Orinoco & Amazonia
The Amazonas region of Venezuela resides in the southernmost tip of the country where it spills into Brazil and is neighboured to the west by the mighty Rio Orinoco and Colombia. Venezuela's rains drain into the great river basins of either the Orinoco or the Amazon and nurture a rainforest teeming with wildlife. This largely impenetrable terrain is sparsely populated by indigenous Indians of different ethnic groups including the Yanomami, Pemon, Baniva and Yekuana who occupy an enormous biosphere reserve. The reserve encompasses four national parks created in 1991 to protect native territory from mining and logging after a gold boom in the 1980's attracted hoards of miners from across the border.
For a truly memorable experience, stay at a remote jungle lodge nestled deep in the rainforest and meet local Indian communities. Gain privileged insight into their age-old traditions and customs while also learning about the remarkable wildlife that inhabits the local area. Hike along numerous nature trails with an experienced guide and explore the tangle of tributaries by dugout canoe.