In short
- Multi-day tours cost 800,000 to 1,430,000 COP.
- Independent 4x4 transport starts at 130,000 COP from Cabo.
- Bring plenty of cash; there are no ATMs.
In this article
Getting to Punta Gallinas is an adventure through the off-grid La Guajira Desert. You can book an all-inclusive guided tour from Riohacha or piece together local transport yourself. Both options require carrying cash in Colombian Pesos to pay for food, transport, and informal tolls.
How much is an organized tour to Punta Gallinas?
A typical 3-4 day guided tour from Riohacha costs between 800,000 and 1,430,000 COP.
This price usually covers 4x4 transport, a driver-guide, basic meals, and hammock accommodation. Booking a tour is the easiest way to visit. The desert tracks are unmarked, and getting lost is a real risk if you drive yourself. Prices change based on the platform and length of the trip.
How much does independent transport cost?
Hiring a local 4x4 from Cabo de la Vela to Punta Gallinas costs 130,000 to 150,000 COP round-trip.
This price is strictly for transport. You will need to budget extra for meals and accommodation once you arrive. First, take a collective taxi from Riohacha to Uribia. Then, catch a 4x4 truck to Cabo de la Vela. Never drive a rental car independently; always hire a local Wayúu driver.
Are there entry fees for Punta Gallinas?
The natural site is free to visit, but you will encounter informal tolls along the desert tracks.
Local communities set up ropes across the dirt tracks. You are expected to pay a small fee or hand out supplies like water and snacks to pass. If you travel on an organized tour, the driver usually handles these interactions.
Can I pay with a credit card?
No, there are no card payment facilities or ATMs in the deep desert.
You must bring all the cash you need in small denominations. Uribia is the last major town to withdraw money and buy supplies. Carry plenty of Colombian Pesos to cover water, food, and local transport.
How much does water cost in the desert?
Water is scarce and prices double as you go deeper into the desert.
Buy large 5-liter water bottles in Uribia before heading north. Purchasing water at local rancherías or in Punta Gallinas is much more expensive. Bring enough to cover your entire 3-4 day trip.
What other costs should I expect?
Budget for upgrades like beds, extra meals, and local crafts.
Standard tour packages include a 'chinchorro', a traditional large woven hammock. Upgrading to a basic bed at a ranchería costs extra. You might also want to buy handmade Wayúu bags directly from the artisans.
Questions travellers ask
Do I need a tour to visit Punta Gallinas?
No, you can arrange local 4x4 transport from Cabo de la Vela, but you must use a local Wayúu driver. Driving yourself is unsafe because tracks are completely unmarked.
How long is the trip from Riohacha?
Organized tours usually take 3 to 4 days to cover the round-trip from Riohacha or Santa Marta, including overnight stops in Cabo de la Vela.
What currency should I bring?
Bring Colombian Pesos (COP). Small denominations are best for paying local informal tolls and buying supplies.