Today’s expanded visit to Caracas includes the Museo de Arte Colonial, lunch and a trip up Mount Avila.

Make the 45-minute drive from the pier in La Guaira to the nation’s lively capital city, Caracas. Head directly to the Museo de Arte Colonial in the restored manor house known as Quinta Anauco. Built for Marquis de Toro in 1797, the quinta (country home) is now surrounded by the suburbs of Caracas. The artwork and furnishings recreate an authentic colonial atmosphere once enjoyed by Simón Bolivar. Pass by the Panteón Nacional, the final resting place for many of Venezuela’s most prominent citizens.

Drive on through the city to Mt. Avila, at 2675 metres/9072 feet, one of the highest peaks in the Caribbean. An exhilarating cable car ride brings you to the top, where the air is fresher and cooler and the views are, of course, quite sweeping—the valley of Caracas stretches below on one side, with the blue waters of the Caribbean visible on the other. After half an hour or so at the top, return to sea level via the cable car to resume your exploration of the city.

Lunch today has been arranged at one of the city’s top restaurants. Afterwards, make the short drive to La Alameda viewpoint for more stunning views of the city before beginning the return drive to The World in La Guaira.

NOTE: Be aware that traffic in and around the capital is notoriously congested. Cable car ride not advised for guests with heart or respiratory issues.

PRICE:

$ 100 25-40 participants

W2: Moderate activity. Requires intermittent effort throughout, including walking medium distances over uneven surfaces and/or on steps.