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The Llanos
The Llanos is a savannah wetland at the base of the Andes. Life here revolves around the rains which cause the flats to flood from May to November. The flooded savannah eventually subsides making it one of the top destinations for ornithologists.
Flocks of roseate spoonbills, scarlet ibis, the noisy hoatzin, colourful herons, macaws and the rare jabiru stork can be seen, combined with, caiman, herds of capybaras, ocelots, monkeys, anteaters and tapir make the llanos such an attractive place to visit.
Accommodation is in working cattle ranches known as ‘hatos’, cattle being the mainstay of the region’s economy. Family run, with home cooked traditional food they are lovely places to stay, rustic yet comfortable; the ideal place to experience the Llanos’ diverse wildlife. THINGS TO SEE AND DO
The Llanos can be divided into two separate regions. The north, staying at Hato Pinero, which is accessible from Caracas by either driving (5hrs) or flying direct, and the south, Hato el Cedral, where you have to drive from Merida (8hrs), or fly from Caracas to San Fernando and then drive (3hrs).
HATO PINERO This is a slightly different ranch than those found in the south. The topography of the 800-sq-km Hato is much more diverse, with valleys and low lying mountain ranges running through it, and forest covering other parts. The wet season too is different, going from late May to early September. Its wildlife has a lot more variety including monkeys, ocelots, tapirs and anteaters, while capybaras and caimans are not so frequently seen. Activities are more varied with walking, boat rides in narrow creeks horse riding and driving safaris. The Ranch itself is stunning, surrounded by jagged mountains peaks and containing 25 colonial style rooms, large courtyards and a swimming pool.
HATO EL CEDRAL
A much more typical hato, it is situated in the centre of the savannah wetlands. A little more difficult to reach though the rewards are worthwhile. A working ranch of 560-sq-km and over 20,000 head of cattle. The lands flood here during the rainy season making it inaccessible for tourism, but also more accommodating for wildlife. Over 250 species of bird have been recorded as well as 14,000 capybaras, an uncountable amount of caiman and numerous other species of wildlife. Activities include short walks, driving and boats in the wet season. The Hato is set in the centre of the savannah with comfortable cabanas equipped with air-conditioning, hot and cold water and a swimming pool. Meals are normally eaten around the fire at night.
Recommended lodges in this area:
Los Roques
Posada Caracol is one of the few posadas in Los Roques located directly on the beach. This finely decorated posada has four rooms, all with private bathrooms and equipped with ceiling fans and air conditioning
Los Roques
The owner Elena Battani personally sees after her guests. White washed, the posada is has been decorated with great taste and attention to every detail, all of which is in a Mediterranean style
Los Roques
The Posada Natura Viva is one of only a handful of posada which is situated right on the beach. They have 16 spacious rooms with private bathrooms which are located around the inner courtyard of the hotel
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