Pacaraima Mountains
Mountains Remote South American highland with tepuis and tablelands
The Pacaraima Mountains form a borderland between Venezuela, Brazil and Guyana, containing tepuis, waterfalls and remote highland plateaus; explorers and trekkers visit for multi-day hikes and indigenous communities.
The Pacaraima Mountains are a chain of uplands on the Guiana Shield in northern South America that stretch across parts of Venezuela, Guyana and Brazil and include distinctive tabletop tepuis.
The landscape is characterised by sandstone plateaus, cliffs and isolated tepuis such as Mount Roraima (around 2,810 m), with ecosystems markedly different from the surrounding lowland forest.
These highlands form part of the continental watershed and host endemic flora and fauna adapted to the tepui summits.
In Venezuela the Pacaraima uplands lie in the southern and eastern parts of the country, bordering Guyana and Brazil and forming part of the remote interior highlands of the Guiana Shield.
- Tepuis and geology: The range forms part of the Guiana Shield and includes characteristic sandstone tepuis and high-altitude savannahs that differ from surrounding lowland rainforest.
What to See #
- Mount Roraima: Mount Roraima is a famous tabletop mountain (tepui) within the wider highlands of the range, rising to about 2,810 metres and known for its sheer sandstone cliffs.
How to Get to Pacaraima Mountains #
Access points vary by country. In Venezuela, travel to the Gran Sabana region (e.g., via Santa Elena de Uairén) is a common starting point; from there local guides and 4x4 tracks lead to tepui trailheads. Cross-border travel in this area requires careful planning and knowledge of local regulations.
Tips for Visiting Pacaraima Mountains #
- If visiting for geography or photography, coordinate with local indigenous groups for safe, respectful access and guidance.
- The region is remote - prepare for long travel times and limited services; prioritize self-sufficiency and reliable communications.
Best Time to Visit Pacaraima Mountains #
The dry season offers the most practical window for exploration; conditions are variable and local guidance is essential.
Weather & Climate near Pacaraima Mountains #
Pacaraima Mountains's climate is classified as Tropical Rainforest - Tropical Rainforest climate with consistently warm temperatures year-round. Temperatures range from 21°C to 32°C. Heavy rainfall (2130 mm/year), wettest in June.
January
January is warm with highs of 31°C and lows of 21°C. Regular rainfall (86 mm).
Comfort
Weather
February
February is warm with highs of 31°C and lows of 21°C. Moderate rainfall (58 mm).
Comfort
Weather
March
March is the warmest month with highs of 32°C and lows of 22°C. Regular rainfall (86 mm).
Comfort
Weather
April
April is warm with highs of 31°C and lows of 22°C. Significant rainfall (198 mm).
Comfort
Weather
May
May is warm with highs of 30°C and lows of 21°C. Heavy rain (286 mm).
Comfort
Weather
June
June is warm with highs of 29°C and lows of 21°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (339 mm).
Comfort
Weather
July
July is warm with highs of 29°C and lows of 21°C. Heavy rain (281 mm).
Comfort
Weather
August
August is warm with highs of 30°C and lows of 21°C. Heavy rain (240 mm).
Comfort
Weather
September
September is warm with highs of 31°C and lows of 21°C. Significant rainfall (121 mm).
Comfort
Weather
October
October is warm with highs of 32°C and lows of 21°C. Significant rainfall (155 mm).
Comfort
Weather
November
November is warm with highs of 31°C and lows of 21°C. Significant rainfall (141 mm).
Comfort
Weather
December
December is warm with highs of 31°C and lows of 21°C. Significant rainfall (139 mm).