Jaua-Sarisariñama National Park

Jaua-Sarisariñama National Park is a remote protected area in southern Venezuela that safeguards a group of tepuis and their associated high-elevation ecosystems, including extensive forested table-top plateaus. The park is recognized for its isolated summit habitats and unusual karst-like sinkholes that create unique ecological niches.

Prominent features include the Sarisariñama and Jaua tepuis, whose summits support distinct plant and animal communities not found in surrounding lowland forests. Large natural sinkholes on some summits form deep, sheltered depressions of forest that are of particular scientific interest for endemic species.

The park was established to protect these tepui ecosystems and remains largely wilderness; most access is by river or small aircraft and is used primarily by researchers and guided expeditions. It lies in the Venezuelan Guiana Shield region and is notable for its isolation, biodiversity, and geological formations.

Geographically the park is in southern Venezuela within the Amazonian highlands region, characterized by steep escarpments, rivers, and forested plateaus; it is far from major urban centers and requires substantial travel logistics to reach.

• Ecological importance: Protects remote tepui plateaus and their rare, often endemic ecosystems; the summits are heavily forested and are ecologically distinct from surrounding lowlands.
• Access: Extremely remote and primarily reached by river and air support; visits require permits and logistical planning through Venezuelan authorities or organized scientific expeditions.

What to See#

• Sarisariñama tepui: Sarisariñama tepui is noted for large forested plateaus and deep sinkholes with unique isolated ecosystems and endemic species found on its summit.
• Jaua tepui: Jaua tepui is a separate table mountain within the park that contributes to the park’s high-altitude plateau habitats and range of endemic flora and fauna.
• Summit sinkholes: Large natural sinkholes penetrate some tepui summits and create sheltered forests and microhabitats that are important for specialized plant and animal communities.

There is no direct public transport to the park. Access typically begins from Canaima or Ciudad Bolívar by chartered flights to landing strips near the tepuis, or by river journeys arranged through local operators. Travel plans must be coordinated with Venezuelan environmental authorities and local indigenous communities; many expeditions require permits and guided support.

• This park is extremely remote - arrange travel and permits through Venezuelan environmental authorities well in advance.
• Bring insect-repellent clothing and waterproof gear; weather on the tepuis can change suddenly.
• Respect local Pemon and other indigenous land-use rules; guided access is often required.