Salto Ángel, also known as Angel Falls, is the world’s highest uninterrupted waterfall, located in the Canaima National Park in the Gran Sabana region of Venezuela. The waterfall plunges 979 meters (3,212 feet) from the Auyán-tepui mountain, with an uninterrupted drop of 807 meters (2,648 feet). Named after the American aviator Jimmie Angel, who first flew over the falls in 1933, Angel Falls is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Venezuela’s top tourist attractions. The remote location and stunning natural surroundings make it a breathtaking and adventurous destination for travelers.
How to get there?
In order to explore the region, it’s is necessary to arrive to either Canaima or Kavac. Our choice was an organized trip starting in Canaima: a small town located in southeastern Venezuela within the Gran Sabana region of Bolívar State. The town is surrounded by lush tropical rainforest, pristine rivers, and distinctive flat-topped mountains called tepuis. Canaima is accessible primarily by small aircraft, adding to its remote and untouched charm. We flew from Ciudad Bolivar, the capital of Bolivar State. If you would like to discover more about this charming town, read my post about or short stay in town and the encounter with the mayor here.
We boarded a small propeller plane from Ciudad Bolivar to Canaima and the adventure begun. The flight itself was an experience, offering us panoramic views of the lush Venezuelan landscape, a tapestry of dense jungles, winding rivers, and ancient tepuis (tabletop mountains) rising majestically from the earth. The anticipation built as we neared our destination, knowing that we were about to embark on an adventure of a lifetime.
The Boat Ride into the Jungle
Upon landing in Canaima, we were greeted by the warm, humid air and the vibrant colors of the surrounding rainforest. Our journey continued with a scenic 4-hour boat ride deeper into the jungle. The boat, a traditional wooden curiara, cut through the pristine waters of the Carrao River. Along the way, we were treated to sights of exotic wildlife and stunning landscapes, from playful river dolphins to towering cliffs covered in lush vegetation.
However, the journey was not without its challenges. At several points, the river’s flow slowed to a crawl, and we had to disembark to push the boat upstream through the shallow, slow-flowing waters. This physical effort brought us closer to the raw nature surrounding us and added a sense of camaraderie among our group. It was a reminder of the untamed wilderness we were navigating, and each push of the boat brought us closer to our ultimate destination.
The Hike to Angel Falls
After the boat ride, we faced a challenging 1-hour hike uphill through the dense rainforest. The trail was steep and rugged, winding its way through thick undergrowth and over slippery rocks. The humid air was thick with the scent of earth and vegetation, and the sounds of the jungle – birds calling, insects buzzing, and leaves rustling – provided a constant soundtrack to our trek. Despite the effort required, our spirits remained high, fueled by the excitement of what awaited us at the end of the trail.
First Glimpse of Salto Angel
Finally, after an arduous climb, we beheld the majestic Salto Angel. Even though it was the dry season, reducing the water flow, the sight was nothing short of awe-inspiring. Angel Falls plunges 979 meters (3,212 feet) from the summit of the Auyán-tepui, making it the tallest uninterrupted waterfall in the world. The sheer scale of the falls left us speechless, and the mist from the cascade created rainbows that danced in the sunlight, adding to the ethereal beauty of the scene.
Unable to resist the allure of the falls, we took a refreshing swim at the base. The cool, clear water provided a welcome respite from the heat and exertion of the hike. Swimming beneath the world’s tallest waterfall was a surreal experience, one that left us feeling exhilarated and deeply connected to the natural wonder around us.
Departure and Exploration of Canaima
The following morning, our time at Salto Angel came to an end as we departed on a schedule dictated by the expeditions. We left with a sense of longing, wishing we had more time to soak in the grandeur of the falls and the serenity of the surrounding jungle. However, our adventure was far from over.
Back in Canaima, we took some time to rest and recharge before setting out to explore other nearby waterfalls, each offering its own unique beauty and experiences.
Salto Sapo and Salto Hacha
Our next destination was Salto Sapo, a waterfall that offered a unique opportunity to walk behind its powerful cascade. The experience of walking on the dry riverbed behind the waterfall was thrilling. The roar of the water, the cool spray, and the feeling of being enveloped by the falls made for an unforgettable adventure.
Next, we visited Salto Hacha, another breathtaking waterfall in the area. Here, we had the exhilarating experience of walking behind the cascading water. The sheer force of the water and the stunning views from behind the falls provided a different perspective on the power and beauty of nature. It was a day filled with adventure and natural wonders, showcasing the diverse beauty of Canaima National Park.
The Salto Angel Expedition with Kavac Tours
Our expedition to Salto Angel was organized by Hike Venezuela and it was a highlight of our trip. We spent one night sleeping in hammocks, swaying gently to the sounds of the jungle, and another night in their comfortable guest house in Canaima. Our guide, Frank, was knowledgeable and friendly, sharing insights about the local flora, fauna, and geology, which added depth to our experience.
Frank’s expertise and enthusiasm were infectious, making the trek more enjoyable and educational. He regaled us with stories of past expeditions and local legends, and his familiarity with the area ensured our safety and comfort throughout the journey.
Reflecting on our Salto Angel expedition, we realized that it was more than just a visit to the world’s highest waterfall; it was an immersion into the heart of one of the most stunning and diverse natural landscapes on the planet. The challenges we faced, the beauty we witnessed, and the connections we made along the way enriched our journey in ways we never expected.
Venezuela, with its breathtaking landscapes and warm, resilient people, left an indelible mark on our hearts. Despite the economic hardships faced by the local population, their kindness and generosity shone through, making our stay not only memorable but also deeply touching.
Our expedition to Salto Angel and the subsequent adventures in Canaima were truly the highlights of our trip. From the moment we boarded the small plane to Canaima, to the challenging boat ride and hike, to the awe-inspiring sight of Angel Falls, every moment was filled with wonder and excitement.
Exploring other waterfalls like Salto Sapo and Salto Hacha added to the richness of our experience, offering new perspectives and thrilling adventures. The hospitality of our guide Frank and the entire team made our journey even more special, providing insights and stories that deepened our appreciation for this incredible region.
As we moved on to the next leg of our journey towards the Caribbean coast, we carried with us unforgettable memories and a sense of gratitude for the beauty and kindness we encountered.
The economic situation in the country is a disaster and it’s no secret that the safety is a big issue in Venezuela. You can read about it in my post How unsafe is it to travel across Venezuela. Although everyone will tell you that it’s super unsafe to travel there, I strongly recommend you to visit the country and embark yourself on a tour to Salto Angel. You cannot visit the water fall on your own so choose wisely a tour operator. We traveled with the Hike Venezuela who organizes departures from Canaima and collaborates with local guides. However, it’s also possible to start the trip in Kavac, less touristy and less crowded place (although seeing the situation, in general you will not see crowds of tourists in the country). If you are interested to discover more about that option, feel free to visit the website of a this tour operator. The Angels Falls will leave you speechless.
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