Immersion into the Amazonian heart of Venezuela: Autana expedition
The 7-night Autana expedition is an immersion into the Amazonian heart of Venezuela – a journey along legendary rivers and through remote Indigenous lands, all in the shadow of the sacred Tepuy Autana. Travelling by long river canoes, the route winds along the Caño Samariapo, Río Sipapo, Río Orinoco and Río Autana, deep into a landscape of towering tepuis, dark–water streams and pristine rainforest.
Along the way, we will visit communities such as Boca de Autana and Ceguera, learning about local traditions and daily life. Nights are spent in a mix of lodges, tents and hammock camps equipped with mosquito nets, allowing guests to sleep to the sounds of the jungle. Highlights include hiking to the natural viewpoint over Tepuy Autana, exploring the crystalline pools known as the Jacuzzis del Zorro, and reaching Lago Leopoldo – an atmospheric hidden lake framed by ancient sandstone walls.
Guided by experienced local experts, the expedition combines river navigation, jungle walks and Amazonian culinary experiences – from tasting typical forest fruits to (for the adventurous) trying roasted tarantula.
1: Caracas – Puerto Ayacucho
Today we fly from Caracas to Puerto Ayacucho, the gateway to Venezuela’s Amazon region. Upon arrival, we are met and transferred to a local posada. The rest of the day is at leisure to rest and prepare for the expedition ahead, surrounded by the relaxed atmosphere of this riverside town on the Orinoco. Overnight at the posada.
Day 2: Puerto Ayacucho – Samariapo – Boca de Autana
After breakfast, we travel overland to the port of Samariapo, where our river journey begins. Travelling by long canoe, we first navigate along the Orinoco River before entering the waters of the Rio Sipapo, leaving the main river behind as the landscape becomes increasingly remote. Along the way, we stop at Caño Caldera for lunch and a short rest by the river. In the afternoon, we continue navigating to the Indigenous community of Boca de Autana. Overnight in hammocks with mosquito nets, accompanied by the sounds of the jungle.
Day 3: Boca de Autana – Caño Manteco – Salto el Zorro
This morning we continue navigating along the Rio Autana and into the narrow, forest-lined Caño Manteco. From here, we begin a guided hike of approximately two hours through dense rainforest to reach Salto El Zorro, a beautiful waterfall hidden deep in the jungle. Time to relax, swim, and enjoy the surroundings. Overnight in tents, immersed in the Amazonian wilderness.
Day 4: Salto el Zorro – Lago Leopoldo – Salto el Zorro
Today we hike toward Lago Leopoldo, first reaching a natural viewpoint before descending to the lake itself. Surrounded by ancient sandstone formations, the lake offers a striking and secluded setting. We enjoy lunch by the water and have time to swim and relax. In the afternoon, we return toward Salto El Zorro, where we can enjoy the natural jacuzzis formed by flowing water in the rocks. Overnight in tents.
Day 5: Salto el Zorro – Caño Manteco – Rio Autana
After breakfast, we hike back to the river and continue our journey by canoe along Caño Manteco, navigating for approximately four hours. Along the way, we pass through the Indigenous community of Ceguera and then continue on the Rio Autana. By late afternoon we arrive at our campsite, offering remarkable views of both Tepuy Autana and Tepuy Wajari. Overnight in hammocks, surrounded by one of the most iconic landscapes of the Venezuelan Amazon.
Day 6: Rio Autana – Autana Viewpoint – Ceguera
A short boat ride brings us to the trailhead for today’s hike. We ascend Cerro Wajari on a guided walk of approximately two and a half hours to reach a panoramic viewpoint overlooking the Autana Tepuy and the surrounding rainforest. After time to enjoy the views and rest, we descend and return by boat to the community of Ceguera. Overnight in hammocks within the Indigenous village, offering insight into local daily life.
Day 7: Ceguera – Puerto Ayacucho
We begin our return journey by river, navigating for approximately six hours back toward Puerto Samariapo. Lunch is enjoyed on board the canoe as we travel through the wide waterways of the Orinoco region. In the afternoon, we reach Puerto Ayacucho and transfer to our posada. Overnight at the posada, with time to relax after the expedition.
Day 8: Puerto Ayacucho – Caracas
After breakfast, we transfer to the airport for our return flight from Puerto Ayacucho to Caracas, marking the end of this immersive Amazonian expedition.