There is so much to discover on a Venezuela holiday including beautiful Caribbean beaches, striking table-top mountains or 'tepuis' and stunning waterfalls in the Gran Sabana, including of course the world's highest, Angel Falls. Further north you can travel by dugout canoe on the mighty Orinoco River with its fertile delta, lush flora and indigenous communities. And those looking for active outdoor pursuits on a holiday in Venezuela should consider including Merida in their itinerary. Located in the far west of the country the small colonial city of Merida, with its picturesque cobbled streets, is an ideal base for hiking and biking in the Sierra Nevada, as well as white-water rafting, horse riding and paragliding.
From Merida you can cross the breathtaking scenery of the Andes towards Barinas by four-wheel drive, where you reach the vast Los Llanos plains. Teeming with wildlife these wetlands are prime wildlife territory where you can spot giant anacondas, caimans and over 300 bird species, including scarlet ibis, hoatzin screamers and roseate spoonbills to name but a few.
No Venezuela holiday would be complete with out some time on the beach. The chain of islands that make up Los Roques Archipelago is a favourite with its white sand beaches, coral reefs, mangroves and sea grass beds that support a rich array of marine life. Located approximately 165 km north of Caracas and the mainland, windsurfing, snorkelling and diving here are excellent and look out for delicious lobster in season. The most developed Venezuelan beach resorts are on Isla de Margarita, just off the northeast coast,