 Venezuela
is a beautiful tropical country located in the northern part of
South America. The country is surrounded by the Caribbean Sea
and the Atlantic Ocean to the north, the small country of Guyana
to the east, to the south lies Brazil, and to the east is Colombia.
The name Venezuela was given to the region by Columbus during
an exploration of the area over 500 years ago. In specific, the
explorer and his men thought that the native houses in the coastal
areas resembled a "small Venice".
Please note
that additional info (prices, activities, etc) are found to the
right of this pages. 
 Due
to the fact that Venezuela is located just north of the Equator,
travelers have the chance to enjoy a wonderfully mild tropical
climate in most regions of the country. Average daily temperature
throughout the country is approx. 77 F. Though the temperature
does not change drastically in different parts of the country,
Venezuela is a country of amazing contrasts.
The
country is most well know for its 1,800 plus miles of beautiful
coastline. These areas are prime destinations not only for tourists,
but for Venezuelans as well. Currently over 80% of the country's
population live within this region. In the coastal areas you have
the chance to walk along snowy white sand beaches, swim in beautiful
rocky coves, chat with the locals in quaint fishing villages,
or travel just offshore to visit numerous enchanting islands set
in sparkling clear waters. Moving inland from the coastline, you
will find a backdrop of lush rainforests and beautiful mountains.
This area has something for everyone: mega resorts, solitary spots,
snorkeling, water sports, diving, deep sea fishing, plus much
more!
 Though
most people do not realize it, the mighty Andes extend all the
way into Venezuela. As one heads westward from Caracas, the coastal
plains quickly give way to foothills and finally into immense
mountains. In the lower lying areas lie vast stretches of coffee
plantations. Traveling deeper into these mountains on narrow winding
roads, travelers have the chance to see small rustic farms, relatively
isolated villages, small mountain lakes and glacier fed trout
streams. Due to the regions long isolation you will find that
many people follow traditions that have changed little over the
centuries. Without a doubt, the mountain region of Venezuela is
a stunningly beautiful area that offers a much slower pace of
life as compared to the lively coastal areas.
In
the central part of Venezuela lies a vast area of plains known
as the Llanos. This is an area of vast contrasts. During the dry
season, the area is dry and parched. In the rainy season, the
area becomes almost totally flooded, and virtually impassible
except for boat. The two main things you will find in this area
are vast herds of cattle, and an incredible quantity and variety
of wildlife. Besides the chance to see exotic wildlife, travelers
also have the chance to come into contact with Venezuelan style
cowboys known as llaneros. These barefooted cowboys have had a
reputation dating back to colonial times for their bravery, toughness,
and above all, their independence.
 The
last major area in Venezuela is known as the Guayana region. This
region covers approximately 45% of the country. It is in this
area where the one really feels as if you have entered another
world. One of the outstanding features of this area is the Venezuelan
Amazon Basin. Certain areas are currently still virtually untouched
by modern man. Visitors can find plants, animals, birds, and insects
not found anywhere else in the world. This region of Venezuela
is also home to various primitive Indian groups. One group in
particular stands out, the Piaroa Indians, a primitive group of
people whose way of life has changed little since the Stone Age.
The
Guayana region is also well known for two other distinctive features.
The first are called tepuyes. These are unique mesas of rock jutting
up from the jungle floor. They dominate the skyline, and home
to rare types of plants and animals. Finally, this area is also
home to vast rivers and waterfalls. The most famous waterfall
is known as Angel Falls. This waterfall is considered to be the
highest in the world. It is truly an impressive site that should
be high on your list of things to see and do in Venezuela.
We
here at Spanish Abroad are confident that you will find Venezuela
an wonderful place to learn Spanish! |
