Do you know those breathtaking photos of a massive waterfall plunging that you always see in nature magazines? That’s Angel Falls – it’s the biggest uninterrupted waterfall in the whole world. and it’s hidden away in Venezuela’s Canaima National Park. We’re talking about a monster waterfall that’s 979 meters high. shockingly, we can make it over 3 football fields tall! Today we will experience the feeling of Angel fall with the words. That you’ve never heard. Just read forward and you can understand yourself.
Getting to Angel Falls
Reaching Angel Falls is no easy feat. The falls are located in an extremely remote area of Venezuela that is only accessible by plane or river. Most visitors fly into the village of Canaima from Caracas or Ciudad Bolívar and then transfer to a river boat.
The journey along the winding Carrao River takes around 6-8 hours as the boats carefully navigate the rapids. During the wet season between May and December, portions of the river may be too shallow and passengers have to disembark and walk.
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Witnessing Angel Falls for the First Time
After the long river expedition, you’ll catch your first breathtaking glimpse of Angel Falls emerging through the tropical foliage. However, to see the falls in their full glory up close, you’ll need to embark on a 4 km uphill hike through the jungle.
The hike isn’t too strenuous and can be completed by most visitors. The reward at the end is truly worth it. Suddenly you’ll find yourself standing at the base of the mighty Angel Falls, gazing up at its thundering cascade plunging 807 m down into the rocky pool below.
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The Sheer Power and Beauty of the Falls
Seeing Angel Falls in person is an emotional and humbling experience. The sheer power and volume of water cascading down the mountainside is incredible. Over 500,000 cubic meters of water plummet over the edge each minute.
The waterfall starts as a narrow stream high up on Auyan-Tepui mountain before widening and thundering down the stepped cliff face. The churning falls kick up a billowing mist that drenches onlookers hundreds of feet away.

Swimming at the Base of the Falls
After marveling at the majestic views from above, most tours give you the chance to swim at the pool located at the base of the falls. Here you can relax and rejuvenate while soaking up the natural beauty around you.
The indigenous Pemón people believe the falls have special mythical powers and the water provides healing benefits. It’s certainly an experience like no other to swim in the refreshing waters surrounded by the mighty Angel Falls.
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The Hidden World at the Top of Auyan-Tepui
Very few tourists make the strenuous 8-10 hour trek to reach the plateau at the top of Auyan-Tepui, the 2,500 m tall flat-topped mountain that Angel Falls cascades off. But those who do are rewarded with surreal views of a lost world untouched by man.
Ancient carnivorous plants, rare orchids, unique toad species and other wildlife can only be found in this isolated ecosystem. The summit also provides a breathtaking aerial view looking down on Angel Falls carved into the jungle landscape far below.
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Spending the Night Under the Stars at Angel Falls
Most tours spend 1-2 nights camping at the base of Angel Falls so visitors can truly soak up the magical ambiance. As darkness falls, the distant roar of the cascading water fills the air as you drift off to sleep in your hammock underneath a sky littered with stars.
Wake up early to see the first rays of sunlight illuminate the waterfall in the morning mist. It’s an opportunity to enjoy Angel Falls in its full glory without any other tourists around.
The History and Naming of Angel Falls
Angel Falls bears the name of American aviator Jimmie Angel who first spotted the falls in 1933 while searching for gold in a plane. However, the local Pemón people had long known about the waterfall and called it Kerepakupai Vena meaning ‘waterfall of the deepest place’.
In the wet season, the volume of water plummeting over Angel Falls swells enormously and it can be seen up to 50 km away. The indigenous Pemón used the waterfall as a geographic reference point while navigating the surrounding jungle.
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Canaima Village and Indigenous Culture
Most tours to Angel Fall also dedicate time to explore the charming indigenous village of Canaima located on a crystalline lagoon. Here you’ll find traditional Pemón homes built on stilts along the water’s edge against a backdrop of towering tepuis.
Canaima village provides a glimpse into Pemón culture. Tourists can visit the local school to see children singing traditional songs and displaying indigenous dances. Getting to interact with the friendly Pemón people adds an extra special element to an Angel Fall tour.
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Is Visiting Angel Falls Expensive?
Due to its isolated location, taking a guided tour to Angel Fall does not come cheap. Expect to pay upwards of $1000 for a 4-5 day tour including return flights from Caracas, river transfers, accommodation, food, and park fees.
While the cost is prohibitive for many Venezuelans, witnessing Angel Falls is considered a quintessential bucket-list experience for tourists in Venezuela. For many visitors, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime chance to see one of the most spectacular waterfalls on Earth.
When to Visit Angel Falls
The best time to visit Angel Falls is during the wet season from May to December when the falls are at their fullest flow. They are particularly spectacular at the peak of the rainy season around June and July.
In the dry season from January to April, the falls may reduce to a trickle so it’s best avoided. Visitors in the wet season should be prepared for frequent heavy downpours. The abundant mist also makes sunrise photography difficult.
Respecting the Natural Environment
Angel Fall is located in a pristine area of protected rainforest. Visitors must follow responsible eco-tourism practices to minimize their environmental impact. Stay on marked trails, don’t leave litter and avoid disturbing wildlife or plants.
The Pemón indigenous owners should receive fair wages from tourism activities so they value preserving Angel Falls for future generations. With conscientious tourism, these magnificent falls will continue inspiring wonder for many years to come.
Why You Should Add Angel Falls to Your Bucket List
Witnessing the world’s tallest waterfall should be on every nature lover’s bucket list. The sheer scale and power of the cascading waters plunging 979 m off a tabletop mountain is a once-in-a-lifetime spectacle.
The thrill of the river journey and jungle trekking adds an extra adventurous element. You’ll come away renewed and inspired after being immersed in such an incredible natural wonder.
So if you’re up for a challenging and rewarding journey, start planning a trip to Angel Falls and this awe-inspiring corner of Venezuela.
FAQ
Where exactly is the Angel Falls located in Venezuela?
Angel Falls is located in Canaima National Park in Bolívar State in southeastern Venezuela, close to the border with Brazil and Guyana. The falls cascade down the side of Auyán-tepui mountain.
How tall is Angel Falls compared to other famous waterfalls?
At 979 meters (3,212 feet), Angel Falls is the tallest uninterrupted waterfall in the world. It is over 15 times taller than Niagara Falls and around twice the height of Yosemite Falls.
What is the best month to see Angel Falls?
The peak visiting months are June and July during the rainy season when Angel Falls is at full flow. Avoid January to March when the falls may be a trickle.
Is it easy to get from Caracas to Angel Falls?
No, Angel Falls is very remote. Most visitors fly into Canaima village from Caracas or Ciudad Bolívar. Then take a 6-8 hour riverboat trip followed by a jungle hike.
Can anyone hike to the top of Angel Falls?
Reaching the summit of Auyan-Tepui mountain is extremely challenging and only recommended for very experienced hikers with guides. Most visitors only see the falls from below.