This week in 1821, the Battle of Carabobo was fought between independence fighters and Spanish Royalist forces, resulting in a decisive victory - the liberation of Venezuela. Explore a land of Andean summits, tropical jungles and the highest waterfall in the world, Angel Falls, and discover exactly what they were fighting for during Walks Worldwide’s guided, 19-day The Heart of Venezuela expedition, departing 16th October 2008.After an initial night in Caracas, continue to the historic city of Merida (1,625m) from where the teleferico (cable car) ascends to 4,765 metres offering views across to the country's highest mountain, Pico Bolivar. On to Sierra de la Culata National Park for vast windswept panoramic vistas, massive varieties of wildflowers and endangered mammal species including the Spectacled Bear and Andean Condor. Drive to the highest road point in Venezuela (4,125m) then hike through traditional Andean villages to Pan de Azucar. Descend through areas colonised by rare giant Frailejón plants and Coloradito trees in one of the Andes most beautiful valleys before returning to Merida. Fly via Caracas to Ciudad Bolivar, an atmospheric colonial river town. From here, continue to the frontier town of Santa Elena, starting point for explorations into Gran Sabana and Roraima, which host an abundance of endemic flora and fauna. The fully supported trek heads through indigenous Pemon Indian communities, across savannah, grassland and along ridges radiating out from the tepui (tabletop mountain). Cross rivers and walk through dense cloud forest packed with lush plants, to the base of Monte Roraima. On the summit, a spectacular campsite awaits - a 'cave hotel' offering stunning evening panoramas. Enjoy a day's exploration of weather-eroded stone sculptures, lichen encrusted black rock and chasms filled with carnivorous plants, pass through the crystal incrusted and aptly named ‘Valley of the Crystals’ to ‘Triple Point’ where the borders of Venezuela, Brazil and Guayana meet. Fly from Santa Elena to the old gold-mining base of Canaima and canoe along the Carrao River rapids, passing native settlements on the riverbank and spotting birdlife including Scarlet Macaw, Black Vulture and Green Ibis, en route to the island camp. After a relaxing night spent in hammocks, continue through tropical forest to the base of Angel Falls – and a refreshing dip under the waterfalls’ mist! Finally, return to Canaima for flights back to Caracas and the UK.
The tour costs £2,380 p/p including flights, transfers, hotel, camp and hammock accommodation, most meals, camping equipment, porters, mules, entry fees and expert guiding.
Click here for Walking Holiday - The Heart of Venezuela
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