Although the Andes stretches from Venezuela to southern Patagonia, the mountains of Venezuela are more off-the-beaten path and receive far fewer visitors than in countries to the south. Our private and fully-customized programs feature visits to remote villages where you will meet the local people and a variety of activities.
After your time in the mountains you will take a scenic drive down into the vast plains of the Llanos grasslands. Los Llanos have been referred to as the "Seregeti of South America" because of the plethora of wildlife that inhabit the area. The savannas are home to a multitude of mammals, reptiles and birdlife. While based at a 'hato' or ranch you will explore the area on safaris guided by expert naturalists.
The Andes portion of the trip can be modified to your personal preferences with optional excursions such as day hiking, overnight trekking, mountain biking, day trips to a variety of remote mountain villages; accommodations at Merida hotels, in rustic village lodges or homestays. Most flights to Merida (El Vigia) and from Barinas are through Caracas. Pre- and post-trip extensions can include Canaima National Park, Los Roques Archipelago, Orinoco Delta jungle trips.
Lost World Adventures itineraries can be tailor-made according to your plans and preferences: budget, hotel selections, travel dates, optional excursions, length of trip, etc.
You will be met at the El Vigia Airport upon arrival and transferred to your Mérida hotel. Afternoon excursion to the colonial village of Jaji where you will visit a trapiche, a traditional sugarcane mill, and a coffee plantation. Overnight at the Posada Casa Sol, daily breakfast included.
This morning you will visit the Sierra La Culata National Park, in the high valley of the Mucujun River. The paved street ends at an elevation of 3,000 meters. From here you will begin the 1-hour hike across the Paramo. On the return trip to Merida, you will visit the Rey Valley, where trout is farmed. Lunch will be served here. In the afternoon, you will tour the highlights of Merida city, including the picturesque Mercado Principal. Overnight at Posada Casa Sol. All meals included today.
You will go on a hike through the high Andes to Laguna Negra (approximately 2 1/2 hours). You will also visit Venezuela´s highest mountain pass, the Pico El Aguila, where on a clear day you can enjoy a fantastic panoramic view. You will continue to Altamira de Caceres, a colonial town and spend the night at the charming Posada Caceres. All meals included today.
Transfer to Hato El Cedral in Los Llanos. Upon arrival, you will go on a wildlife safari to observe an abundance of South American wildlife such as chigüires (capybaras), babas (small caimans), caimans, iguanas, turtles, monkeys, anteaters, snakes (perhaps even see an anaconda), and a large variety of birds. There are more than 300 bird species in the area. Overnight at Hato El Cedral. All meals included today.
Today, you will go on two wildlife observation excursions, one in the morning and one in the afternoon. Weather permitting, a boat excursion is included in the program. Overnight at Hato El Cedral. All meals included today.
After breakfast transfer to Barinas Airport.
Price from | $675.00 per person, based on double occupancy |
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Days | 6 |
Nights | 5 |