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Caruachi Hydroelectric Plant

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Industrial site

Caruachi Hydroelectric Plant (Venezuela)

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The Caruachi Hydroelectric Plant, officially known as the Francisco de Miranda Central, is a major power generation facility located on the Caroní River in Bolívar State, Venezuela. As part of the Lower Caroní hydroelectric development project, it represents one of the most significant engineering feats in South America's energy sector. The plant features 12 Kaplan turbines with a total installed capacity of 2,160 megawatts, contributing substantially to the national grid. Construction of the dam and powerhouse was completed in 2006, following years of intensive geological and environmental studies. The project was designed to minimize ecological impact while maximizing efficiency, utilizing the natural flow of the river. Beyond its industrial function, the site includes public spaces and parks that highlight the integration of modern infrastructure with the surrounding landscape. It serves as a critical component in Venezuela's reliance on renewable hydroelectric energy, reducing the country's dependence on fossil fuels for electricity generation.

Location: Venezuela
Top sights: Playa El Dorado · Playa Grande · Playa Los Morichales

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	27	28	29	30	29	28	27	27	28	28	28	27
Rain mm	43	20	21	39	96	167	160	144	87	93	96	71

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?

The Caruachi Hydroelectric Plant is a modern and powerful plant on the Caroní River. It is crucial for powering Venezuela's heavy industry and a symbol of the country's energy independence.

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Visiting

The plant itself is typically not open to the general public. From the viewing platform at the dam wall, one can admire the impressive architecture and the massive water flow.

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Where to view it

The best view of the plant is from the bridge downstream, where the entire dam wall and turbine houses are visible. The opposite bank also provides a good perspective.

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Local products

The plant mainly produces electrical energy for the national grid. There are no direct consumer goods in the region, but the power supply enables local industry and tourism.

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Active season

The hydroelectric plant operates year-round, with higher output during the rainy season when the Caroní River carries more water. In the dry season, production may be slightly reduced.

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Nearby

A visit to the Caruachi Hydroelectric Plant can be combined with a trip to the nearby Guri Dam, which is even larger. The Canaima National Park with its tepuis is also a worthwhile addition.

Geography

Coordinates

8.12560, -62.83170

Facts

The plant is located 59 kilometers downstream from the Guri Dam.
It has an installed capacity of 2,160 megawatts across 12 generating units.
Construction began in 1997 and the project was fully inaugurated in 2006.
Each Kaplan turbine at the facility has a capacity of 180 megawatts.
The main dam structure spans a length of approximately 360 meters.
The project represents the third stage of the Caroní River's hydroelectric development.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Orinokia Bridge8 km · EExplore →

Sidor Steel Plant8 km · EExplore →

Alcasa Aluminum Plant10 km · EExplore →

Ferrominera Orinoco Operations18 km · NEExplore →

Palúa Iron Ore Port22 km · NEExplore →

Cerro Bolívar Iron Mine69 km · SWExplore →

Fortín El Zamuro78 km · SExplore →

Angostura Bridge82 km · SExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Caruachi Hydroelectric Plant (4)

Playa El Dorado🎡 recreation

This beach resort has recreation on the shores near the Caruachi hydroelectric plant.

Playa Grande🎡 recreation

Playa Grande is an extensive sandy beach and local resort in the Caruachi Dam region.

Playa Los Morichales🎡 recreation

At this beach resort near the Caruachi plant, typical moriche palms line the water's edge.

Aditorio de Caruachi🎭 culture

This theatre and auditorium serves as a cultural venue near the Caruachi facility.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is the Caruachi Hydroelectric Plant?

It is an important hydroelectric power plant on the Caroní River that contributes to Venezuela's power supply.

Can you visit the power plant?

Usually, entering the active industrial site is not permitted for tourists without special authorization.

Where exactly is the power plant located?

It is located on the Caroní River in Bolívar state, downstream from the Guri Dam.

Why is the project regionally significant?

It plays a key role in stabilizing the Venezuelan power grid through renewable energy.

What can you do nearby?

The area has impressive river landscapes in Bolívar state, handy for nature photography.

Caruachi Hydroelectric Plant: where is it located?

Caruachi Hydroelectric Plant is located in Venezuela.

Caruachi Hydroelectric Plant: what is there to see?

Highlights include Playa El Dorado, Playa Grande, Playa Los Morichales.

Caruachi Hydroelectric Plant: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.

Caruachi Hydroelectric Plant: why is it worth visiting?

The Caruachi Hydroelectric Plant, officially known as the Francisco de Miranda Central, is a major power generation facility located on the Caroní River in Bolívar State, Venezuela.

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