Trails of Venezuela

Welcome to Venezuela! Upon arrival at Maiquetía International Airport in Caracas, you will be met in the arrivals hall by our representative who will transfer you to your hotel for the evening. The remainder of the day is at leisure. MealsDinnerAccommodationPosada Buena Vista Inn or similarServicesAirport transferTravel time and distanceAirport to hotel: 25 km | 30 min

Lagoon and Waterfalls of CanaimaBoard a motorised dugout canoe for a scenic ride across the lagoon of Canaima. As you navigate the waters, you’ll pass the stunning waterfalls of Ucaima, Golondrina, and Hacha. Notably, the water and surface foam in the rivers and lagoons are often reddish, a fascinating phenomenon caused by tannin, an organic acid released by vegetation as it decomposes under the sun.Salto SapoAfter your canoe ride, embark on a 20-minute hike that will lead you to the majestic Salto Sapo. Here, you can change into your swimwear and prepare for an exhilarating experience as you walk behind the waterfall to the other side, offering breathtaking views and a unique perspective of the natural beauty surrounding you.Tonight, you will stay in a posada in the Indian settlement, immersing yourself in the local culture and hospitality. MealsBreakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodationCampamento Parakaupa or similarServicesAirport transferGuided canoe tourTravel time and distanceFlight from Caracas to Canaima: 1hr 30minAirport to camp: 30 km | 1 hr

Morning Adventure on the Carrao RiverFollowing breakfast, your day begins with an exhilarating journey in a motorised dugout canoe as you cross the Carrao River towards Salto Angel (Angel Falls). Navigate the Churun River through the dramatic landscape of Devil’s Gorge, characterised by its lush jungle and the majestic table mountain, Auyan Tepui. Depending on the water level, the journey may take between four to five hours, and it’s not uncommon to disembark and push the boat through shallower areas when the water is particularly low.Mighty Salto AngelUpon arrival, embark on a one-hour walk to the foot of Salto Angel, where you will experience the awe-inspiring presence of the world’s highest waterfall. The sensation of being so close to this natural wonder is truly remarkable. After taking in the breathtaking views, enjoy a refreshing swim in the natural pool at the base of the falls, immersing yourself in the serene beauty of your surroundings.Hammock Camp ExperienceFollowing your time at the falls, make your way to the hammock camp located on the opposite side of the Churun River. Here, you can unwind and soak in the stunning views of Salto Angel as you relax in a comfortable hammock, surrounded by the enchanting sounds of the jungle. This unique setting offers a perfect opportunity to connect with nature and reflect on the day’s adventures. MealsBreakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodationHammock campServicesPrivate vehicle with English-speaking guideGuided canoe tourGuided hikeTravel time and distanceCanoeing: 5hrs

Today, you have another chance to reach the magnificent Angel Falls on foot from your hammock camp. The imposing cascade is illuminated by the sun, creating a breathtaking spectacle that is truly unforgettable. Spend the day soaking in the beauty of the falls, whether you choose to swim in the refreshing waters, explore the surrounding forest, or simply relax in the comfort of your hammock while marvelling at this natural wonder.Explore the Surrounding EnvironmentIn addition to the waterfall itself, the area is rich with opportunities for exploration. The lush rainforest is home to diverse wildlife and unique plant species, providing a glimpse into the vibrant ecosystems that thrive in this region. Take the time to appreciate the natural environment, with its varied landscapes and tranquil atmosphere, making your visit to Angel Falls a holistic and immersive experience. MealsBreakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodationHammock campServicesPrivate vehicle with English-speaking guideGuided hikeTravel time and distanceWalking: 3hrs

This morning, enjoy the tranquillity of the jungle. Depart travelling the same way, in a dugout canoe back to the Indian settlement of Canaima. After an exciting ride through the rapids in a canoe, you are scheduled to arrive at the lodge in Canaima in front of the Canaima lagoon in the afternoon. The rest of the day is at your leisure. MealBreakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodationCampamento Parakaupa or similarServicesPrivate vehicle with English-speaking guideGuided canoe tourTravel time and distanceCanoeing: 5hrs

Lagoon and Village ExplorationYour morning can be spent visiting the beautiful lagoon, where you can take a refreshing swim or stroll through the village. Observe the daily activities of the local Warao Indians as they go about their lives, providing a unique glimpse into their culture and traditions.Cessna Flight and Ciudad BolivarIn the early afternoon, you will embark on a Cessna flight over the jungle, returning to civilisation in Ciudad Bolivar. Upon arrival, explore the well-preserved old town, characterised by its vibrant, colourful colonial buildings. Finally, check into your hotel, which offers stunning views of the majestic Orinoco River.Orinoco DeltaThe Orinoco River is the second largest in the Americas, following the Amazonian delta. It is a labyrinth of caños (canals) that creates impenetrable green islands, giving the jungle an expansive, immersive feel. Small canoes from local communities can be seen navigating these canals, connecting various villages.Warao TribeThe Warao people inhabit the shores of the canals, living in typical wooden and thatched houses built on stilts to accommodate the significant rise and fall of water levels in the Delta. Their homes often lack walls and feature hammocks for sleeping. As the second largest tribe in Venezuela, the Warao have their own indigenous language, adding to the rich cultural tapestry of the region. MealsBreakfast, LunchAccommodationCasa Grande or similarServicesAirport transferDomestic flightCity tourTravel time and distanceFlight from Canaima to Ciudad Bolivar: 1hrAirport to hotel: 20 km | 30 min

MonagasAfter breakfast, you will embark on a scenic drive to the state of Monagas. As you travel, witness vast pine plantations and expansive cattle and buffalo farms, offering a glimpse into the region’s agricultural richness. Your journey leads you to the charming river village of San José de Buja, where you will board a motorised canoe for a delightful 30-minute ride along the river, enveloped by dense tropical rainforest and the vibrant communities of the Warao people.Arrival at Eco CampUpon your arrival at the Eco Camp, you’ll be greeted with a brief tour of the camp facilities, providing insights into the unique lifestyle of the Warao people. After your orientation, settle into your Warao-style cabin to relax and prepare for lunch, immersing yourself in the tranquil surroundings.Exploring the DeltaIn the afternoon, set out on a boat trip through the delta’s smaller channels. This expedition offers a chance to spot an array of wildlife, including colourful macaws, toucans, capuchin monkeys, red howler monkeys, sloths, and even freshwater dolphins. The diverse ecosystem of the delta presents a remarkable opportunity to connect with nature.Relaxation and DiningAs the sun sets, unwind in a hammock, allowing the gentle sounds of the rainforest to soothe you. This serene moment sets the perfect backdrop for dinner, where you can enjoy local cuisine before finishing your day with a refreshing drink at the bar, surrounded by the peaceful ambiance of the Eco Camp. MealsBreakfast, DinnerAccommodationDelta Lodge or similarServicesPrivate transferGuided boat tourTravel time and distanceDriving: 2hrsBoat: 30 min

Delta by BoatIn the morning, after breakfast, you will embark on an exciting boat journey through the delta, navigating both primary and mangrove forests. Accompanied by your knowledgeable guide, you will participate in a jungle walk (rubber boots provided), learning about the diverse ways the Warao Indians utilise the various trees and plants for food, medicine, and tools. This immersive experience will allow you to appreciate the rich biodiversity of the area.Cultural Insights and Local HandicraftsFor lunch, you will enjoy a picnic by the river or return to camp for a meal. After lunch, take the opportunity to cool off with a swim in the river, where the waters are free of Pirañas. Your adventure will also include a visit to a Warao community, providing a fascinating glimpse into indigenous life. Here, you can purchase locally made handicrafts, including beautiful jewellery and intricately woven baskets.Evening in the DeltaAs the day winds down, you will settle into your camp for the evening. Relish the serenity of the delta, with only the sounds of jungle wildlife breaking the silence. This tranquil atmosphere offers a perfect setting to reflect on the day’s adventures and connect with the natural beauty surrounding you. MealsBreakfast, DinnerAccommodationDelta Lodge or similarServicesGuided boat tourJungle walkTravel time and distanceBoating: 2hrs

Departure from MaturinTo ensure you catch your flight on time from Maturin to Caracas, depart from the Delta before breakfast. Your journey will begin with a boat ride, followed by a car transfer, leading to the airport. The flight to Caracas takes approximately one hour, offering a scenic view of the landscape below.Exploring CaracasUpon your arrival in Caracas, embark on a city tour of this vibrant tropical metropolis. Caracas, nearly 500 years old, is nestled at the base of the majestic Avila Mountain, standing 2800 metres high. The city is rich in history, showcasing an array of influences from modern times, the colonial era, and even pre-Columbian culture. Key landmarks and stories from its past will unfold as you explore the streets.Leisure Time and DiningAfter a day of exploration, spend your late afternoon relaxing by the pool at your hotel. As evening approaches, indulge in the culinary delights of Caracas by visiting one of its many exceptional restaurants, where you can savour the local cuisine and immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant dining scene. MealsBreakfastAccommodationHotel Tamanaco or similarServicesAirport transferCity tourTravel time and distanceBoat: 2hrsDriving: 2hrsFlight: 1hr

Journey to the CatatumboToday, you will continue to one of Venezuela’s most astonishing natural wonders—the Catatumbo lightning. Your adventure begins with a scheduled flight from Caracas to El Vigía, lasting approximately one hour. From El Vigía, you will take a scenic car ride for another hour to reach a small village situated on the shores of Lake Maracaibo, the largest freshwater basin in Latin America. Here, you will board a fishing boat to navigate through enchanting mangrove forests, swamps, and the expansive waters of the lake.Lake MaracaiboAs you traverse the waters, keep your eyes peeled for a variety of wildlife. With a bit of luck, you may encounter howler monkeys, iguanas, and a plethora of vibrant bird species. You might also catch a glimpse of the Tucuxi dolphins, unique marine dolphins that have adapted to both salt and freshwater environments. This diverse ecosystem is not only a haven for wildlife but also a stunning representation of Venezuela’s rich natural heritage.Palafito ExperienceIn the evening, you will spend the night in a traditional palafito—a wooden pile structure elevated above the water. As dusk approaches, prepare for an unforgettable spectacle: the extraordinary Catatumbo lightning. With a bit of patience, you may witness the brilliant flashes illuminating the sky above Lake Maracaibo. These distant thunderstorms, known for their luminous display, create ghostly silhouettes against the night sky. Despite ongoing research, the exact cause of this mysterious phenomenon remains elusive, adding an element of intrigue to your experience. Get ready for a night filled with wonder and excitement! MealsBreakfast, DinnerAccommodationPalafito (overwater cabin)ServicesAirport transferBoat tourTravel time and distancePlane: 1hrDriving: 2hrsBoat: 30 min

After spending the night with hopefully a lot of thunderstorms, and again admiring the location of where you slept (on the lake!), visit the village of Congo. Congo is completely built on the water and only accessible by boat, the village was founded a few hundred years ago by descendants of some pirates who were hiding there. It is really another world! Enjoy a night excursion by boat through narrow channels to see the nocturnal fauna: spectacled caimans, orbicular snakes, night herons and hopefully another night of thunder. MealsBreakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodationPalafito (overwater cabin)ServicesGuided boat tourTravel time and distanceBoat: 4hrs

Today you will return to the port where you will have solid ground under your feet again. On the way to Merida, you will visit a coffee hacienda. There you will obtain an insight into the processing of coffee beans and certainly, there is the possibility to buy some coffee. In the afternoon, you will visit the citycentre of Merida. In the evening, you can again enjoy comfortable rooms and discuss the adventures of the last few days. For the fun-loving among us, you can also enjoy a cold beer in one of the many bars in town. MealsBreakfastAccommodationCasa Sol or similarServicesPrivate vehicle with English-speaking guideCoffee hacienda visitTravel time and distanceBoat: 30 minDriving: 3hrs

Exploring the Venezuelan AndesToday, you will experience the breathtaking Venezuelan Andes from a unique perspective. Begin your adventure by taking the highest (4,765 m) and longest (12.5 km) cable car in the world to the summit of Pico Espejo (Mirror Peak). This peak, named for its snow-covered summit, reflects sunlight like a dazzling mirror. If you’re up for it, consider hiking back to a lower cable car station, allowing you to immerse yourself in the stunning alpine scenery.Glacial Lakes and Impressive Landscapes of MéridaAfter your cable car journey, the next stop is one of the many glacial lakes in the state of Mérida. Along the way, you’ll pause for lunch, taking in the beauty of your surroundings. A short drive will lead you to the spectacular Victoria Lagoon. On calm, clear days, the lake mirrors the stunning landscape so perfectly that distinguishing the water’s surface can be challenging. Here, you will encounter the unique Frailejones, a typical plant of the Páramo ecosystem, characterised by its fleshy leaves and tiny hairs that offer protection against the cold.Journey Through the HighlandsAs you continue your journey, you will cross Venezuela’s highest pass at 4,200 m. The descent takes you into the charming town of Santo Domingo, where you will spend the night, resting after a day filled with adventure and the stunning beauty of the Andes. MealsBreakfastAccommodationTrucha Azul or similarServicesPrivate vehicle with English-speaking guideCable car ride

After breakfast, depart the Andes towards Los Llanos. The Llanos, the Venezuelan lowlands, make up in their entirety about one-third of the area of Venezuela and impress with their particularly diverse and species-rich fauna. In the afternoon, set off on a boat safari through the Llanos. Only at dusk many animals become active, and so you will be able to observe river dolphins, caimans, ibises and maybe even an anaconda. Spend the night in a simple cabin on a farm, which is run by a family. MealsBreakfast, DinnerAccommodation2 nights in a Local cabinServicesPrivate transferBoat safariTravel time and distanceDriving: 5hrsBoating: 1hr

Today you will spend your second day in the Llanos to observe more unusual bird species, crocodiles and also the Capibara, a funny-looking capybara. Along the way, you can also practice a sport well-known in Venezuela, piranha fishing! At dinner this evening, the family members introduce you to the typical singing of the llaneros, the cowboys of the Venezuelan lowlands, singing their melancholic songs, the joropo. MealsBreakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodationLocal cabinServicesPrivate vehicle with English-speaking guideWildlife tourPiranha fishingTravel time and distanceDriving: 2hrs

The morning offers another opportunity to observe the birdlife around the cabin before heading to Barinas for your flight to Caracas. Spend the night in an Inn, not far from the sea. There are very good seafood restaurants in the area, which are perfect for your last dinner in Venezuela. MealsBreakfastAccommodationPosada Buena Vista Inn or similarServicesAirport transferTravel time and distanceDriving: 2hrs

Enjoy breakfast before transferring to the airport for your onward flight. MealsBreakfastServicesAirport transfer