Venezuela Travel 2025: The Amazon season has begun

Embark on an expedition into the untouched heart of the Amazon with Criollo Travel

Some trips are relaxing. Others are life-changing. An expedition to the heart of the Venezuelan Amazon undoubtedly falls into the latter category, where the sounds of civilisation are drowned out by the polyphonic chorus of the jungle and the horizon is marked not by buildings but by ancient table mountains.

From September onwards, when the rainy season draws to a close and the water levels slowly recede, a window of opportunity opens for a journey to one of the last undeveloped regions of South America. This is not a trip for mass tourism, not a tick-box tour of sights. It is a privilege, a concession of nature to those who are willing to engage with it. This is an invitation to an encounter – with untamed wilderness, with millennia-old cultures and, ultimately, with oneself.

The fascination of the primitive

In a world that is increasingly surveyed and organised, the Venezuelan Amazon is a rare exception. It is a mosaic of a labyrinth of rivers winding through endless greenery, gigantic table mountains towering into the sky like cathedrals of a forgotten time, and indigenous communities for whom harmony with nature is not a lifestyle but a way of life.

From September to December, we offer a total of four tours into the untouched heart of the Amazon.

Tour 1: Bocado ACAI – In a dugout canoe to the sacred Autana Tepui & Lake Leopoldo

Imagine gliding silently in a traditional dugout canoe across the mirror-smooth waters of the Sipapo River. Before you rises the sacred Tepui Autana, a massive sandstone cylinder that is the progenitor of all life for the indigenous Piaroa people. This week-long expedition takes you into a mythological landscape.

Your travel experience in detail:

Boat trips on the Sipapo River: Experience the jungle from the perspective of its inhabitants. The dugout canoe is your ticket to a world without roads.

Lake Leopoldo: A remote lake surrounded by dense rainforest, a place of almost overwhelming silence and unspoilt nature.

Hikes to the Mirador de Wuajari & Salto El Zorro: Reward yourself after a hike through the primary forest with breathtaking views over the endless greenery and discover hidden waterfalls.

Culture and spirituality of the Piaroa: Experience first-hand the myths and legends surrounding the Autana. This is not a folkloric programme, but a genuine encounter.

Spend the night in hammocks and tents: fall asleep accompanied by the symphony orchestra of the jungle – a rhythm that has not changed for thousands of years.

This tour is an expedition into seclusion, a chance to completely immerse yourself and leave everyday life behind.

More information here: Bocado ACAI

Tour 2: Expedition to Salto Duruhuäyä – The Thunderous Giant

While the Autana Tepui rises majestically into the sky, the power of the Amazon is revealed at Salto Duruhuäyä in a mighty waterfall. Vast quantities of water plunge over an almost vertical, 200-metre-high rock face. The thunder can be heard long before you see it. This natural spectacle of rare beauty is the destination of our second week-long expedition.

Your travel experience in detail:

Salto Duruhuäyä: A monument to the forces of nature that inspires humility and awe. A place where you can feel the primal power of the planet.

Dugout canoe trips through untouched river landscapes: observe the diverse flora and fauna of the rainforest from the water.

Hammock camp under the starry sky: spend your nights in simple camps, surrounded only by the sounds of the wilderness.

Deep cultural insights: learn about the customs, stories and traditional foods of the indigenous communities. This is an immersive dive into a millennia-old culture.

Ancient rock formations: The region is part of the Guiana Shield, one of the oldest rock formations on Earth. The history of the planet is literally within reach here.

Detailed information here: Bocado CASHEW

A few words about tourism in the Amazon

Living with and like the indigenous people: At the heart of our philosophy is that you are welcome in the communities not as spectators, but as respectful guests. You share meals, learn everyday skills and hear stories that are not found in books. This direct encounter on equal terms is the most valuable treasure of this trip.

Direct financial participation: tourism as an alternative. Every single community we visit receives direct financial participation. In a region threatened by illegal activities such as gold panning, sustainable, community-based tourism is not just a nice idea, but an essential alternative. So you are not just travelling, you are actively contributing to the preservation of this unique ecosystem.

Price & flexibility: adventures for individualists. Our goal is to offer you authentic travel at fair prices. Both tours can be booked for one person or more and cost approximately £850 each (from/to Caracas). This price includes the complex logistics, support from local guides, all local transport, meals and accommodation. The small group size guarantees intense and authentic experiences.

Your trip is therefore a conscious decision for authenticity. With your booking, you are supporting the indigenous communities, as part of your travel price goes into the local economy. In this way, you are contributing to the creation of an economic alternative to destructive practices.

This trip is for true explorers in the sense of curiosity, respect and a willingness to embrace the unexpected.

Extension on Isla de Ratón or in Puerto Ayacucho

For those who still haven’t had enough of the jungle, we offer an optional extension week on Isla de Ratón or in Puerto Ayacucho. From both locations, you can explore the region even more intensively.

Possible excursion destinations:

The Maipures rapids: Experience the tremendous power of the Orinoco as the water crashes over boulders.

Turtle Rock & Piedra Pintada: Visit a sacred site with petroglyphs and marvel at what is currently the world’s largest known painted rock, a testament to ancient civilisations.

Amazon Market in Puerto Ayacucho: Immerse yourself in the hustle and bustle of the local market, an explosion of colours, smells and sounds.

Chocolate Factory & Cupuazu: Taste homemade chocolate made from Amazonian cocoa and discover the exotic cupuazu fruit.

Bird Watching & Piranha Fishing: Observe parrots, toucans and macaws or try your luck at fishing for the famous fish.

Amazon travel tips

Good preparation is essential for your comfort and safety. Pack functionally and minimalistically.

Amazon packing list: What do I need to take with me?

Equipment:

• 40 l rucksack for multi-day tours (main luggage);
• Daypack or bag for short trips and as hand luggage;
• Sturdy hiking boots (pro tip: if possible, have them sewn beforehand, as glued soles can come loose in extreme humidity. On-site repairs are possible in Puerto Ayacucho – ‘Se coza zapatos’);
• Comfortable sandals or slippers for the camp;
• Possibly bathing shoes for stony riverbanks;
• Possibly a walking stick for additional support;
• Torch or headlamp (plus spare batteries!);
• Pocket knife (must be in checked luggage);
• Large rubbish bags (to pack your rucksack waterproof);
• Small, resealable plastic bags (for electronics, documents, etc.);
• Moisture protection for camera and mobile phone;
• Spare batteries or power bank (power sockets are rare).

Clothing (quick-drying!):

• Mainly long-sleeved tops (optimal protection from sun and insects);
• Mostly long trousers (for the same reason);
  Note: Light colours such as beige, khaki or light green attract fewer insects than dark or bright colours;
• Also shorts for hot days in camp;
• Swimwear
• Thin rain jacket or poncho;
• Sunglasses;
• Hat or cap with brim (sun protection!);
• A scarf or thin shawl (versatile for sun, sweat or cold).

Sleeping:

• Thin sleeping bag (blankets are often provided, but bring your own sleeping bag for hygiene reasons) or a bed sheet (for the hammock).

Meals & Health:

• Snacks such as muesli bars, chocolate, salty biscuits (for energy on the go);
• Water bottle or hydration bladder (at least 1 litre);
• Insect repellent (environmentally friendly, e.g. based on Citriodiol®/PMD);
• Sunscreen (minimum SPF 50, environmentally friendly/reef safe);
• Hand sanitiser spray or gel;
• Basic first aid kit and personal medication;
• Yellow fever vaccination (not mandatory, but recommended by us)
• Travel health insurance with repatriation cover (obtain a Spanish translation of your insurance policy before departure)

IMPORTANT: Environmental awareness: All cosmetics and hygiene products must be biodegradable! Please purchase these in advance from your local organic shop if possible, so as not to pollute the sensitive waters of the Amazon.

Money:

• Do not expect to be able to pay cashless. A credit card is helpful in Caracas, but useless in the remote Amazon region.
• Bring enough small dollar bills with you. Denominations from 1 to 20 US dollars. Order the small bills in good time (at least one week before your departure date) from your bank or at a Reisebank at a train station near you. Even exchanging a 50 US dollar bill can prove impossible.

Getting there:

• By bus from Caracas. The departure point is La Bandera bus station in the west of the city. As departure times are subject to change, it is best to check a few days in advance.
• By plane: The state-owned airline Conviasa currently offers a flight from Caracas every Monday. You can find the latest information on the Conviasa website.

We are delighted to be able to offer you these unforgettable adventures from now on.

Geography and nature of the Venezuelan Amazon region

An ecological gem

The Venezuelan Amazon region, officially known as the state of Amazonas, is one of the most biologically diverse and geologically interesting areas in South America. Covering an area of approximately 180,000 square kilometres – about half the size of Germany – this region forms a crucial part of the larger Amazon basin. Despite its ecological importance and unique geographical features, it remains largely unexplored and, to date, only incompletely documented scientifically.

Geographical location and topography

The state of Amazonas is located in the extreme south of Venezuela and borders the state of Bolívar to the north, Brazil to the south, the Guyana region to the east and Colombia to the west. Its strategic location makes it an important ecological corridor between the Amazon regions of various South American nations. The region extends between the coordinates 0°45′ and 6°10′ north latitude and 63°20′ and 67°10′ west longitude.

The topography of the region is characterised by three main elements: the imposing tepuis (table mountains) of the Guayana mountain range in the north, the vast plains (llanos) in the central areas, and the dense Amazon rainforest network in the south. This diverse topography creates a mosaic of microclimates and habitats that support the region’s extraordinary biodiversity.

Geological features and formations

The geological history of the Venezuelan Amazon region dates back to the Precambrian era (early Earth, 4.56 billion years ago to around 540 million years ago), making it one of the oldest landscapes on Earth. The iconic tepuis, such as the Autana Tepui or the Cerro Marahuaca, are among the most spectacular geological formations in the region. These quartzite table mountains were formed by millions of years of erosion and today form isolated ecological islands with endemic species that have developed in complete isolation. Those who feel like climbing one of these ‘islands in time’ can do so a little further east in the country: we offer week-long trekking tours to the Roraima Tepui all year round (see coming-soon Bocado ‘Roraima’).

The bedrock of the region consists mainly of the Guiana Shield, one of the oldest geological formations on the planet, estimated to be around 2.5 billion years old. This shield consists of magmatic and metamorphic rocks, overlaid by the sandstone formations of the Roraima Group, which form the tepuis. The mineral composition of this shield has favoured the development of characteristic, nutrient-poor soils, which in turn required the adaptation of specialised plant species.

Hydrology and water systems

The hydrological network of the Venezuelan Amazon region is extremely complex and extensive. The Orinoco River forms the northern border of the region and receives water from numerous tributaries, including the Ventuari, Sipapo, Autana and Guayapo. These rivers form a branched system of waterways that not only serve as transport routes but also determine the ecological dynamics of the entire region.

Water quality varies considerably between the different river systems. The so-called ‘black water rivers’ such as the Sipapo are characterised by their high content of organic acids and their dark, tea-coloured appearance, resulting from the decomposition of vegetation in their catchment areas. In contrast, the ‘clear water rivers’ carry less sedimentary water with higher transparency. This hydrological diversity creates different aquatic habitats, each requiring specific adaptations by the organisms living there.

Mosquitoes: blackwater rivers versus whitewater rivers

The acidic and nutrient-poor environment of blackwater rivers is unfavourable to deadly for most mosquito larvae, especially for the malaria-carrying Anopheles mosquito. Areas with blackwater rivers have a significantly lower density of mosquitoes that transmit malaria.

The situation is different in regions with whitewater rivers: these are nutrient-rich, pH-neutral and cloudy due to a high sediment load. The cloudiness offers protection from predators and the nutrients enable lush algae growth, which the larvae feed on. If these rivers are also exposed to sunlight, they are the perfect breeding ground for mosquito larvae, both Anopheles (malaria) and Aedes aegypti (dengue, yellow fever, Zika). The risk of malaria is traditionally higher in these areas.

The Humboldt Passage: The connection between the Orinoco and Amazon rivers

In 1800, Alexander von Humboldt travelled through the Venezuelan Amazon region and proved to European scientists that there was a natural connection between two of South America’s largest river systems, the Orinoco and the Amazon. The indigenous inhabitants of the region were, of course, already aware of this fact.

The Rio Casiquiare, which Humboldt explored, is a rare example of a river that divides into two branches and feeds two different river systems. Humboldt’s work contributed significantly to the understanding of the interconnectedness of South America’s ecosystems, as this connection enables the exchange of species between the river systems and has an impact on the region’s biodiversity.

Climatic conditions

The Venezuelan Amazon region has a typical tropical rainforest climate, characterised by high temperatures and humidity throughout the year. Average temperatures remain constant between 25°C and 28°C, with minimal seasonal variations. Relative humidity regularly reaches levels of 80-90%, which significantly influences the evaporation rate and the precipitation cycle.

Precipitation distribution follows a seasonal pattern with a pronounced rainy season from April to November and a comparatively drier period from December to March. Annual rainfall varies depending on altitude and exposure, with some areas in the mountainous regions receiving more than 3,000 millimetres per year. These climatic conditions favour the development of evergreen tropical rainforests, which are characterised by continuous vegetative activity.

Flora: A botanical treasure trove

The vegetation of the Venezuelan Amazon region displays remarkable diversity, ranging from dense tropical rainforests to specialised tepui vegetation formations. The rainforests are home to an estimated 5,000 to 8,000 species of vascular plants, including numerous endemics. Characteristic tree species belong to the legume, Lecythidaceae and Rubiaceae families, with individual trees rising above the canopy reaching heights of 50 metres and more.

The tepui mountain vegetation represents a unique botanical community with a high concentration of endemic species. Specialised plants such as carnivorous species of the genera Heliamphora and Drosera have adapted to the nutrient-poor conditions at these altitudes. Epiphytes, including numerous orchid and bromeliad species, form complex microcosmic communities in the tree crowns.

Fauna: A zoological paradise

The region’s wildlife is similarly impressive in its diversity. Primates enthusiasts will find at least ten different species here, including the howler monkey (Alouatta seniculus) and the capuchin monkey (Cebus olivaceus). The big cat fauna includes the jaguar (Panthera onca), puma (Puma concolor) and ocelot (Leopardus pardalis).

The bird life is particularly noteworthy, with over 600 documented species, including numerous endemic ones. Characteristic species include the harpy eagle (Harpia harpyja), the hoatzin (Opisthocomus hoazin) and numerous species of parrots and toucans. The rivers and wetlands are home to a rich aquatic fauna, including the famous piranhas (Serrasalmidae), the Amazon river dolphin (Inia geoffrensis) and the giant otter (Pteronura brasiliensis).

Ecological processes and interrelationships

The ecological integrity of the Venezuelan Amazon region depends on complex interdependent processes. The nutrient cycle in the nutrient-poor soils is largely maintained by a symbiosis between fungi and plant roots (mycorrhizal symbiosis). This relationship enables the efficient use of scarce nutrients and forms the basis for the functioning of the entire forest ecosystem.

Pollination networks are remarkably complex, with numerous specialised relationships between plants and their pollinators. Bats, insects, hummingbirds and even some mammals play crucial roles in these ecological networks, from which both partners benefit (mutualism). Seed dispersal is carried out by a diverse ensemble of animals, including primates, birds and bats, which ensure the regeneration and genetic diversity of forests.

Protection status and conservation efforts

Despite its relative remoteness, the Venezuelan Amazon region is under increasing anthropogenic pressure. The most important protected areas include the Parima-Tapirapecó National Park, one of the largest national parks in South America, and the Serranía de la Neblina National Park, which protects the tepui of the same name. These protected areas provide essential refuges for numerous endangered species and preserve representative examples of the region’s various ecosystems.

However, these conservation efforts face significant challenges, including inadequate funding, limited infrastructure for sustainable tourism, and a lack of comprehensive scientific surveys. Illegal activities such as mining (gold), deforestation, and poaching pose additional threats to the ecological integrity of the region.

Research and scientific significance

Scientific research in the Venezuelan Amazon region remains fragmentary and incomplete. Its remote location, logistical challenges and political factors have made systematic biological inventories difficult. Nevertheless, the research that has been carried out has made significant contributions to our understanding of tropical ecosystems, particularly with regard to speciation, ecological adaptations and evolutionary processes in isolated habitats.

The tepuis have received special attention as ‘natural laboratories’ for the study of evolutionary processes. Their isolation has led to the development of unique flora and fauna that provide valuable insights into the mechanisms of speciation and adaptation. Current research priorities include systematic biodiversity inventories, ecological monitoring, and studies on the effects of climate change on these sensitive ecosystems.

The Venezuelan Amazon: a region of mega-biodiversity

The Venezuelan Amazon region represents an ecological jewel of global importance. Its complex geography, extraordinary biodiversity and unique geological formations make it an indispensable part of the planet’s natural heritage. Preserving this region is not only Venezuela’s national responsibility, but also a global priority given its role in carbon storage, climate regulation and as a reservoir of biological diversity.

The future of this extraordinary region depends on the development of integrated conservation strategies that combine scientific research, sustainable development models and the active participation of indigenous communities. Only through a comprehensive understanding of its ecological complexity and a firm commitment to its protection can we ensure that this unique natural heritage is preserved for future generations. Community-based, gentle tourism can contribute to the preservation of this treasure.

The cuisine of the Amazon

A journey of discovery for the senses

A trip to the Venezuelan Amazon region is always a journey of discovery for the senses. Eating is much more than just consuming food; it is a direct connection to the rainforest, its resources and the millennia-old culture of its indigenous inhabitants. Characterised by an incredible variety of ingredients provided by the forest, every meal is an adventure.

The basis: manioc (yuca)

The absolute staple food is manioc. This versatile root tuber is processed into flour (casabe flatbread), boiled, fried and even made into fermented drinks such as parakari. It is the indispensable source of carbohydrates in every meal.

Aromatic spices and herbs

Unlike in other cuisines, it is not hot chillies that dominate, but earthy, spicy and often surprising flavours:

• Chimo: This is not a spice in the traditional sense, but a paste made from roasted and powdered army ants (usually of the genus Atta), which gives it a lemony, spicy flavour. It is often served as a condiment with manioc.
• Cumarí (sarrapia or tonka bean): The dried seeds of the tonka tree exude an intense aroma of vanilla, almond and liquorice. It is grated and used in small quantities to flavour desserts and drinks.
• Amazonian star anise: Various wild anise species lend fish dishes and stews a sweet, liquorice-like note.

Exotic fruits: a firework display of flavours

The variety of fruits is overwhelming. Beyond well-known fruits such as maracujá (parchita) or guava, there are countless discoveries to be made:

• Cupuazú (Theobroma grandiflorum): a close relative of cocoa. The tart, aromatic flesh is used to make refreshing juices, compotes and the famous cupulate chocolate.
• Arazá (Eugenia stipitata): An extremely sour but very aromatic fruit that is used to make juice, ice cream or jelly.
• Pijiguao (Bactris gasipaes): The fruits of this palm tree are cooked and are an important staple food. They taste like a mixture of sweet potato and corn.
• Moriche (Mauritia flexuosa): The vitamin-rich fruit of the moriche palm is the basis for juices, ice cream and a traditional fermented and slightly alcoholic drink.

Protein sources: From the river and the forest

Protein comes from fishing (such as the giant paiche or piranhas) and hunting (often peccaries or tapirs). However, a special protein-rich delicacy is…

…tarantulas. Yes, you read that correctly. The large, hairy tarantulas of the genus *Theraphosa* in particular are collected by some indigenous communities. The legs are roasted over an open fire, which gives them a nutty, crab-like flavour and burns off the stinging hairs. They are highly prized and nutritious snacks. Of course, they are on the menu on all our Amazon tours, but eating them is optional.

A cuisine connected to nature

Amazonian cuisine is a cuisine that is directly connected to nature. It is pure, earthy, surprising and tells a story with every bite about the rainforest and the people who have lived in harmony with it for generations. It is a culinary journey back to the origins of flavour.