Los Llanos: When to Go

The Los Llanos climate is extreme in both wet (May to November) and dry (December to April) seasons, often bringing floods or drought. Wildlife is abundant year-round; the main difference is that, in the dry season, animals flock in groups to scarce sources of water, making them easy to watch, while in the wet season, when most of the land is half-flooded, animals are everywhere, but are harder to spot because they're not concentrated in certain areas.

The dry season is considered the high season; expect good weather and more options for travel, as more land is accessible. In late March or early April, just before the first rains, crowds of caimans or capybaras can be unbelievable! In most hatos (ranches), the high season also means higher prices.

The major event of the year is the annual pilgrimage to Guanare for the Fiesta de la Virgen de Coromoto, on September 8.

Weather

There are two distinct seasons in Los Llanos: wet (May to November) and dry (December to April) - the climate is extreme in both, resulting in floods or droughts respectively. The rainy period brings frequent and intense rains; rivers overflow, turning much of the land into lagoons. In the dry season, the sun beats down upon the parched soil and winds blow the dust around.