In the beliefs of the indigenous Wayuu people, when we die, our souls pass through Cabo de la Vela to reach eternal rest. Come discover this sacred land, where the picturesque setting allows you to clear your mind in complete serenity. Wander along the beaches or through the nearby desert, take a dip in the calm waters, all while enjoying the finest views of the Caribbean Sea from Colombia's coast.

History

Juan de la Cosa reached Cabo de la Vela in 1499. Seen from the sea, the cape resembled a sailing ship, which led the Conquistadors to name the place "Cape of the Sail". The settlement of Nuestra Señora Santa María de los Remedios del Cabo de la Vela was founded by explorer Nikolaus Federmann in the 1530s. The indigenous Wayuu and other Spanish groups from Santa Marta and New Andalusia repeatedly attacked the village to seize pearl deposits. In 1544, Nikolaus Federmann eventually decided to relocate his colony to present-day Riohacha.

The Wayuu are descendants of an Arawak ethnic group, who resisted the Spanish conquest. They consider Cabo de la Vela the gateway to the afterlife through which the souls of all the dead travel to reunite with their ancestors.

Discovering Cabo de la Vela

Explore this magical place located on Colombia's northern coast. The flagship attraction of the La Guajira region, Cabo de la Vela will transport you into a world apart with its patchwork of views. The landscape here blends golden sandy beaches, calm seas, beautiful coastline, and on the other side, small sand dunes and arid orange expanses. It's the perfect retreat to disconnect from the rest of the world.

Walk up Pilón de Azúcar Hill

Traverse this sacred hillside overlooking the ocean to enjoy a 360-degree panorama of the Caribbean Sea and desert. It's an easy climb that takes only about fifteen minutes. At the summit, visit the altar dedicated to the Virgin of Fatima. It's quite windy here, so remember to dress warmly.

Admire the Cabo de la Vela Lighthouse

This is a must-see when exploring Cabo de la Vela. The lighthouse itself isn't particularly special, but its location offers you an idyllic view. It's one of the most beautiful spots to watch the sunset in Colombia. Forget about the rest of the world, bring out your camera and capture the moment.

Stroll Along Playa Ojo del Agua

This is the main swimming spot at Cabo de la Vela. Playa Ojo del Agua offers you a peaceful beach bathed in deep blue waters, as if it were a swimming pool. In the past, during periods of extreme drought, this place served as a freshwater reservoir for the Wayuu people, hence its name Ojo del Agua or "Eye of Water". Walk along the beach and search for the rock shaped like a turtle, while letting yourself be soothed by the gentle ocean breeze.

Discover Wayuu Culture

Use your trip to Cabo de la Vela to meet the Wayuu rancherias. Discover their history, culture and craftsmanship. The Wayuu are best known for their backpacks with tribal patterns. Each design carries a unique meaning. Order one from local artisans as a souvenir of your stay in Colombia.

Practical Information

When to Visit?

Cabo de la Vela is appealing year-round, but certain periods are best avoided, such as Holy Week, December and January when the region welcomes crowds. Also avoid October and November due to heavy rainfall. Outside of cities, the roads in the La Guajira department are difficult to navigate during the rainy season.

The first step of your journey to Cabo de la Vela is to reach Riohacha. The capital of the La Guajira department is accessible by bus from Santa Marta, approximately a three-hour journey. You can also get there by bus from Barranquilla (five hours of driving) and Cartagena (seven hours of driving). Once in Riohacha, ask the driver to drop you off at a spot where vehicles heading to Uribia and Cabo de la Vela pass through. These are typically jeeps and 4x4 trucks that continue the journey. Be sure to negotiate the price before boarding.