Route to Pico Naiguatá in El Ávila National Park

Pico Naiguatá is the highest point of El Ávila National Park, located near Caracas, the capital of Venezuela. El Ávila National Park—also known as Waraira Repano—belongs to the Coastal Range, which crosses several states of this country, and Pico Naiguatá is likewise the highest point of this entire mountain chain. The ascent to the peak is demanding and requires the hiker to be in optimal physical condition in order to make the most of the experience. It usually takes about 8 hours to reach the base camp, and from there only a few minutes to the summit. During the climb you can witness the different vegetation belts the park possesses: on the initial stretch it tends to resemble a woodland, on the intermediate stretches a humid rainforest, and on the final stretches the vegetation changes radically into what might be classified as pre-páramo. Once you have climbed the sector of the Fila Maestra, which sits on the edge of the mountain, you can take in spectacular views: since this mountain chain separates the valley of Caracas from the coastal shoreline, you will have a panorama in which, on one side, you can admire the capital and the valley in all its expanse, and on the other you will gaze upon the sea. Near the base camp, popularly called "the amphitheater," you can also observe some rather peculiar rock formations known as the Devil's Plates, owing to their shape of stacked discs. Along the route you have access to several water sources, and there is little chance of getting lost if you pay close attention to the signs along the way.

How to get there?

The usual and most convenient option is to set out from the city of Caracas. The metro station nearest the park entrance is the "La California" station. Once there, you should take any bus or metrobús that runs through the El Marqués district; the most convenient stop is the one that leaves you closest to the Cota Mil, a highway that crosses practically the whole city, skirting a good part of El Ávila. If you are unsure which stop suits you best, ask the driver, unless you are traveling in a private vehicle. The park entrance most recommended for starting the route is the one at the "La Julia" park-ranger station.

Cost?

The cost of this route is approximately US$4, split between transport and camping food.

What to bring?

Tent, flashlights, sunscreen, boots, hiking backpack, sleeping pad, cold-weather jacket, cold-weather gloves, waterproof jacket, trekking poles, sleeping bag, watch, compass, first-aid kit, 2 liters of water, quick-drying clothing, sunglasses, knife, plates and cutlery, toilet paper, blue soap, toothpaste, camera, flashlight.

Recommendations

Campfires are not permitted in El Ávila National Park, so if you are not bringing prepared food you must carry a camping stove. Register your entry at the park-ranger station and announce your itinerary. Try to start the route as early as possible; 6 a.m. is usually a good hour to avoid arriving at night or in the dark. Weekends are ideal for this activity, especially Saturday, so you can return on Sunday. Avoid leaving waste along the trail; carry all your garbage with you until you are back in the city.