V E N E Z U E L A:

TREKKING Trough THE LOST WORLD

DURATION : 11 days / 10 nights (6 nights camping)
SEASON : October - May
DEPARTURES : Guaranteed with a minimum of 2 and a maximum of 16 participants
TRIP RATING : Normal, featuring Carlos Luis Romero as guide averaging 7.7 miles per day at elevations between 4,800' and 9,220', plus a long
overland drive and a chartered flight in a small plane.

Immediate departure with groups of minimum 2 persons.

INTRODUCTION:

The mysterious, mist-shrouded Tepuys, or tabletop mountains, that inspired Sir Arthur Conan Doyle in 1912, to write about the Lost World, are some of the oldest and most impressive rock formations on earth.
Estimated to be 1.8 billion years old, the near vertical, rose-colored cliffs of these mesas tower several thousand feet above the surrounding plains of La Gran Sabana in the south eastern Venezuela.
Sparkling waterfalls falling from the sky into the tropical forest at the base of these plateaus are a dramatic and inspiring sight. Isolated from each other and the savannah below, the summits of these fascinating mesas, some of which are several hundred square miles in area, are biological wonders. Each has developed its own unique flora and fauna, many species existing nowhere else in the world, causing some to refer to them as Islands in the Sky.

Following an overnight stay in Caracas, we catch an early flight to Puerto Ordaz and begin our overland journey. We drive through rolling countryside north of the Guianan Shield until, upon leaving the forest, the tepui-dotted plains of the Gran Sabana open up before us. Our drive takes two days, allowing us to visit exotic falls such as Kama Merú and to briefly explore the Canay and Suruape rivers along the way.
From the Pemón Indian village of Perai-tepui, we hike through scattered forests and rolling savannah, gradually gaining elevation on the way to Roraima's base. Then, ascending a steep, natural ramp through the mountain's ring of dense epiphyte-draped cloud-forest, we reach the summit. After 2-days to explore the bizarre terrain of arches, caves and labyrinths on top, including the Valle de los Cristales and the Triple Point where Brazil, Guyana and Venezuela meet, we retrace our route to Perai-tepui and drive to Santa Elena. The next day, we take a chartered flight to Canaima and fly over Angel Falls before continuing to Ciudad Bolívar and then Caracas.

Venezuela: Trekking trough The Lost World

DAY-BY-DAY ITINERARY:

DAY 01:

CARACAS: We depart this morning for Maiquetia, Venezuela's International Airport located on the Caribbean coast Close to the port of La Guiara. We meet our local representative upon arrival, and drive along the coast, approximately 20-minutes, to the comfortable Hotel Ole, overlooking the sea. Dinner is on your own this evening.

DAY 02:

CARACAS / PUERTO ORDAZ / KAMOIRAN After an early breakfast, we fly to Puerto Ordaz (300'), an important industrial city and commercial port, located at the confluence of the Orinoco and Caroní rivers. Upon arrival, we are met by our local guide, load our gear into 4X4 vehicles, and begin our journey towards the Gran Sabana. We initially drive south along a well maintained, paved road, passing through low hills covered with deciduous trees and chaparral vegetation, then drive by the fertile fields and plantations around Upata where rice, cacao, cotton and tobacco are grown. We continue through the rich, gold and diamond mining region around Tumeremo and El Dorado where we might stop to buy some nuggets or gemstones. The route has many Araguaneys, the national tree of Venezuela whose lovely yellow blossoms reach their peak in April and May. From El Dorado, we enter into a lush tropical forest where, at the Virgin's Rock, or Piedra de la Virgen, the road begins climbing the steep switchbacks of the escalera, or ladder, as we ascend the sandstone escarpment that marks the beginning of the Gran Sabana, jutting up from the Guianan Shield. At the top, we suddenly leave the forest and, stretching out before us are impressive open plains, punctuated by the vertical, rose-colored cliffs of the tepuis. We continue driving to the basic, but comfortable, Kamoirán Lodge (4,000') where we spend the night. Driving distance: 302 miles or 7 hours.

DAY 03:

KAMOIRAN / PERAI-TEPUI CAMP Following a leisurely breakfast at the lodge, we continue driving southeast through the Gran Sabana toward the Pemón Indian village of San Francisco de Yuruani. Along the way, we stop to view Kama Merú Falls, which have a beautiful 160-foot drop over the edge of the mesa. We board a curiara, or open canoe, to explore further and get closer views of the forest and the waterfall. Those who wish to may choose to relax and swim on one of the sandy beaches. Nearly the entire region, almost 7.4 million acres including the mountainous areas to the west, has been set aside as Canaima National Park to protect the special ecology of this land of tepuis, waterfalls, and exotic flora and fauna. It is the sixth largest national park on earth! We drive again and take a short side trip to see the Arapán valley and Suruape River, an exotic spot, at an elevation of 3,260', with pools, cascades, and palm trees. South of the Yuruani River, we turn off the main highway onto a dirt road leading to the Taurepan Indian community of Perai-tepui where our first camp is established. The main Pemón tribes are the Arekunas, Taurepanes, and Kamarakotos. This village has the park’s only guard station, and is home to the local porters who will assist our group, carrying food and gear. Driving distance: 80 miles or 3 hours.

DAY 04:

KUKENAN RIVER CAMP This morning, we enjoy our first sunrise views of Roraima before breakfast. As we watch the sun light up its cliffs, we contemplate its Indian name, Great, Ever-fruitful, Mother of Streams, which seems appropriate because the waters from its summit feed into three important river systems, the Amazon, Orinoco, and Essequibo. After packing our gear into daypacks, we begin trekking, followed by our porters who prefer to use their own backpack-like woven baskets to carry their loads. Our route starts off descending from the ridge into a small, forested valley, across a stream, then uphill toward a broad plateau. Following a clear trail, we hike across rolling terrain and open, grassy savannah, sometimes passing through forests along small streams. Directly ahead of us is the massive, symmetrical bulk of Mount Roraima, whose 9,220 foot summit towers above the plains. To the north of this mesa is a sister tepui, Kukenán, off of whose 8,790 foot summit cascades the third highest waterfall in the world with a 2,000 foot drop. Further north, three other tepuis are distinguishable in the distance. With help from our porters, we wade across the Kukenán River to our campsite. After dinner, we anticipate the night sky for a view of the Southern Cross, and myriad other stars and constellations. Trek length: 7½ miles or 6 hours hiking.

DAY 05:

RORAIMA BASE CAMP This morning we head out, following the long incline that leads gradually uphill to the base of Roraima's vertical, 2,000 foot cliffs. The terrain is a series of long ridges radiating out from the main mountain, covered by grasslands, except in deep ravines where rainforest patches have escaped the local Indians' fires. About halfway to our base camp, we enter a broad, sloping area where we might spot different lizards scurrying across the trail, watch chestnut-collared sparrows hopping in the shrubs, or observe yellow-headed vultures circling overhead. Our base camp is located at the foot of Roraima's spectacular walls. Here we have breathtaking views of the savannah rolling away into the distance, as well as the splendid rose-colored cliffs rising straight up above us, toward the mountain's flat summit. In the late afternoon, we can take spectacular photos of the interplay of mist and sunlight across the mountain's top, until the sun sets. Trek length: 5 miles or 5 hours hiking.

DAY 06:

RORAIMA SUMMIT CAMP Our ascent today follows a 50-foot wide natural ledge, running from right to left along the cliff face, allowing the only non technical access to the summit of Roraima. This route, discovered by the British explorer, Everard Thurn in 1884, passes through steep, jungle-like terrain that requires good stamina, but no climbing skills. Just beyond our camp, we cross a stream and enter an exquisite cloud-forest where dense vegetation prevents us from seeing the cliffs ahead or the savannah dropping away behind. Our concentration is focused on the trail and the diverse plants around us. Bromeliads, bladderworts, sundews, tree ferns, mosses and heliconias are everywhere. Continuing through the cloud-forest that envelopes the cliffs, the trail is wide enough to be safe, but is steep and can be very slippery in places. Orchids, ferns, palms, woody shrubs, and lovely flowers abound. There are three sections of small ravines where we must scramble down and up again. The last has a thin, ribbon-like waterfall plunging from the crest, splashing the trail with droplets (it really flows when it is raining on the summit). Near the top, our route gets steeper and rockier. It then turns inward through a natural cleft in the rock and suddenly, we're on the summit gazing at the strange, fascinating landscape. From the edge of the plateau we continue crossing alternating patches of dry, black rock and wet, peat bogs until we arrive to our camp in the early afternoon. Our tents are pitched in natural caves, an added measure of protection from the frequent mists and showers on top. Following lunch, we explore the tepui's mysterious and often foggy summit, hiking about 3½ miles (round-trip) to search for quartz crystals in the Valle de los Cristales. At a lookout point, we observe the impressive cliffs of Kukenán & Roraima, as well as the views out toward Guyana. Total trek length: 7½ miles or 7½ hours hiking.

DAY 07:

RORAIMA SUMMIT CAMP We have the full day today to explore the fantasy-land atop Roraima, whose massive summit is approximately 109 square miles! The eroding forces of constant wind and rain have formed giant, stone sculptures; house-sized slabs balanced precariously on slender spires; the arches and pillars of a forgotten, imaginary dynasty; and natural bridges that span narrow chasms. The dominant color is black, created by the rock-encrusting lichen that covers every surface. Accompanied by our guide and a couple of the porters, the strongest walkers may follow a rough trail through this bizarre landscape, hiking up and down, crossing creeks and boggy terrain, passing through natural labyrinths, and weaving among boulders, to the concrete monument marking the "triple-point", where the countries of Venezuela, Brazil, and Guyana meet. This is the perfect place to stop for lunch. On the return to camp, we observe several endemic species of plants, plus lots of ferns, mosses, orchids, and bromeliads. Roughly half of the flora identified in the "Lost World" exists in Roraima, and nowhere else on earth. We might also see the tiny pebble toad who rolls downhill to escape from danger. We reach our camp in the late afternoon, tired from the long hike, but exhilarated by our amazing discoveries exploring the Mother of Streams. Soup and a hot dinner are welcomed this evening! Hiking distance: 10 miles or 7 hours.

DAY 08:

CAMP Following breakfast and our last opportunity to take pictures on top, we begin our descent. Returning to the ledge, we work our way carefully back down through the cloud-forest. If the weather permits, the views out across the savannah and back toward Roraima's sheer walls are astounding. Upon reaching our former base camp area, we stop for lunch and, perhaps, a refreshing dip in the stream below the campsite. Then, we continue along the more gradual descent to the Kukenán River, cross the stream and hike the last mile to our campsite. Trek length: 9½ miles or 6 hours hiking.

DAY 09:

PERAI-TEPUI / SANTA ELENA Today, we leave camp early in order to avoid the strong sunlight and heat of midday as we continue the trek back to our staff's village Perai-tepui. We take final, lingering looks toward Roraima's summit, remembering the bizarre rock formations and its unique flora and fauna. These are our last glimpses of the Lost World before the mist and clouds envelope the top and hide it from our view. Our route is slightly uphill to Perai-tepui, so we really appreciate the picnic lunch and cool drinks awaiting us when we arrive. With time permitting, we visit the village schoolhouse and talk with the teacher, or perhaps one of our Taurepan friends will invite us to his home to meet his family. We say goodbye to our friendly camp staff and, after loading our gear into the vehicles, we're bound for Santa Elena de Uairén, stopping along the way at the spectacular Quebrada del Jaspe. This small town is south, near the Brazil border, and has an airstrip with regular flights. Also, it is a commercial and handicraft center, with opportunities to shop for some of the intricately woven baskets, backpacks, fishing bows and arrows, woodskins and other handcrafted items made in the area. We spend the night outside town in a simple, but comfortable, family-style hostal called Yakoo and enjoy a delicious and plentiful dinner together. Trek length: 6½ miles or 4½ hours hiking; Driving distance: 60 miles or 2 hours.

DAY 10:

CANAIMA / ANGEL FALLS / CARACAS We transfer to the airport this morning and board our chartered flight for the one-hour journey to Canaima. Flying over the Gran Sabana gives us an entirely different perspective on this dramatic region. Weather permitting, we intend to overfly the Auyán-tepui a massive flat-topped mesa from where the tallest waterfall drops, The Angel Falls. A thrilling flight up narrow Devil's Canyon gives us extraordinary shots of this breathtaking sight, whose 3281' drop is sixteen times higher than that of Niagara. According to Pemón Indian legends, Canaima, a lovely lagoon surrounded by cascades such as the Hacha and Ucaima waterfalls, is the dwelling place of the god Kanaimo. During the first decades of the 20th century, Canaima was visited by those searching for gold, including Jimmy Angel, discoverer of Angel Falls.

The Family Boulton established in the 1950's the area's comfortable cabins now called Horturvenza, with a lovely pink beach infront and exotic tropical decoration make it the ideal spot to take a break from our long journey back. From the airport, we take a safari style vehicle for the short ride to the port, then board a motor canoe to cross the Carrao River for a hike to El Sapo, or Frog, Falls. Pack your shorts and sandals because we’ll get wet exploring behind the waterfall! Back at Canaima, we have lunch at a lodge, beside the lagoon. Afterwards, we may shop for Indian handicrafts. Leaving the area, later in the afternoon, we fly to Ciudad Bolívar (or back to Puerto Ordaz according to flight schedules) where we catch the connecting flight to Caracas. Located at 3,150' in a temperate valley, Caracas' modern architecture is dramatically back dropped by the great mountain Avila and the Pico Naiguata. At 9,071' the latter is the highest peak in the coastal range.

Met upon arrival at the airport by our local guide, we drive across the mountains to the capital (about 45 minutes) and check in to the comfortable Altamira Suites Hotel (in front of our office) for the night.

DAY 11:

CARACAS / HOME We transfer to the airport this morning and are assisted with check-in for your international flight.

SERVICES INCLUDED:

• Comprehensive pre-departure planning packet and expert travel advice.

• All in-country transfers as scheduled (transfers on different days are additional). Ground transportation in spacious and comfortable private vehicles with professional drivers.

• The chartered Santa Elena / Canaima / Angel Falls / Puerto Ordaz flight (aboard a Cessna 206 with 5-seats or similar aircraft).

• Local and return flight reconfirmation, in-country airport check-in and luggage assistance.

• All accommodations in standard-class (3-5 star) hotels or lodges as listed (or at similar hotels, and basic Lodges in the Gran Sabana) on a shared basis with private bath. Single beds for couples (primarily queen-sized beds) can be requested in advance, but cannot be guaranteed, as most hotels offer very few rooms with single beds.

• Single Supplement provides single room accommodations in all hotels. Single tents cannot be guaranteed on trek but will be provided whenever possible for those that request them. Due to the limited number of rooms at the Lodges in the Gran Sabana, there is a maximum of 2 singles allowed per group. If you require single accommodations, making reservations well in advance is recommended.

• All meals indicated on the itinerary (B=breakfast; L=lunch; D=dinner). Vegetarian diets accommodated on request (advance notification required).

• All guided tours (as listed) conducted on a private basis by knowledgeable, English-speaking local guides (includes applicable entrance fees).

• A local, English-speaking, guide/escort for the program (Days 01-10) plus any applicable entrance fees.

• Standard trekking service including: Experienced guide/cook, camp assistant, and local, Pemón porters to carry personal gear (up to 20 pounds per participant) as well as communal equipment and food.

Basic group camping equipment: two-person tents, sleeping pads, dining screen tent, collapsible dining stools, cooking and eating utensils.

All meals: Hot breakfast, packed or picnic lunch, and served dinner. First-aid kit.

NOT INCLUDED:

• International flights, nor local flights within Venezuela (except the charter flight to Canaima and Angel Falls).

• Local Venezuelan airport departure taxes (approx. $58 per person).

• 2 meals at about $20 - 35.

• Tours or other services not listed on the itinerary.

• Alcoholic beverages.

• Tips to the local staff.

• Sleeping bag, other personal gear, or items of a personal nature such as clothing, laundry or phone calls.

• Expenses incurred in preparing for this program such as, but not limited to, non-refundable airline tickets or traveler's insurance, and additional expenses resulting from flight delays, schedule changes, cancellations, or missed connections.

LATE DEPARTURE FROM CARACAS:

Participants with an extra day of vacation time are strongly encouraged to consider leaving Caracas back to country of origin on Day 12 of this Itinerary. This provides an additional day, in case bad weather in the Gran Sabana makes it impossible for the small planes to fly the Santa Elena Canaima route, (a definite advantage when you are traveling in a remote location). Should weather be good, and the planes fly as scheduled, the extra day to explore Caracas allows time to enjoy some of the shopping and sightseeing available in this historic cit y.

OPTIONAL TRIP EXTENSIONS: We can arrange extra days for those wanting to visit the llanos for superb wildlife viewing, explore Merida for scenic beauty, or relax under the sun on the beaches of Los Roques onboard a sailboat. For more information please check: www.explorepartners.com

GUIDE:

Carlos Luis Romero (Puri Puri) – Educated as TSU in Tourism at the university of Simon Bolivar. He loves the forest and birds so much that adventure became his way of life and he has been leading groups since 1986.

WEATHER:

Due to its proximity to the equator and the Caribbean Sea, Venezuela experiences a warm, tropical weather pattern year-round. Venezuela's dry season runs from December through May with the rains starting in June and continuing through October/November. Rain can occur anytime, although showers lasting all day are unlikely, especially in the dry season.

Trekking in La Gran Sabana region of Roraima is a tropical experience (hot and humid) with temperatures very dependant upon elevation. Below 3,280' temperatures average between 80-90/F during the day. Higher than this, average temperatures fluctuate between 55-78/F. On the summit of Mount Roraima the night time lows can be close to freezing but should not fall below 32/F. Humidity in this area is quite high (70% and above) and the chances of rain showers are also high at any time of the year.

Furthermore, mist on top is likely as clouds blow in and around the summit, bringing some of the mystery to the Lost World. The driest months are January and February followed by December and March. The hottest months are March, April and May, and September, October and November.

NOTES ON THE ITINERARY:

Although we do our best to adhere to the schedule listed above, the day by day activities on this itinerary are subject to change for numerous reasons beyond our control including group, weather, and road / river / trail conditions as well as flight schedule changes. Distances and altitudes are approximate and times indicated are net hiking times not including lunch break, rest stops, time to explore or take pictures, etc.

Prices are subject to change without notice...

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