Cueva del Guácharo National Park

Cueva del Guácharo National Park

Cueva del Guácharo National Park is located about 12 kilometers from Caripe in the state of Monagas, Venezuela. At the center of the park is a limestone cave over 10 meters long, which serves as the home to thousands of oilbirds. The oilbird is a species of bird in the family Steatornithidae, a monotypic family (containing only this one species). It is endemic to South America and is primarily found in the tropical forests of the Andes foothills, ranging from Bolivia to Venezuela, and is also seen in Panama and Trinidad.

The oilbird measures 41–48 centimeters in length, with a wingspan of up to 0.91 meters. It has a strong, hooked beak and very small claws. Its body is mostly reddish-brown, with white spots on the nape and wings. This bird species inhabits caves and possesses echolocation abilities. Today, the limestone cave of Cueva del Guácharo National Park and its surrounding forest have been designated as protected areas to support the breeding and survival of the oilbirds.

Cueva del Guácharo National Park

Why go: One of Venezuela’s most important national parks

Continent where the attraction is located: South America【South America】

Country/Region where the attraction is located: Venezuela[Venezuela]

Province/State where the attraction is located: Monagas State [Monagas State]

City where the attraction is located: Caripe [Caripe]