Paradise exists: it’s blue, it has white sands, and it’s very close. In fact, it’s on the American continent, in one of its most beautiful countries: Venezuela. In order to arrive, we do not have to cross over the whole planet in a flight of infinite hours, no way! Those who wish to witness this postcard with the smell of the sea should only visit the Los Roques Archipelago National Park, one of the best-kept secrets in the world.
Los Roques is an archipelago located in the Caribbean Sea, 166 km north of the central coast of Venezuela. It was declared a national park in 1972 to ensure the preservation of the coral reef and its beaches. It has few inhabitants, but more than 300 sand banks and 40 keys, although only one is populated: Gran Roque. This is a village of lovely people and sandy streets, an airport, and also most of the inns.
The approximate surface of this wonderful site is 40.61 km². Its large expanse of crystalline waters and white sands make it a unique tourist destination on earth. Visiting one of its islands will always leave you wanting to visit the others. Each one has its charm, but all, without exception, impress with their incredible beauty.
Between keys, atolls and birds …
In Los Roques, we can find an impressive diversity of atolls, lagoons, and keys. Some of the most important, besides Gran Roque (where we can visit the Dutch Lighthouse to see the sunsets), are Francisquí, Madrisquí, Nordisquí, Fabián and Cayo Muerto (one of the smallest and most solitary ones).
In Laguna Rabusquí we can see giant starfish, while in Boca de Cote people can see corals and colorful fish. For some, the best of all is Cayo de Agua, there we can see how two banks meet, forming a natural bridge. However, it is the most distant one: an hour by boat from Gran Roque.
Los Roques is also the third most well preserved national park in the world. There are almost no terrestrial animals due to the small amount of fresh water, but their marine fauna is impressive. Some examples of this are fishes, sea urchins, starfish, lobsters, manta rays, and turtles. It is also the meeting point for more than 50 migratory birds from North America.
Besides tanning, what else can we do?
The immensity of this place allows us to enjoy different water sports. Most people do snorkeling, but some people prefer to dive; In fact, they offer PADI diving courses. Likewise, we can practice windsurfing, sailing, fishing, or land activities like excursions, camping, and hiking.
How do we get there?
You can board a commercial flight that takes approximately 35 minutes from Simón Bolívar International Airport in Maiquetía. There are also airplanes departing from Porlamar and Maracaibo, other Venezuelan cities. Some may arrive on a yacht, but nothing is as amazing as flying over this place: the breathtaking views will never be erased from your memories.
Its tropical climate makes it a great place to visit any time of the year. Although it is important to mention that between September and January it rains occasionally.
The best lobsters? Only in Los Roques!
In November, tourists can go to the Lobster Festival to taste the most delicious lobsters on the planet: the ones in Los Roques, which have a beautiful red color and are sweeter. The season goes from this month until April, when fishermen go into the sea to catch them alive. The remaining months it is prohibited to capture these animals since it’s their mating season. This is intended to preserve the species.
Los Roques is considered one of the most beautiful and exclusive places in Venezuela, and one of the most visited tourist destinations in the world. Although its photos impress anyone, they can never be compared to the experience of feeling that white sand that does not burn in our feet. Do not hesitate to visit this paradise on earth, you will absolutely fall in love with the different shades of blue of its waters.
