Things to do and see in Canaima National Park?

The Canaima National Park in Venezuela is a true natural treasure with an area of 30,000 km2. It is located in the state of Bolivar, in the eastern part of the country, near the border with Guyana and Brazil. The park is home to the impressive Salto Angel, the highest waterfall in the world, nearly 1,000 meters high. A natural wonder that leaves everyone speechless. The park also includes a diversity of ecosystems, from savannahs to tropical rainforests. And there you can find the emblematic tepuyes, rock formations with flat summits and a very particular shape.

Besides the stunning Salto Angel, you can explore other lovely waterfalls and enjoy the abundant flora and fauna that inhabit the area, such as the giant anteater and the giant armadillo. Canaima National Park offers an unforgettable experience for nature lovers. All thanks to the grandeur of Angel Falls, the magnificence of the tepuis and the priceless wealth of wildlife. This place is a true natural paradise.

What is the best thing to do in Canaima National Park?

1. Angel Falls, the most impressive thing in Canaima Park

Angel Falls, also known as Kerepakupai Merú in the Pemón language, is the highest waterfall in the world. It’s an emblematic attraction of Canaima National Park in Venezuela. Discovered in 1937 by pilot Jimmy Angel while flying over the park in his small plane, it has captured the imagination of visitors from all over the world. This natural wonder is located at the top of the Auyantepuy tepuy.

To explore and enjoy Angel Falls, the park offers a variety of options. You can choose hikes and excursions or scenic light aircraft flights. These allow you to appreciate the grandeur of the waterfall from the air and also honor its discovery. And while the waterfall is its main attraction, the park’s surroundings offer an impressive biodiversity, with orchids, monkeys, jaguars and exuberant flora and fauna.

2. Auyantepuy

We previously mentioned the Auyantepuy tepui for housing the impressive Angel Falls, however this waterfall is not the only thing we can find in Auyantepuy.

With an altitude of approximately 2,500 meters, it is one of the best known and most emblematic peaks in the region. Auyantepuy is recognized by its flat plateau and vertical cliffs that create an impressive and unique landscape. In addition to Angel Falls, Auyantepuy is home to a rich biodiversity, including plant and animal species unique to this ecosystem.

Adventurers and nature lovers visit Auyantepuy to explore its trails and enjoy unique panoramic views. Expeditions to the summit of Ayantepuy require a high level of preparation and expert guides who know the area and can ensure safety during the climb.

3. Tepuy Kekenán, another impressive peak in the Canaima Park

The Tepuy Kukenán is another impressive rock formation located in the Canaima National Park. With an altitude of approximately 2,680 meters, this tepuy stands out for its vertical walls and flat top, in addition to its impressive height.

The Kekenán Tepuy is known for its location near Mount Roraima and for its striking waterfall, known as La Ventana. The waterfall forms when it rains and flows along the tepuy’s edges.

Exploring the Kukenán requires adequate preparation and is usually done through organized excursions. However, those who manage to reach the summit can enjoy the panoramic views and and captivating scenery.

4. Canaima Lagoon

The Canaima Lagoon is a beautiful body of water and another wonder in Canaima National Park. It is a place of great natural beauty and one of the main attractions of the region. The lagoon is formed by the convergence of the Carrao, Kavak and Venamo rivers. It creates an impressive scenery with calm waters and is surrounded by lush vegetation.

The Canaima Lagoon is famous for its turquoise tones and sandy soil, which gives it a paradise-like atmosphere. From the lagoon you can enjoy a spectacular view of the surrounding tepuis, such as the Auyantepuy.

In addition to its unique beauty, the Canaima Lagoon offers the opportunity to take boat rides, enjoy a moment of relaxation on its shores or simply marvel at the serenity and magic of the environment. The Canaima Lagoon is another must-see destination for those who wish to connect with nature and enjoy the amazing landscapes of the Canaima National Park.

5. Observe the Fauna and Flora of Canaima National Park

As previously mentioned, Canaima National Park is home to a rich biodiversity, both in terms of flora and fauna. In its lush rainforest, you can find a wide variety of plant species, such as orchids, bromeliads, ferns and giant trees like the macondo and the araguaney.

As for the fauna, the park is home to a great diversity of species. Among the mammals are jaguars, pumas, capuchin monkeys and tapirs. You can also spot colorful birds such as toucans, macaws and hummingbirds. The rivers and lakes of the park are inhabited by caimans, anacondas and various species of fish. Watch out!

In addition, Canaima National Park offers the opportunity to practice bird watching. With the diversity of habitats, you can observe the above mentioned species, as well as aquatic birds, such as ducks and herons. We recommend to be accompanied by a local guide to maximize your bird watching opportunities.

Travel Tip: To organize your trip we recommend using Passporter totally free. You can be inspired by the experiences of other travelers, choose the places that interest you most, create the travel route with a geolocated map, upload all important documents such as reservations and invite your friends so that everyone can participate in the organization of the trip.

Things to do around Canaima National Park

1. Kamarata, indigenous Kavak village

Kamarata is an indigenous village located in the Kavak region, southeast of Canaima National Park. This village is home to the Pemón ethnic group and offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in their culture and way of life.

At Kamarata, it is possible to enjoy activities such as hiking through the jungle, visiting nearby waterfalls and learning about traditional Pemón medicine. You can also admire the beautiful landscapes of the Gran Sabana and the tepuis surrounding the village. It is important to keep in mind that when visiting an indigenous community such as Kamarata, it is essential to respect their culture and traditions. It is advisable to hire local guides who can facilitate communication and ensure a respectful and enriching experience for both parties.

To visit Kamarata and the indigenous village of Kavak, you should take a flight from Ciudad Bolivar to Kamarata but you can also go an organized tour.

Where to eat in Canaima National Park

Within Canaima National Park, you can find some food establishments and restaurants that offer gastronomic options for visitors. Although the tourist infrastructure in the area is limited, there are some places where it is possible to enjoy a meal.

One of the popular places is the Ucaima Campground, located near the Canaima Lagoon. This camp has a restaurant that serves typical dishes of the region, such as fresh fish, arepas and meat dishes. It also offers a breathtaking view of the lagoon and the surrounding waterfalls.

Another option is the Canaima Campground, located near the Angel Falls. Here you can find restaurants offering traditional Venezuelan dishes as well as international options.

Where to stay in Canaima National Park

There are a few lodging options in Canaima National Park, so you won’t have to go far from Angel Falls or Canaima Lagoon to stay in one of Venezuela’s most breathtaking places.

• Campamento Canaima: the same place we recommended for lunch in Canaima Park, it is one of the best hotels in the area. It has a total of 43 beautiful and comfortable rooms that have nothing to do with the concept of a “camp”. Luxurious and prepared to provide maximum comfort during your stay, the rooms at Campamento Canaima are the best place to sleep in the Park. It also has a beautiful room dedicated to the pilot Jimmy Angel, the discoverer of Angel Falls. In addition, you can enjoy their elaborate and delicious breakfasts, lunches, lunches and dinners. Check prices with the lodge. Adventure packages are available for purchase.
• Waku Lodge: With similar characteristics to the previous one but with a more hippie and casual look, the Waku Lodge is another of our recommendations for lodging in Canaima National Park. Its rooms are equally comfortable and designed to provide maximum rest after a long day exploring the park. Check prices with the lodge. Adventure packages are available for purchase.

Venezuela, the unknown country in Latin America

What should I know before a trip to Canaima National Park?

• The currency of Venezuela is the Venezuelan bolivar.
• Don’t forget to include light clothing, insect repellent and sunscreen in your luggage.
• Respect the fauna, flora and environment of the Canaima Park.
• Cover yourself for medical emergencies: travel insured. Choose a good travel insurance such as the one from Mondo.
• We recommend exchanging the money before your trip to Venezuela, as it will be cheaper than at the airport.
• The best months to visit Canaima Park are from December to April, in the dry season.
• Avoid walking alone in unfamiliar, lightly traveled areas or unmarked trails not to get lost.
• Always drink bottled water.
• Take sunscreen with you, especially in the summer months, as well as light clothing that covers you from the sun and stay hydrated.
• Have an eSIM card to have internet connection on your trip to Venezuela and stay geolocated during nature excursions in the Canaima Park.

How to organize a trip to Canaima National Park

Register or download the Passporter App and discover all its possibilities.

• Get inspired by the experiences of other travelers.
• Create your own itinerary and add the suggestions from the app to it.
• Add the stops you are most interested in, as well as the restaurants and bars where you want to eat (you can use the points of interest we listed in this post as a reference).
• Organize your itinerary by route days according to their location on the map (you can be inspired by the routes presented in the post)
• Make any modifications you need and you’ll be all set for your trip.
• Share your experience. Upload photos of the places you visited on your trip to the app and recommend to other travelers the things to do in Canaima National Park.

If you have questions on how to do it, you can refer to our post: How to create a travel itinerary in Passporter.

Frequently asked questions about a trip to Canaima National Park