Overview
Introduction
Located on the Caribbean coast of Falcon state, 100 mi/160 km northwest of Caracas, this park has both land and marine sections. Its dozen or so picture-postcard cays have white sand, palm trees and clear, warm water surrounding them. We like to spend time there relaxing on the beach, snorkeling, diving and boating. A well-organized and reliable group of boat owners shuttles passengers from the towns of Tucacas and Chichiriviche to the cays. Many of the hotels also offer private boat transfers for their guests.
Part of the park, Cerro Chichiriviche is a large promontory of coral rock filled with caves. It's home to a variety of animals, ranging from howler monkeys to panthers. On the north side of the promontory is a wall covered with petroglyphs called Cueva de los Indios (arrange a visit with one of the boat owners). Bird-watchers should access the park via the road to Chichiriviche, which passes through Cuare Wildlife Refuge. The refuge's shallow waters are feeding grounds for some 20,000 flamingos and other water birds.