Choroni Chuao
Choroni & Chuao:Palm-fringed beaches & world's best cacao 3 days/2 nights
Day 1: Arrival Choroni
Tucked between the magnificent cloud forest of Henri Pittier National Park and the glittering waters of the Caribbean Sea lies Choroni. This small colonial town, founded in the early 17th century, is a three-hour drive away from Caracas - the first part on a modern highway, the last part on a mountainous, winding road through Venezuela's oldest national park. Arriving in Choroni is like stepping into a vibrant painting - colourful houses lining cobblestone streets, the turquoise ocean, bright fishing boats. We will be welcomed at our posada with a tropical drink, and after freshening up, we will head to Playa Grande, one of Venezuela's most beautiful beaches. Its golden sands bordered by swaying coconut palms stretch for almost a kilometer, and the gentle sway of the waves make Playa Grande perfect for swimming. Beach umbrella, sun chairs and a cool box with snacks and drinks will be provided. Back at the posada, a wonderful dinner awaits us. Afterwards, we can walk through the town and soak in the lively atmosphere of the waterfront promenade, accompanied by the rhythms of the Afro-Caribbean drums. Overnight Posada Arakemo or Posada Las García.
Day 2: Choroni - Chuao
After a delicious breakfast, we will head to the pier. Here, we board a small boat to take us to the neighbouring coastal town of Chuao, only accessible by water. After 20 minutes we arrive at the beach of Chuao, where we can enjoy a refreshing drink and snack while soaking in the bustling activity of the fishermen. But our final destination, the charming town of Chuao, lies 5 kilometers inland, surrounded by mountains and tropical forest. Unlike Choroni, whose primary industry is fishing, Chuao produces some of the world’s finest cacao, and has done so for the last 400 years. Around 1650, the cacao plantations were ceded to the Catholic Church. The donation gave origin to a historic site. The church of San Juan Bautista was built, as well as a large patio for drying and other cacao-processing facilities. To this day, only farmers born in Chuao are allowed to produce cacao. This rule aims to guarantee the continuity of the centuries-old tradition of cacao cultivation. We will be welcomed at our posada with a tropical drink, and after freshening up, a local guide will take us on a cacao tour, including the plantations, drying patio, and artisanal processing facilities. And of course we will be tasting locally made chocolates! Back at the posada, a delicious dinner awaits us. Afterwards, we can enjoy the atmosphere of the town square. Overnight Posada La Luzonera.
Day 3: Chuao - Choroni - Departure
After breakfast we can simply relax at the beach of Chuao, or go on an optional hike, through tropical vegetation and across rivers, to El Chorreron. This beautiful 70-meter-high waterfall pours into a large, refreshing pool. The roundtrip hike takes approx. 4 hours. Lunch at the posada, and return by boat to the dock in Choroni. Departure transfer.