Mount Roraima

Mount Roraima is a prominent tepui - a flat-topped sandstone mesa - located at the triple border region of Venezuela, Guyana and Brazil. Its sheer cliffs and tabletop summit make it one of the most distinctive tepuis of the Guiana Shield.

The summit plateau features vast expanses of weather-sculpted sandstone, endemic plant species and unusual rock formations, attracting hikers, geologists and botanists. Trails lead up steep ravines and over plateau surfaces that require multi-day trekking to access and explore.

The mountain’s cliffs drop steeply to the surrounding savanna below, creating dramatic viewpoints and microhabitats not found in adjacent lowlands. Typical expeditions start from the Venezuelan Gran Sabana region and include boat or overland approaches followed by guided ascents.

Roraima and other tepuis have long been known to indigenous peoples of the region; European naturalists began documenting the tepuis in the 19th century and scientific exploration increased thereafter. The tepuis have been prominent in natural-history literature and inspired later fictional works.

Mount Roraima rises above the Gran Sabana plateau in southeastern Venezuela near the borders with Guyana and Brazil; access is usually from regional towns in Bolívar state and the surrounding savanna landscape.

• Trekking: Treks typically take several days and involve steep approaches to reach the plateau; guided multi-day hikes are the standard way to ascend.

What to See #

• Summit plateau: Summit plateau - a flat, tabletop sandstone plateau with unique rock formations, endemic plants and an otherworldly landscape distinct from surrounding lowlands.
• Gateway towns: Santa Elena de Uairén and the Gran Sabana region serve as common overland gateways and staging points for treks to the base of the mountain.