Punta Gallinas, a challenging destination for adventurers
By Motorcycle to Punta Gallinas: A Journey to the Northernmost Point of Colombia
By: José Bayona
Traveling creates unforgettable, memorable, and unique experiences, but doing so by road is even better, allowing us to appreciate Colombia’s landscapes and enjoy the climate changes, gastronomy, and people along the way.
One trip I want to share is the one I took by motorcycle from Bogotá to Punta Gallinas (La Guajira), a place known for being the northernmost point of Colombia and South America, and a challenge for travelers, especially those who love adventure.
From the Capital to the Caribbean via the Ruta del Sol
A journey of approximately 1,000 km along the Ruta del Sol, a highway that connects the capital with Colombia’s Caribbean region. The road is in good condition, though there are some potholes along the way. The entire route is green, with cattle farming, agriculture, and native vegetation.
During the trip, I passed through the Badillo River, Fonseca, San Juan del César, and Barrancas, places that have inspired vallenato music and its legendary composers.
First Stop: The Salt Flats of Manaure
After riding on unpaved but well-compacted roads, we reached the Salt Flats of Manaure, famous for their marine salt extraction. There, one can see huge “pools” where seawater slowly evaporates, leaving behind salt deposits used in industrial processes.
The next stop was Uribia, Colombia’s indigenous capital, where we bought supplies to deliver food to local rancherías and roadside checkpoints.
Cabo de la Vela: Sea, Wind, and Kitesurfing
We then traveled through desert roads until reaching Cabo de la Vela, a paradise with calm, blue, and warm waters. There, we found kitesurfing schools, hotels of all types and prices, and restaurants offering delicious seafood, including snapper, grouper, mackerel, mojarra, and lobster.
The Most Challenging Section: From Cabo to Punta Gallinas
The 130 km stretch from Cabo de la Vela to Punta Gallinas is the most challenging part of the journey. Crossing the sandy desert under scorching heat tests both endurance and technique. I learned to “surf” the sand on my motorcycle, keeping the perfect speed:
- If you go too slow, the rear wheel sinks.
- If you go too fast, you lose control.
Getting lost is easy, as there are no visible paths or vehicle tracks to follow.
The Final Destination: Punta Gallinas
Before reaching Punta Gallinas, you must overcome the feared “sand trap”, a 120-meter stretch of pure sand. Finally, after navigating this last obstacle, we arrived at Punta Gallinas.
This place offers a unique landscape:
🌊 An intense blue sea with strong waves.
💨 Constant wind shaping the dunes.
🗼 An old lighthouse with a solar panel, a beacon for sailors.
It is a mystical, mysterious, breathtaking, and magical place. For me, it was a pleasure to reach a destination that few adventurers manage to visit, overcoming all the difficulties along the way.
Final Reflection: Traveling Through Colombia, a Challenge and a Privilege
It is important to highlight that traveling with local Wayuu guides was essential to knowing which paths to take, which areas to avoid, and where to make safe stops.
The return journey was just as challenging and beautiful, with the same sense of wonder at the natural and cultural beauty of our country. Traveling through Colombia is a unique experience—after all, it is known as the land of beauty. 🌎🏍️💨