VENEZUELA (Bolivarian Republic of)

The following are the heritage sites, grouped into recommended gateway cities. This may help in planning on the logistics (travel and accommodation) of your journey.

CANAIMA (CAJ)

Canaima, a remote settlement in southeastern Venezuela, serves as the essential outpost for expeditions into the ancient Guiana Highlands. It remains a “launchpad” rather than a traditional city, centered around a stunning tannin-dark lagoon framed by pink-sand beaches and powerful waterfalls like Salto El Sapo. Accessible only by light aircraft, the village is managed largely by the indigenous Pemón community, offering rustic-to-luxury eco-lodges. From here, travelers board motorized canoes to navigate the Carrao River toward Angel Falls, witnessing the sheer scale of the 2-billion-year-old tepuis that define this prehistoric, otherworldly landscape.

Canaima National Park (alternative to Ciudad Bolivar and Puerto Ordaz)

CIUDAD BOLIVAR (CBL)

Ciudad Bolívar, perched on the narrows of the Orinoco River, is the historic heart of southeastern Venezuela and the birthplace of the modern republic. The city remains a captivating blend of colonial grandeur and riverine commerce. Visitors can explore the Angostura Congress House, where Simón Bolívar delivered his visionary 1819 speech, or wander the vibrant Paseo Orinoco for views of the landmark Angostura Bridge. From the world-class kinetic art at the Jesús Soto Museum to its legendary history as the original home of Angostura bitters, Ciudad Bolívar is an essential cultural gateway to the Guiana Highlands.

Canaima National Park (alternative to Canaima and Puerto Ordaz)

PUERTO ORDAZ (PZO)

Puerto Ordaz, a modern industrial powerhouse at the confluence of the Caroní and Orinoco rivers, is the primary gateway to the natural wonders of southeastern Venezuela. It serves as the most reliable hub for travelers heading to Angel Falls and Canaima National Park. The city is famous for its lush urban parks, particularly Parque La Llovizna and Parque Cachamay, where powerful cascades thunder through the city landscape. Visitors can marvel at the engineering of the Guri Dam or enjoy a sunset cruise on the Orinoco. With its commercial airport and upscale business hotels, Puerto Ordaz offers a comfortable, modern base before venturing into the ancient wilderness of the tepuis.