Terepaima National Park

History

Cueva del Guacharo National Park is located in Venezuela and is named after the guacharo bird, which is a nocturnal bird that lives in the caves of the park. The caves have been a popular tourist destination for many years and were even mentioned by Alexander von Humboldt in the 18th century. The park was officially declared a national park in 1975 to protect the caves and the surrounding biodiversity.

How to Get There

The park is located in the Monagas state of Venezuela, about a 4-hour drive from the capital city of Caracas. The closest major town is Caripe, which is about 12 kilometers away from the park entrance. Visitors can either drive to the park or take a bus from Caracas to Caripe and then a taxi to the park entrance.

List of Attractions

• Exploring the Guacharo Cave: Visitors can take a guided tour of the Guacharo Cave, which is home to thousands of guacharo birds. The cave is also home to a variety of other animals, including bats and insects.
• Hiking Trails: The park has several hiking trails that lead to breathtaking viewpoints and waterfalls. The trails vary in difficulty, so there is something for hikers of all skill levels.
• Camping: The park has designated camping areas for visitors who want to spend the night in nature. Camping permits can be obtained at the park entrance.

Ticket Information

Entry to Cueva del Guacharo National Park is free for Venezuelan citizens, but there is a small entrance fee for international visitors. Guided cave tours and camping permits have additional fees that can be paid at the park entrance.

List of Tips for Visiting

• Wear comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes for hiking and exploring the caves.
• Bring a flashlight for the cave tour, as some parts of the cave are not well-lit.
• Respect the park rules and regulations, including no littering and no feeding of wildlife.
• Bring plenty of water and snacks for the hike, as there are limited facilities in the park.
• Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and to have a better chance of seeing wildlife.