7-Day Flexible Itinerary for Traveling Through Venezuela
Venezuela is a gem waiting to be explored. From dense jungles and majestic waterfalls to vibrant cities, this country offers a little something for every kind of traveler. Here’s a 7-day itinerary to help you make the most of your visit, while ensuring you’re not rushing through each experience.
Day 1: Arrive in Caracas
Start your adventure by landing in Caracas, the country’s bustling capital. While the city often gets overlooked, it’s a great introduction to Venezuela. Take the day to settle in and explore the historical side of the city.
In the morning, head to Plaza Bolívar. This is the heart of the city, full of local life. The plaza is surrounded by historical buildings, including the Caracas Cathedral and the 19th-century Palacio de Gobierno.
After strolling through the plaza, visit the National Pantheon. This is where Simón Bolívar, the liberator of South America, rests. It’s a key historical spot, and you’ll get a glimpse into the nation’s rich history.
For lunch, head to a local restaurant and try “arepas” (a cornmeal bread stuffed with cheese, meat, or avocado). End the day at El Ávila National Park, where you can either hike or take a cable car up to the top for views over the city.
Day 2: Explore Caracas and Fly to Canaima
Spend the morning in Caracas with a visit to the Contemporary Art Museum or the Fine Arts Museum. Both are located in the city’s cultural district and have fantastic collections of local and international works.
In the afternoon, take a quick flight to Canaima. Canaima is the gateway to Angel Falls, the world’s tallest waterfall. Once you arrive, you’ll feel like you’ve entered a completely different part of the country. This small village is surrounded by lush nature.
That evening, relax at your lodge and enjoy a local meal. Spend some time getting to know other travelers and plan your trip to Angel Falls for the next day.
Day 3: Angel Falls Excursion
Today is dedicated to exploring Angel Falls, a highlight of any trip to Venezuela. Before dawn, embark on a boat ride along the Carrao River. The journey to reach the falls might take a few hours, but the lush landscapes and jungle around you make it worth the trip.
Once you catch your first glimpse of Angel Falls, the sight is truly breathtaking. Water plunges down nearly 1,000 meters from sheer cliffs surrounded by jungle. You’ll have time to swim in the pools below or simply sit and take in the scenery.
Return to Canaima in the late afternoon. The day will have left you in awe, so spend the evening reflecting on your experience or exploring the lagoons around Canaima village.
Day 4: Head to Los Llanos for Wildlife Watching
It’s time to switch gears and focus on wildlife. Take an early flight from Canaima to Barinas, where Los Llanos awaits. Los Llanos is a vast savanna teeming with wildlife, making it one of the best places in South America for animal spotting.
Settle into a rustic lodge on the outskirts of the savanna. This rural setting might be a change of pace from the jungle, but it offers an entirely different kind of beauty.
In the afternoon, join a safari-style tour of Los Llanos. You’re likely to spot capybaras, caimans, anacondas, and exotic birds like the scarlet ibis. If you’re lucky, you may even encounter giant anteaters or see the elusive jaguar.
Day 5: More Time in Los Llanos
Spend another full day in Los Llanos, this time focusing on more activities like fishing for piranhas or birdwatching along the rivers. Morning and evening are the best times for wildlife sightings, so plan to go out early with your guides.
Afternoons in Los Llanos can get quite hot, making it a perfect time to relax by the lodge or enjoy a quiet siesta in a hammock. Enjoy the stillness of the savanna and the calls of nature all around you.
In the evening, venture out for a night safari. This is a great way to see nocturnal animals you might miss during the day.
Day 6: Mérida and the Andes Mountains
After a leisurely breakfast, make your way to Mérida, a city nestled in the Andes Mountains. The cool climate and mountain views are a welcome break after the heat of Los Llanos.
Mérida’s main draw is the Teleférico, the longest and highest cable car ride in the world. Take the cable car up to Pico Espejo, where you’ll get amazing views of the Andes and snowy peaks in the distance.
Once back in the city, explore Mérida’s historic center, including Plaza Bolívar and the city’s vibrant street markets. Sample some of the Andean foods that are different from the typical Venezuelan dishes you might find elsewhere.
Day 7: Adventure in the Andes and Depart
On your final day, opt for a light activity like horseback riding or hiking around Mérida. The surrounding mountains offer plenty of trails that vary in difficulty, so whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker, there’s something for everyone.
If you still want more adventure, you could also go paragliding. Mérida is one of the best places in Venezuela for this thrilling activity, mainly due to the beautiful mountain backdrop and sweeping valleys.
After your activity, head back to the airport and either prepare for your flight home or your next destination in Venezuela.
Tips for Traveling in Venezuela
While Venezuela is rich in natural beauty, keep in mind that travel here requires some advance planning, especially due to safety concerns in some areas.
Stick to well-traveled routes, and consider working with a local guide or tour operator to avoid unnecessary risks. They will provide insider knowledge and help ensure your trip is smooth.
Finally, don’t forget to try as much local food as you can! Arepas, empanadas, and fried plantains are staples, but make sure to try “pabellón criollo,” which is Venezuela’s national dish. It typically includes shredded beef, black beans, rice, and fried plantains.
This 7-day itinerary will give you a diverse look at Venezuela’s landscapes and its rich history. Whether you are craving adventure or relaxation, Venezuela has a little bit of everything for any type of traveler.
Leave a reply