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Botanical Garden of Caracas

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Botanical Garden of Caracas (Venezuela)

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The Botanical Garden of Caracas is a green sanctuary in the heart of the Venezuelan capital and has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2000 as part of the University City of Caracas. It was founded in 1945 by the renowned botanist Tobías Lasser, with the mission of researching and preserving Venezuela's tropical flora. Spanning about 70 hectares (173 acres), the garden hosts an impressive collection of over 2,500 plant species, including one of the most significant palm collections in the world. The facility is masterfully integrated into the architecture of the Central University of Venezuela, combining scientific research with aesthetic landscaping. In addition to its botanical collections, the garden houses key research facilities such as the National Herbarium of Venezuela. The garden serves not only as an educational hub for students and scientists but also as a vital retreat for city dwellers and a habitat for many local bird species. Despite economic hardships, the Botanical Garden remains a symbol of Venezuela's scientific heritage and commitment to environmental conservation.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C232323242525242525252423
Rain mm42301441718710112089967774

📋 Practical info

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Getting there
Located within the Central University of Venezuela (UCV) campus in Caracas. Easily reached via the Caracas Metro (Ciudad Universitaria station) or local taxis and buses.
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Best season
Visitable year-round due to the tropical climate. The dry season from December to April is often more pleasant for walking through the extensive outdoor botanical collections.
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Terrain & paths
Mostly flat and well-paved pathways suitable for easy walking. Some slight inclines exist within the wooded sections, but the majority of the garden area is highly accessible for all.
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What to bring
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for exploring the large campus. Bring insect repellent for the shadier tropical areas and sun protection like a hat or sunscreen for open sections.
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Parking
Limited parking is typically available near the entrance of the University City. Visitors often find it easier to use public transportation or nearby commercial parking lots in Sabana Grande.
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Safety
The garden is generally secure within the university grounds during daylight hours. Always stay on marked paths and be mindful of your personal belongings as in any large city environment.
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Time needed
A thorough visit to see the various tropical plant species and greenhouses usually takes 2 to 3 hours. It is a handy spot for a relaxing half-day retreat from the typical city noise of Caracas.

Geography

Coordinates
10.48000, -66.90000

Facts

  • Founded in 1945, the garden was opened to the public in 1958.
  • The garden is home to more than 2,500 distinct plant species.
  • The collection features 35 different types of palms from around the globe.
  • The National Herbarium of Venezuela contains over 400,000 specimens.
  • UNESCO added the garden to its World Heritage list in 2000.
  • Tobías Lasser served as the director of the garden for over 30 years.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

CaracasCaracas<1 km · SExplore →
University City of CaracasUniversity City of Caracas1 km · NEExplore →
Museum of Sacred ArtMuseum of Sacred Art2 km · SEExplore →
Warairarepano Cable CarWarairarepano Cable Car3 km · NEExplore →
Poliedro de CaracasPoliedro de Caracas5 km · SWExplore →
Hacienda La TrinidadHacienda La Trinidad5 km · NExplore →
Casa GuipuzcoanaCasa Guipuzcoana6 km · SEExplore →
El Ávila National ParkEl Ávila National Park11 km · NExplore →

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 Botanical Garden of Caracas (7)

Bimbolandia🎡 recreation

A long-standing family amusement park featuring classic rides and colorful carousels for children.

Italo Americano Park🎡 recreation

An urban amusement park in the southern part of the city, offering various mechanical rides and family entertainment.

🕒 Tu-Su 14:00-23:00

Monolitos de Los Próceres🏺 historical

Massive marble pillars standing as part of a grand monument dedicated to the heroes of Venezuelan independence.

Parroquia Nuestra Señora del Monte Carmelo📍 landmark

A traditional Catholic parish church serving the neighborhood with its classic religious architecture.

Iglesia La Ascención del Señor📍 landmark

A modern Catholic church characterized by its striking angular design and serene interior.

Parroquia Nuestra Señora de la Consolacion⛪ religious

Established in 1967, this neighborhood church serves as a center for religious life and local community gatherings.

Iglesia El Valle📍 landmark

A prominent church in the El Valle district, serving as a spiritual landmark for the surrounding residential area.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What can you see in the Botanical Garden?
You can see a huge variety of tropical plants, palm trees, and the famous lagoon.
Is the garden family-friendly?
Yes, it is a convenient place for families with children to walk in nature.
When is the garden open?
The garden is typically open on weekdays; please check the exact times in advance.
Are there dining options there?
There are limited options, so it is advisable to bring your own water and snacks.
Is photography allowed?
Yes, private photography is allowed; professional shoots require prior approval.
Botanical Garden of Caracas: where is it located?
Botanical Garden of Caracas is located in Venezuela.
Botanical Garden of Caracas: what is there to see?
Highlights include Bimbolandia, Italo Americano Park, Monolitos de Los Próceres.
Botanical Garden of Caracas: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.
Botanical Garden of Caracas: why is it worth visiting?
The Botanical Garden of Caracas is a green sanctuary in the heart of the Venezuelan capital and has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2000 as part of the University City of Caracas.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
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Nature

Los Roques Archipelago National Park — Botanical Garden of Caracas (Venezuela)
Los Roques Archipelago National Park
This archipelago in the Caribbean Sea includes over 300 coral islands and sandbanks.
Apure River — Botanical Garden of Caracas (Venezuela)
Apure River
The Apure is a major tributary of the Orinoco, flowing through the Los Llanos region.
Morrocoy National Park — Botanical Garden of Caracas (Venezuela)
Morrocoy National Park
This protected area on the west coast is known for its mangrove forests and coral reefs.
Capanaparo National Park — Botanical Garden of Caracas (Venezuela)
Capanaparo National Park
This reserve in the Llanos region offers protection for diverse river dwellers and savanna animals.
Caura River — Botanical Garden of Caracas (Venezuela)
Caura River
The Caura is a large tributary of the Orinoco in the Venezuelan Guayana.
Ventuari River — Botanical Garden of Caracas (Venezuela)
Ventuari River
The Ventuari is a major tributary of the Orinoco in southern Venezuela.
Pico Guirigay — Botanical Garden of Caracas (Venezuela)
Pico Guirigay
Pico Guirigay is a prominent peak in the Sierra de la Culata range.
Pico El Águila — Botanical Garden of Caracas (Venezuela)
Pico El Águila
Pico El Águila, also known as Collado del Cóndor, is one of the highest driveable points in the Venezuelan Andes.

More places

El Ávila National Park — Botanical Garden of Caracas (Venezuela)
El Ávila National Park
This mountain range separates Caracas from the Caribbean coast.
Macarao National Park — Botanical Garden of Caracas (Venezuela)
Macarao National Park
This park is located near Caracas and serves as an important water catchment area.
Guatopo National Park — Botanical Garden of Caracas (Venezuela)
Guatopo National Park
This park is located in a mountainous region and serves as a central water reservoir for the Caracas metropolitan area.
Los Roques — Botanical Garden of Caracas (Venezuela)
Los Roques
The Los Roques archipelago is a national park in the Caribbean Sea.
Henri Pittier National Park — Botanical Garden of Caracas (Venezuela)
Henri Pittier National Park
This is the oldest national park in Venezuela, named after a Swiss geographer.
Henry Pittier National Park — Botanical Garden of Caracas (Venezuela)
Henry Pittier National Park
Henry Pittier National Park is the oldest national park in Venezuela.
Aguaro-Guariquito National Park — Botanical Garden of Caracas (Venezuela)
Aguaro-Guariquito National Park
This park in the central plains serves the preservation of savanna and marsh areas.
San Esteban National Park — Botanical Garden of Caracas (Venezuela)
San Esteban National Park
This park extends from the coast to the mountains near Valencia.