Introduction
The Guajira Peninsula is home to the Wayuu people, one of Colombia's best-preserved indigenous cultures. The Wayuu live in an otherworldly landscape that culminates in the northernmost point of South America, Punta Gallinas. Another local landmark is Cabo de la Vela, with its multi-hued waters and a beautiful beach, and it's to this stunning place that the Wayuu believe their souls go after death.
Riohaca is the provincial capital and the gateway to the Guajira Peninsula. Large flocks of flamingos and other birdlife can be sighted among the mangroves, sand bars and saline lagoons close to the town. Much of the rest of the peninsula is sparsely populated semi-desert, but the forested hills of Macuira National Park provide a burst of greenery. Here, Wayuu grow cashews, coconuts and plantains, and weave handicrafts and hammocks - the market in Riohaca is a good place to pick up souvenirs.
