Los Flamencos Sanctuary

The sanctuary protects a set of brackish coastal lagoons behind a sand barrier, and American flamingos feed in them - filtering brine shrimp and algae from the shallows, which is what gives them their colour. Numbers vary substantially with water level, salinity and season, from hundreds to a few thousand, and there are periods when there are almost none, so a visit is not guaranteed a spectacle. Wayuu boatmen from Camarones pole flat canoes out across the shallow water, which is the way to approach them without putting the birds up. The sanctuary also holds other waders, herons and a dry tropical forest section. The village is Wayuu and the boat trips are the community's income from the site.

What you actually see

• American flamingos in brackish lagoons - numbers varying widely.
• Wayuu boatmen poling flat canoes - the way to approach without flushing them.
• Other waders and herons - through the lagoon system.
• Dry tropical forest - in part of the sanctuary.

When to go

December to April; numbers vary and are never guaranteed. Half a day.

Honest expectations

Flamingo numbers fluctuate hugely and there are times with almost none - ask before travelling out. Heat and sun on the water are severe. Boat prices should be agreed first. Facilities are minimal.

Nearby

Riohacha is east; Cabo de la Vela is north into the desert.