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Angel Falls
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Landmark
Angel Falls (Salto Ángel), located within Canaima National Park in southeastern Venezuela, is the world's highest uninterrupted waterfall with a total height of 979 meters. The water plunges from Auyán-tepui, one of the most massive table mountains of the Guiana Shield, with the longest continuous drop measuring 807 meters. The falls were named after the American aviator Jimmie Angel, who rediscovered them in 1933 while searching for gold and famously crash-landed his plane on the summit in 1937. In the indigenous Pemon language, the waterfall is called 'Kerepakupai Merú', which translates to 'fall from the deepest place'. The area is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is accessible only by plane or, during the rainy season, by boat along the Carrao River. The geological formation of Auyán-tepui dates back to the Precambrian era and is over two billion years old, making it one of the oldest landscapes on Earth.
- Location: Venezuela
- Top sights: Mirador El Pascualito · Mirador Salto Ángel
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 | 22 | 23 | 24 | 24 | 23 | 22 | 22 | 23 | 23 | 23 | 23 | 22 |
| Rain mm | 50 | 35 | 41 | 104 | 217 | 298 | 224 | 216 | 121 | 97 | 94 | 77 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Angel Falls is located in Canaima National Park and can be reached by boat and a hike. The climb to the viewpoint is strenuous, but the view of the waterfall is spectacular.
Typical hours
The park is typically open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM; the best time to visit is the dry season from December to April. Access may be limited during rain.
Photography
Make sure to bring a waterproof camera or housing, as it gets very wet near the waterfall. A tripod is helpful for long exposures of the falling water.
Time needed
Plan a full day for the journey from Canaima, the boat ride, and the hike. The hike to the viewpoint itself takes about 2-3 hours round trip.
Combine with
Combine the waterfall visit with a boat tour on the Canaima River and a visit to the indigenous village of Kavak. Nearby Mount Roraima is another top attraction.
Getting there
The nearest town is Canaima, reachable by plane from Caracas or Ciudad Bolívar. Boat tours to the waterfall are offered from Canaima; advance booking is recommended.
Insider tip
Book a guided tour as navigating the river and jungle is difficult without a local guide. Bring insect repellent and rain gear.
Geography
Facts
- The total height of the waterfall is officially recorded as 979 meters.
- The single longest uninterrupted drop of water is 807 meters.
- The waterfall is approximately 15 times taller than Niagara Falls.
- The indigenous Pemon people call it Kerepakupai Merú.
- Jimmie Angel's aircraft, 'El Rio Caroni', remained on Auyán-tepui for 33 years.
- Canaima National Park, where it is located, is roughly the size of Belgium.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Angel Falls (2)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
How do I get to Angel Falls?
Access is usually via flight to Canaima followed by a boat trip through the jungle.
How much time should I plan for?
Plan for at least 3 days as travel through the jungle is time-consuming.
Is the waterfall visible all year round?
During the dry season, the waterfall can be very thin due to low precipitation.
Is there accommodation available?
There are basic camps and lodges in Canaima or along the river.
Is the hike to the viewpoint difficult?
The hike is moderately steep and requires good physical fitness.
Angel Falls: where is it located?
Angel Falls is located in Venezuela.
Angel Falls: what is there to see?
Highlights include Mirador El Pascualito, Mirador Salto Ángel.
Angel Falls: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.
Angel Falls: why is it worth visiting?
Angel Falls (Salto Ángel), located within Canaima National Park in southeastern Venezuela, is the world's highest uninterrupted waterfall with a total height of 979 meters.
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