Coro, a city steeped in history and charm, is located in the northwestern region of Venezuela, in the state of Falcón. Known for its well-preserved colonial architecture Coro is a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers a unique glimpse into Venezuela’s past. However, Coro is not just about historical sites; it’s also the gateway to the stunning Médanos de Coro National Park, home to a striking desert landscape of sand dunes. Worth to see them just before the sunset, but not after the sunset as the area becomes unsafe. Even here, in this little peaceful town people do not go out after dark. Let’s see which are the best ways to explore Coro and its surrounding attractions, including how to visit the mesmerizing sand dunes.
First of all, it’s worth knowing that Coro is one of Venezuela’s oldest cities, founded in 1527. Its historic center is renowned for its colonial-era architecture, including well-preserved buildings and plazas that reflect its rich history. The most famous sites are:
- Catedral de Coro: The city’s cathedral, dating back to the 16th century, features impressive colonial architecture and beautiful interiors. It’s a significant landmark in Coro and a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
- Plaza Bolívar: The central square of Coro, surrounded by historic buildings, offers a glimpse into the city’s past. It’s a vibrant spot where locals and visitors gather to enjoy the ambiance.
- Casa de las Ventanas de Hierro: This historic house is known for its ironwork windows and provides insight into the city’s colonial era. It’s a fine example of Coro’s architectural heritage.
Visiting Médanos de Coro National Park
The Médanos de Coro National Park is located about 60 kilometers southwest of Coro. The park is famous for its vast sand dunes, which create a dramatic desert landscape in contrast to the surrounding arid scrubland. The dunes offer a unique and picturesque environment that is perfect for outdoor activities and of course, photography. The best way to explore the dunes is of course on your own foot. The shifting sands create a dynamic landscape that changes over time, providing endless opportunities for exploration and discovery.
Moreover, the dunes at Médanos de Coro are ideal for sandboarding, a thrilling activity similar to snowboarding but on sand. Rent a board locally and glide down the dunes for an exhilarating experience. I didn’t try but I heared that the team from Araguato will make you live an unforgettable experience.
How to Get There
Fly to Barquisimeto and the bus or drive
The most common way to reach Coro is to fly into Jacinto Lara International Airport (VLV) in Barquisimeto, which is approximately 120 kilometers (75 miles) from Coro. From Barquisimeto, you can rent a car or take a bus to Coro. You can also find a reliable taxi at the airport. The drive from Barquisimeto to Coro takes about two hours. You can either rent a car (which will allow you to explore the surrounding areas at your own pace) or hop on a bus (it will take around 3 hours so a bit longer that driving yourself but it’s surely more relaxing.
Alternatively, you can take a direct bus from Valencia to Coro, which usually takes around four to five hours.
By Road:
From Caracas: Driving from Caracas to Coro is a popular option for those who prefer the flexibility of a road trip. The distance is approximately 300 kilometers (186 miles) and takes about five to six hours. Take the Autopista Regional del Centro (Central Regional Highway) and then connect to the Carretera Nacional (National Highway) heading towards Coro. When renting the car, make sure that it is is in good condition, and bring essentials like water and snacks for the journey becasue you never know if it will be 5 hours or maybe more due to some traffic disturptions like protests for example.
By Bus
Buses from Caracas to Coro are frequent and offer an ok ride. The trip usually takes around six to seven hours. Buses depart from the Terminal de Pasajeros de Caracas and arrive at the main bus terminal in Coro. YOu cannot book the tickets on the internet but you can buy them in advance directly at the bust station.
There are also several busses departing to Coro from Valencia, it takes aproximately 3 hours.
From the coastal region of Puerto Cruz, the buses are not so frequent but you can count on shared minivans. It can take some time because the mini vans wait until they are full and it could happen that you are equested ti change the mini van somewhere in the middle of nowhere (our experience) but if you are not in a hurry, you will enjoy the very local trip and if you speak Spanish you will enjoy the conversations with fellow Venezuelan travelers. This was may chosen route; maybe not the fastest and not the most efficient one but definetely a great travel experience.
Accomodation
Coro offers a range of accommodation options, from budget hostels to more luxurious hotels. Although it is a touristy destination, usually there are no crowds so you can shop up and probably you will find a place to stay but if you prefer to book in advance, there are many options on booking. com.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Coro and Médanos de Coro is during the dry season, from December to April, when the weather is generally warm and sunny. The wet season, from May to November, can bring rain and humidity.
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