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Waterfall · Santa Elena de Uairén, Bolívar
Salto Aponwao
Waterfall of about 108 meters on the Aponwao river, called Chinak-Merú by the pemón, reached by dirt road, canoe and a short trail.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Salto Aponwao
Salto Aponwao, called Chinak-Merú by the pemón, is a waterfall of about 108 meters on the Aponwao river in Parque Nacional Canaima. It is one of the largest falls in the Gran Sabana that can be reached without a plane. The name Chinak means vine in the pemón language.
The route leaves the Troncal 10 by a dirt road to the pemón community of Iboribó on the riverbank. From there, the crossing is made by motorized canoe with local residents, and a short trail leads to the viewpoint at the edge of the fall, where you can see the water plunging into a deep, green valley.
A trail descends to the base of the fall, where you feel the wind and spray. In high water the volume is greater and the roar is loud.
Visits are usually organized by agencies in Santa Elena or can be arranged with the community of Iboribó.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Half a day to a full day, given the dirt road and the canoe crossing.
Best time
In the rainy season, May to November, the fall is usually fuller, but the dirt road worsens. In the dry season the road is easier and the fall thinner. Check road conditions beforehand.
How to get there
You leave the Troncal 10 via a dirt road to Iboribó and cross the river by canoe. It's about three to four hours from Santa Elena; the road requires a high-clearance or four-wheel-drive vehicle in rainy conditions.
Tip
Go with a guide or an organized tour and arrange the canoe crossing at Iboribó. Bring a raincoat for the descent to the base.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Salto Aponwao
How high is Salto Aponwao?
About 108 meters.
How do you get to Salto Aponwao?
By dirt road from the Troncal 10 to Iboribó, a canoe crossing and a short hike to the lookout.
Is a guide required?
It is recommended. Agencies in Santa Elena and the Iboribó community organize the visit.