The Pleasure Route

Travelling around Venezuela's western region, we see Lake Maracaibo and the nine-kilometer-long General Rafael Urdaneta Bridge that spans it. To the north are houses built on stilts on Lake Sinamaica, with palm trees and mangroves lining the shores of the lake. The island of San Carlos with its colonial fort, together with the island of Zapara with its magnificent sand dunes are also places of interest for the tourist in the state of Zulia.

The Pleasure Route continues east into the state of Falcón, its capital is Coro, famous for its sand dunes and colonial quarters that have been officially designated a world heritage site. To the north is the peninsula of Paraguana with beautiful Caribbean beaches ideal for windsurfing. In the eastern part of the state are scattered quays, coral reefs and the mangroves of Morrocoy National Park. The state of Yaracuy, known for its handicrafts and mountain ranges, is a fabulous land of many colours and religious faiths.

This route continues on towards the states of Carabobo and Aragua, which delight us with their beaches, and inlets like Quisandal, Cata, Choroní, La Cienaga and Chuao. It is a place where rivers descend from the cloud forests of San Esteban and Henri Pittier National Parks. These nature reserves are excellent for birdwatching fanatics.

To the east, the Avila mountain separates the Venezuelan capital from the coastal state of Vargas, which has lovely beaches and rivers such as La Sabana, Todasana, Puerto Maya and Chichiriviche de la Costa. The nation's capital, Caracas, is a fascinating, cosmopolitan city, which boasts a variety of museums, comfortable hotels and its range of exquisite restaurants is among the most extensive in South America.

The cluster of islands named Los Roques is well-known for its mangroves, its white sands and the blue and green hues of its waters. La Tortuga island is the country's second-largest island and boasts an unspoiled ecosystem.

The Pleasure Route ends in the state of Miranda, famous for its drum music and cacao plantations. This state comprises extensive beaches and the lagoon of Tacarigua, whose fascinating ecosystem is ideal for sports fishing.

The Pleasure Route presents the visitor with a wealth of choices and offers him with a unique experience.