La Guajira Desert is the most arid part of Colombia where you can find Los Flamencos Fauna and Flora Sanctuary. Unfortunately, due to a strong drought that has reached La Guajira for the last few years, the number of flamingos has greatly reduced.
One interesting fact is that originally baby flamingos don't have a pink colour, but rather they become pink after five years of eating shrimp and microalgae.
Also, female flamingos lay just one egg per year, so it's very precious to them. Besides flamingos, you can explore a tiny Wayúu community which is one of the biggest indigenous groups in Colombia. You can visit the Guajira Desert all year round, but the best time for flamingos is the dry period from December to January.
Practical info
Where can Los Flamencos Fauna and Flora Sanctuary be found?
Located in the most arid part of Colombia, Los Flamencos Fauna and Flora Sanctuary can be found in La Guajira Desert. The sanctuary is accessible from the city of Riohacha located in northern Colombia, which usually requires about 1-2 hours of driving. Camarones, a small village, is the starting point for the flamingo watching tour, and it's where the entrance to the sanctuary is located. Show more
What is the ideal time to view flamingos in Los Flamencos Fauna and Flora Sanctuary?
In Los Flamencos Fauna and Flora Sanctuary, the best time to see flamingos is from December to January, the dry period in La Guajira. During this period, flamingos are more easily seen since the water level in the lagoons is low, meaning they gather in larger groups. The bird population varies depending on the season; consequently, you can visit the reserve throughout the year. Show more
How has the flamingo population in La Guajira been impacted by drought?
The flamingo population in Los Flamencos Fauna and Flora Sanctuary has greatly declined due to the prolonged droughts being experienced in La Guajira. The lagoon's water has evaporated, causing the flamingos to migrate to different areas with more water. The sanctuary has implemented new channels for the lagoons and created man-made nesting islands to help mitigate the drought's adverse effects. Show more
What is the colour of baby flamingos?
Baby flamingos are not pink in colour; they are born with a greyish-white colour. Feeding on shrimp and microalgae for five years is what gives them a pink hue, as these foods contain pigments essential in developing the colour. Adult flamingos have a more vibrant pink colour because their diet consists entirely of shrimp and algae, producing a brighter shade of pink. Show more
Is it possible to interact with the Wayúu population in Los Flamencos Fauna and Flora Sanctuary?
Los Flamencos Fauna and Flora Sanctuary visitors can engage with the Wayúu community, one of the most significant indigenous groups in Colombia, which has inhabited the Guajira Desert for many centuries. They can learn about the Wayúu culture, including traditional weaving, music, and handicrafts. It's an excellent opportunity to immerse oneself in their ancient traditions and connect with the locals. Show more
