Venezuela Destinations Brochure Dear Friends Welcome to Venezuela and Natoura! At Natoura we do our best to ensure that you feel at one with the natural environment, and we do this by taking special care of the fragile resources of the different ecosystems we visit. We are an experienced and innovative team working hard towards promoting sustainable tourism in Venezuela. At Natoura we also pride ourselves on taking the time to ensure that we meet your needs and desires when travelling through Venezuela; this is what we keep in mind when designing our tours. We have a wide variety of itineraries where the priority is to offer you a chance to enjoy the natural solitude and the ethnic authenticity of the regions we visit. Natoura’s trips are ecologically responsible and educational; we minimize environmental impact by only taking small groups. We employ professional local naturalists as guides in order to better share with you the natural treasures of Venezuela. On behalf of Natoura, we hope you get the chance to experience Venezuela’s natural wonders and look forward to seeing you in the future! José Luis Troconis & Renate Reiners General Managers Natoura Travel & Adventure Tours Why choose Venezuela? Venezuela's unique geography allows Natoura to bring together a wide variety of nature adventures in one package Fly above ANGEL FALLS, the world's highest waterfall (20 times higher than Niagara) in the GRAN SABANA, where prehistoric mesa-mountains (tepuis) are home to a great variety of endemic species. the-Rock live. In addition, witness a variety of butterflies, including the dazzling giant Blue Morpho. Travel the mighty Orinoco River, home to freshwater dolphins, through the AMAZON’s tropical rainforest, gallery forests and savannahs. Here native guides will share wildlife treasures with you, treasures that include more than 680 species of birds, as well as the cultural On the longest CARIBBEAN coastline, riches of their indigenous communities. relax at one of our idyllic beaches, float through dense mangroves, fish for marlin, tarpon or bonefish or dive and snorkel in coral reefs teeming with an unimaginable spectrum of colourful sea life. In the rugged LLANOS you will embark on a wildlife safari to observe typical fauna such as the capybara (the world's largest rodent), monkeys, crocodiles, anacondas, macaws, storks, eagles, iguanas, Hike, backpack, mountain bike, camp, fly fish for trout or go birdwatching in the chameleons and much more. You can also fish for piranha! cloud forests and the paramo (moors) of the ANDES mountains, where the endangered Condor and the rare Cock-of- This is only a sample of the wonders Natoura can offer you in Venezuela. The Company We would now like to introduce our company to We have particular expertise in organizing Treks you: Natoura is an inbound operator, specializing and Expeditions and count on specially trained in Adventure Travel and Ecotourism throughout local mountain guides to assist our groups; we Venezuela since 1991; in addition, we also have can also supply a naturalist, if requested. To particularly interesting tours for individuals and ensure your ultimate safety we use mobile groups. We design itineraries to suit your satellite telephones for communication in remote requirements and budget so you can experience areas. To handle our reservations, we use the the “real” Venezuela. We are a small team of 18 software “Tourplan”, a dedicated reservations people working together throughout Venezuela. system. We offer you a complete service from the minute Since 2008 we have been considered by the you arrive until you depart. We are a licensed National Geographic Adventure’s magazine as IATA company and we can arrange domestic and one of the Best Outfitters on Earth! international flights. Having been in the business for 19 years we have a good relationship with numerous hotels and lodges throughout Venezuela, so that you benefit from the preferential rates given to Natoura by these providers. Our strength is designing tailor-made itineraries to suit your abilities and interests. http://natoura.com/natouraW/?page_id=285 Amazon The Amazon, the most famous rainforest in the world, occupies almost a quarter of the whole Venezuelan territory. This wonderful and wild side of the country is home to more than 680 bird species. The Orinoco River, the third largest river in the world, crosses this area. This river possesses a unique beauty, mixing its brown waters with the black waters of the Río Negro (Black River), resulting in an acute black-red division of stripes running side by side until they finally fuse in a series of whirlpools. But probably it is its inhabitants, just 55,000 of them, who make this region a magical place. Enjoy the diversity of the bustling river-city of Puerto Ayacucho, the wooden canoes sailed by the Piaroa, Ye’ kuana and Corripaco indigenous people wearing jeans, distant villages where Spanish is a second language and, deep in the primitive jungle, the mysterious small groups of people still practising their ancient customs. HUMBOLDT ROUTE EXPEDITION (14/19 DAYS) During this expedition we will be travelling up the Orinoco River, leaving from Samariapo port just before the start of the Maipures Rapids. We will sail upriver stopping at the riverside villages and overnighting in some of them; we will sleep in hammocks in the village huts. Throughout the journey we will point out all the river's tributaries and the guides will highlight the region's particular characteristics and points of interest and share their general knowledge of the route. We will only sail during daylight hours and we will endeavour to break the journey by interspersing it with various activities and visits; there will be time to explore smaller rivers, to go fishing and to observe life on the riverbanks up close. The main appeal of the Amazon lies in its unspoilt nature which can be found in its particular range of ecosystems. The savannah and jungle, the numerous rivers with their dark, clear water and the extraordinary rock formations, eroded over millions of years, all bring the vast plains alive. Several indigenous groups and communities live in these various environments. They are classified into five large family groups: Yanomami, Guahibo, Piaroa Ye'kwana or Maquiritare and Arawak. More detailed information about these groups can be found in the town's Ethnological Museum. DAY 1: Arrival at the International Airport. One of our representatives will transfer you to a hotel for overnight. DAY 2: Transfer to the airport for the morning flight to Puerto Ayacucho. Transfer to the city where you will meet the guide and crew. Visit the ethnology museum and the native market. Accommodation will be provided in a hotel in the city, in double rooms. Meals: B/L. Amazon DAY 3: 0800hrs transfer to Puerto de Samariapo (1 hour by jeep) where your journey along the Orinoco River begins. We will visit Ratón Island, San Fernando de Atabapo and then spend the night in hammocks. B/L/D. DAY 4: Our boat trip along the Orinoco continues; we’ll visit the Environmental Ministry (C.V.G.) station in Trapichote where we’ll observe natural rubber plants. Then we’ll visit Santa Barbara and the mouth of the Ventuari River. The night will be spent in hammocks. B/L/D. DAY 9: Cruise and explore the Siapa River. The night will be spent in hammocks. B/L/D. whereever we find ourselves at nightfall. 19th DAY: Arrival at Samariapo; transfer to Puerto Ayacucho. DAY 10: Sail to the Río Negro (Black River). The night will be spent in hammocks. B/L/D. THE PRICE INCLUDES DAY 11: Visit San Carlos, located on the riverbank (Río Negro), and a Colombian village. The night will be spent in hammocks. B/L/D. DAY 12: We sail to the Cocuy Rock, the triple border between Colombia, Brazil and Venezuela. The night will be spent in hammocks. B/L/D. DAY 5: We continue cruising along the Orinoco from where we can enjoy views of Yapacana hill. Visit the national park and learn about the illegal extraction of gold and then pay a visit to the Carida community. The night will be spent in hammocks. B/L/D. DAY 13: Excursion to the area surrounding the Cocuy Rock and to a Brazilian village. The night will be spent in hammocks. B/L/D. DAY 6: We sail to the Yanomami village of Cejal and visit the Tamatama mission. The night will be spent in hammocks. B/L/D. RETURN OPTIONS: from here on you have two options for the return journey: DAY 7: We continue by boat to La Esmeralda, where we’ll visit the Humboldt Research Center, before continuing to the Casiquiare tributary. The night will be spent in hammocks. B/L/D. DAY 8: Today we explore the area around Casiquiare and visit the Yanomami village of Coromoto. The night will be spent in hammocks. B/L/D. DAY 14: We return to San Carlos by boat along the Río Negro. Return by plane and spend the rest of the day at leisure. 15th DAY: Transfer from airport. 1 night accommodation in a hotel in the city in a double room All mentioned meals and non alcoholic beverages English-speaking guide Reservations and assistance for the plane trip from San Carlos to Puerto Ayacucho, if you choose this option for the return. The day of the flight must be arranged in advance. All land transfers An electric gadget to recharge video cameras batteries Permit processing NB Photography of the indigenous people is not guaranteed OR Continue the journey back by boat with the crew and the food supplies for five more days until we arrive at Samariapo. The journey is pretty much non-stop, but short visits can be arranged and we spend the night RECOMMENDATIONS Bring: No more than 18kg of luggage Amazon Light clothing, swimsuit, boots and sandals, or sport shoes We will assist you in arranging a return flight, if you prefer. Medicine for personal use (headache, indigestion etc.) A charter plane for 4 passengers costs US$2,000. Torch, knife, hat, insect repellent, sun cream MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE: Binoculars and sufficient photographic material This trip is not recommended for children. 4 people. It can be a larger group but divided in to two boats and the price will be adjusted accordingly. This trip does not require a specific level of physical fitness. This trip can be carried out from June to December. AUTANA TOUR 4 DAYS & 3 NIGHTS This expedition in the south of Venezuela will take you close to the Autana tepui. The trip is mainly by boat, sailing along the Autana River and keeping close to the river bank so that you can go on walks to visit, among others, a Piaroa community; you will spend the night here, joining in with the villagers and their shaman. It won't be possible to visit the Autana tepui, only to observe it from a distance, as it is considered sacred territory by the local Piaroa people. BRIEF DESCRIPTION DAY 1: You will be picked up at the Orinoquia Lodge Amazon after your breakfast. Departure by jeep to Samariapo Port (1 hour). Go by boat along the Orinoco River, from which we will go along the Sipapo River. We will stop in a place of extraordinary beauty for a refreshing bathe and lunch. After, we will continue to the beginning of the Autana River where we will overnight in a Piaroas Indian village. We will visit the surroundings to learn about their daily activities. (Overnight in hammocks). Meals: / L/ D DAY 2 08:30am. We start our excursion along the Autana River, and stop in a shore of Sipapo River for lunch. Visit the Indian community, go trekking in the jungle guided by a local which will enhance the experience and get a different view of the Autana. Return to Ceguere to enjoy this fantastic place and to overnight Meals B/L/D. DAY 3: 08:30am We will sail back along the Autana River and stop on the banks of the Sipapo River for lunch. We will visit an Indian community to learn a little about their culture then sail along the Orinoco River to reach Samariapo port. Transfer by jeep to Puerto Ayacucho, overnight in a hotel (in double or twin room with air conditioning and private bathroom). Meals B/L/D. DAY 4: 08:00 am. Visit to the indian market. Transfer to the aiport on time for your flight back to Caracas. End of services. Meals: B / -/ -. Take your clothes and personal gear in a small backpack. Light clothes, bathing suit, sandals or sport shoes. Medicines according to your needs (headache, etc.) Lintern, hat, raincoat, mosquitoes repelent and sun protection INCLUDES: All meals, as shown in the description. Binoculars, cameras, etc. Refreshments and non-alcoholic drinks. Passport (original). Biligual guides. Transfers. We do not guarantee the you can take pictures to the indians. RECOMENDATIONS: The Caribbean Venezuela’s Caribbean coast is, at over 3,000km long, the longest coastline in the Caribbean. It is full of beautiful beaches, islands, coral reefs and an amazing variety of fish species. Here we highlight some of the possibilities we offer at each location on the Venezuelan Caribbean. CARACAS Caracas, Venezuela’s capital is located in the north of the country, following the contours of a narrow mountain valley located on the Venezuelan coastal range. The valley’s temperatures are spring-like, and the inhabitable surface of the Caracas Valley lies between 2,500 and 3,000ft (760 and 910m) above sea level. The valley is close to the Caribbean Sea, separated from the coast by a steep mountain range (Cerro Ávila) that rises above 8,000ft (2600m); to the south lies further hills and mountains. The official metropolitan area has an estimated population of 3.3 million. CARACAS CITY TOURS This walk will take you through part of the old city downtown, where there are a number of historical locations evoking what Caracas looked like during the 18th and 19th centuries. Some of the places visited during the trip include La Plaza Bolivar, Bolivar Museum, Basilica de Santa Teresa and El Teatro Nacional. During the tour through old Caracas there will also be many opportunities to see modern architecture and attractions as well. TOUR OF AVILA NATIONAL PARK A half-day tour to Avila National Park includes a visit to the village of Galipan and Castillo Negro, the historic site of an old colonial fort. There will also be the possibility to observe different flora and fauna within the National Park. The excursion includes a picnic-style lunch. TOUR OF TACARIGUA DE LA LAGUNA A part of the National Park system in Caracas, Tacarigua de La Laguna is a wetland region with mangrove lagoons surrounded by tropical flora. On the tour we will cross a mangrove lagoon by boat to a secluded beach where you will have the opportunity of viewing the local birdlife. Afterwards, we will have a hearty lunch on the beach consisting of locally caught fish. THE CABLE CAR AND EL ÁVILA On this tour you ride the cable car from the Caracas valley up to the Avila Peak. From the cable car you will be able to identify the different varieties of vegetation in the Gamboa gallery forest, where there is also a small waterfall with crystalline waters fed from a mountain stream. The Avila Peak is where the cylindrical Humboldt Hotel was built. It takes The Caribbean approximately 15 minutes by cable car from the Maripérez Station. Lunch is included. and to take a refreshing dip in remote majestic waterfalls. Visits to sugar cane and cacao plantations, with their colonial architecture, are also a highlight. Of course, lazy days on the nearby beaches, like Playa Grande in Puerto Colombia, are always a possibility. EL HATILLO TOUR El Hatillo is well known for its comfortable climate, old houses and its especially friendly people who make the town such a popular place. Most houses contain some kind of business, be it a restaurant, a café, a ceramics shop or a bookshop. The town, which actually belongs to the Caracas municipality, has become a very popular place to go, especially for weekend outings. During the tour we will browse the town’s art exhibitions, theatre performances and workshops in the Ateneo del Hatillo. The journey from Caracas to El Hatillo takes approximately 45 minutes. Lunch is included. At night, go down to the beach so you can listen to the drums (Tambores), played by the locals, and enjoy Caribbean drinks such as Guarapita. If you are looking for solitude, you can stroll along the sleepy, colonial streets and around Bolivar Square in Choroni. ACTIVITIES IN THE SURROUNDING AREA CHORONÍ On the other side of the Caribbean Mountain chain, Choroní is a favourite destination. Tucked between the mountainous cloud forests of Henri Pittier National Park and the sapphire-blue waters of the Caribbean, the colonial village is a reminder of former times. Several houses in this pastel-coloured fishing village have been converted into simple but comfortable fullboard accommodation. ACTIVITIES IN CHORONI There are many opportunities for excursions, for example to Henri Pittier National Park to hike through the cloud forest to observe the unique flora and fauna You have the option of taking a small fishing boat (”peñero”) to visit the neighbouring bays like Chuao, where you can walk through an old cacao plantation, or Cepe, a beautiful and tranquil palm beach with excellent snorkelling opportunities; taking a fishing boat to Valle Seco is another great opportunity to snorkel. If you prefer solitude, you can walk or take a boat to the “Hidden Beaches” just west of Choroni. BIRDWATCHING IN HENRI PITTIER NATIONAL PARK (GRADE I, 3 DAYS/2 NIGHTS) The Park provides a unique opportunity for world-class birdwatching tours; among the many attractive features is the Portachuelo Pass, a natural migratory route for birds and insects. Ask our representatives about our Henri Pittier customized birdwatching trip. The Caribbean ISLA MARGARITA DIVING AND SNORKELLING Half day at the Farallon, with transfer, boat, dive master, equipment and one dive. Full day at Los Frailes, the best spot on the island, aboard a comfortable 12m yacht (offering bathroom, shade and security) with transfer, boat, dive master, equipment, light breakfast, lunch, drinks and two dives. You can also rent a car, bicycle or a scooter and tour the island. There are many interesting places to visit such as museums, restored colonial forts and the colonial beauty of La Asuncion, or you can explore the many undeveloped and isolated beaches and attractive little villages. Night dive at the Farallon with transfer, boat, dive master and equipment. Half-day snorkelling at Los Frailes, with transfer, boat, light breakfast, drinks and snorkel equipment. Many tours can be arranged for you: Jeep safaris, horseback riding, windsurfing, catamaran trips to neighbouring islands, snorkelling, diving, or a birdwatching tour through the mangroves at the fascinating Restinga Lagoon. Adventurous 2-day package tours to the Orinoco Delta and Canaima are also available from Margarita Island (see below for description). Two-day lesson at Los Frailes with transfers, equipment, two guided dives, classroom instruction, lunch and drinks. Half-day lesson at the Farallon with transfer, equipment, instructor, boat and one guided dive. ACTIVITIES Besides enjoying the endless white sandy beaches, you can have fun with a variety of activities such as jet skis, windsurfing, bodysurfing, ultralight planes, nightlife at the discos and shopping in the duty free stores or you can have a delicious lobster or red snapper in any of the restaurants along the shore. PADI certification course for three days with transfers, equipment, instructor and four dives The Caribbean LOS ROQUES About 150km due north of Venezuela's Caribbean coastline lies one of the least visited archipelagos in the world: Los Roques National Park. The Park is a giant coral reef skimming the surface of the turquoise and emerald waters, comprising 50 white-sand islands and a further 200 (or more) beaches and islets. Visit the remote islands of the archipelago to relax, stroll on the white-sand beaches or swim in the crystal clear waters. Explore the underwater world with diving or snorkelling excursions or visit the flats for exciting bonefish fishing. DIVING INFORMATION It is possible to have lessons with one of the best diving schools available in the Archipelago Los Roques. The highly qualified instructors have been trained under strict rules of safety and professionalism. BONEFISH FISHING Los Roques has become known as one of the best fishing locations in the Caribbean. The numbers of bonefish can be compared only to the Seychelles. Schools with thousands of fish are common and anglers are constantly following smaller groups of larger fish. This is a place for those who love to fish from the seashore rather than being confined to a boat. While the archipelago is famous for its pancake flats, the area also offers great opportunities on its coral banks, sandy beaches, massive flats and mangrove lagoons. In addition to world-class bonefish fishing, other opportunities include Tarpon, Permit, Jacks, Tuna, Snook and Barracuda. Along with the great fishing, Los Roques also benefits from some of the most stable weather in the Caribbean. It is outside the hurricane belt and does not suffer the cold fronts that can occur when fishing further north. The Caribbean MOCHIMA Mochima National Park, which lies between Puerto La Cruz and Cumana on the eastern coast, covers 950 sq km. It is roughly three-fifths sea and islands; the remaining coast being headlands and mainland. The park, taking its name from the deep fjord-like Mochima Bay, was established to halt developments by holidaymakers who built cottages wherever they wanted along the coast and on islands. ADVENTURE TOURS Sunrise dolphin watching trip; scenic sunset boat excursions; day trip snorkelling and swimming to the islands; day trip rafting on the Neveri River on a traditional raft; cycling tour up the Truimiquire Valley; day trip to the Guacharo Caves; day-long cruise on 37ft motor yacht or week-long live-aboard trips. DAY TRIPS ON YACHT Cruise the local coast and islands of Mochima National Park (min. 4 persons) including lunch and drinks. Snorkelling equipment is available and there is optional scuba diving. FIVE- TO SEVEN-DAY SCENIC CHARTER Rental equipment is available for scuba and snorkeling, but feel free to bring your own gear. PARIA PENINSULA Live-aboard and cruise the Southern Caribbean waters (min. 4 persons) exploring the South American Coast and many tropical Caribbean Islands. Design your own week-long adventure discovering the hidden secrets of this new world. The beautiful Peninsula of Paria is made up of the clear blue crystalline waters of the Caribbean, montane forests of the coast, shrublands, dry tropical forests and premontane wet forests. Due to the rich diversity of flora and fauna in the area, it is perfect for any ecotourism adventure. DIVING ACTIVITIES IN THE AREA The diving facility is on the beach and we have state-ofthe-art diving equipment, an air compressor and a 30ft fibreglass boat. Dive trips include two tank dives with a snack. Diving and snorkelling instruction is available. Scuba diving in the Caribbean at one of several different beaches including, but not limited to: Medina Beach, Puipuy Beach and Cangua Beach. The Caribbean Scenic coastal drives along San Juan de Las Galdonas to get a good view of the area’s natural landscape. Hikes through the montane and premontane wet forests of Cerro del Humo and Santa Isabel to view some of the local flora and fauna. Visit the Turtle Research and Conservation Project on the Paria Peninsula. Snorkelling along the coast to view the marine life and its natural habitat. Fishing along the coast for a variety of different fish species. Sunbathe on the beach, sail along the coast and windsurf in the ocean. Take a boat trip to a secluded island for the day; visit the area’s local hot springs. Take a night tour to the Guacharo Caves to witness the famous birds. Take an off-road jeep tour or take a boat tour to Los Testigos Island to snorkel in a more secluded area. Additionally, participants have the opportunity to visit a reserve for buffalo conservation and the rehabilitation of the natural resources. Such conservation efforts are to ensure that the buffalo and other natural resources will be in existence for future generations. A project is also underway for the sustainable development of the Paria Peninsula to maintain the quality of life for the local people and to prevent unacceptable changes to the natural resources. There are also opportunities for tourists to visit the Turuepano National Park, a refuge for the local Manatees. Orinoco Delta The Orinoco Delta is a vast, intricate labyrinth of waterways weaving through steamy virgin jungle to carry the waters of the Orinoco River to the Atlantic Ocean. It is home to varied and abundant tropical flora and fauna. An uncountable number of channels cut through it carrying water from the Orinoco River, the largest in Venezuela, to the Atlantic Ocean. As the centuries have passed the Orinoco has formed into one of the largest deltas in the world. This humid jungle paradise is also home to mangrove swamps that boast a rich diversity of bird life.. EXCURSION: 2 NIGHTS (3D/2N) On this excursion you overnight in our base camp, the Orinoco Delta Lodge, located by El Guamal, one of the various river outlets into which the Orinoco flows. The camp buildings were erected on the banks of the river and some over the river itself. It is rustic, comfortable and quite extraordinary. The lucky participants on this adventure enjoy piranha fishing, canoe trips, visits to the villages of the Warao people and walks through the forest among other activities. It is a great privilege to be able to observe up close the flora and fauna that survives in this region and to meet the original settlers of the Delta, and most probably of Venezuela, according to historians EXCURSION: 4 NIGHTS (5D/4N) In this excursion it is possible to go beyond the Delta. You will enjoy a spectacular excursion through the caños observing the diverse animal and plant life. The second camp is made up of a simple structure, deep inside the jungle; this excursion puts us in close contact with the surrounding environment. The night is spent in either hammocks or beds. After breakfast on the 5th day we will take the return boat trip to Tucupita. We will then transfer you to Orinoco Delta Maturin City Airport (200km) for your late afternoon flight to Caracas. TOURS INCLUDE: TOUR DOES NOT INCLUDE: Airport departure taxes Domestic charter flights (we can arrange them) Hotel arrangements in Caracas or Tucupita pre and post tour (We can arrange them) Pre-departure information Assistance at the international airport Land transportation Personal gear or items of a personal nature Transfers to and from camp by boat Lodging as indicated Meals, alcoholic beverages, tours or other services not listed on the itinerary Meals and non-alcoholic drinks as indicated English-speaking guide All excursions (fishing and other activities) Long rubber boots (up to size 12/45) Tips to local staff, nor any expenses incurred in preparing for the trip such as, but not limited to, non-refundable airline tickets, insurance or additional expenses encountered as a result of flight delays, cancellations or missed connections. OTHER IMPORTANT INFORMATION: Overnight trips in jungle camps are not recommended for older people or visitors with health problems. It is not compulsory to have a vaccine, but it is recommended. Anti-malarial medicine is a good precaution; Mefloquine is recommended because the malarial strains in Venezuela are chloroquine resistant. For those who are taking long trips deep into the jungle, it is recommended that you have other vaccines such as Triple Polio, Yellow Fever and Measles. Gran Sabana The Gran Sabana is one of the most celebrated landscapes of Venezuela. From Arthur Conan Doyle’s “The Lost World” to National Geographic’s 1989 feature story and amateur slide shows in homes around the world, those who have seen this awesome landscape have been left with a lasting impression. Massive sandstone tepuis (mesas) rise out of both the jungle canopy and the rolling grasslands. Waterfalls tumble down the sides of these massive batholiths. Some of the tepuis tower more than 2500m above the savannah floor and have never been explored. In fact, an estimated half of all endemic plant and animal species of the tepuis, such as Roraima and Auyantepui, remain unique to them, and are not found anywhere else on earth; every tepui has its own world. The Gran Sabana encompasses Canaima National Park, Angel Falls and a wealth of cultural and biological diversity. ANGEL FALLS AND CANAIMA TOURS To the South of the Orinoco River you will find Canaima National Park, the world’s third largest park, a tropical paradise with an infinite variety of natural resources and breathtaking landscapes. Canaima is located in the eastern section of the park and comprises the tourist area of the same name; imposing mesas such as Roraima and Auyantepui are here, as well as the Angel Falls, the world's highest waterfall towering 979m into the sky. You will also see other wonders in this area such as the Canaima lagoon, an enormous backwater formed from the turbulent waters of the Carrao River, and Kavac, a waterfall in a small canyon. AUYANTEPUI TREK (GRADE IV, 8 DAYS/7 NIGHTS) The Auyantepui is also called the Home of the Devil by the Pemon Indians who live in this region. This is the largest tepui in Bolivar state and the location of the highest waterfall in the world – Angel Falls. This is an 8day moderate level trek. The trip starts in Ciudad Bolivar but it is also possible to begin in Puerto Ordaz or Santa Elena de Uairén. DAY 1: Ciudad Bolivar -Canaima -Angel Falls – Uraven – Guayacara We leave Ciudad Bolivar in a small Cessna airplane. After passing a few small tepuis we enter Canaima National Park. The flight through the Devil’s Canyon is a thrill for people who enjoy flying. Coming out of the canyon we leave Kavak on our right and descend to Uruyen, our destination. We should land before lunchtime. We’ll start the trek to the camp, Gran Sabana on the first terrace of the mountain, and stay there for the night. (2-3 hours flight; 3-4 hours hiking) (–, L, D) DAY 2: High Sabana-El Peñon After breakfast we make our way across a typical “High Sabana”. Along the way, changes in the flora are already noticeable. Before it gets too hot, we will reach the shady and silent sanctuary of the “Middle Rainforest”. We stay in the shade until we reach the second terrace where the vegetation changes quite dramatically. There, we encounter the first members of the endemic tepui flora. We’ll arrive at our camp, between 1500 and 1600hrs, where we set up for the night. (6-7 hours hiking) (B, L, D) DAY 3: El Peñon - Auyantepui Summit - El Oso In the morning, from “El Peñon” we look down into a sea of clouds. After 90 minutes walking we will arrive at “La Paloma”; there we have a little rest then begin the ascent. Near the abyss at “Pico Libertador”, weather permitting, we will stop for lunch. From there, after approximately three more hours, we arrive at “El Oso”, our friendly rock overhang and home for three nights. We set up camp for the night at around 1700hrs. (6-7 hours hiking) (B, L, D) DAY 4: El Oso - Orchid Island This morning we will relax and can spend time bathing in a waterfall about 15 minutes from El Oso. After lunch and a short siesta it’s time to discover the orchids. We won’t have to walk far and there will be enough time to learn about the tepui’s flora in detail. (3 hours hiking) (B, L, D) DAY 5: Campo Lecho/Churún River-El Oso After an early breakfast we will be on our way to “Campo Lecho” located behind the big bend on the “Churún River”. We will leave the bleak plain to enter a green haven of rainforest, signalling the vicinity of the river. Soon we arrive at the “Churun” bend in time for lunch. We arrive back at “El Oso” at around 1600hrs. (6-7 hours hiking) (B, L, D) DAY 6: El Oso - El Peñon – Guayacara We will break camp as early as possible and on the way down we only stop at El Peñon for lunch. The trip is long, but it is all downhill. We will descend with care, especially in areas where we need ropes to help us through. (7-8 hours hiking) (B, L, D) DAY 7: Guayacara-Kavak A leisurely breakfast will prepare us for the last leg before civilization beckons. In Kavak, which we have only seen from the air, cold drinks will be available. We will finally sit at tables after La 7 days - a well-deserved reward - and will have a special Kavak chicken barbecue. Comfortable hammocks will await us for a good night's sleep. (6 hours hiking) (B, L, D) DAY 8: Kavak Cave-Ciudad Bolívar While we are waiting for the plane from Ciudad Bolivar we will use the time to visit the famous “Kavak Cave”. With cameras safely packed in plastic bags we will swim part of the way to a very impressive waterfall in a cave-like opening in this narrow canyon. (2 hours hiking) (B, L, D) Gran Sabana RORAIMA TREK (GRADE IV, 6 DAYS/5 NIGHTS) http://www.lastrefuge.co.uk/photolibrary/AWlibrary_mai n.html Roraima Tepui, one of the largest and highest mesas in this region, sits at the tripartite border of Venezuela, Brazil and Guyana. Its plateau is at 2,700m and the highest part at 2,810m. Roraima is home to an abundance of endemic flora and fauna species. Roughly half of the flora identified in the “Lost World”, from Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, exists only on Roraima and nowhere else in the world. Isolated from each other and towering over the savannah, these fascinating mesas are biological wonders. Come and join us for a jeep tour through this fascinating landscape! DAY 1: Santa Elena - Paraitepui – Tek River Camp A 4x4 vehicle will take you to the small Pemon Indigenous community of Paraitepui. After a light lunch in the village, we begin the trek escorted by our Taurepan porters. Our first camp will be established near the Tek River, approximately a four-hour hike across the savannah. Accommodation will be in tents so that you can enjoy the fresh night-time air of the savannah. (3 hours by jeep, 4 hours hiking) (–, L, D) Distance: Paraitepui – Tek River Camp: 12 km La DAY 2: Tek River Camp - Roraima Base Camp In the morning we’ll enjoy our first sunrise view of Roraima Tepui. After breakfast, we set off for the Roraima base camp. First, we will ford the Tek River and then continue along the Kukenan River. Early in the afternoon, we’ll arrive at the Military Camp, which is a great spot to enjoy our lunch. A few hours later, we reach our campsite, which is not far from the base of Roraima. The camp sits at 1,800m and temperatures drop to about 15C in the evening. (6 hours hiking) (B, L, D) Distances: Tek River – Kukenan River: 1.5 km Kukenan River – “Military camp”: 4.5 km “Military camp” – Base camp: 4.5 km DAY 3: Roraima Base Camp - Roraima Summit This is our most difficult day. After a cooked breakfast we start our trek. A few hours later we reach the base of Roraima marked by a talus slope of huge boulders. We ascend a 50-100ft wide ramp that runs from right to left along the cliff face allowing the only easy access to Roraima’s summit. We will set up camp on the top of the tepui at a place called “Los Hoteles”. (5 hours hiking) (B, L, D) Distances: Base camp – “Los Hoteles”: 2.5 km Gran Sabana supper and stay overnight. . (–, L, D) . **This tour can also begin in Sta. Elena or Ciudad Bolivar. DAY 4: Explore Roraima’s Summit After an early breakfast we trek to the Kukenan’s Window so we can view the eastern wall of Roraima. We also visit the Triple Point where the frontiers of Brazil, Venezuela and Guyana meet; this point is marked by a monument. We will also explore the Valley of the Crystals. (B, L, D) (8 hours hiking) DAY 5: Roraima – Tek River Camp After a good night's rest it will be time to head back down to the savannah. We will eat lunch at the base of Roraima before crossing the Kukenan and Tek rivers and then setting up base camp. (6 hours hiking) (B, L, D) DAY 6: Tek River Camp-Paraitepui Village-Santa Elena After our last breakfast on the trail, we head for Paraitepui, about four hours away. Before meeting our driver, we will have a leisurely lunch. After travelling in the 4x4, we should arrive at Santa Elena around 1600hrs. (4 hours hiking, 3 hours by jeep) (B, L, –) La DAYS 2-3: Waterfalls-River Excursions This excursion highlights the beautiful world of the Pemon Indians, the tepuis which reach up to the sky, breathtaking waterfalls, rapids and Indian settlements. There are also one- to two-hour-long river excursions by boat, as well as adventurous trails we can follow by jeep. . (B, L, D) GRAN SABANA JEEP TOUR (1) (GRADE I, 4 DAYS/3 NIGHTS) The mysterious, mist-shrouded Tepuis that inspired Sir Arthur Conan Doyle to write the “Lost World” are some of the oldest rock formations on earth. Rising several thousand feet above the surrounding plains of Venezuela’s Gran Sabana, the near vertical, rosecoloured cliffs of these table-top mountains, from which sparkling waterfalls plunge into a dense ring of tropical forest, are a dramatic and inspiring sight. DAY 1: Puerto Ordaz - El Dorado - Indigenous Camp Early in the morning we start our excursion from Puerto Ordaz, setting off on the long trip to the Gran Sabana. The camp is built in an Indian settlement where the locals will host us for the night. After settling in we will visit a gold mine before returning to camp. We will have DAY 4: End of Services After our last breakfast together, we start our trip back. We will arrive in Puerto Ordaz at around 1700hrs. . (B, L, –) Gran Sabana GRAN SABANA JEEP TOUR (2) (GRADE I, 4 DAYS/3 NIGHTS) The mysterious, mist-shrouded Tepuis that inspired Sir Arthur Conan Doyle to write the “Lost World” are some of the oldest rock formations on earth. Rising several thousand feet above the surrounding plains of Venezuela’s Gran Sabana, the near vertical, rosecoloured cliffs of these table-top mountains, from which sparkling waterfalls plunge into a dense ring of tropical forest, are a dramatic and inspiring sight. DAY 1 We embark on our journey overland to the Gran Sabana and we will visit Cachamay Park or the Plaza del Agua in the Macagua Dam. Then we continue our journey for approximately 500km passing the mining villages of Upata, Guasipati, El Callao and Tumeremo where we will have lunch. Then the route passes El Dorado, Las Claritas and Kilómetre 88 where the ascent to Sierra de Lema begins. We will have a short stop in Piedra de la Virgen and El Soldado Pionero. Late in the afternoon we arrive at the camp where we will have dinner and overnight. (–, L, D) **This tour can also begin in Sta. Elena or Ciudad Bolivar. DAY 2 We leave after breakfast to cover the journey north which brings us to the indigenous hamlet of LiwoRiwo; here we will travel by small boat for 25 minutes. We arrive at Chinak Meru waterfalls where we can enjoy the beautiful countryside; afterwards we will begin our descent on foot from the waterfall back to LiwoRiwo where we will have lunch. The route then continues to the indigenous community of Kanavayen. Late in the afternoon we arrive at the camp where we will have dinner and overnight. DAY 3 After breakfast we follow the route south which takes us to Santa Elena de Uairen. During the day there will be time to stop at several waterfalls and ravines (quebradas): Kaui waterfall, Kama Meru waterfall (we will have lunch here), valley of the tepuis and Quebrada de Pacheco. Late in the afternoon we arrive at the camp in Santa Elena de Uairen where we will have dinner and overnight. (B, L, D) DAY 4 We leave camp after breakfast to travel to the border with Brazil where we can enjoy views of both countries. Then we turn north where we visit several waterfalls: Agua Fría, Kako Paru (Jaspe), Cortina de Yuruani and the Piscinas de Pacheco among others, to swim and take short walks. Late in the afternoon we arrive at the camp where we will have dinner and overnight. (B, L, –) La DAY 5 After breakfast we leave camp to start our return journey to Puerto Ordaz. We will stop at the Balcon de la Escalera then we will go to the village of El Callao to visit the gold mines and gold shops in the region. The route then takes us to Guasipati where we will stop for lunch before finishing our tour in Puerto Ordaz. (B, L, –) Gran Sabana ANGEL FALLS, CANAIMA & KAVAC WITH OVERFLIGHT (GRADE I, 4 DAYS/3 NIGHTS) The Angel Falls and Superior Camp tour takes your clients into the beautiful and pristine Canaima National Park to enjoy the natural riches of the region. You will have the opportunity to see the Angel Falls from the air along with the surrounding dense tropical vegetation, which is a feature of the landscape within Canaima National Park; also they can overnight in a camp on the banks of the Canaima River. This tour was designed for visitors with a good level of fitness; however, our guides follow a route which they can adjust to suit the capabilities of each participant, ensuring the perfect opportunity to enjoy the vastness and diversity of Venezuela's flora and fauna. DAY 1: Arrival at Canaima You will be met at the airport and transferred from Caracas to Puerto Ordaz, which takes around 50 minutes, where you will board a charter flight in a Cessna 206 to Canaima; the flight takes one hour. We will meet you in Canaima and transfer you to the camp. . After touring Canaima's lagoon, we’ll head back to the lodging area. In the evening you’ll have the opportunity to rest and enjoy views of the lagoon; on a clear night you can enjoy gazing at the stars in the Southern La Hemisphere sky. Overnight in hammocks. . (–,L,D) DAY 2: Carrao River – Angel Falls After a light early morning breakfast we depart at 0600hrs. We sail along the Carao River for 3.5hrs before joining the Churum River where our expedition starts. Arriving at Ratoncito Island we will have lovely views of the Angel Falls; after another hour's walk we'll stop for an hour at the base of the falls. . Dinner is served in the lodging area. . (B,L,D) DAY 3: Kavac Tour including Overflight Transfer to Canaima’s Airport to start the Kavac tour. After a thrilling flight through Devil’s Canyon in a private Cessna, we’ll land on the isolated dirt strip at the Pemon indigenous outpost of Kavac. . The amazing gorge at Kavac was carved out by the waterfalls on the slopes of the flat-topped mountains over the centuries. The rocks of these mountains are between 1,800 and 3,600 million years old and considered the oldest on the planet. Afterwards, head back to Canaima and the lodging area for your overnight stay. . (B,L,D) DAY 4: Departure Enjoy a leisurely breakfast on the shores of Laguna Canaima before being transferred to the airport. (B,–,–) Gran Sabana ANGEL FALLS RIVER TOUR (GRADE I, 3 DAYS/2 NIGHTS) A visit to Angel Falls by river is one of the most memorable experiences in Venezuela. Clients get the chance to see the falls along with the surrounding dense tropical vegetation which is a feature of the landscape within Canaima National Park. This tour was designed for visitors with a good level of fitness; however, our guides follow a route which they can adjust to suit the capabilities of each participant, ensuring the perfect opportunity to enjoy the vastness and diversity of Venezuela's flora and fauna. DAY 1: Canaima-Canaima Camp-Rio Carrao You will be met at the airport and transferred from Caracas to Puerto Ordaz, which takes around 50 minutes, where you will board a charter flight in a Cessna 206 to Canaima; the flight takes one hour. We will meet you in Canaima and transfer you to the camp. After touring Canaima's lagoon, we’ll head back to the lodging area. From there, we will depart by canoe and witness the natural beauty of Sapito Falls where we’ll be able to walk behind a powerful curtain of water. In the evening you’ll have the opportunity to rest and enjoy views of the lagoon; on a clear night you can enjoy gazing at the stars in the Southern Hemisphere sky. Overnight in DR in the lodge. (–, L, D) La DAY 2: Rio Carrao-Angel Falls-Canaima Camp After a light early morning breakfast we depart at 0600hrs. We sail along the Carrao River for 3.5hrs before joining the Churum River where our expedition starts. Arriving at Ratoncito Island we will have lovely views of the Angel Falls; after another hour's walk we'll stop for an hour at the base of the falls. Overnight in hammocks at the base of the falls. (B,L,D) DAY 3: Canaima Camp-Pozo de La Felicidad-Canaima After an early departure by boat we head for Canaima Camp visiting Pozo de La Felicidad en route. We’ll arrive in Canaima at about 1100hrs. Transfer to the airport. (B,–,–) ANGEL FALLS, CANAIMA AND KAVAC, WITH OVERFLIGHT (GRADE I, 2 DAYS/1 NIGHT) The Angel Falls and Canaima tour, which includes an overflight of the falls, takes you into the beautiful and pristine Canaima National Park to enjoy the natural riches of the region. You will have the opportunity to see the Angel and Sapito falls from the along with the surrounding dense tropical vegetation which is a feature of the landscape within Canaima National Park. This tour was designed for visitors with a good level of fitness; however, our guides follow a route which they Gran Sabana ensuring the perfect opportunity to enjoy the vastness and diversity of Venezuela's flora and fauna. DAY 1: Canaima - Campamento You will be met at the airport and transferred from Caracas to Puerto Ordaz, which takes around 50 minutes, where you will board a charter flight in a Cessna 206 to Canaima; the flight takes one hour. We will meet you in Canaima and transfer you to the camp. After touring Canaima's lagoon, we’ll head back to the lodging area. From there, we will depart by canoe and witness the natural beauty of Sapito Falls where we’ll be able to walk behind a powerful curtain of water. We’ll take a 20-minute walk up to Puerto Ucaima and then we embark in the canoes again to watch the Mayupa rapids. Overnight in double rooms with private bathroom here. (--, L, D) DAY 2: Overflight This morning we'll go on a thrilling flight through the “Cañón del Diablo” in a private Cessna to see the stunning Angel Falls. After the flight, we’ll return to the camp at around 1100hrs to collect our luggage. Once you have your luggage, you’ll be transferred to the airport. While you wait for your flight back to Caracas, you can visit the local handicraft’s shops which are close by . (D, --, --) TOURS INCLUDE can adjust to suit the capabilities of each participant, La Pre-departure information Assistance at airports Transportation from and to the regional airport Land and river transportation Lodging as indicated Meals and non-alcoholic drinks as indicated English-speaking guide for trip First aid kits Life jacket for each passenger TOURS DO NOT INCLUDE Airport departure taxes Domestic charter flights (we can arrange them) Items of a personal nature Meals, alcoholic beverages, tours or other services not listed on the itinerary Tips to local staff, nor any expenses incurred in preparing for the trip such as, but not limited to, non-refundable airline tickets, insurance or additional expenses encountered as a result of flight delays, cancellations or missed connections. Gran Sabana WE RECOMMEND THAT YOU BRING Lightweight long-sleeved clothing Waterproof jacket Good walking shoes/boots A spare pair of light shoes Sleeping bag Swimsuit Comfortable sandals Sunglasses Suntan lotion Insect repellent with 50-90% DEET Hat/visor Camera/film Binoculars Compact torch and pocket knife Water bottle La OTHER IMPORTANT INFORMATION: Overnight trips in jungle camps are not recommended for older people or visitors with health problems. It is not compulsory to have a vaccine, but it is recommended. Anti-malarial medicine is a good precaution; Mefloquine is recommended because the malarial strains in Venezuela are chloroquine resistant. For those who are taking long trips deep into the jungle, it is recommended that you have other vaccines such as Triple Polio, Yellow Fever and Measles. The Andes CROSSING THE ANDES ON FOOT GRADE IV, 5 DAYS/4 NIGHTS) The Sierra Nevada in Merida links the mountain range which separates Maracaibo Lake from the Llanos (plains) of Barinas state. In this expedition we climb to the summit of the mountain, crossing the border between the states of Merida and Barinas. We cross the peaks of the mountains and descend the slopes of the Sierra Nevada, camping or staying in lodges en route. The lodges are part of the Tropical Andes programme, with whom we work, and are traditional houses adapted to provide comfortable accommodation for visitors. DAY 1 Just one hour after leaving our office by jeep we arrive at the Andean village of Mucuchies (2.980m) where we leave the main road and take the track to Gavidia village, where we start our ascent to Micarache (3.100m). The countryside is made up of tiny fields, lined with stone and grass in the hills, shaded by small copses of tall trees. We then start to walk for several hours until we reach the site of our first camp, by a stream (Los Morritos 3.000m). (1.5 hrs by jeep and 4 hours on foot) DAY 2 After breakfast and packing up camp we set out towards El Carrizal. Leaving behind the high plateau we emerge into dense and little visited cloud forest, reached through narrow valleys. Occasionally we use dramatic suspension bridges to cross the rivers that feed into the mighty Orinoco River. Finally we arrive at the tiny Andean hamlet of El Carrizal (1.400m) whose population of 20 is totally isolated from civilisation, without roads or electricity. The hamlet specialises in the production of coffee, avocado and oranges. (4-5 hrs walking) The Andes DAY 3 In the morning we descend to another small village, Alto La Aguada, where we stop to explore the surroundings. We then continue to the small village of San Jose (1.000m) where we will spend the night. From San Jose we can enjoy lovely views of the plains and the town of Barinas in the distance. As in El Carrizal we will spend the night in some of the local houses. (4-5 hrs walking) DAY 4 We continue our journey down the slopes of the Sierra Nevada until we reach 400m above sea level, in the state of Barinas. The mountain path comes to an end in the small village of Canagua where we will spend our last night. (4-5 hrs walking) DAY 5 After breakfast it takes just an hour to descend to Las Palmas where our vehicle will be waiting to take us along the Panamerican Highway to Merida. (1 hr walking, 3 hrs by jeep). For an extra charge white water rafting can be organised as part of this tour for a minimum of 6 participants The Andes passing through quaint, traditional settlements, patchwork farms, semi-desert, páramo scenery, high rocky crests dusted with snow and ice (close to Pico Bolivar) and cloud forest. It’s a tour for all ages and abilities. DAY 1 After breakfast you will go by 4x4 vehicle to the small oasis of El Morro. After El Morro, the road to the picturesque village of Los Nevados (2,700 m) is strictly for 4x4 and professional drivers only. Once settled in there, we will have a look around to appreciate this small and remote village. We overnight in a quaint inn where a typical dinner will be provided. (5 hours by jeep) (B, L, D) LOS NEVADOS (GRADE II, 3 DAYS/2 NIGHTS) This farming settlement is nestled high up in the Valley of the Indians, a challenging place to get to by jeep or on foot. Los Nevados offers a warm welcome and a glimpse into the past. This is one of our most popular tours for those wanting maximum variety in the mountains. We travel by jeep, by mule and on foot on a circular route from Mérida, DAY 2 We will start the day with breakfast prepared by our Andean hosts before letting the mules take the strain as we climb northwards up the mountain valley to Alto de la Cruz at 4,200m. Leaving the mules, we hike for about two hours down the hill to our camp at Los Calderones Valley (3,500m). (4 hours by mule, 2 hours hiking) (B, L, D) DAY 3 After breakfast, we’ll trek 4 hours downhill through a cloud forest to Mucunutan. On the way, we will enjoy views of the city of Mérida and the cloud forest. The hike provides an excellent opportunity for birdwatching and butterfly sighting. We will picnic on the way. From Mucunutan, a 4x4 vehicle will transport us to the Mercado Principal in Mérida (the city market). (5 hours hiking and 1 hour by jeep) (B, L, –) PARAMO TOUR (GRADE I, 1 DAY (OPTIONAL 1 NIGHT) The word “páramo” translates as “moor” or “wilderness” in English and refers to the tropical subalpine ecosystems found in the highlands of Central and South America. We will visit a biological research station where park officials manage an Andean Condor re-introduction programme. We will also journey to Los Frailes, a quaint colonial mission dating from the 17th century, and to Pico el Aguila (4,125m), the highest point in Venezuela accessible by car. NOTE: This tour can be organized to be done exclusively by jeep. Additionally, this excursion can be customized to be exclusively a birdwatching tour. The Andes DAY 1: Mérida-Páramo-Pico Aguila-Laguna NegraLos Frailes This is one of our most requested tours. From Mérida, we follow a scenic route along dramatic mountain roads towards the Andean Páramo. Along the way we visit tranquil colonial Andean villages and enjoy the drinks and delicacies they have to offer. DAY 2: Los Frailes-Hot Springs-Musui This optional extension involves an overnight at Piñango, a remote village up in the Andes or at Los Frailes, a colonial restored monastery in the Andes. It includes a hike to the hot springs of the Musui National Park. Returning to Mérida we can visit the colourful artisan market. Next, we travel up the Pico el Aguila (4,125m) where we will be able to take in the panoramic views of the Andean peaks and sit down to a cooked Andean lunch. From there we will visit the Laguna Mucubaji Park (3,800m) of the Sierra Nevada National Park system. Hiking to Laguna Negra, about 4km, we will enter a microclimate that, due to its specific location, receives more rain and humidity than the surrounding Páramo area. This extra humidity gives life to an interesting diversity of plant species, adding colour and greenery to the windswept Páramo region. Laguna Negra is a beautiful site on a clear, calm day. The black water forms such a perfect mirror that it essentially disappears and is replaced by the reflection of the trees on the mountainside. Optional tandem paragliding can be included at an additional cost. This option may extend the length of the tour to 3 days. After enjoying the tranquil scenery of the Laguna, we will continue to Los Frailes, a quaint colonial mission dating from the 17th century. From Los Frailes we work our way back through the scenic Venezuelan Andes to Mérida. We will drop you off at your hotel. A horseback ride to the Laguna Negra can be arranged for an additional cost. (4 hours by jeep, 2 hours hiking) (–, L,–) (1 hour hiking, 4 hours by jeep, 1 hour biking) (B, L, –) PARAGLIDING (GRADE II, 1 DAY) If you’re looking for a real thrill with incredible, panoramic views, join us for an afternoon of paragliding! We’ll bring you to the office of Natoura where, over coffee, you’ll meet your professional guide. Packing up the 4x4 jeep, we’ll head through the south of Mérida to Tierra Negra. This is your take-off point! TECHNICAL HINTS: Flight type: Soaring and thermal H.A.S.L.: 1,500 metres above sea level Unevenness: 900 meters Duration of flight: 45 minutes. The Andes CANYONING (GRADE IV, 1 DAY) What is canyoning? In a nutshell, canyoning is exploring/touring a canyon. It is most widely know for rappelling down waterfalls…in the water. You do not need any previous experience of rappelling to take part in this activity. We have several years of experience in canyoning and our guides are qualified to handle any situation that should arise. ITINERARY We depart from Mérida at 0830hrs and drive 25 minutes to an altitude of 1,750m above sea level following the “El Morro en la Sierra Nevada” route. Then we walk another 25 minutes, mostly downhill, to the canyoning site where you will have the best view of the whole of Mérida. Once at the cave, the guide will instruct us on how to use the equipment and rappel the falls. From here we will begin our tour of the river. Along the way we will pass many small cascades and three larger waterfalls: 12m, 22m and 25m. The client can rappel down the side of the falls or through the water. Depending on the size of the group, the excursion should take 3-4 hours within the canyon. TOUR INCLUDES: English-speaking Guide Lunch Wetsuit, Rappelling Harness, Safety Harness, Rapelling Rope and all other necessary equipment All transportation to and from Mérida Snacks TOUR DOES NOT INCLUDE: Insurance WE RECOMMEND THAT YOU BRING: Fresh Change of Clothes Swimsuit Waterproof Camera Sandals or Waterproof Shoes NOTE: If you have any specific medical conditions that may be affected by canyoning you need to discuss this with your guide at the beginning of the tour. Make sure you take proper precautions with your contact lenses and spectacles. In the event that weather conditions prevent this tour from happening, it will take place the following day or you will receive a 100% refund. The Andes DAY 1: Mérida-La Mucuy-Laguna Coromoto: At 0830hrs we drive from Mérida to La Mucuy (2,000m) in the Sierra Nevada National Park where the path goes right up into the cloud forest. On this part of the trek we’ll pass several streams and small waterfalls. Camp will be set up at Laguna Coromoto (3,200m), a cool alpine lake teeming with trout. (45 minutes by jeep, 5.5 hours hiking; 9 km) (–, L, D) BOLIVAR PEAK (GRADE IV, 5 DAYS/4 NIGHTS) The route to the top of Pico Bolivar is both spectacular in its beauty and challenging in its ruggedness. Like the Humboldt trek, the trail starts at La Mucuy, a part of the Sierra Nevada National Park. The path winds its way up through dense, tropical cloud forest. It is enchanting to see the number of bird and butterfly species that inhabit the region. On the three-day ascent to the base of Bolivar, we will pass through the beautiful paramo, famous for the velvety “frailejon” plant of the Andes. With the proper climbing equipment, we will summit Pico Bolivar, a peak 5,007 meters high, and gaze across national boundaries into Colombia DAY 2: Laguna Coromoto -Laguna Verde-Laguna Del Suero: After packing up, we head off to Laguna Verde (3.800m), so named because of its brilliant emerald colour, located at the base of the impressive Humboldt (4,942m) and Bonpland Peaks (4,883m). The way to Laguna Verde is steeper and rockier than the previous day, and the scenery is much more open as you follow the valley upwards. A little further on, we will set up camp at Laguna Del Suero (4,200m), nestled in the tranquil surroundings of these imposing peaks. (5 hours hiking; 6 km) (B, L, D) DAY 3: Laguna Del Suero-Laguna Timoncito-Bolívar Base: We start our hike from Laguna del Suero where we will hike west to Laguna Timoncito and face a steep uphill slope on loose rocks called “Chomahoma”. Once on top we will enjoy spectacular views in both directions. We’ll embark on a traverse which runs along the rear of the range. Camp will be made at the base of Pico Bolívar (4,600m) which is an ideal place to admire the brilliance of the night sky. (4-7 hours hiking; 7.5 km) (B, L, D) DAY 4: Bolívar Base-Bolívar Summit This morning we’ll start the climb up to Pico Bolivar (5,007m). From the summit, you can capture the splendour of the natural surroundings. Descending to base camp we will enjoy a cooked dinner. (6 hours climbing) (B, L, D) DAY 5: Stay overnight at Pedro Peña’s house at 3,200m, or carry on to Los Nevados (6-7 hours further on) and stay there for the night. (4-6 hours hiking;... 5.6 km) (B,–,–) DAY 6: Descent The descent starts through a cloud forest, down to Mucunután, where the trip ends. (4-5 hours walking) The Andes HUMBOLDT PEAK (GRADE IV, 4 DAYS/3 NIGHTS) This climb ascends to Venezuela’s second highest mountain at 4.942 meters, which is just as impressive as its neighbor Pico Bolivar. The climb to the top of Humboldt’s glacier requires crampons and pick axes. This trip follows the same route as that of Pico Bolivar, passing through mysterious cloud forest, stark paramo, and hauntingly quiet desert paramo. The rewards of this crossing can be unforgettable. DAY 1: Mérida-La Mucuy-Laguna Coromoto At 0830hrs we drive from Mérida to La Mucuy (2,000m) in the Sierra Nevada National Park where the path goes right up into the cloud forest. On this part of the trek we’ll pass several streams and small waterfalls. Camp will be set up at Laguna Coromoto (3,200m), a cool alpine lake teeming with trout. (45 minutes by jeep, 5.5 hours hiking; 9 km) (–, L, D) DAY 2: Laguna Coromoto -Laguna Verde-Laguna Del Suero After packing up, we head off to Laguna Verde (3,800m), so named because of its brilliant emerald colour, located at the base of the impressive Humboldt (4,942m) and Bonpland Peaks (4,883m). The way to Laguna Verde is steeper and rockier than the previous day, and the scenery is much more open as you follow the valley upwards. A little further on, we will set up camp at Laguna Del Suero (4,200m), nestled in the tranquil surroundings of these imposing peaks. (5 hours hiking; 6km) (B, L, D) DAY 3: Laguna Del Suero-Morrena-Humboldt Summit-Laguna Del Suero After enjoying breakfast and packing up camp, we’ll start the climb up a steep rocky slope called “Morrena”. Once we reach the glacier, we’ll put our crampons on! When we reach the Humboldt’s summit (4,942m), we should enjoy an incredible view of the Colombian Andes in the distance and Pico Bolivar just 5km away in the other direction. We’ll then descend to Laguna Del Suero where we will camp for the night. (4-7 hours hiking) (B, L, D) DAY 4: Laguna Del Suero-Coromoto Lake-Mérida Our return journey takes us via Coromoto Lake where we'll have a picnic lunch overlooking the serene water. After lunch we’ll begin our... decent to La Mucuy where our jeep awaits to bring us back to the city of Mérida. The tour includes a transfer to your hotel. (6 hours hiking, 45 minutes by jeep) (B, L,–) The Andes sugar mill to see how sugar cane is processed. We ride down on a mountain bike and stop at Laguna de Urao, the only saltwater lake in the whole of Venezuela. The road to Los Pueblos del Sur starts here and we climb steeply up a mountain road from 460m to 2,290m with lots of zigzags. We finally arrive at the remote village of San Jose de Acequias where we spend the night in an idyllic Andean hut. The standard of accommodation and food is excellent. 1-1.5hours by mountain bike, 5hours by jeep) (-/-/D) SAN JOSE TOUR GRADE II 2 DAYS/1 NIGHT In San Jose, as well as in the majority of towns in the south, they cook over an open fire, they grind corn using stones, use oxen to plough the land and mules to transport the crops. We are accommodated in a mountain hut and will go on walks, horse rides and go mountain biking through a variety of ecosystems, visit old coffee plantations and traditional sugar mills where the sugar cane is processed to produce sugar loaf. DAY 1 Leaving Merida we stop at at the typical Andean village of Jaji, recognised by UNESCO as a heritage site. We continue to San Juan de Lagunillas to see chewing tobacco being manufactured and then visit a traditional DAY 2: We descend into the Tostos valley by foot or on horseback and here we will have the chance to meet the local people. We have the opportunity to descend to Tierra Negra on a mountain bike, the take-off point for an optional flight by tandem paraglider. After a perfect day we return to Merida in the evening. (4hours on horseback, 5hours walking, 1.5hours by mountain bike, 30-45 mins on tandem paraglider flight, 2hours by jeep) (B,L,-) CONDOR PASS (GRADE II, 3 DAYS/2 NIGHTS) THE FORGOTTEN LAND… Opposite the Sierra Nevada we find a parallel and slightly lower chain of mountains called La Culata. Like the páramo, La Culata treats hikers to vast, windswept vistas across a treeless terrain. Many endangered species live in this park and enormous condors soar over the park’s peaks on lofty 3.5m wingspans. No mountaineering equipment is necessary for the ascent to the top of Pan de Azúcar Peak (4,747m). A clear day will reward you with the sight of Lake Maracaibo to the north and the entire Sierra Nevada range spreading out to the south. DAY 1: At around 0730hrs our driver will pick you up at your hotel and take you to the office for a cup of coffee and to arrange all the equipment with your guide. Then we will set off for “el Valle”, and go right to the end of the road, where we will find the access to the Sierra La Culata National Park and the start of our ascent. The hike starts at 3,200m and climbs to our first camping site at 3,600m. (1 hour driving, 4 to 5 hours hiking) Meals:--,L,D DAY 2: Today, if you wish, you can climb to the top of the peak of Pan de Azucar at 4,700m; from there it is possible to see the Sierra Nevada National Park and its highest peaks, Bolivar and Humboldt, and, weather permitting, Lake Maracaibo. The Andes We will hike for 4 to 5 hours; the ascent does not require technical equipment, but good physical conditions and acclimatization. This might be a long day if you decide to go to the top; returning from the top we take all the equipment with us to the second camp site which is a further 3 hours away. Camp will be set up near a lagoon named “La Carbornera”. (7-8 hours hiking) Meals: B,L,D DAY 3: After a hearty breakfast we will begin our trek to the hot springs. The trek continues across an area densely colonized by short red-trunked coloradito trees — the species of tree which grow at the highest altitude in the world. They once formed a solid belt marking the upper limits of the Andean jungle zone but now only ten pockets of coloraditos remain. Once these trees have been felled this ecosystem does not regenerate. At the natural hot springs we can bathe in the warm waters before walking for another 45 minutes to the road where the driver will be waiting to take us back to Mérida. (3 - 4 hours hiking, up to 2 hours driving) Meals: B,L,-- Meals, alcoholic beverages, tours or other services not listed on the itinerary Tips to local staff, nor any expenses incurred in preparing for the trip such as, but not limited to, non-refundable airline tickets, insurance or additional expenses encountered as a result of flight delays, cancellations or missed connections. TOUR INCLUDES: Tour transportation by 4x4 English-speaking guide All meals and soft drinks during trip Camping equipment First aid kit Permits for National Parks Warm clothes for the mountain Radio communication Waterproof jacket Good walking shoes/boots (preferred) Sunglasses Sunscreen and insect repellant Hat/visor TOUR DOES NOT INCLUDE: Domestic flights (we can arrange them) Accommodation in Merida (we can arrange this) Porters Items of a personal nature WE RECOMMEND THAT YOU BRING: Camera and film Los Llanos Over 400 species of birds speckle the grasslands with white, crimson, yellow, blue, orange and black providing excellent birdwatching opportunities. You can see scarlet ibis, chestnut-fronted macaws, jabiru storks, black-collared hawks and the prehistoriclooking hoatzin. The Llanos’ habitats also shelter a wide array of other animals such as giant anteaters, wild horses, armadillos, iguanas, turtles, red howler and capuchin monkeys, capybaras (the largest rodent in the world) and tens of thousands of caiman. The rivers teem with freshwater dolphins, piranhas, anacondas and turtles. LOS LLANOS (GRADE I, 4 DAYS/3 NIGHTS) The Llanos, the vast savannah region of Venezuela, sustains a breathtaking variety of wildlife; this wildlife revolves around dramatic flood/drought cycles, where seemingly never-ending rivers and flat plains are baked and dusty in the dry season (May-November), lush and flooded in the rainy season (December-April). It abounds in biodiversity. The Venezuelan Llanos are a strange blend of the American Wild West and Africa’s savannah safaris, where people still hunt and harvest in accordance with age-old customs, and dusty cowboys try to tame a land as wild and uncontrollable as the creatures that roam across its seemingly endless face. DAY 1 At around 0700hrs we pick you up and take you to our office where you will enjoy a fresh cup of coffee or tea. We leave from Mérida and head to San Rafael de Mucuchíes (3,140m) where we will visit the stone church of Juan Félix Sánchez. We will continue to Apartaderos and follow the road to Barinas, but not Los Llanos before stopping at a glacial lake in Mucubají (3,450m) and visiting Andean villages en route. From there we drive to Barinitas to enjoy a hearty lunch. Then we continue our journey direct to our base camp on the low plains of Apure State. The friendly llaneros, led by Mr Viviano, will welcome us and give us a typical and delicious llanera dinner. Accommodation is in rooms equipped with hammocks, mosquito nets and shared bathrooms. Meals (--, L, D) DAY 2 After a delicious breakfast we begin our horseback ride across the heart of the Venezuelan plains (Llanos). In the gallery forest we may see storks, herons, red scarlet ibis, hawks, falcons, parrots and many other birds, as well as howler monkeys and, possibly, anteaters. We will then return to the camp across the prairie, where you can enjoy a gallop; we will have lunch and relax in our hammocks under the cool shade of the mango trees. When the sun goes down a bit, and after a coffee, we will get into our jeep for an exciting safari on the plains surrounding the camp. During the tour we will have the opportunity to see the rich wildlife of “el Llano”. Besides the large number of birds around the shores of the "préstamos" (artificial lagoons formed as a result of the excavations to make dirt roads above the plains), you can see lots of alligators, small herds of capybaras, pairs of deer and, with the help of our llanero guides, we could spot the intimidating anaconda or the striking anteater. At night, we can relax with the friendly llanera people, play cards and sleep in our hammocks. Meals: (B, L, D) DAY 3 After breakfast, we embark on a four-hour boat trip. Our guides will take us to the Caño (stream) Guaritico where we'll see graceful freshwater dolphins, capybaras (the world's largest rodent), caimans, iguanas, many birds, possibly otters and some anacondas. We’ll return to camp for lunch and relax for a few hours until it begins to get cooler in the afternoon. Then we'll go and try our luck at catching piranhas; we will let the llaneros choose the best place as they know where the fishing is good. While we are fishing we can admire the Lonely Eagle, which will follow us, searching for fish. After dinner, weather permitting, we can admire the beautiful starry skies of the Llanos without interference from the light pollution of large cities. A great advantage of our geographical location is that we can see the constellations of both hemispheres… Finally, we will enjoy a well deserved relaxing night in our hammocks. Meals: (B, L, D) DAY 4: After early morning breakfast, we will start our return to Merida (or Barinas). Meals (B,--,--) Los Llanos NOTES: Boat trip in the Lower Llanos Sleeping bag liner or a light blanket Tours and activities mentioned in the itinerary. Sunglasses Sunscreen lotion and insect repellant If you have to stay in the city of Barinas to take a bus or a flight to your next destination, we can arrange a transfer to the terminal or airport. We can also arrange your air ticket in advance. Rafting in the rapids of Barinas can be arranged as part of this tour for an additional price, but it requires a minimum of 4 people. The order of the above activities may vary depending on the weather conditions. With the heat of the Llanos, around 34C in the daytime, hot water is not necessary. However, the nights are cool. TOUR DOES NOT INCLUDE:: Airport departure taxes Hat/visor/cap Domestic flights Camera/film and binoculars Overnight in Merida or Caracas Compact torch Sleeping bag, other personal gear,or items of a personal nature Meals, tours, other services not listed on the itinerary or alcoholic beverages Tips to local staff, nor any expenses incurred in preparing the trip, such as, but not limited to, non-refundable airline tickets, insurance or additional expenses caused as a result of flight delays, cancellations or missed connections. TOUR INCLUDES: Comprehensive pre-departure information All meals and soft drinks as indicated. Accommodation in hammocks with shared bathrooms, as outlined WE RECOMMEND YOU BRING: Transportation in 4x4 vehicles (or buses, depending on the group size) Warm clothes for the trip through the Paramo (moors) Light clothing, swimsuit and towel English-speaking guides Waterproof jacket or poncho, in case of rain Horseback riding Good walking shoes/boots Jeep Safari Comfortable sandals Los Llanos RAFTING TOURS ONE-DAY EXPEDITION: RIVER ACEQUIA RAPIDS CLASSIFICATION I AND IV. DIFFICULTY: DIFFICULT THE WESTERN PLAINS BARINAS This rafting trip includes a thrilling descent through more than 20 rapids and sets out from one of the most beautiful locations on the River Siniguis, known as Dos Bocas. This is where the Siniguis and Acquia rivers converge. Here we prepare for the descent through the impressive Batidora rapid, then immediately continue through two more rapids, the Poceta and the Quiebracostilla. These three rapids alone would be enough to complete this exciting trip, but it doesn't finish there: you still have the Frances, Chupadora, Splash, Speedy Gonzalez, Helicoptero, Submarino, Terminator and Surf en USA to go! This journey includes rapids with a level of difficulty ranging from Class I to Class IV. To be able to take part in this activity clients must be prepared to get wet and to have a good time, since there is no need for physical preparation. Although teamwork helps to steer the boat there will always be an experienced guide accompanying you who will ensure that you take the best route in order to descend the river safely but also meet the expectations of the participants. In the same way he will give his professional support for all aspects of passenger safety and will keep you informed about rescue procedures should the boat flip over. The skill in rafting makes an excellent recreational opportunity as it combines sport with the observation and enjoyment of nature. PROGRAMME DAY 1 Welcome to the camp and tour of the facilities Return transfers from the camp to the river Introduction to rafting Rafting on River Acequia – Class I and IV Los Llanos We use inflatable boats capable of carrying 8 people, designed and strengthened to meet the particular demands of the river, inflated in sections, and very stable and fitted with safety ropes and handles. In addition, we supply all the necessary equipment: oars, helmets and lifejackets. The use of the last two pieces of equipment is compulsory. SEASON From May to November, subject to the level of the water – reservations must be made in advance. OPTIONAL RECOMMENDATIONS Breakfast, lunch and/or dinner including soft drinks THE PARTICIPANTS This trip is designed for clients of at least 14 years of age with whom we will row through large waves and powerful water on the River Acequia. As we venture down river, we will find resting places where we can observe many birds in their natural habitat. We will be on the river for around two and a half to three hours. The trip will go by the same safety regulations and use the same equipment as for our trips through Class V+ rapids. Participants under 18 years of age must have authorisation from a parent or guardian. EQUIPMENT For the trip you should preferably wear long trousers, cotton long-sleeved shirts or vests, comfortable, sturdy walking shoes and waterproof jacket in case of rain (May – Nov). Also take a towel and items such as sun hat, sunglasses and binoculars. The temperature in the region various between 20C and 30C. At night you will need a sweater, blanket and torch. Take suitable and comfortable clothes with you: swimsuit, shorts, light sports shoes and sandals with fastenings. It is imperative you take insect repellent and suntan cream. Only take what is necessary with you, with your name clearly marked on it for easy identification. Carry your own medical kit to avoid taking any medicine which may not suit you. Don't forget your camera and identity card or passport. Minimum of 8 participants: TWO-DAY RAFTING TWO-DAY/ONE NIGHT EXCURSION. THE ACEQUIA AND SINIGUIS RIVERS THE WESTERN PLAINS This rafting trip includes a thrilling descent through the rapids along the Acequia and Siniguis rivers, in cold but tolerable water, in the Barinas foothills. The journey includes rapids ranging in difficulty from Class II to strong Class IV. To be able to take part in this activity clients must be prepared to get wet and to have a good time, since there is no need for physical preparation. Although teamwork helps to steer the boat there will always be an experienced guide accompanying you who will ensure that you take the best route in order to descend the river safely but also meet the expectations of the participants. In the same way he will give his professional support for all aspects of passenger safety and will keep you informed about rescue procedures should the boat flip over. The skill in rafting makes an Los Llanos the region various between 20C and 30C. At night you will need a sweater, blanket and torch. Farewell PARTICIPANTS The descents require a certain degree of effort and can be very exhausting for those who are not physically fit, even though it does not require any previous experience or special training. We can take children depending on their size and ability to follow safety instructions. Participants under 18 years of age must have authorisation from a parent or guardian. EQUIPMENT excellent recreational opportunity as it combines sport with the observation and enjoyment of nature. Lunch including soft drinks We use inflatable boats capable of carrying 8 people, designed and strengthened to meet the particular demands of the river, inflated in sections, and very stable and fitted with safety ropes and handles. In addition, we supply all the necessary equipment: oars, helmets and lifejackets. The use of the last two pieces of equipment is compulsory. Introduction to rafting SEASON Rafting on River Acequia – Class II and III From May to November, subject to the level of the water – reservations must be made in advance. PROGRAMME DAY 1 Welcome to the camp and tour of the facilities Return transfers from camp to the river Dinner including soft drinks Overnight DAY 2 Breakfast Review and induction to Class IV rafting Rafting on River Siniguis – Class III and IV Lunch including soft drinks RECOMMENDATIONS For the trip you should preferably wear long trousers, cotton long-sleeved shirts or vests, comfortable, sturdy walking shoes and waterproof jacket in case of rain (May – Nov). Also take a towel and items such as sun hat, sunglasses and binoculars. The temperature in Take suitable and comfortable clothes with you: swimsuit, shorts, light sports shoes and sandals with fastenings. It is imperative you take insect repellent and suntan cream. Only take what is necessary with you, with your name clearly marked on it for easy identification. Carry your own medical kit to avoid taking any medicine which may not suit you. Don't forget your camera and identity card or passport. Minimum of 8 participants. EXTREME RAFTING TWO DAYS/ONE NIGHT RAFTING SINIGUIS AND ALTO CANAGUA RIVERS THE WESTERN PLAINS DESCRIPTION This rafting trip includes a thrilling descent through the rapids along the Siniguis and Alto Canagua rivers, in cold but tolerable water, in the Barinas foothills. The journey includes rapids with a high level of difficulty. Los Llanos To be able to take part in this activity clients must be prepared to get wet and to have a good time, since there is no need for physical preparation. Although teamwork helps to steer the boat there will always be an experienced guide accompanying you who will ensure that you take the best route in order to descend the river safely but also meet the expectations of the participants. In the same way he will give his professional support for all aspects of passenger safety and will keep you informed about rescue procedures should the boat flip over. The skill in rafting makes an excellent recreational opportunity as it combines sport with the observation and enjoyment of nature. PROGRAMME DAY 1 Welcome to the camp and tour of the facilities Return transfers from camp to the river Lunch including soft drinks Introduction to rafting Rafting on River Acequia – Class III and IV Dinner including soft drinks Overnight DAY 2 Breakfast Review and induction to Class IV rafting Rafting on River Siniguis – Class III and IV Lunch including soft drinks Farewell Take suitable and comfortable clothes with you: swimsuit, shorts, light sports shoes and sandals with fastenings. It is imperative you take insect repellent and suntan cream. Only take what is necessary with you, with your name clearly marked on it for easy identification. Carry your own medical kit to avoid taking any medicine which may not suit you. Don't forget your camera and identity card or passport. Minimum of 8 participants PARTICIPANTS The descents require a certain degree of effort and can be very exhausting for those who are not physically fit, even though it does not require any previous experience or special training. EQUIPMENT We use inflatable boats capable of carrying 8 people, designed and strengthened to meet the particular demands of the river, inflated in sections, and very stable and fitted with safety ropes and handles. In addition, we supply all the necessary equipment: oars, helmets and lifejackets. The use of the last two pieces of equipment is compulsory. SEASON From May to November, subject to the level of the water – reservations must be made in advance. RECOMMENDATIONS For the trip you should preferably wear long trousers, cotton long-sleeved shirts or vests, comfortable, sturdy walking shoes and waterproof jacket in case of rain (May – Nov). Also take a towel and items such as sun hat, sunglasses and binoculars. The temperature in the region various between 20C and 30C. At night you will need a sweater, blanket and torch. Regional Trips Our regional tours are particularly designed to give visitors the greatest variety of options to discover the most interesting and difficult to reach areas of Venezuela. These tours are a combination of individual trips, split into zones. What is and isn't included is outlined for each itinerary. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact us and we will do our best to answer your queries 1. Adventure in the lost world of Conan Doyle: Roraima, Angel Falls (10 days/9 nights) 2. Relampago del Catatumbo (Catatumbo lightning), Andes Mountains and the Llanos (plains) (8 days / 7 nights) 3. Exploring Venezuela in depth (Canaima, Angel Falls, the Andes and the Llanos (10 days/9 nights) 4. Driving through Venezuela 5. Great Savannah – canaima (9 days) 6. The orinoco delta – Canaima (9 days) 7. The Amazon – Canaima (amongst the tepuis) (9 days) 8. Caura River – Canaima (10 days) 9. Adventure tour: Andes, Llanos, Caribbean 10. Extensions to: Paria Los Roques Mochima To a ranch in the Llanos Regional Trips Venezuela ADVENTURE IN THE LOST WORLD OF CONAN DOYLE of Canaima National Park (home to Angel Falls). This area is virtually untouched and its continued protection ensures its sustainability for future generations. RORAIMA, ANGEL FALLS DAY 1 Arrival in Caracas We will meet you on arrival at Simon Bolivar International Airport, in Maiquetia, and transfer you to a hotel close to the airport where you will spend the night. We will also give you all the necessary documents, including air tickets and vouchers. Meals (---) (10 DAYS/9 NIGHTS) In this regional tour visitors will have the opportunity to take in the mysterious tepuis (table-top mountains) that inspired Sir Arthur Conan Doyle to write “The Lost World”. These formations are some of the oldest on the planet and they are found in the tropical surroundings DAY 2 Caracas – Puerto Ordaz This morning we will Regional Trips Venezuela transfer you from your hotel to the domestic airport for your flight to Puerto Ordaz. On arrival you will be taken in a 4x4 vehicle to the small village of Paraitepui where you can enjoy the impressive views of the savannah and waterfalls and spend the night camping. (7-8 hrs travel by road) (L,D) DAY 3 Paraitepui – Military Camp We set off on our hike accompanied by our Taurepan porters who use woven baskets to carry the luggage. The main indigenous Pemon tribes here are the Arekuna and the Kamarakoto, who each have their own dialect. We set up camp close to the Tek River (11km) after around 4 hours hiking across the savannah. Directly in front of us you will be able to see the vast, symmetrical bulk of Roraima whose peak, at 2,723m above sea level, rises up over the Llanos. To the north of the plateau is the 2,650m high neighbouring tepui of El Kukenan and in the distance three more tepuis dominate the skyline. We also cross the Tek River and then El Kukenan which is much larger and around 40m wide. Our guides must judge the height of the river when we cross it. Halfway to our base camp we come to a wide and sloping area of black rocks covered with lichen where you can make out various types of lizards and Rufouscollared sparrows. Our camp is in a deserted military post and its position at around 1,000m means you can have a refreshing dip in the river. We will camp throughout our journey across the tepui. (6-7 hrs hiking) (B,L,D) DAY 4 Military camp – Roraima summit At daybreak we will enjoy our first view of Roraima tepui and the significance of its many local names, such as Magnificent, Ever Fruitful, Mother of Streams, will become apparent; her waters feed three river systems, the Amazon, the Orinoco and the Esequibo. We will pass through a beautiful cloud forest covered in thick vegetation where we can see close up the huge diversity of plants surrounding us, such as bromelias, tree ferns, mosses, heliconias and much more. We climb a narrow slope which runs from right to left across the cliff face, providing easy access to the summit. The British explorer, Everard Imthurn, discovered the route in 1887. When we reach the summit we will have an astounding view of the savannah stretching out below us. We climb up to our camp on the top of the tepui (2,723m), tucked under a rocky ledge which will protect us from the strong winds, the constant showers and the cold temperature, which can get as low as 5C at night. This type of cave is called a hotel by the guides. We will spend some time exploring the black rocky scenery surrounding the camp. (5hr excursion) (B,L,D) DAY 5 Roraima summit We will spend all day exploring the fantasy world on the tepui and the tripoint where Venezuela, Brazil and the disputed area of Guyana Esequibo meet. We will explore the valley of crystals, and the fascinating life on the summit of Roraima. Your attention will be drawn by the unique animals and plants, like the toads that roll into a ball to get away from danger. The countryside is as intriguing: the rain and the wind constantly work away to form enormous rock sculptures; stones the size of a house balance precariously on slender columns; arches and pillars form natural bridges that cross deep chasms. Everywhere you look you will see black lichen encrusting the surface of the rocks. After eating enjoy the night sky where the Southern Cross will be our companion, just like the stars and constellations of the northern hemisphere. (7-8 hrs hiking) (B,L,D) DAY 6 The summit – Tek River After a restful night, you will walk back down to the savannah and lunch at the base of Roraima surrounded by huge rocks which form a steep slope. We then cross the Tek and Kukenan rivers and continue to base camp. (6 hrs walking) (B,L,D) DAY 7 Tek River camp – Paraitepui – Santa Elena After our last meal on the trek we set off towards Paraitepui, 4 hours away, where we are met by the 4x4 vehicles which will take us to Santa Elena arriving at around 1600hrs. We will spend the night in the delightful eco-camp where we will enjoy a welcome meal. (4 hrs walking; 3 hrs by 4x4) (B,L) Regional Trips Venezuela DAY 8 Santa Elena – Canaima Transfer to Santa Elena airport for the 1100hrs flight to Canaima where we will be taken to an eco-camp. We take a trip to Canaima's lovely lagoon and the dramatic Sapo waterfall where we can pass through an impressive curtain of water. Overnight in the camp. (L,D) DAY 9 Excursion to Angel Falls Today we have an early breakfast and leave at 0500hrs for an excursion to the base of the mighty Angel Falls. After a 15-minute walk we arrive at Puerto Ucaimo, situated above the Canaima waterfalls, where we board a boat to take us along the Carrao River. From the boat we will see the lush vegetation of Canaima. When we reach Sabanas de Mayupa we will disembark to walk across the savannah and to avoid the rapids. Once we have passed the rapids we will get back on the boat and continue upriver to the little native village of Arautaima. Here we will experience the lush and varied vegetation of the primary rainforest. Be prepared for your first view of stunning Angel Falls when we reach Ratoncito Island. It is another hour's walk to get close to the falls from a clearing where we can appreciate the power of the tumbling water. We will spend an hour here enjoying the waterfall and relaxing on the large rocks, warmed by the sun. We go back down to base camp on Ratoncito Island for a welcome lunch and a chance to relax before tackling the return journey along the rapids to our main camp. (B,L,D) DAY 10 Flight over Angel Falls – Canaima – Caracas After breakfast we board a Cessna 206 for a thrilling flight through Devil's Canyon for a bird's eye view of Angel Falls. We then return to camp to collect our things and board our chartered flight to Puerto Ordaz airport to connect with a domestic flight to Caracas. On arrival we are taken to a hotel near the airport. (B) POSSIBLE EXTENSIONS; Los Roques, Orinoco, Paria Peninsula, ranch on the Llanos, Choroni It is also possible to join up with our other regional tours to create an itinerary that suits your interests and the time you have available. Regional Trips Venezuela RELAMPAGO DEL CATATUMBO (CATATUMBO LIGHTNING), THE ANDES MOUNTAINS AND THE LLANOS (PLAINS) (9 DAYS/8 NIGHTS) In this tour visitors will have the opportunity to climb the Venezuelan Andes range, visit the Maracaibo Lake region, experience the Relampago del Catatumbo*, and spend the night in remote and captivating places such as the descent to the Venezuelan Llanos which is home to a huge variety of flora and fauna. *The Relampago del Catatumbo is a phenomenon particular to the south of the Maracaibo Lake region, a flash of lighting, which can be seen from April until the beginning of December. It is continuous and silent, lasting almost 10 hours throughout the night and flashing more than 200 times per hour. DAY 1 Arrival in Caracas We will meet you on arrival at Simon Bolivar International Airport, in Maiquetia, and transfer you to a hotel close to the airport where you will spend the night. We will also give you all the necessary documents, including air tickets and vouchers. Meals (---) DAY 2 Caracas – El Vigia – South of Lake Maracaibo This morning we will transfer you from your hotel to the domestic airport for your flight to the Venezuelan Andes and El Vigia airport located 50 minutes from Merida. We then go overland for around 2.5 hours to the place where we board a motorboat to cruise for an hour to our camp by Lake Maracaibo. There we can see dolphins, howler monkeys and toucans, among others. We spend the nights in hammocks so that we can enjoy the stunning meteorological phenomenon of the Relampago del Catatumbo. (50min flight, 2.5 hrs by road, 1.5 hrs by boat) (B,L,D) DAY 3 Camp South of Lake Maracaibo – Cattle ranch We transfer to the ranch, a large farm at the heart of the Andean cloud forest, where you can enjoy walks in the gardens and the forest; we will have a hearty meal and then have the opportunity to do some birdwatching and spot the 12 varieties of hummingbirds. We spend the night in cabins on the farm. (B,L,D) DAY 4 Ranch – San Jose We set out in a 4x4 on a fascinating journey through a variety of ecosystems and passing through a luxurious cloud forest. We stop at picturesque Jaji, a typical Andean village, recognised by UNESCO as a heritage site, then descend to the desert. We stop at a small mill to watch the production Regional Trips Venezuela of chewing tobacco before continuing to Laguna de Urao, the only one of its type in South America, its saltiness showing the presence of the mineral Urao, salts brought in by underwater currents. This lagoon is a Natural Monument of Venezuela. A little further on we stop at a green coffee plantation where we will visit the Museum of Coffee on an old farm where coffee is produced. From here we follow the route to Los Pueblos del Sur where we climb steeply up a mountain road from 460m to 2,290m with lots of zigzags, from where we can see the plateau which borders the Chama River. We finally arrive at the remote village of San Jose de Acequias, a place lost in time. We spend the night in an idyllic Andean hut by a small lake so we can try the delicious trout. (5 hrs by jeep) (L,D) DAY 5 San Jose – Merida We descend into the pretty Tostos valley by foot or on horseback, enjoying the surrounding eucalyptus trees and lovely rivers. Here we will have the chance to meet the local population and watch them plough the land with oxen. In the houses they grind the corn by hand to make typical Andean corncakes in woodburning stoves. We return to our hut for a tasty lunch and a short siesta. If riding a horse isn't sufficiently exciting we can make a thrilling descent to Tierra Negra on a mountain bike with lovely views of the verdant valleys below. Here we take off on an optional flight by tandem paraglider before returning to Merida. (4 hrs on horseback, 5 hrs walking, 1.5 hrs by bike, 3045 mins by tandem paraglider, 2 hrs by jeep) (B,L) DAy 6 Plateau tour (Páramo) The Andean plateau extends from 3,200m to 4,300 m; above this altitude the arid rocky ground of the hillsides is called “the deserted Andean plains”; the plateaus are open, windswept and mainly treeless. The extremes of temperature, like summer during the day and winter at night, means that species have adapted their lifestyle to suit the environment. There we will find velvety frailejon shrubs; there are 65 endemic species to this relative of the daisy in Venezuela. This is one of our most requested tours; from Merida we travel along a scenic route by a twisting trans-Andean road towards the Andean plateau. En route we can gaze at sleepy little colonial villages and the beautiful scenery on the plateau. Our first visit is the place where the Condor was reintroduced into the Andes, and from there we go to Pico El Aguila, the highest point reached by road (4,118m). From here we visit the Laguna Mucubaji (3,800m) from where we head off on the 4km walk to Laguna Negra. The views of Laguna Negra on a clear day are spectacular. We overnight in a lodge or hotel on the Andean plateau. (B,L) DAy 7 Safari Today we transfer to a ranch on the Llanos. All along the route there are plenty of opportunities to admire some of the flora and fauna of the Llanos. We arrive at the ranch in time for lunch and then we go on an excursion in the afternoon. We will spend the night in comfortable cabins with air conditioning, private facilities with hot water. (7 hrs travelling across the Llanos) (B,L,D) DAY 8 Safari We spend the whole day on the ranch taking in two excursions by covered truck and boat. The pastures are a riot of colour from the 400 or so species of birds; white, red, yellow, blue, orange and black so a perfect opportunity to spot some of the Venezuelan birds. You can see the Corocoro Colorado, Maracana, Garzon Soldado, Gavilan Colorado, Pajaro Baco and the prehistoric Chenchena (Guacharaca de Agua). One of the most terrific aspects of the Llanos is the ranches which are specialised large country estates acting as innovative and breathtaking sanctuaries for wildlife, some conserving up to 80,000 hectares of land across Venezuela. The habitat of the Llanos also acts as a refuge for a wide selection of animals such as giant anteaters, wild horses, armadillos, iguanas, blond monkeys and capuchin monkeys, capibaras (the largest rodents in the world) and hundreds of alligators. The rivers abound with freshwater dolphins, piranhas (Caribes, that you Regional Trips Venezuela can go fishing for), anacondas and turtles. (B,L,D) Tours, meals, alcoholic drinks and other services not included in the itinerary DAY 9 Barinas – Caracas Departure transfer to Barinas airport (around 3 hours away) to connect with your flight to Caracas. (B) Tips Articles of a personal nature WE RECOMMEND YOU BRING: POSSIBLE EXTENSIONS: Los Roques, Choroni It is also possible to join up with our other regional tours to create an itinerary that suits your interests and the time you have available. Long-sleeved cotton shirts, long trousers and shorts Swimming costume Waterproof jacket Trainers or walking boots Adjustable sandals Sunglasses Sun cream Insect repellent (with 50-90% DEET) Biodegradable shampoo/soap Cap and sunhat Camera and binoculars Small torch Anti-malarial pills (please consult your doctor before travelling) THE TOUR INCLUDES: Information pack before leaving Bilingual guide on all tours Domestic flights and transfers Airport assistance in Caracas, Merida and Barinas All accommodation mentioned All meals and drinks mentioned in the itinerary Transport in van or jeep First aid and emergency equipment NOT INCLUDED: International flights Airport departure taxes Regional Trips Venezuela EXPLORING VENEZUELA IN DEPTH 10 DAYS/9 NIGHTS This itinerary is designed for adventurous travellers who want to discover Venezuela's natural environment. The tour begins in Canaima National Park, where group members will have the chance to see the Angel Falls and the surrounding thick tropical vegetation. Then you travel over the Venezuelan Andes to see the mountain peaks and discover the typical culture of the region. DAY 1 Arrival in Caracas We will meet you on arrival at Simon Bolivar International Airport, in Maiquetia, and transfer you to a hotel close to the airport where you will spend the night. We will also give you all the necessary documents, including air tickets and vouchers. Meals (---) DAY 2 Caracas – Puerto Ordaz – Canaima This morning we will transfer you from your hotel to the domestic airport for your flight to Puerto Ordaz. On arrival transfer to your accommodation (superior standard) along the Laguna de Canaima where you will enjoy spectacular views. After lunch the excursions begin. We leave the pink sands of the Laguna de Canaima's beach to tour this delightful area, getting close to the raging, tumbling water of the Sapo waterfall. Here you get the chance to take some of the best photos of the dramatic scenery in the national park. We then return to camp to enjoy a delicious evening meal. In the evening relax on the patio enjoying the view of the lagoon and the enormous night sky of the southern hemisphere. Overnight in twin-room accommodation with private facilities. (L,D) DAY 3 Excursion to Angel Falls Today we have an early breakfast and leave at 5am for an excursion to the base of the mighty Angel Falls. After a 15-minute walk we arrive at Puerto Ucaimo, situated above the Canaima waterfalls, where we board a boat to take us along the Carrao River. From the boat we will see the lush vegetation of Canaima. When we reach Sabanas de Mayupa we will disembark to walk across the savannah and to avoid the rapids. Once we have passed the rapids we will get back on the boat and continue upriver to the little native village of Arautaima. Here we will experience the lush and varied vegetation of the primary rainforest. Be prepared for your first view of stunning Angel Falls when we reach Ratoncito Island. It is another hour's walk to get close to the falls from a clearing where we can appreciate the power of the tumbling water. We will spend an hour here enjoying the waterfall and relaxing on the large rocks, warmed by the sun. We go back down to base camp on Ratoncito Island for a welcome lunch and a chance to relax before tackling the return journey along the rapids to our main camp.(B,L,D) Regional Trips Venezuela DAY 4 Canaima – Caracas After breakfast we board a Cessna 206 for a thrilling flight through Devil's Canyon for a bird's eye view of Angel Falls. We then return to camp to collect our things and board our chartered flight to Puerto Ordaz airport to connect with a domestic flight to Caracas. On arrival we are taken to a hotel near to the airport. (B) DAY 5 Caracas – Merida This morning we will transfer you from your hotel to the domestic airport for your flight to the Venezuelan Andes and El Vigia airport located 50 minutes from Merida. We transfer 1.5hrs to the ranch, a farm at the heart of the Andean cloud forest, where you can enjoy walks in the gardens and the forest; we will have a hearty meal and then have the opportunity to do some birdwatching and spot the 12 varieties of hummingbirds. We spend the night in cabins on the farm. (L,D) DAY 6 Ranch – San Jose We set out in a 4x4 on a fascinating journey through a variety of ecosystems and passing through a luxurious cloud forest. We stop at picturesque Jaji, a typical Andean village, recognised by UNESCO as a heritage site, then descend to the desert. We stop at a small mill to watch the production of chewing tobacco before continuing to Laguna de Urao, the only one of its type in South America, its saltiness showing the presence of the mineral Urao, salts brought in by underwater currents. This lagoon is a Natural Monument of Venezuela. A little further on we stop at a green coffee plantation where we will visit the Museum of Coffee on an old farm where coffee is produced. From here we follow the route to Los Pueblos del Sur where we climb steeply up a mountain road from 460m to 2.290m with lots of zigzags, from where we can see the plateau which borders the Chama River. We finally arrive at the remote village of San Jose de Acequias, a place lost in time. We spend the night in an idyllic Andean hut by a small lake so we can try the delicious trout. (5 hrs by jeep) (L,D) DAY 7 Plateau tour (Páramo) The Andean plateau extends from 3.200m to 4.300 m; above this altitude the arid rocky ground of the hillsides is called “deserted Andean plains”; the plateaus are open, windswept and mainly treeless. The extremes of temperature, like summer during the day and winter at night, means that species have adapted their lifestyle to suit the environment. There we will find velvety frailejon shrubs; there are 65 endemic species to this relative of the daisy in Venezuela. This is one of our most requested tours; from Merida we travel along a scenic route by a twisting transAndean road towards the Andean plateau. En route we can gaze at sleepy little colonial villages and the beautiful scenery on the plateau. Our first visit is the place where the Condor was reintroduced into the Andes, and from there we go to Pico El Aguila, the highest point reached by road (4,118m). From here we visit the Laguna Mucubaji (3,800m) from where we head off on the 4km walk to Laguna Negra. The views of Laguna Negra on a clear day are spectacular. We overnight in a lodge or hotel on the Andean plateau. (B,L) DAYS 8-10 Transfer to a ranch on the Llanos Today we transfer to a ranch on the Llanos. All along the route there are plenty of opportunities to admire some of the flora and fauna of the Llanos. One of the most terrific aspects of the Llanos is the ranches which are specialised large country estates acting as innovative and breathtaking sanctuaries of wildlife, some conserving up to 80,000 hectares of land across Venezuela. We arrive at the ranch in time for lunch and will spend the night in comfortable cabins with air conditioning and private facilities with hot water. This ranch is recognised for its pioneering work in ecotourism in Venezuela and is the most important private wildlife sanctuary in Venezuela and most of South America. The habitat of the Llanos also acts as a refuge for a wide selection of animals such as giant anteaters, wild horses, armadillos, iguanas, blond monkeys and capuchin monkeys, capibaras (the largest rodents in the world) and hundreds of alligators. The rivers abound with freshwater dolphins, piranhas (Caribes, that you can go fishing for), anacondas and turtles. Regional Trips Venezuela (7 hrs travelling across the Llanos) Tips, any additional expenses incurred in the preparation of the trip through delays or cancellations of flights or transfers National Park taxes – Sierra Nevada $1, Canaima $10 POSSIBLE EXTENSIONS: Los Roques, Choroni It is also possible to join up with our other regional tours to create an itinerary that suits your interests and the time you have available. THE TOUR INCLUDES: Long-sleeved light shirts, long trousers and shorts Swimming costume Poncho or waterproof jacket in case of rain Hard-wearing shoes or walking boots for the mountainous areas Adjustable sandals Spanish-English bilingual guide on tours and at airports Sunglasses Sun cream First aid and basic emergency equipment Insect repellent (with 50-90% DEET) Biodegradable shampoo/soap Information pack before leaving Domestic flights and transfers Airport assistance Tours, transfers and accommodation mentioned WE RECOMMEND YOU BRING: All meals and non-alcoholic drinks mentioned in the itinerary NOT INCLUDED: International flights Sunhat, cap or visor Airport departure taxes Camera and binoculars Articles of a personal nature Small torch Tours, meals, alcoholic drinks and other services not included in the itinerary Regional Trips Venezuela DRIVING THROUGH VENEZUELA OPTION 1: SELF DRIVE OPTION 2: WITH A BILINGUAL DRIVER This type of tour allows you to relax and arrange your journey to suit you in a rented car. The 'self-drive' tour is designed for visitors whose Spanish is good enough to be able to ask for directions and follow signs. If this is not the case then the trip can be arranged using a bilingual Natoura driver. On these tours you will overnight in hotels of your choice and these will have been booked in advance when we tailor-make the itinerary to suit your interests and budget. SUGGESTIONS OF PLACES TO VISIT: CHORONI AND HENRI PITTIER NATIONAL PARK: Just 3 hours west of Caracas and located on the coast, the Henri Pittier National Park covers an area where the foothills of the mountains meet the warm Caribbean Sea. With its impressive mountains and cloud forest, which are home to over 400 species of birds, the national park is world-renowned as a birdwatching destination. Hidden between the forest-covered mountains of Henri Pittier National Park and the aquamarine waters of the Caribbean, Choroni is a delightful colonial town where little has changed. Here you can swim and sunbathe on the Playa Grande or take a boat to some of the nearby beaches. Whatever you do don't miss the Saturday drum dances, introduced from Africa by the slaves who were brought here to harvest cacao. TUCACAS AND MORROCOY NATIONAL PARK: Tucacas is a small seaside town tucked between the city of Valencia and Morrocoy National Park. From here you can take a boat out to the nearby islets and reefs. The national park consists of a coastal fringe, as well as the surrounding islets and reefs, with pristine white sandy beaches and coral reefs. You can also visit the nearby mangrove swamps. SANARE - YACAMBU NATIONAL PARK: Sanare is a small Andean colonial town and the gateway to the Yacambu National Park; just 30km away Yacambu National Park is located in the Sierra de Portuguesa, a region of the Venezuelan Andes, and extends 145km2. TROPICAL FLOWER GARDENS: The gardens are close to San Felipe in Edo, Yaracuy, and are one of the largest in South America and were designed by the landscape architect and botanist, Jean Phillipe Thoze. The vast gardens, with more than 250 tropical plants from around the world, can be explored by electric vehicle or in a horse-drawn wagon. Regional Trips Venezuela MERIDA AND THE ANDES: Nestling on a plateau at the heart of the Andes, Merida is famed for its outdoor activities, such as horseriding, hiking and camping in the mountains. Here you will find one of the most colourful craft and fruit markets in Latin America, the Mercado Principal. The beautiful Sierra Nevada National Park and the lakes are within easy reach, just 1.5 hrs away by car. RANCH STAYS IN THE LLANOS: The vast savannah of the Llanos has a unique ecosystem which changes according to the season – flood or drought. It is home to an extraordinary variety of plants and wildlife such as giant anteaters, wild horses, armadillos, iguanas, blond monkeys and capuchin monkeys, as well as capibaras (the largest rodent in the world). The rivers abound with exotic species including freshwater dolphins, piranhas and anacondas. One of the most terrific aspects of Los Llanos is the ranches which are specialised large country estates acting as innovative and breathtaking sanctuaries of wildlife, some conserving up to 80,000 hectares of land in Venezuela. The ranch has cabins with private facilities, a swimming pool and dining room where you can have Venezuelan or international cuisine. The staff are very friendly and they will make sure that you have the chance to enjoy an entertaining performance by the locals. There are daily excursions and every evening there is something for you to enjoy, such as a video about the wildlife or a scientific talk.. GRAN SABANA – CANAIMA 9 DAYS NOTES ABOUT THE PROGRAMME Starts daily except Saturday Best time to travel is between May and December Standard accommodation in Canaima in hammocks with overnight at the base of the falls Superior accommodation in Canaima in hotels without overnight at the base of the falls (day trip only) DAY 1 Arrival in Caracas We will meet you on arrival at Simon Bolivar International Airport, in Maiquetia, and transfer you to a hotel close to the airport where you will spend the night. We will also give you all the necessary documents, including air tickets and vouchers. Meals (---) DAY 2 Transfer to airport – flight to Puerto Ordaz – Gran Sabana This morning we will transfer you from your hotel to the domestic airport for your flight to Puerto Ordaz. We leave Puerto Ordaz and travel by jeep into the Gran Sabana. We pass through the mining area of El Dorado, with its famous prison camps, and the rubber producing towns of Tumeremo and Guasipati. Regional Trips Venezuela In the afternoon we arrive at the camp built by indigenous people and then visit a gold mine. (L,D) DAYS 3 - 4 Trip to the falls – excursions on the river This excursion highlights the delightful world of the Pemon Indians, the tepuis, waterfalls and rivers. You will see the Kamá, Merú, Arapan Merún, Yuruaní Merú, Karo Parú and Aponwao waterfalls and enjoy a refreshing dip in the water. We also offer short trips (1-2 hrs) by boat, on foot and in a jeep. (B,L,D) DAY 5 Gran Sabana – Puerto Ordaz – transfer to hotel After breakfast we start our return journey arriving at the hotel in Puerto Ordaz at around 1700hrs. DAY 6 Transfer to Puerto Ordaz airport – flight to Canaima – tour of Canaima This morning we will transfer you from your hotel to the domestic airport for your flight to Puerto Ordaz. On arrival transfer to your accommodation (superior standard) along the Laguna de Canaima where you will enjoy spectacular views. After lunch the excursions begin. We leave the pink sands of the Laguna de Canaima's beach to tour this delightful area, getting close to the raging, tumbling water of the Sapo waterfall. Here you get the chance to take some of the best photos of the dramatic scenery in the national park. We then return to camp to enjoy a delicious evening meal and admire the night sky of the southern hemisphere. Overnight in DR. (L,D) Day 7 Carrao River – Angel Falls – Canaima camp After breakfast we cruise for 3.5 hrs along the Carrao River until we reach our camp at Angel Falls on Raton Island. We then hike to the base of the falls. When we get back to camp we will have a traditional barbecue prepared by our Pemon hosts. After an exhilarating trip through the rapids, we reach the camp at around 1700hrs where we will overnight in hammocks. (B,L,D) Day 8 Canaima camp – Pozo de la Felicidad Canaima – flight to Caracas via Puerto OrdazWe return to Canaima camp, visiting Pozo de la Felicidad en route. We reach camp at about 1100hrs and collect our belongings for the transfer to the airport. There will be time to stroll through the local shops. Return to Caracas via Puerto Ordaz. On arrival we will be met and transferred to the hotel. (B) Day 9 Transfer to Maiquetia Airport (Simon Bolivar International Airport) Transfer to the airport for your international flight or to connect with one of the following extensions. (B) POSSIBLE EXTENSIONS: Los Roques, Choroni, ranch stays in the Llanos, Paria Peninsula It is also possible to join up with our other regional tours to create an itinerary that suits your interests and the time you have available.. ORINOCO DELTA – CANAIMA 9 DAYS During this trip you will have the opportunity to travel deep into two of the most remote regions of Venezuela. The Orinoco Delta will introduce you to its endemic fauna and flora, along the river and its banks and within the jungle; it also gives you the chance to get close to the Warao Indians and their way of life. Then you will fly to the mystic land of Canaima, with its amazing lagoons, waterfalls and Tepuis. NOTES ABOUT THE PROGRAMME Starts daily except Saturday Best time to travel is between May and December Regional Trips Venezuela Standard accommodation in Canaima in hammocks with overnight at the base of the falls DAY 5 Transfer to Puerto Ordaz – transfer to hotel During the drive to Puerto Ordaz it is possible to stop at La Llovizna Park. (B,L) Superior accommodation in Canaima in hotels without overnight at the base of the falls (day trip only) DAY 6 Transfer to Puerto Ordaz airport – flight to Canaima – tour of Canaima This morning we will transfer you from your hotel to the domestic airport for your flight to Puerto Ordaz. On arrival transfer to your accommodation (superior standard) along the Laguna de Canaima where you will enjoy spectacular views. After lunch the excursions begin. We leave the pink sands of the Laguna de Canaima's beach to tour this delightful area, getting close to the raging, tumbling water of the Sapo waterfall. Here you get the chance to take some of the best photos of the dramatic scenery in the national park. We then return to camp to enjoy a delicious evening meal and admire the night sky of the southern hemisphere. Overnight in DR. (L,D) DAY 1 Arrival in Caracas We will meet you on arrival at Simon Bolivar International Airport, in Maiquetia, and transfer you to a hotel close to the airport where you will spend the night. We will also give you all the necessary documents, including air tickets and vouchers. Meals (---) DAY 2 Transfer to Maiquetia airport – flight to Maturin – transfer to Orinoco Delta You will be collected from your hotel at around 0600hrs for your transfer to the airport for your flight to Maturin. From there we transfer to Puerto de Boca de Uracoa where we board a boat to take us to our base camp. (Transfer by land 2.5 hrs) (L,D) DAY 3 Orinoco Delta We travel by boat to our overnight camp and in the afternoon we pay a visit to the local indigenous people. Overnight in a hammock. DAY 4 Orinoco Delta In the morning we explore the local area before returning to base camp where we overnight in local, comfortable accommodation. (B,L,D) DAY 7 Carrao River – Angel Falls – Canaima camp After breakfast we cruise for 3.5 hrs along the Carrao River until we reach our camp at Angel Falls on Raton Island. We then hike to the base of the falls. When we get back to camp we will have a traditional barbecue prepared by our Pemon hosts. After an exhilarating trip through the rapids, we reach the camp at around 1700hrs where we will overnight in hammocks. (B,L,D) DAY 8 Canaima camp – Pozo de la Felicidad - Canaima – flight to Caracas via Puerto Ordaz We return to Canaima camp, visiting the Pozo de la Felicidad en route. We reach camp at about 1100hrs and collect our belongings for the transfer to the airport. There will be time to stroll through the local shops. Return to Caracas via Puerto Ordaz. On arrival we will be met and transferred to the hotel. (B) DAY 9 Transfer to Maiquetia Airport (Simon Bolivar International Airport) Transfer to the airport for your international flight or to connect with one of the following extensions. (B) POSSIBLE EXTENSIONS: Los Roques, Choroni, ranch stays in the Llanos, Paria Peninsula It is also possible to join up with our other regional tours to create an itinerary that suits your interests and the time you have available Regional Trips Venezuela AMAZONAS – CANAIMA (AMONGST THE TEPUIS) will spend the night. We will also give you all the necessary documents, including air tickets and vouchers. Meals (---) 9 DAYS DAY 2 Transfer to Maiquetia airport – flight to Puerto Ayacucho – tour of Autana We meet you at your hotel and transfer you to the airport for your flight to Puerto Ayacucho. We then travel by jeep to Puerto Samariapo where we begin our journey along the Orinoco River. We leave the Orinoco and continue along the Sipapo River. We stop at a particularly beautiful spot to swim and have lunch before continuing to the mouth of the Autana River. We spend the night in a village belonging to the Piaroa tribe where we will have time to explore the surrounding area and learn a little about their daily lives. Overnight in a hammock. (Transfer from Ayacucho to Samariapo 1 hr) (B,L,D) During the first four days of this journey you will travel along the Orinoco and Autana Rivers, at the heart of the Amazon. There you will visit the community of Piaroas Indians and get to the closest point by water to the Autana Tepui. This is followed by a hike through the jungle to get an even closer view of Autana. The journey continues with a flight to the other side of the Amazon, to Canaima National Park, for visits to its magnificent waterfalls and tepuis. NOTES ABOUT THE PROGRAMME Starts daily except Friday Best time to travel is between May and December Standard accommodation in Canaima in hammocks with overnight at the base of the falls Superior accommodation in Canaima in hotels without overnight at the base of the falls (day trip only) DAY 1 Arrival in Caracas We will meet you on arrival at Simon Bolivar International Airport, in Maiquetia, and transfer you to a hotel close to the airport where you DAY 3 Tour of Autana continues At 8.30 we start to sail along the Autana River until we reach Raudal de Ceguera, the closest point to the Autana tepui. We visit the local community then start to hike through the forest escorted by a local guide who will give us an insight into life on the river. We return to Ceguera to overnight in a hammock. (B,L,D) DAY 4 Tour of Autana continues At 0830hrs we start our return journey along the Autana River until we join the Sipapo River where we stop for lunch. Here we pay a visit to a local community to find out about their culture before cruising along the Orinoco to Puerto Regional Trips Venezuela Samariapo. Here we pick up jeeps to take us back to Puerto Ayacucho where we overnight in a hotel. (B,L,D DAY 5 Transfer to Ciudad Bolivar After breakfast we drive to Ciudad Bolivar. En route we will see indigenous villages and their delightful surroundings. We overnight in a hotel close to the airport. (10hr drive) (B) DAY 6 Transfer to Ciudad Bolivar – flight to Canaima – tour of Canaima This morning we will transfer you from your hotel to the domestic airport for your flight to Puerto Ordaz. On arrival transfer to your accommodation (superior standard) along the Laguna de Canaima where you will enjoy spectacular views. to tour this delightful area, getting close to the raging, tumbling water of the Sapo waterfall. Here you get the chance to take some of the best photos of the dramatic scenery in the national park. We then return to camp to enjoy a delicious evening meal and admire the night sky of the southern hemisphere. Overnight in DR (L,D) DAY 7 Carrao River – Angel Falls – Canaima camp After breakfast we cruise for 3.5hrs along the Carrao River until we reach our camp at Angel Falls on Raton Island. We then hike to the base of the falls. When we get back to camp we will have a traditional barbecue prepared by our Pemon hosts. After an exhilarating trip through the rapids, we reach the camp at around 1700hrs where we will overnight in hammocks.(B,L,D) DAY 8 Canaima camp – Pozo de la Felicidad Canaima – flight to Caracas via Puerto Ordaz We return to Canaima camp, visiting the Pozo de la Felicidad en route. We reach camp at about 1100hrs and collect our belongings for the transfer to the airport. There will be time to stroll through the local shops. Return to Caracas via Puerto Ordaz. On arrival we will be met and transferred to the hotel. (B) DAY 9 Transfer to Maiquetia Airport (Simon Bolivar International Airport) Transfer to the airport for your international flight or to connect with one of the following extensions. (B) POSSIBLE EXTENSIONS: Los Roques, Choroni, ranch stays in the Llanos, Paria Peninsula It is also possible to join up with our other regional tours to create an itinerary that suits your interests and the time you have available. CAURA RIVER – CANAIMA 10 DAYS Caura River is located at the heart of the tropical forest, where visitors can get to know the flora and fauna of the area; en route you will also enjoy great views of the savannah. You will navigate the river accompanied by local experts and will get to know the Ye´kwana/Makiritares peoples and view Para Waterfall. Then the journey continues to Canaima National Park, home to spectacular waterfalls and tepuis, and to the world-famous Angel Falls. NOTES ABOUT THE PROGRAMME Starts daily except Friday Best time to travel is between May and December Minimum 4 passengers (can check availability for 2) DAY 1 Arrival in Caracas We will meet you on arrival at Simon Bolivar International Airport, in Maiquetia, and transfer you to a hotel close to the airport where you will spend the night. We will also give you all the necessary documents, including air tickets and vouchers. Meals (---) Regional Trips Venezuela DAY 2 Transfer Ciudad Bolivar – Caura This morning we will transfer you from your hotel to the domestic airport for your flight to Ciudad Bolivar. We leave Ciudad Bolivar and travel through the savannah to our camp by the Caura River. Here you will mainly see the moriche palms that the locals use to make hammocks and handicrafts and for their fruit which is edible. Here we will also see low hills, patches of forest and narrow stretches of woodland along the numerous tributaries of the Orinoco. After travelling along the track for an hour we reach the Aro River the last service station before we reach our destination. Our journey continues across the savannah dominated by vast pre-Cambrian granite rocks which form part of the Escudo Guayanes. Finally we leave the main road and follow a rough track which penetrates the dense tropical forest of the Caura River basin until we arrive at the small village of Las Trincheras and our camp on the riverbank. After lunch we set out on our first outing by motorized Indian canoe to Pena Negra, a huge granite rock in the middle of the river. From here we have stunning views of the river and the lush tropical forest. We stay and watch the sun go down before returning to camp where we have dinner. Overnight in a hammock or a room with private facilities. (B,L,D) DAY 3 El Playon After breakfast we load the boat with our luggage, supplies and petrol. We are accompanied by a guide and a local expert who knows the river, the rocks and the best way through the rapids. After half an hour we reach the first section of rapids; during the dry season we will find sandy beaches here where we can relax and swim. As we continue our journey up the ever more winding river we sometimes we meet the Ye´kwana/Makiritares people as they fish in the river. In the distance we begin to make out the outlines of mountains which tells us that we have nearly reached our destination. El Playon is a beautiful beach fringed by thick forest at the bottom of a set of rapids. Here we overnight in hammocks protected by mosquito nets in thatchedroof cabins made by the locals. (B,L,D) DAY 4 Hike to Para Waterfall In the early morning the landscape is still enveloped in thick cloud which slowly clears while we breakfast and the first rays of the sun begin to reflect off the river. We set out on a short hike through the forest parallel to the river, but the greenery is so thick, almost like being in a tunnel, that we are unable to see the water. After a couple of hours we begin to hear the thunder of the Para Waterfall and finally we reach the CADAFE electricity company research station, also known as Las Pavas camp. The location, level with the waterfall, gives the best view of the tumbling water. Above the waterfall is a lake where we can enjoy a refreshing swim or we can do the same at the base of the falls. In the afternoon we return to camp at El Playon where we eat and overnight in hammocks protected by mosquito nets. (B,L,D) DAY 5 Return to camp After breakfast we load up the boat with our luggage and supplies for the return journey downriver to our camp in Las Trincheras which we will reach around midday. In the afternoon, after a well deserved rest, there will be time to go for a last swim in the river. Overnight in a hammock or room with private facilities. (B,L,D) DAY 6 Transfer to Ciudad Bolivar Return to Ciudad Bolivar by road after breakfast. (B) DAY 7 Transfer to Ciudad Bolivar – flight to Canaima – tour of Canaima This morning we will transfer you from your hotel to the domestic airport for your flight to Puerto Ordaz. On arrival transfer to your accommodation (superior standard) along the Laguna de Canaima where you will enjoy spectacular views. After lunch the excursions begin. We leave the pink sands of the Laguna de Canaima's beach to tour this delightful area, getting close to the raging, tumbling water of the Sapo waterfall. Here you get the chance to take some of the best photos of the dramatic scenery in the national park. Regional Trips Venezuela We then return to camp to enjoy a delicious evening meal and admire the night sky of the southern hemisphere. Overnight in DR. (L,D) DAY 8 Carrao River – Angel Falls – Canaima camp After breakfast we cruise for 3.5hrs along the Carrao River until we reach our camp at Angel Falls on Raton Island. We then hike to the base of the falls. When we get back to camp we will have a traditional barbecue prepared by our Pemon hosts. After an exhilarating trip through the rapids, we reach the camp at around 1700hrs where we will overnight in hammocks. (B,L,D) DAY 9 Canaima camp – Pozo de la Felicidad Canaima – flight to Caracas via Puerto Ordaz We return to Canaima camp, visiting the Pozo de la Felicidad en route. We reach camp at about 1100hrs and collect our belongings for the transfer to the airport. There will be time to stroll through the local shops. Return to Caracas via Puerto Ordaz. On arrival we will be met and transferred to the hotel. (B) DAY 10 Transfer to Maiquetia Airport (Simon Bolivar International Airport) Transfer to the airport for your international flight or to connect with one of the following extensions. (B) POSSIBLE EXTENSIONS: The Roques, Choroni, ranch stays in Los Llanos, Paria Peninsula It is also possible to join up with our other regional tours to create an itinerary that suits your interests and the time you have available. . ADVENTURE TOUR This tour offers the opportunity to get to know a little of what Venezuela has to offer; mountains, plains, sea, forests. There is also the opportunity to see the meteorological phenomenon, the Catatumbo Lightning, unique in the world, which can be seen from April until the beginning of December. There you will have the opportunity to visit a typical village where people live in stilt houses over the lake. You can enjoy discovering the country while, at the same time, taking part in activities with a hint of adventure. ITINERARY OUTLINE: DAY1: Arrival in Caracas We will meet you in the terminal at Simon Bolivar International Airport at Maiquetia, hand over your air tickets and vouchers, then transfer you to a hotel close to the airport where you will overnight. DAY 2: Caracas – El Vigia – South of Lake Maracaibo We will meet you at your hotel and transfer you to the domestic airport for your flight to the Venezuelan Andes, to El Vigia, around 50 minutes from Merida. We then drive for around an hour and a half to the location where we board a motor boat; we then cruise for around 4 hours to our camp by Lake Maracaibo. There we will see dolphins, howler monkeys and toucans, amongst others. We will spend the night in hammocks from where we will be able to experience the meteorological phenomenon, the Catatumbo Lightning. This phenomenon in the ozone layer is silent lightning, which can be seen intermittently for around 10 hours throughout the night, and flickers around 200 times per hour. (50 mins by plane, 1hr 30 mins by road, 4 hrs by boat) (B,L,D) DAY 3: Travel through the mangrove swamps Visit the waterways of Cienagas de Juan Manuel National Park by boat, where you may see manatees, caimans, babas, jaguars, freshwater dolphins, white herons, blue herons, wild ducks, seagulls and many more species. At the end of the day transfer to Merida. Spend the night in a colonial posada in Merida. DAY 4: Canyoning We will leave Merida at around 0830 hrs and travel for around 25 minutes, until we reach 1750m above sea level, following the road to El Morro in the Sierra Nevada. Then we walk for a further 25 minutes, mainly downhill, until we see the gorge from where we have fantastic views of the whole of Merida. Regional Trips Venezuela Once in the gorge, the guide will instruct you on how to use the equipment and to rapel down the waterfalls. From here we begin our tour along the river. En route we will pass many small waterfalls and three much larger: 12m, 22m and 25m. You can rapel down the side of the falls or through the water. Depending on the size of the group, around 3-4 hours will be spent in the gorge. Overnight in a colonial posada located in Merida. DAY 5: Set out for Los Nevados We set out for El Morro then begin to climb, following an intricate network of roads, heading for Los Nevados at 2700m. On arrival at Los Nevados take a stroll around and then enjoy a typical meal. (5 hrs by jeep) (L,D) DAY 6: In Los Nevados The mules set out from 2700m for the ascent through the mountain pass to Alto de la Cruz at 4200m. From this point there is a marvellous view of Pico Bolivar. The mules remain at the Loma Redonda cable car station and the group descend on foot for around two hours to Los Calderones valley at 3500m where we will set up camp or overnight in an Andean posada. (4 hrs by mule, 2 hrs walking) (B,L,D) DAY 7: Leave Los Nevados After breakfast we start to descend on foot through the cloud forest for around 4 hours until we reach Mucunutan. We then return by jeep to the hotel or posada in Merida. (1hr by jeep, 4 hrs walking) (B) DAY 8: Adventure camp in Los Llanos After spending a few days in the mountains we head to the plains in the Barinas foothills to have some adventurous fun in a friendly camp. Today you can relax in the surroundings of the camp, explore the forest, swim in the river or relax. Spend the night in a standard room in the camp. (B) DAY 9: Rafting in Los Llanos Today you can take part in the activity of your choice: rafting along one of the rivers, canyoning or going on a bike ride. Spend the night in a standard room in the camp. (B) DAY 10: Camping in Los Llanos Transfer to our base camp in the low-lying plains (llanos) of Apure State. The friendly plains dwellers, guided by our host family, will give us a warm welcome and treat us to a typical llanos meal. Accommodation is in dormitories with hammocks, mosquito nets and shared bathrooms. There are some beds, but these are subject to availability. As the sun begins to go down, and after a coffee, we head off in our jeep for an exciting safari in the savannah that surrounds the camp. You will see lots of birds along the riverbank, caimans, small groups of capibaras (the largest rodents in the world), some deer and, with the help of our plainsmen guides, we may be able to find the intimidating anaconda or the gaudy anteater. (B,L,D) DAY 11: Camping in Los Llanos Travel by boat for around 4 hours. In the Cano Guaritico it is possible to spot delightful freshwater dolphins (toninas), anteaters, caimans, iguanas, several birds, possibly otters and even some anacondas. We will also attempt to fish for piranhas and watch out for the Aguila Solitaria bird which will also be looking for fish. After lunch we leave to try our luck and skill at fishing for piranhas. At night, the advantage of our location is that we can see the constellations of both hemispheres. (B,L,D) DAY 12: Transfer to Choroni After an early breakfast we embark on our journey to the coast; this overland journey takes around 10 hours and you will see the countryside changing en route, with a spectacular descent to the fishing port of Choroni, through the mountainous cloud forest of Henri Pittier National Park. Overnight in a twin share in a posada. Regional Trips Venezuela It is also possible to visit a tourist development project involved in organic agriculture production and the conservation of the environment, working with the locals living there. (B) DAYs 13-16: Relax on the coast – transfer to Caracas – international flight departure Choroni is hidden between the cloud forest of Henri Pittier National Park and aquamarine waters of the Caribbean Sea; this colonial town will take you back in time. From your accommodation you can go on many trip such as the cloud forest in Henri Pittier National Park to enjoy its flora and fauna and to take a refreshing dip in the magnificent waterfalls. Also of particular interest are visits to cacao and sugar cane plantations with their colonial architecture. Or, of course, you can spend the days on the nearby beaches, such as Playa Grande in Puerto Colombia. The delightful town of Carupano is located in the north of Sucre State between Araya and Paria peninsulas. Carupano is a very friendly town; it is an excellent base to make visits to Araya and Paria and the carnival colours in Carupano are probably the best in Venezuela. It was a very important place at the beginning of the 20th century when cacao and coffee were exported from its port. It was here in 1814 that Simon Bolivar, the liberator of Venezuela, announced a decree banning slavery. This is a perfect place to sample the historical riches on offer in Venezuela. On the last day you will be transferred early in the morning to the international airport at Maiquetia for your flight home. DAY 1 Transfer from airport – hotel Accommodation of your choice from standard hotel room with air conditioning and private facilities to guesthouse or cacao plantation. (B) EXTENSIONS EXTENSION TO PARIA 4 DAYS/3 NIGHTS There are many possibilities for excursions and relaxation on the Paria Peninsula; beautiful beaches, tree-covered mountains, outings to cacao plantations, or thermal hot springs. You can also visit a ranch which is carrying out agro-ecological experiments using nontraditional forms of energy. (D) DAYS 2 -3 Relax on the beach Activities in the local area include diving in the Caribbean from several of the beaches such as Playa Medina, Playa Pui-Pui, and Playa Cangua to name a few. Discover the coastal scenery at San Juan de Las Galdonas where you can enjoy the beautiful views here. Hike through the flooded mountain forest and premontane of Cerro del Humo and the nearby town of Santa Isabel to look for some of Regional Trips Venezuela the local flora and fauna. Visit the turtle research and conservation project on the peninsula, go diving along the coast to see the marine world, go fishing for a variety of species, sunbathe, sail, surf, go hiking to see the birdlife, take a boat to spend the day on an isolated island, bathe in the thermal hot springs, pay a night time visit to the Guacharo caves to see the famous birds, go on a jeep excursion, take a boat to go diving at isolated Los Testigos. Visitors to the Paria Peninsula can also have the opportunity to visit the reserve which works to conserve the buffalo and restore basic resources. Efforts are also being made on the peninsula for the sustainable development and support of the local people and prevent unacceptable changes to the natural resources. Visitors also have the opportunity to visit Turuepano National Park, a refuge for manatees. (B,L,D) DAY 4 Transfer to Carupano airport After breakfast we will transfer you to the airport for your flight to Caracas to connect with your international flight. (B) conditioning and private facilities to guesthouse or cacao plantation. (D) EXTENSION TO MOCHIMA 4 DAYS/3 NIGHTS Mochima is well known for its numerous islands and islets, lapped by clear and warm water. Most of the islands are dry, partly rocky and truly spectacular, being home to some idyllic beaches. You will find coral reefs surrounding the islands, a colourful habitat ideal for snorkelling or diving. The islands away from the Puerto La Cruz coastline, and more to the east towards Cumana, are a perfect spot for deep water diving. Here you will find the best variety of anemones in the world, as well as dolphins and possibly even whales. DAY 1 Transfer from airport – hotel Accommodation of your choice from standard hotel room with air Days 2 -3 Relax on the beach The mountainous coastline of Mochima is spectacular, boasting deep bays and white sandy beaches. A road which skirts along the coast reveals the stunning park scenery of inlets, bays and islands which grace the aquamarine Caribbean Sea. A group of larger islands, such as Picuda Grande, Islas Caracas and Venados, are an extension of a sunken range of mountains, whose valleys form the Gulf of Santa Fe, the Ensenada Tigrillo and the Bahía de Mochima. You can enjoy this natural beauty while you relax on Mochima's beach. (B,L,D) DAY 4 Transfer from hotel to Cumana airport After breakfast we will transfer you to the airport for your flight to Caracas to connect with your international flight. (B) Regional Trips Venezuela for your flight to Los Roques; after a 50-minute flight you arrive at the archipelago of islands. Accommodation of your choice from standard hotel room with air conditioning and private facilities to simple guesthouses with overhead fan. You can choose either half board or full board and include private transfers to islands close to Gran Roque where you can spend a quiet day relaxing under a sunshade with a cold drink. (D) EXTENSION TO LOS ROQUES 4 DAYS/3 NIGHTS Approximately 150km north of the Venezuelan Caribbean coast is the archipelago Los Roques National Park. The park is a vast coral reef which is hidden just below the surface under turquoise and emerald seas with 50 white-sand islands and around 200 sandbanks. Most of the islands in the park are deserted. There is a sleepy fishing village of around 800 inhabitants on the largest island, el Gran Roque, devoid of cars and with family-run guesthouses, healthy meals, a dive shop and a boat service to the other islands in the archipelago. DAY 1 Transfer to Caracas domestic airport (Maiquetia) – flight to Los Roques We collect you from your hotel and transfer you to the airport in Maiquetia DAYS 2-3 Relax on the beach There is a selection of activities to choose from, such as relaxing on the outlying islands, strolling along the white sandy beaches or swimming in the crystal-clear waters. You can go diving and discover the colourful marine world or go deep sea fishing for bonefish. (B,L,D) DAY 4 Fly from Los Roques to Caracas After breakfast we will transfer you to the airport for your flight to Caracas to connect with your international flight. (B) RANCH STAY EXTENSION IN THE LLANOS The Llanos, the vast area of savannah, has an incredible range of wildlife which is defined by the seasons. Life for the animals revolves around the wet and dry seasons where seemingly endless rivers and vast plains dry up and turn to dust from December to April and are abundant and luxuriant in the wet season from May to November. The biodiversity here is plentiful. DAY 1 Caracas – Ranch in the Llanos At around 0700hrs we will collect you from the hotel and transfer you to the ranch. On arrival you will be given a meal typical of the area and then in the late afternoon there will be an excursion. Accommodation is in a double room with private facilities. (5 hrs transfer by road) (L,D) DAYS 2-3 On the ranch The daily excursions (morning and afternoon) are all in a 4x4 vehicle from which you have a perfect view of the scenery. It may be possible to take a boat trip along the river, depending on the season. Bilingual guides will accompany you on all excursions. You can even arrange with the ranch to go on a special excursion to look for giant anteaters, armadillos, iguanas, blond monkeys and capuchin monkeys, as well as capibaras (the largest rodent in the world) and caimans. (B,L,D) DAY 4 Ranch – airport After breakfast, depending on your international flight time, we will transfer you to the airport for your return or connecting flight. (5 hrs transfer by road)(B) Regional Trips Venezuela (D,--,--) Useful Information Pre departure information for Venezuela Natoura Travel & Adventure tours aim to provide a safe and exciting adventure tour to Venezuela in an ecologically friendly way, in harmony with the environment. The following information will help to reduce the problems you may encounter on your holiday. ARRIVING IN CARACAS You will be met upon arrival at Maiquetia Simon Bolivar International Airport by an English-speaking guide from Natoura. If for any reason your flight is delayed, please contact Jose Luis Troconis, the manager of Natoura, at the following telephone numbers: (0274) 252 4216/252 4075/263 2696 or mobile phone 0416 674 8442. After collecting your luggage you will go through customs where you will hand in the form that you completed on the flight. On leaving customs make sure you don't take the tunnel to the domestic airport but go straight to the exit, to the passenger assistance office, where our representative will be waiting for you. Look around for someone with a welcome sign with your name and/or the Natoura logo on it. Please do not go around looking for your Natoura contact by volunteering your name; wait until they confirm your name to make sure that you are meeting the correct person. Our representative will give you your vouchers for the hotel and tour and your domestic flight tickets. Important: please note that in order to get through all the formalities you must check in at least one hour before departure for domestic flights and three hours for international flights. We recommend you bring US Dollars to cover your expenses in Venezuela; using credit cards is not recommended. Please note that it is your responsibility to get to the starting point of the tour. If you don't turn up on time, you will have to cover the necessary expenses in order to meet up with the group (assuming you are part of a group) if it has already departed. Also note that our representative might not be able to find you initially or, for reasons beyond their control, arrive a little late to meet you. If uncertain, please contact the office on the telephone numbers above. CULTURE Roman Catholicism is by far the dominant religion in Venezuela, and has been adopted by most indigenous people -only those living in isolated regions still practice their ancient tribal beliefs. The Protestant church has a significant presence, and recently has been gaining some ground, attracting adherents from the Catholic Church. An unusual and obscure pantheistic sect, known as the Cult of María Lionza, exists in the northwest and combines pre-Hispanic indigenous creeds, African voodoo and Christian religious practices. Spanish is spoken by most Venezuelans, though more than 30 indigenous tongues are spoken by remote tribes. English is spoken by some people in urban centers. Useful Information PUBLIC HOLIDAYS January 1 - New Year's Day Before Easter Sunday - Maundy Thursday & Good Friday April 19 - Declaration of Independence May 1 - Labor Day June 24 - Battle of Carabobo July 5 - Independence Day July 24 - Bolívar's Birthday October 12 - Discovery of America December 25 - Christmas BACKGROUND INFORMATION FOR ARRIVAL IN CARACAS Caracas airport is situated on the coast, 22Km (14 miles) from the capital; International flights use the Simon Bolivar terminal and most domestic flights use the next-door Maiquetía terminal. It is a 5 minutes walk from one terminal building to the other. Depending on the amount of traffic it takes from 35 minutes to over one hour to travel between the airport and the city centre. If you are flying to Venezuela in advance and have not arranged for us to meet you at the airport and transfer you to central Caracas, there is a good airport bus service, but we strongly recommend you take a taxi unless you have been to Caracas before. Taxi fares from the airport to the city centre are regulated (though not cheap) and after a long flight you will at least be able to relax and start taking in the surroundings during the drive. As you emerge from customs into the arrivals area there is an official taxi kiosk straight ahead; they have a list of tariffs on display and will liaise with a driver for you (you pay at the kiosk); prices vary according to the time of day. The bus service departs for the city centre every 10 minutes between 06h:00 and 00h:30. Look for the blue and white buses marked “Aeropuerto Internacional” just outside the terminal building. The airport bus has various setting down points in the middle of town from which you should hail a taxi to your final destination; you should agree the fare before the taxi sets off (city centre taxis are not regulated and drivers rarely use the taximeter; after 22h:00 fares double). You can’t use Caracas´ excellent metro (subway) if you are carrying heavy luggage or a backpack (this rule is strictly enforced). For seasoned South American travelers only there are numerous por puestos (privately operated cars and minibuses running on fixed routes) busily making their way about the city. These are invariably over-crowded but are a cheap and efficient way of crossing from one part of Caracas to another, particularly useful if you are not following the linear route of the metro. All destinations along a por puesto´s route are displayed on its windscreen. CLIMATE AND CLOTHING On the northern Caribbean coast, the weather is mostly dry all year, sunny, and around 28-30ºC. In July and August the temperatures in this region can reach 35-38ºC. Summer wear, short sleeve shirt, shorts, sandals, swimsuit, sun block, sun glasses, and sun hat are recommended. In Mérida, daytime temperatures are usually around 2325ºC, but on overcast days they can reach as low as 710ºC. In the mountains at night, the temperature can get down to 0ºC, and at higher altitudes it can drop to 5ºC. So goes the saying in the Andes, "summer by day, winter by night". Summer wear, shorts, sandals, swimsuit, short sleeve shirt, long pants, long sleeve shirt, warm sweater/fleece jacket, rain jacket, solid walking shoes, sun glasses, sun block, and sun hat are recommended. In the Gran Sabana, Orinoco Delta, Rio Caura the average range is 20º-27ºC, but at elevations higher than 3,280 feet, the range is 10º-20ºC. Here the differences between the seasons are more pronounced than in the rest of the country. The Amazonas region is warmer than the national average and has plenty of rain. Summer wear, shorts, sandals, swimsuit, short sleeve shirt, long pants, long sleeve shirt, light sweater, warm sweater/fleece jacket (Roraima), rain jacket, solid Useful Information walking shoes, sun glasses, sun block and sun hat are recommended. The key to preparing for Venezuela's varied climates is to bring several layers of non-bulky clothing. For the most part, in the cities, light, casual clothing, comfortable shoes and jeans are appropriate. TIME ZONE Venezuela is four hours behind Greenwich Mean Time and the same as Eastern Standard Time in the United States. There is no daylight saving, so during the northern hemisphere summer, Venezuela is five and a half hours behind GMT and one and a half hours ahead of EST in the United States. HEALTH With sensible precautions the visitor to Venezuela should remain as healthy as at home. There are general rules to follow which should keep you in good health when traveling. Water in all main towns is heavily chlorinated, so safe to drink, but may cause abdominal upset. Most people drink bottled water. This is what we recommend as well. Canned and bottled soft drinks are safe to drink and widely available. Milk is pasteurized and dairy products are safe for consumption. Medical attention and state health care is free. Inoculation against typhoid and yellow fever, and protection against malaria, is recommended for the Orinoco and other swampy or forest regions. Protection against mosquito bites is required after an outbreak of dengue fever in 1995. Therefore, bring a good insect repellent containing 50-90% Deet. Be sure to report any flu-like symptoms to your tour leader or doctor immediately. If you have any flu-like symptoms within six weeks after your return home, report to your doctor immediately, and tell him/her to test for malaria. The sooner you act, the better. Some rivers are infected with bilharzias and in some areas there are warning signs; check before bathing. On the coast from Cumana eastwards precautions against vampire bat bites are warranted since they can be rabies-carriers. When traveling to the mountainous areas, beware of altitude sickness. It is a good idea to acclimatize for a few days before embarking on mountain treks. Factor 15-suntan cream is widely available. It is advisable to take out medical insurance. Make sure it covers all eventualities especially evacuation to your home country by a medically equipped plane, if necessary. In the tropical climates along the coast and the throughout the Southeast portion of the country, there are biting insects. Bear this in mind when packing by taking along light, long-sleeve shirts, trousers, and a mosquito net at night as an added precaution. Venezuela is in the tropics and the sun is strong. Wear a hat and protect yourself with loose, long sleeves, a high-factor sun block etc. as required. Keep in mind that at altitudes of the Andes and Mt. Roraima, the UV content is much higher: use some sun lotion even on cloudy days and use blocking cream when the sun is strong. SAFETY AND SECURITY Crime levels are high, especially in Caracas and other big cities. Visitors should not become involved in drugs of any kind. Drug traffickers face long prison sentences in Venezuelan jails. We advise against travel to the border areas especially with Colombia. Do not carry large amounts of money or valuable jewelry. Dress down. Care should be taken at all times even in residential districts and walking in the city streets should be avoided at night, especially in central Caracas. Use taxis wherever possible and then only white cars with yellow plates from taxi ranks. Do not accept unsolicited offers from other vehicles, especially at Caracas airport. Only licensed taxis bearing a clearly identifiable number should be used. At Caracas airport there is a reputable black taxi service (Ford Explorer). We recommend that you use our services for transfers. FOOD & DRINK As a large country with many varied zones, Venezuela has its own distinctive regional cooking. On the coast you'll find various hervidos de pescado (fish soup), also crayfish, small oysters and prawns. Useful Information Sometimes there is turtle, though it is a protected species. Turtle may appear on menus in the Península de Paraguaná as ropa especial. A favourite is sancocho, a rich and delicious fish stew. Consomé de chipi chipi is a thin broth with tiny clams, and reputed to be an aphrodisiac. Around Coro, chivo en coco (goat in coconut) is a speciality. Andean cuisine is very different. Arepas here are made of wheat, rather than corn. Local potatoes are very sweet and the locally-made cheese is superb. Also good are the cured meats and sausages that are sold at the roadside in many rural villages. In the Amazon region the staples are yuca (yucca or manioc), plantains, corn and beans. Casabe (cassava) is a dry, fibrous flatbread. People here also eat fish, turtles, tapirs, monkeys and birds. A local delicacy are deep-fried ants, especially the winged ones known as culonas (big bottoms). But don't feel that you have to follow suit. VENEZUELAN SPECIALTIES It may seem strange for a country whose capital boasts some of the continent's most sophisticated culinary delights, but Venezuela's favorite food is a lump of fried corn or wheat flour about the size of a fist. Yes, the arepa is as ubiquitous in Venezuela as fish and chips in Britain or sausages in Germany. The cheap and filled arepa is eaten by everyone, everywhere, and it seems, at every hour of the day. Arepas are sliced open and stuffed with just about anything. Among the most popular fillings are: carne mechada (shredded beef), reina pepiada (chicken with avocado), ensalada de atún (tuna salad) or simply queso amarillo (yellow cheese). At breakfast they are filled with perico, scrambled eggs with tomato and onion. Arepas can also be spread with natilla, a light cream cheese, or eaten alone as an accompaniment to the national dish, pabellón criollo. This features shredded beef spiced with onions, green pepper, tomato, coriander and garlic, rice, fried plantain and caraotas negras (black beans). This is part of the staple diet of many working-class people and also a regular on many restaurant menus. Similar to the arepa is the tequeño. This is made of egg pastry dough, rolled into cigar-shaped pieces, wrapped around strips of cheese and fried (very tasty). These are served as pasapalos (hors d'oeuvres) or eaten anytime as a snack. Another culinary ever-present is the cachapa, a thick and slightly sweet pancake made with maize. They're eaten at breakfast or as a snack with cheese. And not forgetting the empanada, a fried cornmeal turnover filled with cheese, meat or fish (the trout ones in the Andes are to die for), or cachitos, which are filled croissants (invariably ham and/or cheese). Venezuela also boasts fine meat, fish and mariscos (shellfish). Beef is produced by the ton in the Llanos and you can enjoy a big steak for less than the price of a beer in Europe. You can choose between muchacho (roast beef), solomo (sirloin) and lomito (steak). Serious meat eaters can put their arteries at risk with a mighty parrilla, or mixed grill. Up in the Andes the lakes and streams are filled with trucha (trout), which you would be crazy to miss, and along the Caribbean coast you can dine on pargo (red snapper), dorado and shellfish, like clams or oysters. Venezuela has a bewildering selection of tropical fruits. There's lechosa (papaya the size of a football), mangos, guayaba (guava), guanábana, zapote (sapodilla plum), níspero (the fruit of the medlar tree), oranges, pears, breadfruit, melons, pineapples, strawberries, coconuts, parchita (passion fruit), limones (lemons) and aguacate (avocado). Not surprisingly, then, fruit juices are big business here, and just wonderful. There's papelón con limón (lemonade sweetened with raw sugar), or jugo de caña (pale green sugar cane juice) and coco (coconut, of course), drunk straight from the shell. Anything, in fact, can be made into a mouth-watering jugo (juice), batido (more fruit and less water than jugo) or merengada (a milkshake). You'll find every kind of banana here -from the short and stubby cambur, to the large plátano (which is mostly used for frying). Very good are bags of crisply fried, lightly salted banana chips called tostones. DRINK Venezuelan rum is very good; recommended brands are Cacique, Selecto, Pampero and Santa Teresa. There Useful Information are four good local beers: Polar (the most popular), Regional (with a strong flavor of hops), Cardenal and Zulia. Brahma beer (lighter than Polar) is imported from Brazil. There are also mineral waters and gin. Now there is a good, local wine in Venezuela. The Polar brewery has joined with Martell (France) and built a winery in Carora. Wines produced are 'Viña Altagracia' and 'Bodegas Pomar'. 'Bodegas Pomar' also produces a sparkling wine in the traditional champagne style. Liqueurs are cheap, try the local ponche crema. The coffee is excellent and very cheap. Chicha de arroz is a sweet drink made of milk, rice starch, sugar and vanilla. TIPPING In most bars and restaurants a 10% service charge is added to the bill. This is not a tip; it is the staff’s wages. It is customary to leave a 5-8% tip. In more expensive locales, it is customary to leave another 10%. Taxi drivers are not tipped unless they carry your luggage for you. Porters at the airport should be tipped around BsF 20.00 (US$ 4.00) and porters at hotels are usually tipped around BsF 10.00 (US$ 2.00.) Tips to your tour guides, lodge staff and/or drivers are discretionary but encouraged and welcome, as the cost of living in Venezuela is high. On our tours through remote areas we recruit local villagers and porters/boatmen. If they provide you with any special services beyond this, you may wish to show your appreciation for their help. Your tour leader will be able to advise you on this. Please pack T-shirts and other items of clothing or trekking kit which you could leave behind as practical gifts. number). If you forget your PIN, you can usually still obtain money at a Bank. MONEY MATTERS AND CURRENCY UPDATE The Bolivar Fuerte has been in circulation since 2008 and the old currency, the Bolivar, is still in circulation as well. Please feel free to ask your tour guide about the differences between the two currencies. The Venezuelan unit of currency is the Bolívar Fuerte. TELEPHONES AND MAIL We recommend that you bring your spending money in a combination of American Express US$ travelers checks and US$ cash, and that you use your credit card in few cases (do not expect this to be your main means of payment, as they are not universally accepted because of the high commissions charged within Venezuela). Forms of currency other than the US$ might be more difficult to change outside of the official change bureaus Please keep in mind that in Venezuela there have been currency exchange restrictions since 2003; a black market has also existed since then. We recommend you only change a small amount (US$50) of your spending money upon arrival in Venezuela at the Bureau of Change in Caracas airport (airside - just opposite the immigration desks and before the baggage reclaim area). In major towns and cities it is possible to obtain Bolívares Fuertes using your credit card at automatic cash dispensers (you will need to know your PIN You may dial directly to any international number from any public telephone. For shorter calls, we recommend purchasing a telephone card. These come in amounts of BsF. 5.00 (about US$ 1.00). These can be purchased at any pharmacy, newsstand or bakery. If you want to make a longer call without a time restriction, we recommend doing so from call centers that are found throughout any main city or town. Please, be aware that telephoning from your hotel can be very expensive. You can purchase stamps or mail any items from any post office. Please, remember that the Venezuelan mail system is rather inefficient and a bit unreliable. Allow 34 weeks for letters or postcards to arrive. ELECTRICITY 110 volts AC 60 cycles. American-styled two-pin plugs are most common. Useful Information VISAS Visas are granted to those who want to enter the country for the purpose of leisure, health or activities that do not involve payment or profit, such as cultural, artistic, scientific, sport, contact with businesses established in the country or with people from the public or private sector or as a journalist for special events. A tourist visa is valid for one year, is multiple entry and allows visitors to stay for a period of up to 90 days, which can be extended by the Ministry of the Interior and Justice. The exception to this rule is tourists and visitors who are nationals of countries that benefit from the DEX-2 Tourist Card. This will be granted by travel agencies and transportation companies authorized by the Tourism Corporation of Venezuela. They are valid for 90 days, for one entry only, and cannot be extended. TOURIST CARD (DEX-2) Where can you get a tourist card? These are given out by the commercial airlines. They are valid for one entry only and are valid for a stay of up to 90 days. The citizens of the following countries can enter Venezuela with a Tourist Card (DEX-2): List of countries whose citizens enjoy the Benefit of Cancellation of Visas for Non-Migrants for ordinary passport holders, according to Resolution No 115 published in the Official Gazette No 38.653 dated 27 March 2007. Countries ANDORRA ANTIGU Y BARBUDA ANTILLAS NEERLANDESAS ARGENTINA AUSTRALIA AUSTRIA BARBADOS BÉLGICA BELICE BRASIL BULGARIA CANADA COREA (SUR) COSTA RICA CHILE CHIPRE CROACIA DINAMARCA DOMINICA ESLOVENIA ESPAÑA ESTADOS UNIDOS ESTONIA FINLANDIA FRANCIA GRAN BRETAÑA GRECIA GRENADA GUATEMALA HONG KONG - (RAE) HUNGRIA IRLANDA ISLANDIA ITALIA JAMAIC Governments LETONIA LIECHTENSTEIN LITUANIA LUXEMBURGO MALASIA MALTA MÉXICO MONACO NORUEGA NUEVA ZELANDA PAISES BAJOS PANAMA PARAGUAY POLONIA PORTUGAL REPUBLICA CHECA REPUBLICA ESLOVACA RUMANIA Useful Information SANTA LUCIA SAINT KITTS AND NEVIS SAN MARINO SAN VICENTE Y LAS GRANADINAS SUDAFRICA SUECIA SUIZA TRINIDAD Y TOBAGO TURQUIA URUGUAY Passport: All foreigners who wish to enter the country must be in possession of a valid passport with at least six months left to run, issued by the relevant authority and, if necessary, apply for a visa from the Consular Section of the Embassy of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela. CONFIRMATIONS OF FLIGHTS International It is essential to reconfirm your flight home at least 72 hours prior to departure. Natoura will be pleased to do it for you if you give us your return flight details before you arrive in Venezuela. Domestic We will reconfirm all domestic flights for you. BAGGAGE We recommend that you bring as little luggage as possible in order to travel lightly with a M A X I M U M O F 20 K G S . L U G G A G E A N D 5 K G S . H A N D L U G A G G E O N D O M E S T I C F L I G H T S , P E R P A S S E N G E R . We recommend bringing one main piece of luggage such as strong bag, rolling suitcase or bag, or a backpack/rucksack AND one smaller bag such as shoulder bag or purse, or daypack. This should be large enough to hold any item to which you would need easy access during the day, i.e., camera, sunglasses, water bottle, guide/notebook and/or light sweater. Please note that charter flights do not allow you to carry more than 10 Kg luggage and 2 Kg for hand luggage (T O / F R O M L O S R O Q U E S & C A N A I M A ), P E R P A S S E N G E R ; this is due to security reasons. DEPARTURE TAX The Venezuelan government levies a tax on all international flight departures with tourists paying an additional charge. These taxes must be paid in local currency or US$ cash, normally at or near your airline’s check-in desk. This is not included in your tour package. Once paid keep the form safely in your passport, and once you have checked in go to the departure gates where the form will be collected by the emigration officials. Each airport in Venezuela levies a tax of a minimum of Bs.F. 32,50 (US$ 6,40) on each passenger flying out of the region. These are collected at a specially assigned desk at any of the airports, and are not included in your tour package. For international flights a tax of US$ 43.61 – US$ 57,59 (BsF 187,50 – BsF 247,50) must be paid. NATIONAL PARK FEES National Parks such as Canaima and Los Roques levy a small fee for all visitors. The charge in Canaima is currently Bs.F. 35,00 (US$ 8,15) and for Los Roques Bs.F. 130,00 (US$ 30,25) per person, and is NOT included in your tour package. EVENTUALITIES Our objective is that each client has the most memorable experience possible in Venezuela. We have made great efforts to provide the client with advance information via our website and email correspondence, but it’s important to note that unexpected events can occur in Venezuela. The client should be prepared that not everything may occur according to plan. We suggest that each client comes prepared to be flexible and ready to accept these changes with a positive frame of mind--this will help facilitate an enjoyable experience for you. COMPLAINTS If for any reason you have any complaints while on the tour please raise it with your guide as soon as possible. If he/she does not resolve the problem to tour satisfaction then contact Jose Luis Troconis of Useful Information Natoura Tours in Mérida; tel: 0274 – 252 4216, his home: 0274 – 263 2696, or his mobile: 0416 – 674 8442 (he also speaks fluent English). Raising your complaint on the spot or as soon after as possible means that they can do their best to put matters right for you. We are very happy keen to hear all your observations, criticisms, complaints… and compliments too! We’d be delighted to hear from you when you get home. If you do have a complaint, and you would like to raise it formally, please write us within 28 days of the end of your trip. We will acknowledge your complaint, investigate if fully and report back to you. Throughout your trip we ask you to remember that Venezuela is a developing country with its own cultures and ways of doing things. Travelers have to be flexible as conditions and availability of transport –specially flights- and other facilities can change with little or no warning. Natoura Travel & Adventure Tours offers nature-based excursions in one of the most beautiful, diverse, and fascinating countries in the world. To maintain sustainable practices, we focus on small-group excursions and avoid the destinations of large tourist groups, providing our clients with the natural solitude and ethnic authenticity of the locations we visit. Moreover, we make an active effort to conserve and educate our clients about the natural resources of Venezuela by providing local, educated guides, who understand the importance of plant and animal species such as the frailejon and Andean condor. Our priority is to provide our clients with the natural solitude and ethnic authenticity of the locations we visit, coupled with the natural adventure Venezuela offers. ENVIRONMENT We make every attempt possible to preserve the natural environment. To do this, we only take small groups. We do not permit anyone from these groups to take souvenirs, such as feathers, rocks or plants, nor partake in any activity that will damage the landscape. In addition, we only use vehicles for transportation when absolutely necessary. Our vehicles use unleaded gasoline and meet Western emission standards. COMMUNITY Most accommodation provided on our tours is in locally owned guest-houses (posadas) in order to stimulate economic growth and cultural enrichment. We also contract all services locally whenever possible. GUIDES, PORTERS AND MULETEERS We make sure to take care of those who take care of you. We provide them with any equipment they require for all of our trips. They receive compensation for any time lost due to illness or injury. No employees are ever required to carry more than 25 kilograms of equipment. Moreover, they enjoy the same sleeping and food arrangements as our paying clients. www. .com NATOURA: Calle 31 entre Avenida Don Tulio y prolongación Avenida 6 # 5-27. (Diagonal Bomberos ULA).Mérida 5101 Venezuela, South America Call + 58-274-2524216 To Speak to one of our Travel Consultants. Or Within the US at 303-800-4639 Monday-Friday 8:30AM-6:30 PM Eastern Time Unsere Telefonnummer in Deutschland: 05906-30 33 64 Unsere Bürozeiten: 15:00 Uhr - 0:30 Uhr (deutsche Sommerzeit) 14:00 Uhr – 23:30 Uhr (deutsche Winterzeit) 8:30 Uhr – 18:00 Uhr (venezolanische Zeit) Appelez depuis Francia Téléphone : 0970 449 206