Catatumbo
Lightning
Witness one of the most interesting atmospheric phenomenon that occurs only over the mouth of the Catatumbo River in Maracaibo Lake especially between April to November.
The Catatumbo Delta, with its wildlife, tropical forest and the largest lake in South America, stilt villages and the incredible Catatumbo lightning, is an absolute must while travelling in Venezuela.
Itinerary
Day 1. From Merida to Catatumbo
We depart from Merida and our first stop is at a sugarcane plantation where will learn about the process of transforming the sugar cane juice to brown sugar locally known as “panela” . After that, we will have a short visit to the only salt lake of Venezuela known as Urao Lagoon to continue our drive in the cloud forest of to visit a Coffee Farm where we can see the old machines and get immersed in the coffee process. Lunch en route and we drive southwest to the flat lands of the Maracaibo depression with cattle, plantain and fruit farms surrounding this landscape.
In the early afternoon we begin our wildlife adventure with a 5 kms boat trip through dense flooded forest. Howler monkeys are common along with iguanas, butterflies and different species of birds. This forest is part of the Cienagas de Juan Manuel National Park, a 2300 sq. km. natural reserve.
By late afternoon we will reach our basic stilt lodge on the biggest lake in South America: the Maracaibo Lake. With a surface area of 13000 sq. km., this lake looks just like the ocean.
Tasty Dinner, drinks and we ride the boat for an amazing night tour to spotting Spectacle Caimans, Snakes and the rare Giant Potoo. As we return, we will get our hammock to sleep for the balance of the night waiting for the lightning show which is usually after 2am and lasts for a few hours.
Day 2. From Catatumbo to Merida
After breakfast we ride the boat to head a bit further in the Lake to observe the local fishermen in their activities. The blue crabs are one the main products of this region which is even for exportation. We will ride the boat back to the pier with more wildlife observation on the way and heading back to Merida. Our tour ends by 5pm and we drive you back to your accommodation in Merida or beyond.
Tour info
Includes
Excludes
-
Accommodation
2 night(s) in Lodge / shelter camps with hammock
Transportation
Travel by Private vehicles, foot, boat, Flights x 2
Meals
As outlined in the itinerary (B,L,D)
Excursions & Activities
Angel Falls River Expeditions+ Canaima Lagoon + Sapo Falls and/or Hacha Falls + All Transfers IN & OUT -
Gratuities
Porters
International and domestic air tickets to the gateways of Canaima
Travel insurance (mandatory)
Alcoholic and soft drinks
Spending money – budget for meals, snacks, drinks,
limited souvenirs, laundry, tips and any extras