure! Be sure to spend at least one night sleeping in a traditional hammock on the beach. When lying back and looking up at the stars without any other lights, it will feel as if you have completely escaped from the city and have all the time in the world to experience freedom.

Also, be sure to purchase a handmade Wayuu mochila directly from an artisan. If you look closely at the different styles which comprise the mochila, you will see that each individual one tells its own unique story based on their design.

You may also wish to go up to the dunes at sunset. When I did so during my last evening there, I sat at the top of the dune and watched as the sun set and turned the sky brilliantly orange over the ocean. I had tears in my eyes because it was so beautiful.

TRAVEL TIPS

Essential considerations for a tour around La Guajira. Hiring a local 4x4 is essential to getting to Cabo de la Vela. Roads are very bad and easy to get lost when driving there on your own. Bring enough water & sunscreen for an entire day; you could get very dehydrated if you don't take care of yourself in the sun. It is necessary to have cash because you cannot typically use credit cards in this area. Lastly, remember to pack light clothes that are comfortable and suitable for the climate and also to be respectful. If you are curious and follow the rules when visiting the Wayuu communities, they will be very hospitable and will tell you things not found in a book.