Catatumbo

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.

 
Catatumbo
Dawn in Maracaibo Lake is spectacular

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.

Catatumbo
Accommodation is in hammocks

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.

Catatumbo

Tour info

Read/ Download our “What to pack?” Checklist here

Best time of the Year:  May  -November
January is dry season and we may not be able to reach the bottom of Angel Falls
March and April are mainly dry and tours are different.  
May is usually the beginning of the rainy season.
Our blog says it all! Click here! 

Contact us for information of our different departures and prices. 
Click here!

 

Our Blog offers valuable information about our tours!   Click here

Angel Falls 
Suitable for people of most ages who have a basic fitness level. Elevation gain of less than 800 meters.

Airport and hotel pick ups in Private Vehicle,
Wooden motorized canoe in the excursions.
Small airplanes for 6-18 passengers.

We take care of it! 

Flight over Angel Falls
Only to be arranged on spot.
Minimum of 4 passengers per flight. From US$ 180 to US$ 250 per person. 30 mins approximately.  Please take these rates as a reference, they can fluctuate anytime.  Payable only in spot. 

Well selected tourist category hotels in between all destinations.
Angel Falls: Rustic / Hammock front of the falls.
Canaima Lagoon:  standard lodge with private bathroom and beds. 

Hiking: 3 Kms or 1,86 miles in total. 
By boat: about 40kms each way. 

Hot and humid.
From 12 to 35 Celsius  

Our blog is very complete, we took our time to compile the most useful information. Click here

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

Google Maps

Photo Gallery