14-Day Itinerary for Exploring Venezuela

Venezuela is full of beauty, culture, and nature, making it a must-visit for any traveler. From bustling cities to picturesque landscapes, this country is perfect for a two-week adventure. Here’s how you can spend 14 amazing days in Venezuela, balancing must-see sights with off-the-beaten-path experiences, cultural immersion, and some downtime to relax.

Day 1: Arrival in Caracas

Kick off your journey by arriving in the capital, Caracas. Though many travelers skip it, Caracas has its charm. Take the day to settle in and shake off any jet lag. You can walk around the city’s historic center and visit Plaza Bolívar, the heart of Caracas. Get your first taste of Venezuelan food by trying “arepas” at a local eatery. If you have the energy, take a cable car ride up “Mount Avila” for stunning views of the city.

Day 2: Explore Caracas

Spend the day exploring more of the city. Visit the Museo de Arte Contemporáneo to enjoy one of the best modern art collections in South America. Then, head to the “Parque del Este” for a relaxing walk in nature and to see some local wildlife. This park offers a peaceful escape in the middle of the city. For dinner, visit a local favorite restaurant and get the famous dish “pabellón criollo” (rice, beans, meat, and plantains) to dig even deeper into Venezuelan cuisine.

Day 3: Fly to Canaima National Park

It’s time to trade the city streets for some adventure! Catch a flight to Ciudad Bolívar and then take a small plane to Canaima National Park. Welcome to one of the most stunning places in the world. You’ll get to see Angel Falls, the world’s highest waterfall, from the sky during the flight. Spend the afternoon settling into your lodging and then take a short walk or boat ride to enjoy the local landscape.

Day 4: Angel Falls Excursion

Today is an unforgettable day! Take a full-day excursion which starts with a boat ride down the river, followed by a jungle trek to the base of Angel Falls. Spend some time taking in the view; maybe you’ll feel brave enough for a swim. Afterward, enjoy lunch with your group while surrounded by nature. By evening, you’ll be back at your lodgings, where you can relax under the stars.

Day 5: Explore Canaima Lagoon

Spend the day exploring the lagoon area of Canaima. Paddle across the lagoon in a canoe, visiting the impressive waterfalls like Salto Sapo. Take the chance to walk behind and under some of these waterfalls. It will give you perspective on how majestic these natural wonders are. Take the afternoon to relax on the beaches around the lagoon or hike the nearby trails.

Day 6: Travel to Ciudad Bolívar and Continue to Merida

Fly back to Ciudad Bolívar and then catch a connecting flight to the city of Merida. Known as Venezuela’s adventure capital, Merida is surrounded by the Andes Mountains and filled with outdoor activities. Once you arrive, settle in and maybe take a stroll around Merida’s central plaza. You’re in the perfect base for exploring the rugged landscapes surrounding the area.

Day 7: Ride the Mérida Cable Car

The Mérida cable car is the longest in the world. It climbs all the way to the top of Pico Espejo, giving you incredible views of the Andes. At the top, the altitude will get to you, so take it easy while enjoying the scenery. Spend some time walking around. Back in town, you can visit local shops and eat “empanadas andina” (traditional mountain empanadas) to get a taste of Andean culture and food.

Day 8: Outdoor Adventures Around Merida

Merida is all about adventure, so you can spend the day exploring the surrounding nature. You can choose from paragliding, hiking, or kayaking. If you prefer something less intense, visit the nearby hot springs of Tabay for some relaxation. In the evening, it’s a good time to stroll around the town’s markets to pick up local crafts or artisanal souvenirs.

Day 9: Hike in Sierra Nevada National Park

Today, head out for a hike in Sierra Nevada National Park. There are several trails suitable for different skill levels. You’ll pass glacial lakes, beautiful meadows, and scenic mountain views. If mountain hiking isn’t your thing, consider going horseback riding. Either way, it’s a fantastic day in nature. Afterward, rest your legs and reward yourself with some hot Venezuelan chocolate back in Merida.

Day 10: Travel to Los Llanos

You’ll leave the mountains behind today and travel to Los Llanos, the vast grasslands of Venezuela. This area is famous for wildlife watching, so take a few hours to settle in before heading out on a guided safari tour. Expect to see capybaras, caimans, birds, and possibly even anaconda or the elusive jaguar. Spend the night in a rural lodge, surrounded by the sounds of nature.

Day 11: Explore Los Llanos

This is the perfect day to immerse yourself in the wildlife of Los Llanos. Start with an early morning birdwatching tour. You’ll see some of the hundreds of bird species that migrate here. Then, later in the afternoon, take a river safari, where you might spot dolphins or even catch a piranha or two. Evening safaris are also available if you’re interested in spotting nocturnal animals.

Day 12: Travel to Choroní

After all the nature-filled days, it’s time for some beach time. Travel to Choroní, a coastal town that is part of Henri Pittier National Park. Once you arrive in this sleepy little town, you can take a short walk around the colorful colonial streets. Relax for the rest of the day and enjoy some downtime at a local café or take a short trip to the nearby beach, Playa Grande, to watch the sunset.

Day 13: Beach Day at Playa Grande

Your last full day can be spent lounging at Playa Grande. This beautiful, uncrowded beach is the perfect place to unwind after an action-packed trip. Go for a swim, and if you’re feeling adventurous, arrange for a boat trip to one of the smaller nearby beaches. The local seafood here is a must-try. End the day by indulging in a nice seafood dinner at a beachfront restaurant while enjoying the Caribbean breeze.

Day 14: Return to Caracas and Depart

It’s time to head back to Caracas. Depending on your departure time, you might have one last morning to stretch your legs and buy some last-minute souvenirs in Choroní. Then, travel back to the capital for your international flight home. Reflect on the incredible variety of sights, sounds, and landscapes you’ve experienced over the last two weeks.

Final Thoughts

Venezuela has such diverse beauty that you really can experience a bit of everything within two weeks. Whether it’s climbing mountains, relaxing on the beach, or spotting wildlife in vast plains, this itinerary gives you the perfect balance to explore at a comfortable pace. Enjoy your time, soak in all the experiences, and return home with incredible memories!