Guajira is the northernmost part of Colombia. Once you past the coastal mountains of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta the land goes from green jungle to xeric shrublands within a very short drive as you enter the peninsula of Guajira. This is one of only two small desert regions in Colombia. The Wayuu indians live here and appear to be mainly goat herders. The Cerrejón mine, one of the largest open-pit coal mines in the world, is located in the region. La Guajira is one of the poorest regions in Colombia with water scarcity. And while considered a dangerous area it is worth a visit due to the unique landscape.