Community and Youth Development Venezuela

Project Location
The area, known as La Gran Sabana, "the Great Savannah" is located in the southeastern corner of Venezuela, at the border with Brazil and Guyana. You will be located in the heart of the La Gran Sabana national park in the town of Santa Elena de Uairén.

Venezuela
From the desert in the Northwest, to snow-capped mountains, rain forest and savannah in the South, Venezuela is a fantastic country with a huge variety of geographical wonders. It borders Brazil, Columbia and Guyana and is approximately the combined size of England and France with a population of 24 million. Venezuela is the land of records: it has the longest coastline of the Caribbean, Angel Falls- the world’s highest waterfall, and the Maracaibo Lake, the largest lake in South America.

With incredible scenery and a warm and friendly culture, Venezuela is a place not to be missed!

Free Time
You will usually have weekends free and it is up to you how you spend this free time. You may like to spend time with other volunteers and staff and get involved in activities with the locals. Alternatively you can organise tours and trips to explore the surrounding areas. If you stay for longer than 3 weeks, a day-excursion to La Gran Sabana is included in the project price.

Recreational activities available include trekking, hiking, biking and swimming in one of the nearby waterfalls. In addition Santa Elena is only 20 minutes from the Brazilian border if you are planning to travel further afield.

Getting There
You need to arrange your flights to Caracas International Airport. Upon your arrival in Venezuela one of our onsite drivers will meet you at the airport and take you to the hotel for one night. The next day they will drive you to the bus terminal where you will be given a one-way ticket and travel with any other volunteers to Santa Elena.

Keep in mind that these buses are much more sophisticated and comfortable than buses in the UK. You can easily relax; the seats are very comfortable and can be turned into sleepers. Movies are shown and the buses regularly stop for snacks and meals. Carry a good book or your favourite music with you and enjoy the marvellous landscapes from your window seat.

In Santa Elena all you need to do is call our friendly onsite staff who will come and meet you at the bus terminal. They will take you to your accommodation and ensure that all of your needs are met.