Sprawling for approximately 38,600 square miles across Venezuela’s vast interior, the Llanos (pronounced Ya-nos) grasslands have been dubbed by many as the "Serengeti of South America." The wide floodplain of the Orinoco River extends over an area of grassy savanna, interrupted by gallery forest and hammocks of woodland.

A birdwatcher's paradise, more than 300 species have been identified here including three species of stork, six varieties of ibis and numerous other shallow-water wading birds, songbirds and waterfowl. In the early morning and evening in particular, the riverbanks, forest edges and lagoons come to life with active birds and animals.

Large cattle ranches are home to hearty cowboys called Llaneros whose hard-working lifestyle and unforgettable folk music has become a unique facet of Venezuela’s diverse culture. They are admired for their toughness, honesty and frontier spirit. Most of the Llanos’ wildlife lodges are also working ranches, and visitors can experience this way of life first-hand during a trip to this remarkable area.

The Andes Mountains are also excellent birding destinations. The famous Cock-of-the-Rock bird inhabits the mountains as well as the giant Andean Condors.