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Macuira National Natural Park: An Oasis in the Desert

Discover Macuira National Park: a unique oasis where desert landscapes meet cloud forests in the heart of La Guajira, Colombia.

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Macuira National Natural Park is a unique and stunning protected area located in the heart of La Guajira, Colombia. This natural park is an oasis in the desert, boasting diverse ecosystems ranging from arid landscapes to cloud forests, making it a truly exceptional destination.

A brief summary to Parque Nacional Natural Macuira

Local tips

  • Visit during the dry season (December to April) for the best weather conditions.
  • Hire a local Wayuu guide to explore the park and learn about their culture.
  • Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are limited options within the park.
  • Wear appropriate clothing and footwear for hiking in a desert environment.
  • Be prepared for a challenging journey to reach the park, as it involves travel on rough roads.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    To reach Macuira National Natural Park via public transport, begin in Riohacha, the capital of La Guajira. Take a bus to Uribia, which costs approximately 15,000 COP. From Uribia, a weekly 'Chiva' bus departs for Nazareth, typically on Sundays. This is a 9-hour journey through the desert on rough roads. Confirm departure times in advance. From Nazareth, arrange transport to the park entrance with a local guide. The park entrance is free, but hiring a guide is necessary.

  • Taxi/Car

    To reach Macuira National Natural Park by taxi or car, start in Riohacha and drive to Uribia. From Uribia, continue towards Nazareth. The drive from Uribia to Nazareth is approximately 7-8 hours on a rough, unpaved road. Hiring a local guide in Uribia is highly recommended due to the challenging road conditions and lack of signage. A guide can be hired with a jeep in Uribia. The cost for a jeep and guide can vary, so negotiate the price beforehand. There are no mandatory tolls or parking fees. From Nazareth, the guide will take you to the park entrance, where you must register. The park entrance is free.

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Discover more about Parque Nacional Natural Macuira

Macuira National Natural Park, established in 1977, covers 25,000 hectares in the northeastern part of the La Guajira Peninsula. The park is a natural and cultural reserve protecting diverse ecosystems, flora, fauna, and water sources. It stands as an oasis in the semi-desert of the Upper Guajira, one of the few mountain elevations in the area. The park's most striking feature is its unique blend of contrasting landscapes. Arid deserts meet cloud forests, creating a haven for a rich variety of plant and animal life. The cloud forest ecosystem, typically found at altitudes of around 3,000 meters in the Andes, exists here at only 550 meters above sea level. This rare phenomenon makes Macuira a truly special place. The park is home to 350 species of flora, with 120 found in the cloud forest, and diverse fauna, including 140 species of birds. Macuira has been designated an Important Bird and Biodiversity Area (IBA). Macuira is also a sacred territory for the Wayuu people, who are the guardians of this unique ecosystem. Visitors can experience Wayuu culture and learn about their traditions. Exploring Macuira offers a true adventure in the desert, with opportunities for hiking and bird watching.

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