Venezuela, a country of stunning contrasts, offers travelers a unique blend of vibrant cities, breathtaking natural landscapes, and a rich cultural tapestry. From the bustling streets of Caracas to the serene beauty of Angel Falls, Venezuela is a destination that promises adventure and discovery. Known for its diverse ecosystems, the country boasts everything from the Andean peaks to the Caribbean coastline, making it a paradise for nature lovers. Venezuelan cuisine, with its mix of indigenous, African, and European influences, is a culinary journey in itself, offering delights such as arepas, pabellón criollo, and tequeños.

Travelers should be aware of current travel advisories and ensure they have the necessary documentation and vaccinations. It's advisable to stay informed about local conditions and travel with a reputable guide when exploring remote areas. Despite its challenges, Venezuela's warmth and hospitality make it a rewarding destination for those seeking an authentic South American experience.

Caracas: The Heart of Venezuela

Days 1-3: Caracas in a Nutshell

• Best Things to Do: Explore the historic center, visit the National Pantheon, and take a cable car ride to El Ávila National Park.
• Best Sights to See: Plaza Bolívar, the Caracas Cathedral, and the Museum of Contemporary Art.
• Best Places to Eat: Try local favorites at El Hatillo, such as arepas at Arepera Socialista and traditional dishes at La Casa Bistró.
• Fun Fact: Caracas is the birthplace of Simón Bolívar, the liberator of much of South America.

For accommodations, consider booking through VRBO or Hotels.com.

Day 1: Arrival in Caracas

Arrive in Caracas in the afternoon. Settle into your accommodation and take a leisurely stroll through the historic center. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, sampling Venezuelan specialties.

Day 2: Exploring Caracas

In the morning, visit the National Pantheon and the Caracas Cathedral. In the afternoon, explore the Museum of Contemporary Art. In the evening, head to El Hatillo for dinner and enjoy the vibrant nightlife.

Day 3: El Ávila National Park

Spend the day at El Ávila National Park. Take a cable car ride for stunning views of the city and enjoy hiking trails. Return to Caracas for a relaxing evening.

Mérida: Gateway to the Andes

Days 4-6: Mérida at a Glance

• Best Things to Do: Ride the Mérida cable car, visit the Botanical Garden, and explore the local markets.
• Best Sights to See: Pico Bolívar, the highest peak in Venezuela, and the charming colonial architecture.
• Best Places to Eat: Enjoy Andean cuisine at La Abadía and traditional dishes at La Parroquia.
• Interesting Historical Information: Mérida is known for its educational institutions and vibrant student culture.

Find accommodations through VRBO or Hotels.com.

Day 4: Travel to Mérida

Travel from Caracas to Mérida via a domestic flight. Use Trip.com for flight options. Arrive in the afternoon and explore the local markets.

Day 5: Mérida Cable Car and Botanical Garden

In the morning, ride the Mérida cable car for breathtaking views. Spend the afternoon at the Botanical Garden. Enjoy dinner at La Abadía, known for its Andean cuisine.

Day 6: Pico Bolívar and Colonial Architecture

Take a day trip to Pico Bolívar, the highest peak in Venezuela. In the evening, explore the colonial architecture of Mérida and dine at La Parroquia.

Canaima National Park: Nature's Masterpiece

Days 7-10: Canaima at a Glance

• Best Things to Do: Visit Angel Falls, explore the Gran Sabana, and take a boat tour on the Carrao River.
• Best Sights to See: Tepuis, unique table-top mountains, and the stunning waterfalls.
• Best Places to Eat: Enjoy local cuisine at camp lodges and try fresh fish from the rivers.
• Fun Fact: Canaima National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its unique geological formations.

Book accommodations through VRBO or Hotels.com.

Day 7: Travel to Canaima National Park

Fly from Mérida to Canaima. Use Trip.com for flight options. Arrive in the afternoon and settle into your lodge.

Days 8-9: Angel Falls and Gran Sabana

Spend two days exploring Angel Falls, the world's highest waterfall. Take a boat tour on the Carrao River and explore the Gran Sabana. Enjoy meals at your lodge, sampling local dishes.

Day 10: Tepuis and Waterfalls

Discover the unique tepuis and other stunning waterfalls in the park. Return to your lodge for a relaxing evening.

Los Roques: Caribbean Paradise

Days 11-13: Los Roques at a Glance

• Best Things to Do: Snorkeling, kite surfing, and island hopping.
• Best Sights to See: Pristine beaches and vibrant coral reefs.
• Best Places to Eat: Enjoy fresh seafood at local eateries and beachside shacks.
• Fun Fact: Los Roques is an archipelago of over 300 islands and cays.

Find accommodations through VRBO or Hotels.com.

Day 11: Travel to Los Roques

Fly from Canaima to Los Roques. Use Trip.com for flight options. Arrive in the afternoon and relax on the beach.

Days 12-13: Beach Activities and Island Hopping

Spend two days enjoying snorkeling, kite surfing, and island hopping. Savor fresh seafood at local eateries and beachside shacks.

Maracaibo: The Oil Capital

Days 14-15: Maracaibo in a Nutshell

• Best Things to Do: Visit the Basilica of Our Lady of Chiquinquirá and explore the Zulia Museum.
• Best Sights to See: Lake Maracaibo and the General Rafael Urdaneta Bridge.
• Best Places to Eat: Try local dishes at El Girasol and seafood at La Casa del Estudiante.
• Interesting Historical Information: Maracaibo is known for its oil industry and vibrant cultural scene.

Book accommodations through VRBO or Hotels.com.

Day 14: Travel to Maracaibo

Fly from Los Roques to Maracaibo. Use Trip.com for flight options. Arrive in the afternoon and visit the Basilica of Our Lady of Chiquinquirá.

Day 15: Lake Maracaibo and Cultural Exploration

In the morning, explore Lake Maracaibo and the General Rafael Urdaneta Bridge. In the afternoon, visit the Zulia Museum. Enjoy dinner at El Girasol, known for its local dishes.

Orinoco Delta: A Natural Wonder

Days 16-17: Orinoco Delta at a Glance

• Best Things to Do: Take a boat tour, visit indigenous communities, and explore the diverse wildlife.
• Best Sights to See: The vast network of waterways and lush forests.
• Best Places to Eat: Enjoy meals at eco-lodges, featuring fresh local ingredients.
• Fun Fact: The Orinoco Delta is one of the world's largest river deltas, teeming with biodiversity.

Find accommodations through VRBO or Hotels.com.

Day 16: Travel to Orinoco Delta

Fly from Maracaibo to the Orinoco Delta. Use Trip.com for flight options. Arrive in the afternoon and settle into your eco-lodge.

Day 17: Exploring the Orinoco Delta

Spend the day exploring the Orinoco Delta. Take a boat tour, visit indigenous communities, and discover the diverse wildlife. Enjoy meals at your eco-lodge, featuring fresh local ingredients. Depart in the afternoon for your journey home.

In summary, this 17-day itinerary through Venezuela offers a rich tapestry of experiences, from the vibrant culture of Caracas to the natural wonders of Canaima and the Orinoco Delta. Whether you're exploring the Andes or relaxing on the beaches of Los Roques, Venezuela promises an unforgettable adventure.