Riohacha

Riohacha or Rio Hacha (Axe River), is a city and municipality in the northern Caribbean Region of Colombia by the mouth of the Rancheria River and the Caribbean sea. Riohacha is the capital city of the Department of La Guajira.

Founded by Conqueror Nikolaus Federmann in 1535, Riohacha was named after a local legend “The legend of the Axe”. The area is mostly arid region and inhabited by Amerindians, predominantly by members of the Wayuu ethnic group. During colonial times Riohacha was a very important port due to findings of vast amounts of pearls.

Once you are in Riohacha you must organize an expedition with one of the many professional tour operators who can take you to explore ‘Cabo de la Vela, ‘Punta Gallinas’ or ‘Camarones’. The ‘Mallecon’ (sidewalk by the sea) is especially gorgeous during the day. One of the many interesting typical things to do is to visit the massive market on the main square, very colorful and probably the cheapest place to buy something in Colombia.