Side Trips in Caracas
Caracas-based tour companies offer a host of tour options, from guided city tours and adventure activities to longer excursions to destinations such as Los Roques and Angel Falls . Some of the more popular day-tour options from Caracas include mountain-bike or jeep tours through Parque Nacional El Avila. Prices for day tours range from BsF95 to BsF250 per person. A half-day guided tour to El Hatillo usually runs around BsF75 per person.
Akanan Travel & Adventure (tel. 0212/715-5433 or 0414/116-0107; www.akanan.com) and Cacao Expeditions (tel. 0212/977-1234; www.cacaotravel.com) are both reputable local operators offering a wide range of single and multiday options.
El Hatillo -- This neocolonial town, located 15km (9 miles) southeast of downtown, is a great place to spend a few leisurely hours and grab a meal. You'll want to spend most of your time strolling around, but be prepared -- it's hilly here. Moreover, the narrow streets have even narrower sidewalks, so beware of car traffic. Window-shop the many crafts and artisan jewelry stores and be sure to sample some homemade sweets at one of the many local pastry and candy shops. You'll find a good selection of restaurants, cafes, and bars here. Stop in for a coffee or a light bite at Croquer, Calle Bolívar 17 (tel. 0212/961-4269). After admiring the memorabilia, try to grab one of the third-floor tables under canvas umbrellas on the terrace. A taxi to El Hatillo should cost around BsF40.
Los Roques -- Perhaps the most popular excursions from Caracas are to Los Roques, a gorgeous archipelago of small islands around a calm saltwater lagoon in crystal-clear Caribbean waters. Aerotuy (tel. 0212/212-3110; www.tuy.com) is by far the most established operator offering trips to Los Roques. The cost for a full-day trip is around BsF860 per person. Children's rates are roughly half price, and rates are slightly lower during the low season and midweek.
Canaima & Angel Falls -- You may actually see advertisements for or be offered a day tour to Canaima and Angel Falls. However, given the distance, travel time, and outstanding natural beauty of the area, I highly recommend a longer trip.
