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The Catatumbo tour can start in Merida or El Vigia. The first few hours crosses, by car, the flat lands of the Maracaibo depression. Cattle, plantain and fruit farms adorn this landscape. It is our policy to visit some local stalls along the way to buy some of their produce. That way we contribute to their economy and the visitor can enjoy different tastes of the tropics.
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In the early afternoon we begin our wildlife adventure. The first 5km. of our boat trip goes through dense flooded forest. Howler monkeys are common along with iguanas, butterflies and different species of birds. This forest is part of the Juan Manuel national park, 2,300 sq. km. of nature reserve.
By the mid afternoon we are crossing the biggest lake in South America; the Maracaibo Lake. With a surface area of 13,000 sq. km., this lake is like the ocean. The southern part is safe from the petroleum industry of the north. The wonderful wildlife is a clear sign of that.
The lightning season is from April to November. In this season, on 70% of nights, relatively distant lightning shows can be seen around Ologa, in the early evening. These flashes are red, due to their distant nature. This is good time for a barbeque dinner, meat or vegie, and some drinks and deep conversation. Its recommendable to sleep early because what usually happens after midnight is worth watching for a few hours.
..........and in the day!
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Wildlife observation is a thing of luck. Along with the common animals, there is always the chance to observe some very special fauna, like this collared Aracari. Other lucky sightings are otters, ocelot, capuchin monkeys, tamanduas, caiman and other illusive species.
The Sotalia fresh water dolphin is a regular in these waters. Pelicans, osprey, terns and many other maritime species of birds are seen. More than 130 species of fish can be found in this basin. The fishing activity in itself is interesting.
This photograph is a wonderful story, like many on Catatumbo trips. We´ll tell you when you come. All of the photos on this site are original. The lightning is like this on 50% of nights between April and November. On 95% of nights there is a lightning show, sometimes bigger than this and sometimes smaller.
Exactly where this bolt is hitting is the spot on earth with most lightning bolts. This was included in the Guiness book of records in 2014. 
If this trip is done in two days, on the second morning we visit the village of Congo, on the way back. Congo is a bizarre water world. Again we travel over the lake and through the forest, to return to relative civilization.
This trip is easily done in two days but much better in three, to have a better chance at the lightning and more time to explore the forests and relax. Days are long and hot and nights are spent observing the wonderful meteorology. This can be exhausting. The Catatumbo tour is very intense and for the lovers of adventure. |
By the mid afternoon we are crossing the biggest lake in South America; the Maracaibo Lake. With a surface area of 13,000 sq. km., this lake is like the ocean. The southern part is safe from the petroleum industry of the north. The wonderful wildlife is a clear sign of that.
Our destination, the first day, is Ologa, one of the most photogenic villages in Venezuela. Most of the houses are on stilts with coconut trees and, very often, the towering clouds of the Catatumbo lightning phenomenon. The village and the lagoon, of the same name, are a visual paradise.
Our camp is basic. There is one room with 4 bunk beds for 8 people and space for 10 hammocks. There is airconditioning if the village generator is functioning. It usually does. We have showers from rain water and toilets which flush with a bucket.
There is no luxury here but the magic of the place makes up for it at night......... |
