Welcome to the end of the world — Colombia’s peninsular department of La Guajira, home to the northernmost point in South America!
La Guajira is home to some of the most unique landscapes I’ve seen during my 32 Departments of Colombia series. It’s most well known for it’s desert landscapes — from sweeping dunes to towering coves to dry mud baked in the heat. It’s also home to the Wayuu people, one of Colombia’s most well-preserved indigenous nations due to their relative dispersion across the arid landscape. They’re best known for their beautiful knit mochilas, but are an intricate, complex culture I was honored to have the chance to learn more about.
La Guajira is also home to the northernmost point not just in the country, but on the continent, the remote lighthouse at Punta Gallina. During my travels in the department I had the chance to visit the so called “end of the world,” even if it took all day on the back of a motorcycle to get there! You can certainly visit in a 4×4 vehicle, even an air conditioned one, but my moto adventure was one I won’t soon forget, and certainly a must-do for any adventure traveler!
Adrenaline not your thing? Hey, you can always watch the video to get a feel for La Guajira, even from the AC!
More About La Guajira
If I’ve written any articles about La Guajira, you’ll see them listed here!
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In my journey to visit all 32 departments of Colombia I’ve written extensively about the different places I’ve traveled and people I’ve met. Click below to view all of my guides, stories, and tips from my travels around Colombia.
Virginia Taylor (Ginna) is a travel writer and photographer exploring the world until her boots wear through. She’s currently on a mission to explore all 32 departments of Colombia, though she formerly called the Middle East home. Want to know more? Visit the About Page.
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