Historic Landmark
Faro de Punta Gallinas
The lighthouse marks South America's northernmost point. Visitors place stones on the cairns here.
Colombia
Point of Interest
Punta Gallinas is the northernmost point of the South American mainland, at the tip of the La Guajira Peninsula. You come for the Taroa dunes, which drop directly into the Caribbean Sea, and for the remoteness of the desert coast.
by Felix Gillen
Punta Gallinas is the northernmost point of the South American mainland, at the tip of the La Guajira Peninsula. You come for the Taroa dunes, which drop directly into the Caribbean Sea, and for the remoteness of the desert coast. Access is practically only possible with an SUV tour.
Sights in
Discover the most important sights and attractions
Point of Interest
Hondita Bay Pier
The small cove is the gateway to Punta Gallinas, surrounded by orange cliffs. From here, small boats depart for the wild flamingos.
Point of Interest
Mirador de Casares
Viewpoint on a ridge above Bahía Hondita with views of turquoise waters and ochre cliffs. The accommodations offer afternoon boat trips to an island where flamingos gather.
Restaurants in
Food & Drink in Punta Gallinas
At South America's northernmost point, you'll find no restaurants. Eat with the few Wayuu families who also run accommodations. Many tours include meals; otherwise, pay locally.
Dining in the Ranchería
Wayuu hosts prepare breakfast and dinner in their accommodations; guests stay in hammocks or simple huts. If meals are not included in the tour price, it's best to order them upon arrival.
Friche and Chivo
Goat is the foundation of Wayuu cuisine, served as Friche made from meat and offal, or stewed as Chivo guisado. It is considered the typical dish of La Guajira.
Chirrinchi
Self-distilled sugarcane spirit, closely tied to Wayuu traditions. It is produced in small quantities.
Accommodation and Services
Accommodation is in simple rancherías, in hammocks, chinchorros, or private rooms. Electricity is generated by solar panels during the day and by a generator in the evening.Meals typically consist of fish, chicken, or goat with rice and patacones. Lobster is available for an additional charge.
Travel
Tour from Riohacha: the usual option. 3-day tours connect Cabo de la Vela and Punta Gallinas, 4-day tours include Macuira National Park.From Cabo de la Vela: Local drivers' 4x4s depart around 5 AM; the journey takes several hours depending on the track.Travel Time: Avoid October and November, as the tracks are muddy due to rain then.
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