Rancho Grande, Los Llanos, Venezuela

For a budget alternative to an agency-run Los Llanos tour, contact "Barriga" of Campamento Rancho Grande for a real Los Llanos experience without the price tag.

Having lived all his life in Los Llanos, Ramón Guillermo Gonzalez opened the areas first tour camp over 20 years ago on the banks of the Guaritico Creek and continues to welcome travellers to this amazing part of the country.

Watch caiman and turtles laze by the river from your breakfast table and wake up to the sound of birds singing in the trees around the camp. This is the perfect location from which to explore the beautiful area of Los Llanos and to observe its many, varied inhabitants.

Ramon and his son personally take all tours, using their own vehicles and equipment and everything is done in Spanish.

Rancho Grande 4 Day Package - $100

Transfers can be arranged from Mantecal in pick-up and will be included in the package. Buses arrive regularly in Mantecal from Barinas and daily from Caracas and Maracay.
All meals are included and are delicious home-cooked meals prepared by Bariga' wife Omaira and served in the sociable dining room over-looking the river.
Accommodation is in traditional-style cabins where you can hear the sounds of the river from your hammock. There are screens on the windows but you might want to take a mosquito net in the wet season.
Facilities are basic but comfortable enough. All electricity is solar power so electricity is limited and there is no hot water. There is a basin should you need to wash any clothes after a day exploring the swamp! The views from the camp are unbeatable and there are some seating areas on the riverbanks.
Four tours are included - all in Spanish - in the 4 day package: one by boat, one by horse and two by jeep and foot. This area is Bariga' home and with his expertise and friendly manner, who better to show you around his own back garden!

Despite the fact that Ramón grew up in the area and sees the beauty and variety of Los Llanos everyday, he and his son still show genuine enthusiasm in their work and enjoy sharing the treasures of their land with travellers.

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