MOCHIMA

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MOCHIMA NATIONAL PARK.

Occupying virtually 1000sq km of Eastern Venezuela, Parque Nacional Mochima encompasses an endless parade of white-sand, palm-fringed Caribbean beaches, 32 islands and a significant portion of the adjacent coastal mountain ranges with elevations up to a 1000 metres. Its name in the native language means ‘abundant waters’. The land part of the park offers a great diversity of landscapes from thick lush forests to a dry impenetrable forest of cactus. Various picturesque fishing villages are scattered along the coast.

The waters of The Mochima National park are of great delight for those who scuba or snorkel. In nearly all its bays and coves you can find hundreds of types of reefs, where marine life varies dramatically the deeper one descends. Extensive forests of coral of various sizes, shapes and colors cover almost every inch of exposed rock in this underwater world. Sea birds such as pelicans, terns, boobies, and magnificent frigates often feed alongside the dolphins as they bring sardines and other small fish to the surface.

Trips to the offshore islands are from the beach right in front of Jakera Lodge. There’s excellent kayaking and sailing opportunities and virtually a guarantee of interacting with dolphins and on occasions pilot whales. You’ll discover many secluded coves and private beaches that can only be reached from the sea.

On the islands there’s some interesting hiking where you’ll easily spot large iguana’s and scrambles to the top of the islands are rewarded with excellent views of the park.

There are also a few sunken vessels to explore in Isla Chimanas Grande and Las Islas Caracas. The wreckage of ships sunk decades ago have helped form a diverse ecosystem and rich coralline reefs which provide refuge and food to a great variety of fish such as swordfish, various tuna, striped mullet and sea bass. In the lower depths you can observe red snappers, groupers, grunt and reef sharks. The inlets are rich in crustaceans and mollusks.

Inland, abundant waterfalls, natural springs, caves and a tranquil traditional pace of life.

Year-round air temperatures are in the mid 80’s and for swimmers currents are virtually non-existent.