INFORMATION ABOUT LA GRAN SABANA
La Gran Sabana is a plateau located in the southeastern part of Venezuela. It borders with Brazil on the south and British Guyana on the east. Its extension is 40.000 km2; the major portion of it belongs to the Canaima National Park which covers 30.000 km2. This National Park helps preserve the delicate flora and fauna, its many rivers, streams and springs.
The main attraction are the Tepuys; enormous plateaus with incredible vertical walls that rise from the savannah. The word “tepuy” means “House of the Gods” in the pemon language. These tepuys have marveled botanical scientists, because here they have found many species of unknown plants. The tops of these tepuys have been isolated for millions of years and there is a lot of unknown flora there. 70% of these plants are unique, they only grow there and there is still a lot to be explored. The formation of these tepuys is really ancient. They have been there for about 1700 millions of years and are formed by petrified sandstone that contains a lot of quartz.
Due to its many rivers, La Gran Sabana is very important as a lot of these rivers flow into the Caroni River (where the most important dike is located; which generates electricity to a large part of Venezuela). Clear water rivers that have natural pools and small waterfalls where you can take a swim, and also many spectacular waterfalls.
The climate is very pleasant averaging 25º C. The rainy season is from May to November; May being the rainiest month. The dry season is from December to April. It is important to note that in spite of this specific information, the weather is sometimes unpredictable. It might suddenly rain heavily during the dry season.
Only the Pemon Indians, who are the native inhabitants of this area, are allowed to live in the National Park. In other parts of La Gran Sabana miners have established themselves, attracted by the gold and diamonds to be found here. There are also many people who have come from all over the world, seeking a more peaceful way of life. Today there is also a town called Santa Elena de Uairen.
There are many stories and legends in this magical land. Besides giving you all this information, we would love to share this unforgettable adventure with you. To venture into this marvelous land, see its landscapes, its inhabitants and its customs.
|