Venezuela is an unexplored frontier in South America with snow-capped mountains, steamy jungles and grassy savannahs to explore. Home to stunning Angel Falls as well as incredible wildlife species it deserves exploration! It truly must be discovered!
As currency declines, food costs are at an all-time high and long lines may form outside supermarkets – so bring along a packed lunch to save yourself some hassle!
1. Los Llanos
Venezuela often gets an unfavorable press with reports of kidnapping, inflation and tropical diseases, but it remains one of South America’s best adventure travel spots – perfect for hikers, campers, bird watchers and river safari enthusiasts.
Angel Falls are truly incredible; as the highest waterfall in the world they cascade from Mount Roraima on both sides of Venezuela-Colombia border. Every adventurer should see these impressive sights for themselves!
Orinoco Delta offers great opportunities for wildlife watching, with flamingos, capybaras and caimans easily visible in its waters. And if you’re lucky, perhaps witness the extraordinary Catatumbo lightning show where powerful storms of lighting occur without thunder! Truly mind-boggling!
2. Choroni
Choroni is an idyllic coastal town and a beloved tourist destination. Here, visitors can relax by strolling colonial streets or basking on one of its gorgeous pristine beaches – or exploring Henri Pittier National Park which boasts hiking trails, bird-watching opportunities and opportunities to spot exotic wildlife!
Choroni’s cuisine is also worth experiencing; don’t miss the local seafood and exotic cocktails on offer here!
Though Choroni is generally safe for tourists, it is still wise to exercise extra precaution and stay vigilant. It is recommended to avoid walking alone at night and only using official transportation services; and keep in mind that Venezuela is an emerging nation and criminal acts may occur; for your own safety and to stay up-to-date, check updates regarding travel safety on Venezuela’s government website regularly.
3. Morrocoy National Park
Backpackers looking to explore Venezuela’s natural landscape should hire a tour operator as it’s impossible to visit all the key sites alone. Furthermore, booking accommodation well in advance is also crucial.
As well as its beautiful beaches, Catatumbo River Delta also offers visitors amazing lightning storms to witness; these storms typically last 140 to 160 days/nights but remain silent despite their impressive power.
Santa Elena is an excellent place to meet people and organize treks to Roraima, Gran Sabana or crossing into Brazil. Keep a sharp eye out for illegal taxi drivers as well as pickpockets; have some trusted local friends nearby so they can hold onto your valuables and book transport services for you.
4. Angel Falls
Angel Falls stands at 979 metres and was made famous by Disney’s movie Up! A bucket list destination, Angel Falls’ best time for viewing is during rainy season from June – December when its full power can be seen!
Orinoco’s mud volcanoes are very unique – not because they eject hot lava but because they push out hot mud and gas instead. I would love to take a tour there sometime!
One of the best things to do in Venezuela on July 5th is celebrating their Independence Day – expect parades, colourful face paint and fireworks!
5. Tepui
Tepuis (large table top mountains) in eastern Venezuela have an otherworldly feel to them; remote and relatively unexplored. Many are thought to contain remnants of prehistoric creatures – an idea inspired by Arthur Conan Doyle’s 1912 novel “The Lost World”. Roraima stands out as being particularly striking; where Venezuela, Guyana and Brazil meet – making for one memorable tepui. Auyan Tepui boasts Angel Falls which is considered the highest waterfall worldwide.
Mochima National Park can be easily reached from Caracas via bus tour; however, I highly suggest flying into Puerto La Cruz and renting a boat to explore its stunning islands and their beautiful waters. Here you’ll be able to snorkel among turtles and dolphins or just relax on one of its beaches – be sure to bring a water bottle, since bottled water can be expensive here.