La Guajira Desert, Desert region across La Guajira Peninsula, Colombia and Venezuela
The desert stretches across northern Colombia and Venezuela, featuring xeric scrubland and diverse landscapes along the Caribbean coastline at South America's northernmost point.
The establishment of El Cerrejón mining operations in the region marked a significant change in the desert's economic structure during the twentieth century.
The Wayúu people maintain their traditional practices in the desert, including pearl diving in the Caribbean Sea and creating intricate handwoven textiles.
Travelers need to arrange transportation from Riohacha through Uribia to reach Cabo de la Vela, requiring multiple transfers between shared taxis and off-road vehicles.
The Macuira National Park contains an unexpected tropical forest ecosystem within the desert, creating a natural oasis at elevations reaching 450 meters.
Location: La Guajira Department
Location: Zulia
Elevation above the sea: 158 m
GPS coordinates: 12.07167,-71.59778
Latest update: November 28, 2025 11:08
Colombia presents geographic diversity that spans Caribbean coastlines, Andean highlands, Pacific forests, and eastern plains. The country encompasses colonial architecture in towns like Barichara and Mompox, where centuries-old stone buildings and churches reflect Spanish heritage. Natural formations include the Tatacoa Desert with its red sandstone canyons, the seasonal colors of Caño Cristales river, and the coastal dunes at Punta Gallinas marking South America's northernmost point. Coffee-growing regions such as Jardín preserve traditional Antioquian architecture, while islands like Providencia and Gorgona protect coral reefs and marine ecosystems in both Caribbean and Pacific waters. From the arid landscapes of La Guajira Desert inhabited by Wayuu communities to the neo-Gothic architecture of Las Lajas Sanctuary bridging a river canyon, these locations demonstrate the country's contrasts. Visitors can explore mountain trails, observe astronomical phenomena in clear desert skies, discover colonial goldsmithing traditions, and witness humpback whale migrations. Each destination contributes to understanding Colombia's environmental and cultural range, offering experiences that vary from remote wilderness areas to well-preserved historical settlements across different elevations and climates.
Puerto Bolivar, Colombia
45.1 km
Bahía Portete – Kaurrele National Natural Park
47.7 km
Macuira National Natural Park
29.8 km
Serranía de Macuira
28.7 km
Castilletes Formation
32.1 km
Salina Kémirri
38.6 km
Jimol Formation
26.6 km
Salina Merrichi
33.3 km
Punta Ishop
44.6 km
Playa Taroa
40.7 km
Dunas de Taroa
40.7 km
Parque eólico Jepírachi
47 km
Parque Eólico Jepírachi
50.7 km
The mounth
40.2 km
Dunas de taroa
40.4 km
Playa Puerto Bolívar
45 km
Playa Castilletes
38.5 km
Taroa beach
40.5 km
Playa Aguja
40.7 km
Cruz
38.7 km
Scenic viewpoint
42.4 km
Scenic viewpoint
40.8 km
Scenic viewpoint
40.6 km
Mirador de Casares
40.7 km
Mirador Casares
40.8 km
Scenic viewpoint
38.8 km
Portete
36.6 km
Mirador de Emilio
38.9 kmReviews
Visited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes