Things To Do
in Dibulla

Dibulla is a small coastal town on Colombia's Caribbean sea in La Guajira. It offers a laid back vibe with palm lined beaches and a working fishing harbor. The town is a gateway to nearby natural areas and Wayuu culture, with welcoming locals and fresh seafood.

Visitors can enjoy sun, sea, and slow travel in a scenic Caribbean setting.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day at the picturesque Plaza de Dibulla, where you can enjoy a traditional Colombian breakfast at one of the local cafes. Stroll through the vibrant streets adorned with colorful murals and colonial architecture, immersing yourself in the town's rich history. Don't forget to visit the local market to experience the lively atmosphere and sample fresh tropical fruits.

afternoon
:

After enjoying the local cuisine, head to the nearby Museo de Arte de Dibulla to appreciate the unique artwork that reflects the region's cultural heritage. Spend some time at the beach, soaking in the sun and swimming in the warm Caribbean waters. As the afternoon progresses, engage with local artisans who showcase their crafts and learn about their techniques.

evening
:

As the sun sets, find a cozy beachfront restaurant to indulge in a dinner featuring fresh seafood, paired with local drinks. Enjoy the soothing sounds of the ocean waves while taking in the stunning sunset views over the Caribbean Sea. After dinner, consider a leisurely walk along the shore, feeling the cool breeze and enjoying the tranquil evening ambiance.

day 2
Beach and Water Sports
morning
:

Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast before heading to the stunning Playa de Dibulla, known for its serene beauty and soft sands. Rent a kayak and paddle along the coastline, taking in the breathtaking views of the lush mountains that frame the beach. Alternatively, try your hand at stand-up paddleboarding, which offers a unique perspective of the tranquil waters.

afternoon
:

After an exhilarating morning on the water, unwind on the beach with a refreshing coconut drink while soaking up the sun. Join a local fishing tour in the afternoon to experience the traditional fishing methods used by the local fishermen. You may even have the chance to catch your own meal for dinner!

evening
:

Return to the beachside for a delightful barbecue dinner, cooking your freshly caught fish over an open flame. Enjoy the laid-back atmosphere, accompanied by the sounds of live music from nearby bars. As night falls, gather around a bonfire with fellow travelers and locals to share stories and laughter under the starlit sky.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at inexpensive restaurant$6-12
💧Bottle of water (1.5L)$0.5-1
🚕Taxi ride (short trip)$2-6
🛏️Budget hotel (per night)$20-40
Coffee$1-2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Warm, welcoming people
  • Beautiful beaches and seafood
  • Affordable travel costs
  • Close to natural areas and Wayuu culture
  • Limited urban amenities
  • Seasonal weather can bring sudden rain
  • Some areas have limited English-speaking staff
  • Road travel can be slow on rural routes
  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "Buenos dias" - Good morning
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "Cuanto cuesta" - How much does it cost?
  • "Donde esta el bano" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Habla ingles" - Do you speak English?

Places to Visit in Dibulla

Visit one of these nice places.

Dibulla Beach at sunrise

Long sandy shore with morning light and silhouettes of fishing boats on the water.

Marine promenade and colorful boats

Harbor with bright boats lined up for vibrant coastal images.

Mangrove estuary trails

Shoreline mangroves with reflections, birds, and quiet water channels.

Local village street scenes

Pastel houses, markets, and life along the coast.

Culinary Guide

Food in Dibulla

Dibulla offers a Caribbean coastal cuisine focused on seafood, coconut arroz, plantains, and fresh fruits. Expect lively street food, simple beachside eateries, and family run restaurants.

Dibulla Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pescado frito con arroz de coco

Freshly fried fish served with coconut rice, a signature coastal dish.

Must-Try!

Cazuela de mariscos

Creamy seafood stew featuring local shrimp and fish.

Arepa de huevo

Fried arepa stuffed with a soft egg, a popular street snack.

Patacones con salsas

Fried plantain slices with garlicky dips.

Coco fresco

Fresh coconut water straight from the coconut.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Local de Dibulla

Small town market with fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and quick snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Tropical coastal climate with warm temperatures year round, high humidity, and a distinct wet and dry pattern. Typical highs around 28-32C (82-90F).

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greet with warmth

A friendly hola or buenos dias goes a long way; handshakes are common.

Respect local spaces

Ask permission before taking photos of people or homes; dress modestly in public spaces.

Safety Guide

Safety

Travelers should be mindful of petty theft in crowded markets and on beaches. Use licensed transport, avoid isolated areas at night, and stay hydrated in the heat.

Tipping in Dibulla

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is appreciated for good service; 5-10% in restaurants or rounding up the bill. Small tips for tour guides are common.

Payment Methods

Cash (COP) is widely accepted; many places also accept cards in larger establishments. ATMs are common in town.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Dry and hot with plenty of sun; ideal for beaches and boat trips, though humidity is high.

Rainy season

Tropical showers in the afternoons; bring a light rain jacket and plan outdoor activities in the morning.

Nightlife Guide

Dibulla at Night

Dibulla's nightlife is low key, centered on beach bars and small cafes with music and conversation. Expect relaxed vibes, occasional live music, and evenings spent watching the sea.

Hiking in Dibulla

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Coastal dune and beach walk

Easy to moderate hikes along the dunes with sea views.

Mangrove trail

Short nature trail through mangroves with chances to spot wildlife.

Airports

How to reach Dibulla by plane.

Riohacha International Airport

Main gateway for the region; about 60-120 minutes by road, with domestic connections to major hubs.

Maicao Airport

Small domestic airport serving the surrounding area; access to larger centers via Riohacha.

Getting Around

Walkability

Dibulla is compact with a walkable town center and beachfront promenade. Most attractions, markets, and eateries are reachable on foot within town; longer trips require a taxi or bus.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Wayuu Indigenous Community

A significant presence in the wider La Guajira region with distinct culture and crafts.

Afro-Colombian communities

Coastal populations contributing to the area's music, food, and traditions.

Mestizo and mixed residents

Families involved in fishing, trade, and tourism.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

The most popular sport; local matches are common in towns and beaches.

Basketball

Popular in schools and community centers; evenings often include pickup games.

Fishing

A traditional and still active pastime for locals and visitors.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is light and primarily local. Taxis and buses cover longer trips; road conditions can slow travel during rain. In-town travel is easy on foot.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Dibulla.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Seafood heavy options are common; look for vegetable dishes, beans, plantains, arepas, and salads. Communicate dietary needs clearly and avoid cross contamination.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Dibulla is basic; there are local clinics and pharmacies, with more comprehensive services in Riohacha or Maicao. For serious conditions, travelers usually go to larger hospitals in major cities. Travel insurance is recommended.

Discover Colombia

Read more in our Colombia 2025 Travel Guide.

Colombia Travel Guide