Two Weeks Through Venezuela's Natural Wonders
From Caribbean Beaches to Angel Falls and the Andes
Trip Overview
This comprehensive two-week journey showcases Venezuela's incredible diversity, from pristine Caribbean coastlines to the world's highest waterfall and dramatic Andean peaks. You'll explore turquoise waters and coral cays at Parque Nacional Morrocoy, witness the majestic Angel Falls in Canaima National Park, trek through cloud forests in the Sierra Nevada, and discover colonial heritage along the coast. The itinerary balances adventure activities like hiking and boat tours with cultural experiences and beach relaxation. Expect a mix of early morning starts for wildlife viewing, full-day excursions to remote natural wonders, and leisurely coastal afternoons. This journey requires flexibility and an adventurous spirit, as some locations involve rustic accommodations and challenging access, but rewards travelers with some of South America's most spectacular and unspoiled landscapes.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Arrival & Coastal Introduction
Where to Stay Tonight
Tucacas or Chichiriviche near Morrocoy (Mid-range posada or guesthouse)
Perfect base for exploring Parque Nacional Morrocoy over the next two days with easy access to boat launches
Morrocoy's Coral Cays Paradise
Where to Stay Tonight
Tucacas or Chichiriviche (Same posada as previous night)
Convenient for early departure tomorrow toward the colonial coast
Colonial Heritage & Coastal Fortresses
Where to Stay Tonight
Coro historic center (Colonial-style hotel or posada)
Experience staying in the UNESCO heritage zone with evening access to illuminated colonial streets
Journey to the Eastern Coast
Where to Stay Tonight
Puerto La Cruz or Mochima town (Beachfront posada or small hotel)
Strategic location for exploring Mochima National Park's islands and beaches over the next two days
Mochima's Island Treasures
Where to Stay Tonight
Puerto La Cruz or Mochima town (Same accommodation as previous night)
Convenient for morning departure toward Ciudad Guayana
Gateway to the Gran Sabana
Where to Stay Tonight
Ciudad Guayana (Comfortable hotel near the airport)
Convenient for early morning flight to Canaima and final preparations for the wilderness adventure ahead
Flight to Paradise: Canaima Lagoon
Where to Stay Tonight
Canaima lagoon (Rustic camp or basic lodge)
Only accommodation option in this remote location; authentic wilderness experience included in tour packages
Angel Falls Expedition
Where to Stay Tonight
Canaima lagoon (Same rustic camp as previous night)
Final night in this remote paradise before returning to civilization
Return to Ciudad Guayana & Westward
Where to Stay Tonight
Mérida city center (Mountain lodge or colonial-style hotel)
Central location for exploring the city and accessing Parque Nacional Sierra Nevada and the cable car
Soaring Above the Andes
Where to Stay Tonight
Mérida city center (Same hotel as previous night)
Convenient for tomorrow's exploration of Parque Nacional Sierra Nevada
Sierra Nevada Cloud Forests
Where to Stay Tonight
Mérida city center (Same hotel as previous nights)
Final night in the Andes before beginning return journey to the coast
Andean Waterfalls & Descent
Where to Stay Tonight
Coastal town between Mérida and Caracas (Beach hotel or posada)
Strategic stopover location for final coastal relaxation before departure
Final Beach Day & Relaxation
Where to Stay Tonight
Coastal area with good access to Caracas (Comfortable beach hotel)
Final night before departure, positioned for easy morning transfer to airport
Departure Day
Where to Stay Tonight
N/A (N/A)
Departure day
Practical Information
Getting Around
This itinerary requires a mix of transportation modes. Private drivers or organized tours are recommended for safety and convenience, especially for longer routes between regions. Domestic flights are essential for reaching Canaima (Ciudad Guayana to Canaima). Boat tours are necessary for accessing Morrocoy and Mochima national parks and Angel Falls. In cities like Mérida, walking is pleasant and taxis are readily available. Due to current conditions in Venezuela, advance planning and booking through reputable agencies is strongly advised. Road conditions vary significantly, and travel times can be unpredictable.
Book Ahead
Book Canaima National Park packages (including flights and Angel Falls tours) at least 2-3 months in advance. Reserve Teleférico de Mérida Mukumbarí tickets ahead if possible. Arrange private transportation or reliable tour operators for all major transfers before arrival. Book accommodations in advance, especially in remote areas where options are limited. Consider booking complete packages through established Venezuelan tour operators who can handle logistics more reliably.
Packing Essentials
Bring reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent, waterproof bags and phone cases, quick-dry clothing, hiking boots and water shoes, layers for varying altitudes (beach wear to warm jacket for Andes), rain jacket, reusable water bottle with purification system, headlamp, basic first aid kit, and all necessary medications. Pack US dollars in small bills as primary currency. Bring power bank for charging devices in remote areas.
Total Budget
$1,350-1,750 for 14 days (excluding international flights)
Customize Your Trip
Budget Version
Reduce costs by using public buses instead of private transfers where safe, staying in budget posadas and hostels, preparing some of your own meals, choosing group tours over private options, and spending more time in one region rather than covering extensive distances. Focus on either the coast or the Andes to minimize expensive travel days. Skip the Canaima package and instead explore more accessible areas like extended time in Morrocoy and Mochima, which offer spectacular beauty at lower cost.
Luxury Upgrade
Upgrade to boutique hotels and luxury lodges throughout, book private guides for all excursions, charter private flights to Canaima for more flexible scheduling, arrange private boat tours in all national parks, enjoy fine dining experiences in major cities, add spa treatments in Mérida, and include helicopter overflights of Angel Falls and the Gran Sabana. Consider adding Los Roques archipelago for exclusive island resort experiences and extend stays in each location for a more relaxed pace.
Family-Friendly
Focus on beach destinations like Morrocoy and Mochima which offer calm waters perfect for children. Replace strenuous hikes with easier nature walks and wildlife viewing. Consider skipping the Angel Falls expedition for younger children due to the long boat journey and basic facilities, instead spending more time in Mérida with cable car rides and gentle trails. Choose family-friendly accommodations with pools, book larger vehicles for comfort, and build in more rest days. Add visits to Waterland Mundo Marino for water park fun.
Book Activities for Your Trip
Tours, tickets, and experiences in Venezuela