TRAVEL

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Your trip will be set up to meet your needs. We offer fishing expeditions of all durations, from quick, two day trips up to incredible outings of two weeks. We offer a simple pricing structure based upon the number of days you will stay with us. Our basic package includes all lodging, three excellent meals, domestic alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages and all boat use. Not included in our basic package is airfare to/from Venezuela nor in-country transportation. For an additional US$50/day, we will provide all the fishing tackle you will need to battle these bruisers. You don't even have to lug your gear! Please contact us so we can give you a quote that will match your needs!

The direct flight in charter planes to the camp are no longer an option, because the government changes the law to say that a plane can't land on anything but an authorized and certified runway, which HFC is not nor stand any chance of being approved. Charter flights from Caracas direct to either La Paragua or El Manteco are available depending upon the number of persons in the group, but they aren't cheap ($2500-$6000).

We would be happy to meet you in Puerto Ordaz to drive you the four hours to the camp.

Traveling within Venezuela is relatively easy. Be sure upon your arrival to exchange some money. If you are taking the charter flight, U.S. dollars are accepted as well as Venezuelan bolivares fuertes. You will need a few dollars in local currency to pay for domestic airport taxes for the flights between Caracas and Puerto Ordaz and for anything you may wish to purchase, eat or drink in the local airports. Each person should try and change perhaps $100 for use in the hotels and restaurants.  The camp staff will take dollars as tip money, and in the hotel use a credit card.

The camp is located at approximately 6 degrees north latitude, and the sun can be a formidable concern. Be sure to bring plenty of sunblock with at least SPF 30. Most people prefer to use SPF 45. Venezuela experiences two seasons, the rainy season from May through November and the dry season from November through May. It is always a good idea to pack a rain poncho even during the dry season as unexpected storms are known to occur. Also, ziploc bags or other waterproof containers are a good idea to bring for these unplanned downpours to protect cameras and other susceptible things.

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

All persons traveling to Venezuela are required to have a current passport on their person upon arrival. There are no inoculation requirements, but anyone using medication should make sure they have a complete supply for the duration of their trip.

A visa is not required for tourists entering from the U.S. You will receive a form to fill out on the plane that will be valid as a tourist visa for 90 days.

SUGGESTED ITEMS TO BRING

Sunscreen: The climate at HFC is moderate with daytime highs of 85-90 degrees, but the lack of pollution in the air along with our proximity to the equator can cause severe sunburn. In order to not spoil your trip, we suggest using at least number 30 or higher sunblock. You can get a tan here while using SPF 30. We also suggest you bring some after-sun aloe gel to take the sting out of any exposed areas you might have gotten burned.

Clothing: Light weight, light colored clothing is a must for your comfort. We highly suggest you bring at least one long-sleeve shirt and long pants for fishing. A wide brimmed fishing cap or hat is also a must to survive the sun.

Rain suit: You are traveling to a tropical climate where rain showers are always a possibility, and keeping your body dry can be a plus if the rains are heavy.

Medication: Anyone allergic to bee stings, bug bites, or just have allergies should bring along a supply of medication to take with you in the boat. Persons with special medical requirements such as heart conditions, diabetes, or asthma should let the camp management know of this upon arrival or before.

Local currency: While not a requirement, it is suggested that each fisherman change approximately $200 US to the local currency, "bolivares fuertes". Since no one will change dollars for you for services such as tips, taxis, restaurants, etc., you will be better off carrying a small amount of local currency. This can be quickly accomplished upon arrival at the airport in Caracas.