Priceless Writer - Travel & Recreation

Venezuela has recently revealed the discovery of an ancient tar pit that provides a glimpse into the world of the saber-toothed cat (amongst other interesting fossils). The kind of saber toothed cat fossil uncovered was a first for paleontologists working in South America and shows great promise in unlocking the answers to many questions regarding the past. You're probably wondering what that has to do with traveling…

Instead of traveling back into time, I'd like to take a look at eight things to do and places to see in Caracas, the capital and largest city in Venezuela, located in the northern part of the country. With a terrain that boasts a great deal of hills and mountains, you will also find that Caracas Valley on the coastal mountain range of Cordillera de la Costa is close to the Caribbean Sea.

The climate of Caracas varies between the central city and the mountains. The coldest temperatures come in January at 72 degrees, while May is the warmest with 75-degree days. A trip to Caracas during the months of December and January are sometimes filled with foggy days, where some nights bring a temperature drop of 55 degrees. On rare occasions, a hailstorm may erupt in the city, but electrical storms are more frequent, especially between June and October – a direct result of being situated in a closed valley.

1) Teresa Carreño Cultural Complex

Best known as the Teresa Carreño Theater, you will encounter one of the most important of theaters in Caracas – as a matter of fact – in all of Venezuela. This is the stage where popular concerts, operas, ballet, and theater unfold. This attraction gem is located in the cultural zone of the city, close to the Caobos Park and the Caracas Athenaeum.

2) Museo de los Ninos (Children's Museum)

Step inside this entertaining, interactive museum when you need a quick fix for restless children. The kiddies will appreciate an exploration of medicine, physics, biology, communication, and astronomy.

3) Parque del Este

For a great place to people-watch, consider Parque del Este, which fills with joggers, pick-up basketball games, soccer, and residents in deep meditation. Some come to investigate the paths or catch their breath on a nearby bench. A small zoo is located on the premises, as well as weekend shows at the Humbolt Planetarium. Keep in mind that the park is open from 5am to 5pm (Tuesday through Sunday) and from 5am to 9am on Mondays. Admission is 300Bs (15¢) – a small price to pay for fresh air and a change of scenery.

4) Parque Nacional El Avila

Hiking enthusiasts usually wind up discovering the nooks and crannies of this mountain-filled national park, which offers a multitude of trails. Remember that you should come prepared for sudden drops in the temperature. Additionally, rain is a common occurrence during the afternoons.

5) Museo de Arte Contemporaneo

A treasure trove of modern art awaits your presence, as the Museo de Arte Contemporaneo is a popular stop for tourists looking for high-quality art in South America. It is here that art lovers come face-to-face with the artistic expressions of Matisse, Picasso, and Joan Miro.

6) National Pantheon

Located five blocks north of Plaza Bolivar, one of the most recognized buildings in the city, the National Pantheon (a former church) is known to provide a final resting place for famous Venezuelans.

7) Parque Central

Step into a world filled with art and culture, where the latest museum exhibits, films, and other entertainment choices in Venezuela come to life. Don’t forget to check out the Mirador de la Torre Oeste, where the 52nd floor promises a 360-degree view of the city.

8) Centro Sambil    

Dig deep into your pockets, dust off the credit cards, and trade in a few greenbacks for items offered at the more than 500 shops, restaurants, and other fun things to do at Centro Sambil – the largest shopping mall in South America.

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