The Department of La Guajira encompasses La Guajira peninsula, the far northeastern part of Colombia. The peninsula's northernmost tip is the northernmost point of South America. In fact, much of the peninsula is located north of most of Costa Rica.
La Guajira is sparse, barren, hot, remote, difficult to reach and difficult to endure. The Spanish phrase "vale la pena", meaning "it's worth the pain", is perfectly applicable to this zone. La Guajira is as enchanting and mystical as it is harsh. It was easily one of my favorite spots in Colombia.
While Colombia controls the northern part of the peninsula, the southern third is part of the Venezuelan state of Zulia. The two counties historically battled for control, but the disputes were settled long ago.
The indigenous group, the Wayuu, comprise about 50% of the population of the peninsula. The farther north you travel, the percentage rises dramatically. The Wayuu have the distinction of never having been defeated by the Spanish conquerors. Consequently, there is little evidence of Spanish influence here. Although the Wayuu can speak Spanish, they have their own language and their own culture of which they are proud and which they display.
The next few posts cover more details of my visit to La Guajira in March 2020.
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