Pueblo de Canaima | Canaima National Park

Pueblo de Canaima: The Gateway to Angel Falls

Pueblo de Canaima is a small, picturesque village located within Canaima National Park, in the southeastern region of Bolívar State, Venezuela. This remote settlement is the main entry point for visitors heading to Angel Falls, the world's tallest waterfall, and serves as a hub for exploring the park’s breathtaking landscapes, tepuis (tabletop mountains), lagoons, and rivers. With its stunning natural surroundings, indigenous culture, and adventure opportunities, Canaima is one of Venezuela’s most iconic travel destinations.

Geography and Landscape

Pueblo de Canaima is situated on the western edge of the Canaima Lagoon, a spectacular body of water fed by multiple waterfalls, including El Hacha, El Sapo, and El Sapito. The village is surrounded by dense tropical forests, expansive savannahs, and the towering cliffs of nearby tepuis, which create a breathtaking and otherworldly environment.

Key Features of the Village and Its Surroundings

Canaima Lagoon (Laguna de Canaima) – A stunning lagoon framed by waterfalls, pink-sand beaches, and lush vegetation.

Salto El Sapo and Salto El Hacha – Beautiful waterfalls that feed into the lagoon and can be explored by boat and on foot.

Auyán Tepuy – The massive tabletop mountain that is home to Angel Falls.

Tropical Rainforest and Savannah – The diverse landscape is home to exotic flora and fauna.

Indigenous Pemon Villages – The area is inhabited by the Pemon people, who have lived here for centuries.

The Pemon Indigenous Community

The Pemon people are the original inhabitants of Canaima and the surrounding region. They are part of the Carib linguistic family and have a deep spiritual connection to the tepuis, waterfalls, and rivers. Their traditions, knowledge of the land, and warm hospitality make a visit to Canaima even more special.

Cultural Highlights

Thatched-roof huts built from local materials.

Handicrafts such as woven baskets, carved wooden figurines, and jewelry made from natural seeds.

Traditional cuisine featuring fish, cassava, and plantains.

Legends and myths surrounding the tepuis and waterfalls, believed to be the home of ancient spirits.

Many Pemon people work as guides, boat operators, and lodge staff, sharing their knowledge and stories with visitors.

Things to Do in Pueblo de Canaima

Pueblo de Canaima is a hub for eco-tourism and adventure travel, offering a range of activities for visitors.

1. Visit the Canaima Lagoon

Take a curiara (wooden canoe) ride across the lagoon, passing by the Salto El Hacha waterfall.

Relax on the pink-sand beaches, formed by minerals from the tepuis.

Swim in the calm waters while admiring the majestic tepui backdrop.

2. Explore Salto El Sapo and Salto El Hacha

Walk behind the curtain of water at Salto El Sapo, an exhilarating experience where you feel the power of the falls.

Hike to panoramic viewpoints offering breathtaking views of the waterfalls and the Canaima Lagoon.

3. Take a Canoe Trip to Angel Falls

A guided curiara journey along the Carrao and Churún rivers leads to Angel Falls.

The trip includes navigating through jungle-lined rivers, spotting wildlife, and hiking to the base of the falls.

4. Trekking and Nature Walks

Explore the rainforest trails and savannahs around Canaima.

Spot toucans, parrots, capybaras, and howler monkeys along the way.

5. Cultural Immersion with the Pemon People

Visit a local indigenous community to learn about their traditions.

Participate in a Pemon ritual or storytelling session about the myths of the region.

6. Scenic Flights Over Angel Falls

For a breathtaking aerial view, take a small plane tour over Angel Falls and Auyán Tepuy.

These flights provide unmatched views of the massive plateau, waterfalls, and lush jungle.

Accommodation and Lodging in Canaima

Pueblo de Canaima offers eco-friendly lodges that blend harmoniously with the surrounding nature. Some of the best options include:

Waku Lodge – A luxurious eco-lodge with traditional Pemon-style cabins and stunning lagoon views.

Tapuy Lodge – Known for its comfortable accommodations and organized tours to Angel Falls.

Campamentos Rústicos – More basic, budget-friendly lodging with direct access to nature.

Most lodges include all-inclusive packages with meals, guided excursions, and boat trips.

How to Get to Pueblo de Canaima

Canaima is only accessible by air, as there are no roads leading to the village.

By Plane

Flights depart from Caracas, Ciudad Bolívar, and Puerto Ordaz to Canaima Airport.

Small aircraft operated by local airlines take around 1 to 2 hours to reach Canaima.

Best Time to Visit Canaima

Dry Season (December – April): Best for hiking and clear views, but waterfalls may have lower water flow.

Rainy Season (May – November): Angel Falls is at its most spectacular, with the highest water levels, but river navigation can be more challenging.

Why Visit Pueblo de Canaima?

Pueblo de Canaima is more than just a gateway to Angel Falls—it is a place where visitors can connect with nature, indigenous culture, and adventure. The beauty of the lagoon, waterfalls, tepuis, and wildlife creates an unforgettable experience in one of the world’s most pristine environments. Whether you’re looking for thrilling adventures, cultural encounters, or peaceful moments in nature, Canaima offers something truly magical.