The park's most famous resident is the Guácharo or oilbird (Steatornis caripensis), a nocturnal fruit-eating bird that navigates using echolocation. The cave houses one of the largest colonies of these birds in South America. Other notable fauna includes various bat species, reptiles such as the coral snake and boa constrictor, and numerous bird species including toucans and hummingbirds. The forest areas support populations of howler monkeys, kinkajous, and various species of amphibians adapted to the humid environment.
The park hosts a rich diversity of plant life characteristic of tropical cloud forests, with over 300 documented species. The vegetation includes abundant ferns, bromeliads, and orchids, many of which are endemic to the region. Large trees such as the ceiba (Ceiba pentandra) and various species of palms dominate the canopy. The cave entrance areas feature unique plant communities adapted to low light conditions, including specialized moss and algae species. The surrounding forest is also home to numerous medicinal plants traditionally used by local indigenous communities.
The park's geology is dominated by limestone karst formations that developed during the Cretaceous period, approximately 100 million years ago. The extensive cave system, including the famous Guácharo Cave, was formed through centuries of water erosion of the limestone bedrock. The cave extends for approximately 10.2 kilometers, making it one of Venezuela's longest cave systems. The limestone formations include impressive stalactites, stalagmites, and other speleothems, created through mineral deposition over thousands of years.
The park was established in 1975 to protect the Guácharo Cave (Cueva del Guácharo) and its surrounding ecosystem, though the cave itself was first declared a national monument in 1949. The area has significant historical importance to indigenous peoples, particularly the Chaima Indians, who considered the cave sacred. Alexander von Humboldt first scientifically documented the cave and its unique oilbird inhabitants in 1799, marking the beginning of modern scientific interest in the area. The cave was also visited by numerous other notable naturalists throughout the 19th century, contributing to its scientific significance.
The centerpiece of the park is the Guácharo Cave, featuring massive chambers reaching heights of up to 60 meters. The cave system includes underground rivers, spectacular mineral formations, and unique ecosystems. The park also offers several hiking trails, including the popular 'Los Índios' trail that provides panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The visitor center provides educational exhibits about the cave's geology and wildlife, particularly focusing on the oilbirds. Several observation points allow visitors to witness the spectacular evening exodus of the oilbirds as they leave the cave to forage.
El Guácharo National Park experiences a tropical humid climate typical of Venezuelan cloud forests. Average temperatures range between 18-25°C (64-77°F) throughout the year, with high humidity levels around 85%. The park receives significant rainfall, with annual precipitation averaging 1,700mm. The driest period occurs between January and March, while the wettest months are typically June through August. Due to its location in a mountainous region, temperatures can drop significantly at night, and morning mist is common in the valleys and cave entrances.
Venezuela
10.1670°, -63.5500°
1975
627
El Guácharo National Park is famous for its extensive cave system home to the oilbird (guácharo). The park contains one of the most impressive cave networks in South America. The main cave extends for several kilometers and hosts unique ecosystems and archaeological sites.