Plizio Visual Lab

Mina Norte Coal Mine

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Industrial site

Weather…

Mina Norte is another critical coal extraction site located within the Guasare Basin in Zulia State, near the Paso Diablo mine. Established as part of the expansion of the Venezuelan coal industry, it exploits the rich seams of the Guasare formation, which contains some of the largest coal reserves in South America. The mine produces thermal coal that is primarily destined for export to Europe and the Americas, where it is used for power generation and industrial processes. Like its neighbors, Mina Norte employs open-pit mining techniques and relies on a complex logistical network to transport the coal to the shores of Lake Maracaibo for maritime distribution. The environmental management of the mine is a significant concern, given the proximity to local communities and water resources in the semi-arid region of Zulia. Despite fluctuations in global coal prices, Mina Norte continues to be a strategic asset for the state, representing a key effort to diversify the country's extractive economy beyond the dominant petroleum sector.

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	27	28	29	29	29	30	30	29	28	28	28
Rain mm	6	5	15	31	83	52	34	50	86	126	80	33

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?

Mina Norte Coal Mine is a significant coal mine in Zulia state, Venezuela, contributing to the country's position as a coal exporter. It supplies both the domestic market and international customers with coal.

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Visiting

The active coal mine is generally not accessible to the public for safety reasons. From surrounding roads and elevated points, the open-pit areas and spoil heaps can be observed from a distance.

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Where to view it

A good public view of the mine is from the main road crossing the Zulia region, near the town of Mina Norte. From there, the distinctive black-grey coal seams and extraction machinery are visible.

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Local products

The mine extracts high-quality bituminous coal used for both energy generation and industry. In the area, travelers can find local Venezuelan products such as handmade pottery and agricultural goods.

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Active season

Coal mining takes place year-round, with production largely unaffected by weather. During the dry season from December to April, transport roads are more usable, slightly increasing activity.

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Nearby

The area around Mina Norte can be combined with a visit to nearby Lake Maracaibo and the city of Maracaibo. The natural parks of the Sierra de Perijá are also suitable for pairing with the mining area.