South America Travel Guide

Venezuela

Venezuela is a hidden gem of South America. Although tourism is on the rise, many places remain undiscovered treasures of the world. Venezuela is the fifth biggest country in South America and is bordered to the north with nearly 3,000km of Caribbean coastline. The country also has a diverse landscape, which ranges from the snow-capped peaks of the Andes, to rolling plains that are rich in wildlife, to the jungles and rainforests of the Amazon.

Venezuela's most famous attraction is Angel Falls, which is a sight to behold with its falls about fifteen times bigger than Niagara. It is situated in the remote rainforests of Canaima National Park. The water gushes down a 1km precipice, and looks even more spectacular when the water levels are the highest. The best time to go is during the rainy season from June to December.

In the same national park you'll find the Gran Sabana, which is an immense, hilly plateau covered in rainforest and grassland. Over a hundred flat top mountains called tepuis are spread out along the landscape. It is a five to six day trek to the largest peak, Mount Roraima, which rises 2,810m.

Some of the world's most pristine beaches can be found in Venezuela, one of them situated in the Parque Nacional Morrocoy. Just west of Caracas, the white sand beaches stretch along the Caribbean Coast. The clear blue water and abundant coral reefs make it an excellent spot for snorkeling and scuba diving, or for just relaxing under the sun.

Venezuela also shares the Andes Mountain chain, and Merida being one of the most favored mountain towns. The town is flanked to the west by the tallest peaks in the country. The Pico Espejo can be reached by the world's longest and highest cable car, which reaches the 4,765m summit. There are also many opportunities for horseback riding, mountain biking, trekking, and whitewater rafting.

The third biggest river in South America is found in Venezuela's Orinoco Delta, which is a vast region of swamps, rivers, and rainforest. The Orinoco River flows through a complex maze of waterways before it empties into the ocean. Wildlife is abundant and indigenous peoples called the Warao, still live in riverside houses that are raised on stilts. This region can be visited from the river town of Tucupita on an organized tour.