Day-by-Day Itinerary
Arrive in Venezuela's capital, settle into your accommodation, and explore the historic La Candelaria neighborhood.
Morning
Arrival at Simón Bolívar International Airport
Clear immigration, exchange currency (use official exchange houses), and take a pre-booked taxi or hotel shuttle to your accommodation in the Altamira or La Castellana districts. Settle in and get oriented.
2-3 hours
$30-40 (taxi)
Pre-book airport transfer through your hotel for safety and convenience.
Lunch
El Budare de la Castellana
Venezuelan (Arepas, Cachapas)
Mid-range
Afternoon
Explore La Candelaria & Plaza Bolívar
Walk through the colorful colonial streets of La Candelaria. Visit the birthplace of Simón Bolívar (Casa Natal del Libertador) and the impressive National Pantheon. Soak in the atmosphere of the main Plaza Bolívar, surrounded by historic buildings.
3-4 hours
$5-10 (museum entry)
Evening
Dinner & Cultural Show
Enjoy a traditional dinner at El Almacén de la Esquina, then catch a performance of música llanera (folk music) at a local peña like La Casa de la Cultura.
Where to Stay Tonight
Altamira or La Castellana (Mid-range hotel (e.g., Hotel Altamira))
These are safe, central neighborhoods with good dining options and easy access to taxis for tomorrow's tour.
Carry small bills in Bolivars for street purchases and taxis. Avoid flashing expensive electronics in public.
Day 1 Budget: $150
Discover
Caracas's modern art and take a cable car up the Avila Mountain for impressive city views.
Morning
Visit the Teresa Carreño Cultural Complex
Explore one of Latin America's most important cultural centers. Admire its unique architecture and check the schedule for possible theater or musical performances. The surrounding Parque Los Caobos is perfect for a stroll.
2-3 hours
$5-15 (depending on show)
Check the complex's website for performance schedules in advance.
Lunch
Urbana Café in Las Mercedes
International/Fusion
Mid-range
Afternoon
Teleférico de
Caracas to Avila Mountain
Take the cable car from Maripérez station up to El Ávila National Park (Waraira Repano). At the top, enjoy panoramic views of
Caracas and the Caribbean Sea. Walk the Humboldt Hotel trail and breathe the fresh mountain air.
3-4 hours
$10-15 (round-trip cable car)
Go on a clear day for the best views. The cable car can have long lines on weekends.
Evening
Dinner in Las Mercedes
Explore the upscale Las Mercedes district. Dine at La Huerta for excellent Venezuelan cuisine or enjoy tapas at Bar Basque.
Where to Stay Tonight
Altamira (Hotel Altamira)
Convenient base for the second day in the city.
The weather on Avila Mountain is significantly cooler. Bring a light jacket or sweater.
Day 2 Budget: $140
Fly to the impressive Los Roques National Park and spend your first day relaxing on pristine Gran Roque.
Morning
Flight to Los Roques
Take an early morning charter flight from Maiquetía Airport (near
Caracas) to Gran Roque. The 45-minute flight offers impressive aerial views of the archipelago's cays and turquoise waters.
3 hours (including transfer & flight)
$250-300 (round-trip charter)
Book flights well in advance through operators like Chapi Air or Aerotuy. Weight limits for luggage are strict.
Lunch
Posada Mediterráneo
Italian/Seafood
Mid-range
Afternoon
Settle in & Gran Roque Beach Time
Check into your posada (guesthouse). Walk the sandy streets of the colorful village. Spend the afternoon swimming and sunbathing at Playa El Faro or the main beach, just steps from the airstrip.
3-4 hours
$0
Most posadas include half or full board. Confirm meals when booking.
Evening
Sunset & Seafood Dinner
Watch the spectacular sunset from the old lighthouse (El Faro). Enjoy a fresh seafood dinner prepared by your posada, featuring lobster (in season) or red snapper.
Where to Stay Tonight
Gran Roque (Posada (e.g., Posada Acuarela or Macanao Lodge))
Gran Roque is the only inhabited island and the hub for all excursions to other cays.
Bring plenty of high-SPF sunscreen, a hat, and cash (USD or Bolivars). Credit cards are rarely accepted on the islands.
Day 3 Budget: $350
A full-day boat trip to two of Los Roques' most beautiful cays for snorkeling and relaxation.
Morning
Boat to Cayo Francisqui
Board a shared panga (motorboat) for the short ride to Francisqui. This scenic cay has a impressive sandbar, calm shallow waters, and excellent snorkeling right off the beach. Spot colorful fish and maybe even sea turtles.
4 hours
$60-80 (full-day tour)
Tours are easily booked through your posada the night before. Includes lunch.
Lunch
Beach BBQ on Madrisqui
Grilled Fish, Rice, Salad
Included in tour
Afternoon
Relax at Cayo Madrisqui
After lunch, the boat moves to the nearby Cayo Madrisqui. The waters here are incredibly clear and blue. Swim, sunbathe on the soft white sand, or explore the small mangrove channels.
3 hours
$0 (included)
Evening
Chill Evening in Gran Roque
Enjoy a relaxed dinner at your posada. Stargazing is phenomenal here due to the lack of light pollution.
Where to Stay Tonight
Gran Roque (Posada)
Continuity for your island stay.
Bring a waterproof bag for your camera/phone. Pack extra water and snacks, though lunch is provided.
Day 4 Budget: $100
A final island excursion to a remote cay before flying back to
Caracas for the night.
Morning
Optional Excursion to Cayo de Agua
For an extra adventure, book a longer boat trip to Cayo de Agua, famous for its long sandbar and dramatic scenery. It's a longer ride (approx 1.5 hrs) but offers incredible isolation and beauty. Alternatively, enjoy a final morning swim at a local beach.
4-5 hours
$80-100 (optional tour)
This tour requires calm seas and is best booked a day in advance. Not all operators go daily.
Lunch
Lunch at your Posada
Venezuelan/Seafood
Included
Afternoon
Take an afternoon charter flight back to Maiquetía Airport. Transfer to a hotel near the domestic terminal for an early flight tomorrow.
3 hours
$0 (return flight already paid)
Confirm your flight time with the airline/operator the day before.
Evening
Airport Hotel Dinner
Have a simple dinner at the hotel restaurant or a nearby café to prepare for an early start.
Where to Stay Tonight
Maiquetía (near airport) (Airport hotel (e.g., Eurobuilding Maiquetía))
Essential for catching an early morning flight to Mérida.
Use the airport hotel to repack your bags, separating warm clothes for the Andes from your beach gear.
Day 5 Budget: $120
Fly to the Andean city of Mérida, explore its charming center, and ride the world's highest cable car.
Morning
Flight to Mérida
Take an early domestic flight from Maiquetía to Alberto Carnevalli Airport in Mérida (approx 1 hour). The views of the Andes as you land are spectacular. Transfer to your hotel in the city center.
3 hours total
$80-120 (one-way flight)
Book flights with Conviasa or Avior. Flights are weather-dependent in the mountains.
Lunch
Heladería Coromoto
Ice Cream & Light Bites
Budget
Afternoon
Explore Plaza Bolívar & Teleférico de Mérida
Walk around the beautiful Plaza Bolívar, visit the whitewashed Cathedral, and browse the craft shops. Then, take the famous Mérida Cable Car (Teleférico) – the world's highest and longest. It has four stations, with the final one at Pico Espejo (4,765m).
4-5 hours
$20-30 (cable car ticket)
Buy cable car tickets online in advance if possible, as it's very popular. Acclimatize to the altitude slowly.
Evening
Andean Dinner & Stroll
Dine at La Abadía for traditional Andean dishes like pizca andina or trucha (trout). Afterwards, enjoy the lively atmosphere along Avenida 2 or Avenida 3.
Where to Stay Tonight
Mérida City Center (Hotel or Posada (e.g., Posada Guamanchi))
Central location puts you within walking distance of restaurants, shops, and tour operators.
Altitude sickness is a real possibility. Drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol, and take it easy on your first day. Coca tea helps.
Day 6 Budget: $160
A day trip into the high-altitude páramo ecosystem, visiting a national park and relaxing in natural hot springs.
Morning
Sierra Nevada National Park Tour
Join a guided tour into the páramo. Visit Laguna Negra, a impressive black-water lake, and hike through the unique frailejón plants. Look for wildlife like the spectacled bear (rarely seen) and hummingbirds.
4 hours
$40-60 (tour)
Book a tour through reputable agencies like Guamanchi Expeditions. They provide transport and guides.
Lunch
Picnic lunch in the páramo
Pack lunch
Included in tour
Afternoon
Relax at Aguas Termales
After the hike, descend to the village of Tabay to soak in the natural hot springs (e.g., Aguas Calientes). The warm, mineral-rich waters are perfect for relaxing sore muscles amidst a beautiful mountain setting.
2-3 hours
$5-10 (entry)
Bring a towel and swimwear. Some pools are more developed than others.
Evening
Low-key Dinner in Mérida
Enjoy a casual pizza at Michelangelo's or a comforting bowl of soup at a local fonda.
Where to Stay Tonight
Mérida City Center (Posada Guamanchi)
Return to your comfortable base after an active day.
Dress in layers! The páramo can be cold, windy, and sunny all within minutes. A rain jacket is essential.
Day 7 Budget: $120
Choose your own adventure: white-water rafting, paragliding, a coffee plantation tour, or more city exploration.
Morning
Option A: White-Water Rafting on the Chama River
For thrill-seekers, go rafting on the Chama River with Class III-IV rapids. Operators provide all equipment and safety briefings. A fantastic way to see the Andean landscape from the river.
3-4 hours
$50-70
Book through agencies like Natura Travel. Best for those with some experience.
Lunch
Varies by activity
Local
Mid-range
Afternoon
Option B: Coffee Tour or Museo de Arte Moderno
For a calmer day, visit a coffee hacienda in the surrounding valleys for a tour and tasting. Alternatively, explore Mérida's excellent Museum of Modern Art (Museo de Arte Moderno) or the colorful Mercado Principal.
3 hours
$15-30 (coffee tour) / $2-5 (museum)
Coffee tours need to be arranged in advance through your hotel or a tour operator.
Evening
Farewell to the Andes Dinner
Splurge on a memorable dinner at Restaurante Tibisay, known for its gourmet take on Andean cuisine and romantic ambiance.
Where to Stay Tonight
Mérida City Center (Posada Guamanchi)
Final night in Mérida before moving on.
If you choose paragliding, book it for the morning when thermals are best. Tandem flights are available for beginners.
Day 8 Budget: $130
A long travel day by air and road to the gateway of Canaima National Park, near the Brazilian border.
Morning
Flight to Puerto Ordaz & Drive to Santa Elena
Take an early flight from Mérida to Puerto Ordaz (via
Caracas). Upon arrival, meet your pre-arranged transfer for the 5-6 hour drive south to Santa Elena de Uairén. The road passes through the incredible Gran Sabana landscape.
8-10 hours total
$200-250 (flight + private transfer)
This complex transfer is best arranged as a package through a Canaima tour operator. They handle flights and ground transport.
Lunch
Roadside stop in the Gran Sabana
Simple Venezuelan (Arepas, Empanadas)
Budget
Afternoon
Arrival in Santa Elena & Settle In
Check into your camp or hotel in Santa Elena. This frontier town is the main base for trips into Canaima. Take a short walk to stretch your legs and visit the iconic Piedra de la Virgen landmark.
1-2 hours
$0
Evening
Dinner & Briefing
Have dinner at your camp/lodge. You'll likely receive a briefing about the upcoming Angel Falls expedition.
Where to Stay Tonight
Santa Elena de Uairén (Tourist Camp or Lodge (e.g., Campamento Canaima))
Santa Elena is the logistical hub for all tours into the eastern part of Canaima National Park.
This is a very long day. Pack snacks, water, and entertainment for the drive. The road is paved but can be monotonous.
Day 9 Budget: $280
A scenic flight into the heart of Canaima National Park, settling into a jungle camp on the lagoon.
Morning
Charter Flight to Canaima Lagoon
Take a small charter plane from Santa Elena's airport to Canaima. The flight is an attraction in itself, offering jaw-dropping views of tepuis (table-top mountains) and jungle. Land on the airstrip near the famous Canaima Lagoon.
1 hour flight + transfer
$150-200 (one-way, usually included in tour)
Flights are weather-dependent. Always part of a multi-day tour package.
Lunch
Lunch at Jungle Camp
Camp food (Rice, Stew, Fruit)
Included in tour
Afternoon
Explore Canaima Lagoon & Salto El Sapo
After settling into your basic jungle camp (maloca or cabin), take a boat across the impressive, pink-sand-fringed Canaima Lagoon. Hike behind the powerful Salto El Sapo or Salto El Sapito waterfalls for a thrilling experience.
3-4 hours
$0 (included)
Wear sturdy, waterproof sandals or shoes you don't mind getting soaked.
Evening
Jungle Night
Enjoy a communal dinner at the camp. Listen to the sounds of the jungle at night and maybe some stories from your Pemón guides.
Where to Stay Tonight
Canaima Lagoon (Basic Jungle Camp (e.g., Campamento Parakaupa))
This is the launch point for the river journey to Angel Falls. Accommodation is simple but authentic.
Power is limited (often generator-run for a few hours). Charge all electronics when possible. Bring a powerful headlamp.
Day 10 Budget: $250
An epic day traveling by panga boat up the Carrao and Churún rivers, hiking to the base of the world's tallest waterfall.
Morning
Panga Boat Ride up the Carrao River
Depart early by motorized panga (dugout canoe) for the 4-5 hour journey upstream. Navigate through rapids and impressive jungle scenery, with tepuis rising in the distance. Stop at the Pemón village of Arenal for a break.
4-5 hours
$0 (included in tour)
Pack everything in dry bags. You will get wet from river spray.
Lunch
Pack lunch at Arenal village
Simple packed meal
Included
Afternoon
Hike to Mirador Laime (Angel Falls Base Viewpoint)
From the river landing, start a 1.5-hour hike through jungle and over rocks to the Mirador Laime. Your reward: the impressive, unobstructed view of Angel Falls (Salto Ángel) plunging 979 meters from Auyán-tepui. The power and scale are humbling.
3-4 hours round-trip
$0 (included)
The hike is moderate but can be muddy. Use the walking stick provided by guides.
Evening
Camp at the Falls
Spend the night in hammocks or basic bunk beds at the Campamento Mirador. Fall asleep to the thunderous sound of the world's highest waterfall.
Where to Stay Tonight
Angel Falls Base Camp (Basic Jungle Camp (Hammocks or Bunks))
The only way to experience Angel Falls up close and have time to appreciate it.
The waterfall is often partially shrouded in mist, in the afternoon. The best, clearest views are usually in the early morning.
Day 11 Budget: $250
Wake up to a morning view of Angel Falls, then journey back downstream to Canaima Lagoon.
Morning
Morning at Angel Falls & Return Hike
Wake up early for another chance to see Angel Falls in the morning light, often clearer than the previous afternoon. After breakfast, hike back to the panga landing point.
2-3 hours
$0
Have your camera ready for the morning light on the falls.
Lunch
Lunch on the riverbank
Pack lunch
Included
Afternoon
Panga Ride back to Canaima
Board the panga for the return journey downstream, which is significantly faster (approx 3 hours). Enjoy the jungle scenery from a different perspective.
3-4 hours
$0 (included)
Evening
Relaxed Evening at Canaima Camp
Enjoy a well-earned dinner back at your Canaima camp. Share stories with other travelers.
Where to Stay Tonight
Canaima Lagoon (Basic Jungle Camp)
Necessary stopover before flying out tomorrow.
If water levels are high enough, ask your guide about a possible stop at Salto Hacha, a beautiful waterfall on the return trip.
Day 12 Budget: $250
Fly out of the jungle to the modern city of Puerto Ordaz for a comfortable night and souvenir shopping.
Morning
Flight from Canaima to Puerto Ordaz
Take a morning charter flight from Canaima airstrip to Puerto Ordaz. Say goodbye to the impressive landscape from above. Transfer to your hotel in the modern city center.
3 hours total
$150-200 (usually included in tour)
Confirm flight times the night before as they can change based on weather and passenger load.
Lunch
Mango's Café in the Orinokia Mall
International
Mid-range
Afternoon
Relax & Souvenir Shopping
Recover from the jungle adventure. Visit the Orinokia Mall for any last-minute purchases or the Cachamay Park to see the powerful rapids of the Caroní River. Look for authentic Pemón crafts like woven baskets.
2-3 hours
$20-50 (shopping)
Evening
Farewell Dinner
Enjoy a final celebratory dinner at La Pilonera, known for its excellent Venezuelan meat dishes and lively atmosphere.
Where to Stay Tonight
Puerto Ordaz City Center (Comfortable hotel (e.g., Intercontinental Puerto Ordaz))
Provides comfort and easy access to the airport for your international departure tomorrow.
Use this day to reorganize your luggage, separating dirty clothes and ensuring any souvenirs are packed safely.
Day 13 Budget: $200
Transfer to the airport for your international flight home, filled with memories of Venezuela's diverse wonders.
Morning
Transfer to Airport & Departure
After breakfast, take a taxi or hotel shuttle to Manuel Carlos Piar Airport (PZO). Check in for your international flight (usually via
Caracas or a direct connection if available). Reflect on an incredible two-week journey.
3-4 hours
$15-20 (taxi)
Confirm your international flight itinerary carefully, as connections often go through
Caracas.
Lunch
Airport cafe
Various
Mid-range
Afternoon
In transit
Flight connections and travel home.
Variable
$0
Where to Stay Tonight
N/A (N/A)
Departure day.
Keep some Bolivars for a final coffee or snack at the airport, but exchange any large remaining amounts before security.
Day 14 Budget: $50