A nature's wonder
in the Llanos of Venezuela, this biological station and
ecotourism center is located some 90 miles west of San
Fernando de Apure, and offers its guests a unique chance
to observe the typical South American wildlife in its
natural habitats.
The
biological station and the visitors' facilities are located
in Hato El Frio. Spanning both sides of the San Fernando
- Mantecal road, Hato El Frio encompasses almost 200,000
acres. The place is a working cattle ranch, and mixing
this activity with both research and eco tourism, Hato
El Frio represents one of the best examples of the Llanos
ecosystems. Actively involved in conservation issues,
El Frio serves as a breeding site for the rare Orinoco
Crocodile. Since 1974, a group of Spanish biologists teamed
with international organizations, such as UNESCO, have
succeeded in combining research, environmental awareness,
ecotourism and traditional "Llanos" chores programs.
El
Frio is characterized by a flat landscape cut by streams
and rivers, with patches of gallery forest here and there.
Its climate is tropical, with two distinct dry and rainy
seasons, so characteristic of this grasslands. It has
been recognized beyond Venezuelan frontiers as a refuge
for wildlife and outstanding natural place, where several
rare and threatened species like the Giant Otter, Jaguar,
Puma, and Fresh Water Dolphins are protected. Anacondas,
caimans, capybaras, anteaters, and red howler monkeys
are also common, while birds are well represented with
more than 300 reported species including herons, ibises,
storks, egrets, jabirus, hoatzins, macaws, sunbitterns
and several birds of prey. Depending on the season, all
this nature is yours to discover by all-terrain vehicle
or boat.
El
Frio is prepared to receive only 25 guests in 10 simple
but lovely rooms with private bathrooms and ceiling fan.
El Frio is easily accessible by car from Barinas or San
Fernando.
Contact
us to include El Frio Biological
Station in a customized itinerary of travel to the Llanos
of Venezuela.
