Things To Do
in Uribia
Uribia is a small municipality in the La Guajira peninsula of northern Colombia, known as the political capital of the Wayuu indigenous people and a gateway to dramatic desert and coastal landscapes. The town is tucked into arid plains where colorful Wayuu tents, artisan markets and traditional dress create a vivid cultural atmosphere. From Uribia you can reach iconic destinations such as Cabo de la Vela and Punta Gallinas, and explore the unique La Guajira desert, dunes and wind-swept beaches.
Expect very dry, hot conditions, basic infrastructure in many places, and rich opportunities for cultural exchange with Wayuu communities when visited respectfully.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a traditional Wayuu breakfast consisting of arepas and fresh goat cheese. Afterward, visit a local Wayuu community to learn about their rich culture and customs, engaging with artisans as they create beautiful handmade crafts. Participate in a storytelling session where elders share traditional myths and legends that have shaped Wayuu identity.
In the afternoon, enjoy a guided tour of the vibrant markets where local women sell colorful crafts and textiles. Take the opportunity to purchase unique souvenirs while supporting the community and its artisans. Then, savor a traditional lunch made from local ingredients, experiencing the flavors of the region.
As the sun sets, join a local dance group for an evening of traditional Wayuu music and dance. Experience the joy and rhythm of their celebrations, which often include singing and drumming. Conclude your evening with a reflective bonfire session, sharing stories and laughter with your new friends.
Set off early for a guided excursion into the stunning Guajira Desert, where vast sand dunes meet the horizon. Marvel at the unique flora and fauna adapted to this arid environment, spotting native wildlife along the way. Capture breathtaking photographs as the golden sunlight illuminates the desert landscape.
After a picnic lunch in the desert, continue your adventure by visiting the mesmerizing Taroa Dunes. Take a moment to relax and enjoy the serene surroundings, perhaps even trying your hand at sandboarding down the slopes. As the day progresses, visit the nearby lagoons, where you might spot flamingos and other bird species.
Return to Uribia to freshen up before heading out for dinner at a local restaurant. Enjoy a delicious meal featuring fresh fish and traditional sides, highlighting the coastal influences of the region. Wind down your day by reflecting on the desert's beauty under a star-filled sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Street meal / simple plate | $3-7 |
| 🏨Basic guesthouse / hostel | $15-40 |
| 🚍Local bus / colectivo ride | $1-5 |
| 🥤Bottled water (1.5 L) | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🚕Private transfer (short distance) | $15-50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Unique Wayuu culture and artisan traditions
- Access to dramatic desert-coast landscapes like Cabo de la Vela and Punta Gallinas
- Excellent wind conditions for kitesurfing and wind sports
- Low tourist density — authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience
- Limited infrastructure and basic services in many areas
- High heat, dust and strong winds can be challenging
- Travel requires planning (cash, transport, guides) and can be time-consuming
- Some security and access concerns make guided visits advisable
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Puedo tomar una foto?" - May I take a photo?
- "Soy turista; ¿me puede ayudar?" - I'm a tourist; can you help me?
Places to Visit in Uribia
Visit one of these nice places.
A colorful place to photograph Wayuu dress, local markets and daily life; portraits of artisans and vendors are abundant (ask permission first).
Windy desert coastline with dramatic cliffs, beaches and lighthouses; excellent for sunrise/sunset and kiteboarding action shots.
Colombia’s northernmost point with vast sand dunes meeting the Caribbean — iconic landscapes and raw coastal vistas.
A small desert mountain range with a surprising oasis feel, unique flora and rocky outcrops — great for landscape and macro nature photography.
Close-up images of weaving, mochilas, and traditional ceremonies — prioritize respectful approach and permission for portraits.
Food in Uribia
Uribia Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Whole fried Caribbean fish served with coconut rice or patacones; common at beach stalls in Cabo de la Vela and nearby villages.
Must-Try!
Citrus-marinated fish or shrimp with onions and local seasoning — refreshing and widely available in coastal stands.
Slow-cooked goat seasoned simply and served with rice or arepa — a traditional inland protein option found in local comedores.
Corn-based breads, sometimes stuffed or topped; great for quick breakfasts from market vendors.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A modest market where you’ll find fresh fruit, eggs, local breads and street snacks; a good place to taste local juices and buy ingredients.
Simple open-air kitchens serving fried fish, ceviche and coconut rice — great for a meal with an ocean view.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Approach Wayuu communities with humility: ask permission before entering private areas, observe photo etiquette (ask before photographing people), and accept that some ceremonies are closed to outsiders.
Small gifts, respectful purchases of crafts and polite bargaining are part of interactions — avoid aggressive haggling and show genuine interest in artisans’ work.
While beachwear is fine on beaches, dress modestly in town and when visiting households out of respect for local norms.
Greetings matter — use 'buenos días' and 'gracias' and speak slowly; a few phrases in Spanish go a long way toward respectful interaction.
Safety
Tipping in Uribia
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not widely expected in small towns but is appreciated for exceptional service — leave small Colombian pesos for guides, drivers and restaurant staff (5–10% in more formal places).
Cash (Colombian pesos) is king in Uribia and surrounding hamlets; ATMs are limited — bring enough cash from larger cities. Credit cards are rarely accepted outside larger hotels or tourist operators. Carry small bills and coins for market purchases and transport.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The driest and hottest months with clearer skies, calmer seas and ideal conditions for visiting beaches, dunes and outdoor activities; expect daytime temperatures above 30°C (86°F).
Intermittent rains and occasional storms; some dirt roads can become difficult or impassable. The landscape can be greener, but plan extra travel time and check local conditions before remote excursions.
La Guajira is known for strong trade winds year-round, but wind intensity peaks in certain months — excellent for kiteboarding (Cabo de la Vela) but dusty for inland travel; secure hats and camera gear.
Uribia at Night
Hiking in Uribia
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short hikes through a small isolated mountain range with surprising pockets of vegetation, unique rock formations and panoramic views — bring water and go with a local guide when possible.
Guided walks across sand dunes to the northernmost points of continental South America; dramatic scenery and wildlife spotting at dawn and dusk.
Walks along cliffs and bays with opportunities to explore tidal pools, small fishing hamlets and scenic viewpoints — moderate terrain with strong sun exposure.
Airports
How to reach Uribia by plane.
The nearest commercial airport with domestic connections; Riohacha is a gateway city from which you can arrange road transfers to Uribia (several hours by road).
Larger regional airport with more frequent flights and connections; about a 4–6 hour drive to La Guajira depending on route — useful if combined with other Caribbean destinations.
A larger airport serving the Atlántico region; reachable by longer overland travel and often used as an alternative access point before heading to La Guajira.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The dominant indigenous group in La Guajira, with strong cultural identity, language (Wayuunaiki), matrilineal social structures and artisan traditions.
Smaller communities of mixed-heritage Colombians and Afro-Colombians live in towns and coastal hamlets, contributing to regional culture and commerce.
Traders, artisans and occasional national or international visitors involved in tourism, craft sales and transport contribute to local economic activity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Strong and steady winds around Cabo de la Vela make the area a popular kitesurfing destination, attracting both learners and experienced riders.
As across Colombia, soccer is widely played and followed locally in towns and informal pitches.
Beyond kiteboarding, windsurfing and other wind-dependent activities are practiced where conditions permit.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Uribia.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist but are limited; rely on rice, plantains, arepas, beans (if available), and vegetable stews. Bring snacks and communicate needs in Spanish ('soy vegetariano/a').
More challenging due to reliance on seafood and dairy in some dishes; stick to fruits, rice, patacones and request meals without cheese. Carry supplements or trusted packaged food if strict.
Corn-based foods (arepas) are naturally gluten-free, but cross-contamination is possible; ask vendors about preparation methods and avoid unknown sauces.
Drink bottled water, avoid raw salads if hygiene is uncertain, and eat at busy stalls where turnover is high to reduce risk of stomach upset.