Cabo de la Vela, located on the La Guajira peninsula, is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Colombia. It is a destination where the desert and the sea come together to offer spectacular landscapes and unforgettable adventures.
What is Cabo de la Vela
In the extreme north of Colombia’s La Guajira region and before reaching Punta Gallinas, you’ll find an unmissable destination. One of the calmest and most paradisiacal beaches, located in the widest desert area of Colombia, which borders the Caribbean Sea.
Its privileged location gives it the most unforgettable landscapes of different ecosystems and provides the ideal conditions to enjoy unforgettable tourist attractions.
From the Pilón de Azúcar you can enjoy a refreshing breeze and a colorful sunset.
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How to get to Cabo de la Vela?
Enjoy a pleasant rest in the hammocks (chinchorros) that you can find on the beach.
To reach this destination you can take a plane from a major Colombian city to Riohacha, the capital of the La Guajira region. From here, you can find ground transportation that will get you to this wonderful destination in three hours.
Depending on the route you take, you will be able to appreciate different landscapes. If you take the road to the port of Maicao, you will be able to see beautiful pink flamingos and various birds that perch in the middle of the swamp. You might even pass through one of the most “instagrammable” places in La Guajira: Las Salinas de Manaure. A desert landscape where salt hills perch on water wells creating different textures, effects and colors. This is a show that you cannot miss.
In the same way, if you take an alternate route, you will find different places to stay - several made with bahareque and yotojoro (the heart of the cactus) - and the famous rancherías (rural villages) of the Wayúu indigenous community that make up approximately 38% of the population of the region.
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What to do in Cabo de la Vela?
Dare to try kitesurfing, windsurfing and kiteboarding at this destination.
Thanks to its privileged geographical location, this destination has what is known as “trade winds” (those that blow between the tropics) and for this reason, there are many tourist attractions that you can try:
Water sports such as windsurfing, kitesurfing and kiteboarding in El Cabo beach.
Climb the rocky mountain El Pilón de Azúcar, the most iconic landmark in Cabo de la Vela, and appreciate the wonderful landscape while enjoying a refreshing breeze.
Buy local crafts such as Wayúu bags or backpacks, a sample of Colombian handicrafts.
Appreciate the most incredibly colorful sunset while climbing to El Faro (The lighthouse). From here you can also appreciate a wonderful view of the Ojo de Agua Beach.
Visit the National Natural Park La Macuira, a genuine, lush oasis in the middle of the desert. Let yourself slide in the middle of its immense dunes. Without a doubt, one of the must-see places on your trip to La Guajira.
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Recommendations
Once you decide to make a trip to this wonderful destination, you should keep in mind that this region is located not only in the extreme north of Colombian territory but also in the South American continent (specifically Punta Gallinas). For this reason, and because it is the largest desert area in the country, we recommend the following:
When you arrive at Riohacha or at the stop in Uribia, do some grocery shopping at the local supermarket, buy your favorite snacks and plenty of water to enjoy for the rest of the journey, since it is difficult to find water further on the road.
Due to the high temperatures, it is very important that you wear the right protection: sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat.
Book your return transportation in advance, especially in the morning, or hire a driver to enjoy different journeys in the region worry-free.
Discover this destination in La Guajira region and get to know one of the most fascinating places in Colombia. We’ll wait for you!
