Guajira from YAY
La Guajira is the northernmost department in Colombia, with its capital being Riohacha. Located on the Caribbean coast, it is characterized by its stunning desert and its intact indigenous community, the Wayú
This is a place that will captivate you with every detail, from its tranquil and crystal clear sea to its paradise beaches and diverse animal life, including goats and many species of waterfowl.
The Wayú are one of the Arhuacos ethnic groups that arrived in La Guajira in 150 BC. They are currently known as cattle herders, but they also grow crops such as corn, beans, cassava, cucumber, pumpkin, melon, and watermelon, depending on the weather conditions, as La Guajira is a very dry place with little rainfall.
In addition to their traditional agricultural practices, the Wayú also engage in activities such as fishing, commerce, traditional textile production, ceramics, and salaried work on farms or in coal mines.
One of the most beautiful experiences is to sit and watch the Wayú women weave their mochilas while they speak their own language. Each mochila is woven with a unique pattern that tells a story, and they are made with colorful threads.
If you’re interested in visiting La Guajira, you can take a bus from the Troncal Caribe road to Riohacha, which is about a 3-hour journey. From Riohacha, you can travel to Uribia in a 4×4 car, which takes about an hour. From Uribia, you can take another car to reach your destination, El Cabo de la Vela. From El Cabo de la Vela, there are many tourist sites such as huge sand dunes, many beautiful beaches such as Ojo de Agua and finally you can reach the northernmost point of Colombia, Punta Gallinas and sleep there one night in a hammock.
Last and not least, you can’t leave Cabo de la Vela without kitesurfing. It is the perfect space to enjoy the wind and the calm sea. There you will find many schools to teach you or rent the equipment to develop this fun sport.
Let's enter the world of permaculture
Permaculture is a sustainable design system that aims to create harmonious relationships between people, plants, animals, and the natural world. It is based on the principles of ecology, observation, and cooperation, and focuses on creating self-sustaining systems that meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
Permaculture is a holistic approach to land use and can be applied to a wide range of environments, including urban, suburban, and rural settings. It involves designing and implementing systems that mimic the natural patterns and functions of healthy ecosystems, using techniques such as crop rotation, intercropping, and guild planting.
Permaculture also emphasizes the use of renewable resources and the conservation of natural resources, such as water and soil. It promotes the use of local, organic, and non-toxic materials and practices, and encourages the use of natural pest control methods, such as introducing beneficial insects and plants.
Permaculture can be used to grow a wide range of foods, including fruits, vegetables, herbs, and grains, as well as to raise animals and create habitats for wildlife. It can also be used to create energy-efficient and environmentally-friendly buildings and infrastructure.
Permaculture is not just about growing food and improving the environment, but also about building community and creating a more sustainable way of life. It promotes social justice and equity, and encourages people to work together and share resources in order to create a more harmonious and self-sufficient society.
Overall, permaculture is a powerful tool for creating a more sustainable and harmonious relationship with the natural world, and has the potential to transform the way we live and interact with the environment. So, permaculture is a very important and interesting topic to discuss and learn about.
Did you heard about dry toilets
Dry toilets, also known as composting toilets, are a type of toilet that does not use water to flush away waste. Instead, they use a dry, aerobic process to decompose the waste into compost.
One of the main benefits of dry toilets is their water conservation. Conventional flush toilets use a significant amount of water, up to 37 gallons per day in some cases. In contrast, dry toilets use no water, which can be particularly useful in areas with water scarcity or drought conditions.
Dry toilets also have environmental benefits. The decomposition process generates heat, which helps to kill any harmful pathogens and reduces the risk of water pollution. The compost produced by dry toilets can be used as a natural fertilizer for plants, reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers.
In addition to their environmental benefits, dry toilets can also be a cost-effective and convenient option for households, particularly in rural areas or off-grid locations. They require minimal maintenance and can be easily constructed using local materials.
There are several types of dry toilets, including self-contained units, vault systems, and pit toilets. Self-contained units are the most common and are typically the easiest to use. They consist of a toilet seat and a separate compartment for the waste, which is accessed through a hatch. The waste is mixed with a dry, carbon-rich material, such as sawdust or peat moss, to absorb moisture and accelerate the decomposition process.
While dry toilets may not be for everyone, they can be a valuable alternative for those looking to conserve water and reduce their environmental impact. As awareness of the benefits of dry toilets grows, they may become more widely adopted as a sustainable and practical solution for households and communities.
Guide to Tayrona Park
Tayrona Park is a stunning national park located on the Caribbean coast of Colombia. It is known for its lush rainforest, white-sand beaches, and crystal-clear waters. With its stunning natural beauty, Tayrona Park is the perfect destination for a tropical getaway.
If you’re planning a trip to Tayrona Park, here’s a guide to help you make the most of your experience.
First, you’ll need to decide how you’re getting to Tayrona Park. The park is located about an hour and a half from Santa Marta, so you can easily take a bus or taxi to get there. You can also rent a car if you’d like to explore the area more.
Once you’ve arrived at Tayrona Park, you’ll need to purchase an entrance ticket. The ticket will give you access to the park’s beaches, trails, and other attractions. Be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks with you, as there are no restaurants or shops in the park.
Once you’ve entered the park, you’ll want to explore the beaches. The most popular beach is Cabo San Juan de la Guia, which is known for its white sand and crystal-clear waters. Other beaches in the park include La Piscina, El Cabo, and Arrecifes.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also explore the park’s trails. There are several trails that will take you through the rainforest and to some of the park’s most stunning views. Be sure to wear good shoes and bring plenty of water, as the trails can be quite strenuous.
There are many things to do in Tayrona National Park, including hiking, swimming, birdwatching, and snorkeling. The park has several well-marked trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape, and the beaches are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Be sure to bring your binoculars for some amazing birdwatching opportunities.
When you’re done exploring the park, you can relax at YAY Sustainable, where you can enjoy delicious plant-based food and amazing cocktails surrounded by nature.
Tayrona Park is a stunning destination that is sure to leave you with lasting memories. With its lush rainforest, white-sand beaches, and crystal-clear waters, it’s the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. So, if you’re looking for a tropical getaway, be sure to add Tayrona Park to your list of must-visit destinations.
What to bring:
- Sunscreen
- Natural repellent
- Hat
- Swimsuit
- Towel
- Water bottle
- Snacks
- Cash
- Camera
- Comfortable shoes
- Light jacket or sweater
- First aid kit
- Map of the park
Where to stay:
Tayrona National Park has several options for accommodations, including campgrounds, cabins, and eco-lodges. The campgrounds are a popular option for those who want to experience the park in a more authentic way, while the cabins and eco-lodges offer more comfortable accommodations.
We recommend staying in YAY Sustainable where you can find a comfortable hotel surrounded by nature, a natural swimming pool, spa, river beach, and a plant-based restaurant, you can easily book tours to Tayrona Park beaches, and you can even book a sailboat tour!
Tips for Visiting: When visiting Tayrona National Park, be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are not many food options within the park. Finally, be respectful of the park’s wildlife and be sure to follow all rules and regulations to help preserve this beautiful destination for future generations.
Overall, Tayrona National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Colombia. With its stunning natural beauty and abundance of activities, it’s the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the great outdoors.
