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Paria Peninsula National Park

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Paria Peninsula National Park (Venezuela)

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The Peninsula de Paria National Park is located at the northeastern tip of Venezuela in Sucre State and was established on December 12, 1978. Spanning nearly 37,500 hectares, it protects the mountainous peninsula that separates the Gulf of Paria from the Caribbean Sea. The landscape is characterized by rugged cliffs, dense cloud forests in the higher elevations, and idyllic bays with white sand beaches. Due to the peninsula's geological history, as it was once connected to the island of Trinidad, the park features unique fauna and flora, including many endemic species. Historically, this site is of great significance as Christopher Columbus first set foot on the South American mainland here in 1498, naming it 'Tierra de Gracia' (Land of Grace). The biodiversity within the park is impressive, particularly the birdlife, which includes rare hummingbirds and other specialized species living in the humid mountain forests of the Serranía de Paria. The park serves both conservation efforts and as a key destination for ecotourism.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Feb–Apr.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C262627282828282828282827
Rain mm6735344085167168164120141132117

📋 Practical info

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Getting there
The park is usually reached by driving to the tip of the peninsula from Carúpano; many coastal areas are best accessed by small boats from local fishing villages.
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Best season
Visiting is typically best from December to May during the drier months, which allows for clearer views of the coastline and easier hiking on the mountain paths.
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Terrain & paths
The landscape features steep, hilly terrain covered in dense rainforest that meets the sea; expect narrow trails that can be very slippery after any rainfall.
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What to bring
Sturdy hiking boots with good grip are necessary for the hilly rainforest, alongside moisture-wicking clothes and waterproof bags for boat trips along the coast.
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Parking
Secure parking areas are often available in nearby coastal towns like Río Caribe, which serves as a common base for visitors exploring the Paria peninsula.
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Safety
Be prepared for sudden weather changes in the mountains and take care on remote trails; it is generally advisable to hike with a local guide for safety and orientation.
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Time needed
A minimum of two to three days is recommended to fully appreciate both the mountain rainforests and the secluded beaches along the northern coast of the peninsula.

Geography

Coordinates
10.65000, -62.50000

Facts

  • The park covers a total area of 37,500 hectares along the peninsula.
  • The highest peak is Cerro El Humo, reaching 1,373 meters above sea level.
  • There are at least 28 endemic plant species found only within this park.
  • Christopher Columbus landed here on August 5, 1498, near Macuro.
  • The park is home to rare birds like the Sapphire Hummingbird (Amazilia distans).
  • The annual average temperature ranges between 15 °C and 26 °C.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Paria PeninsulaParia Peninsula<1 km · EExplore →
Guanoco National ParkGuanoco National Park42 km · SWExplore →
Icacos PointIcacos Point71 km · NWExplore →
Soldado RockSoldado Rock73 km · NWExplore →
IcacosIcacos75 km · NWExplore →
Columbus BayColumbus Bay78 km · NWExplore →
Orinoco River MouthOrinoco River Mouth83 km · NExplore →
Chacachacare IslandChacachacare Island83 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 nearby

Frequently asked questions

What characterizes this national park?
It combines lush forests, impressive mountains, and pristine Caribbean beaches.
What is the condition of the paths?
The paths are often natural and demanding; good hiking shoes are a must.
Are there many tourists there?
No, it is a very remote destination, well-suited for travelers seeking tranquility.
Do you need a guide for tours?
For excursions into the forests, a local guide is highly recommended.
Are there sanitary facilities in the park?
Facilities are very basic; expect rudimentary infrastructure.
Paria Peninsula National Park: where is it located?
Paria Peninsula National Park is located in Venezuela.
Paria Peninsula National Park: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Apr.
Paria Peninsula National Park: why is it worth visiting?
The Peninsula de Paria National Park is located at the northeastern tip of Venezuela in Sucre State and was established on December 12, 1978.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
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History & landmarks

Paria Peninsula — Paria Peninsula National Park (Venezuela)
Paria Peninsula
The Paria Peninsula extends into the Atlantic in northeastern Venezuela.
Angel Falls — Paria Peninsula National Park (Venezuela)
Angel Falls
Angel Falls is the world's highest uninterrupted waterfall with a drop of 979 meters.

Nature

Orinoco — Paria Peninsula National Park (Venezuela)
Orinoco
The Orinoco is one of the longest rivers in South America and flows through Venezuela.
Orinoco Delta — Paria Peninsula National Park (Venezuela)
Orinoco Delta
The mouth of the Orinoco river forms one of the largest and most biodiverse river deltas in the world.
Caura River — Paria Peninsula National Park (Venezuela)
Caura River
The Caura is a large tributary of the Orinoco in the Venezuelan Guayana.
Apure River — Paria Peninsula National Park (Venezuela)
Apure River
The Apure is a major tributary of the Orinoco, flowing through the Los Llanos region.
Los Roques Archipelago National Park — Paria Peninsula National Park (Venezuela)
Los Roques Archipelago National Park
This archipelago in the Caribbean Sea includes over 300 coral islands and sandbanks.
Ventuari River — Paria Peninsula National Park (Venezuela)
Ventuari River
The Ventuari is a major tributary of the Orinoco in southern Venezuela.
Morrocoy National Park — Paria Peninsula National Park (Venezuela)
Morrocoy National Park
This protected area on the west coast is known for its mangrove forests and coral reefs.
Capanaparo National Park — Paria Peninsula National Park (Venezuela)
Capanaparo National Park
This reserve in the Llanos region offers protection for diverse river dwellers and savanna animals.

More places

Guanoco National Park — Paria Peninsula National Park (Venezuela)
Guanoco National Park
This area includes marshlands and mangroves in the east.
Isla Margarita — Paria Peninsula National Park (Venezuela)
Isla Margarita
Isla Margarita is located in the Caribbean Sea off the Venezuelan coast.
Canaima National Park — Paria Peninsula National Park (Venezuela)
Canaima National Park
This national park covers 30,000 square kilometers in southeastern Venezuela.
Auyán-Tepui — Paria Peninsula National Park (Venezuela)
Auyán-Tepui
Auyán-Tepui is a massive table mountain located in Canaima National Park.
🗺️
Mount Uquien
Mount Uquien is a tepui near Auyán-Tepui in the state of Bolívar.
Cuyuni Highlands — Paria Peninsula National Park (Venezuela)
Cuyuni Highlands
The Cuyuni Highlands is a region in southeastern Venezuela, characterized by its hilly topography and dense forests.
Chimantá Massif — Paria Peninsula National Park (Venezuela)
Chimantá Massif
The Chimantá Massif is a group of tepuis in the state of Bolívar.
Kukenán-Tepui — Paria Peninsula National Park (Venezuela)
Kukenán-Tepui
Kukenán-Tepui is a well-known table mountain near Mount Roraima.