Parque Nacional Waraira Repano (El Ávila)

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About Parque Nacional Waraira Repano (El Ávila)

Parque Nacional El Ávila, officially called Waraira Repano today, protects the range that separates the Caracas valley from the Caribbean Sea. It was established in 1958 and covers about 85,000 hectares of forest, highland fields and valleys, along nearly 90 km of the Cordillera de la Costa. The highest point is Pico Naiguatá, at around 2,765 meters; the Silla de Caracas, with the two peaks that form the saddle seen from the valley, exceeds 2,600 meters.

For residents of Caracas, the Ávila is the place for the morning hike. Trails start at the northern edge of the neighborhoods, along avenida Boyacá, the Cota Mil, and climb through the forest to park ranger posts with water sources, benches and valley views. The best known is the Sabas Nieves trail, which starts from the top of Altamira and reaches the post in about one hour of ascent. From there, longer trails continue to the Silla de Caracas, Pico Oriental and the top of the cable car.

Along the way you can see bromeliads, orchids, giant ferns, hummingbirds and, if you're lucky, toucans and flocks of parakeets. In the higher parts the forest gives way to high-altitude moorland, with wind and fog. The range also has streams and small waterfalls, such as Quebrada Quintero.

The longer trails require preparation, an early start, water and warm clothing; those unfamiliar with the route usually go up with a guide or in hiking groups. At the park entrances, rangers register visitors.