Puerto Ayacucho, Venezuela: travel guide
Orinoco river gateway to Piaroa culture, rapids and Amazonas jungle
The riverside capital of Amazonas state on the Orinoco, gateway to indigenous Piaroa culture, tepui-studded jungle, rapids and the remote Venezuelan Amazon.
About Puerto Ayacucho
Puerto Ayacucho is the capital of Amazonas state, on the banks of the Orinoco near the Colombian border. It is a frontier river town and the main gateway to the remote Venezuelan Amazon.
In town, the Museo Etnologico de Amazonas introduces the region's indigenous peoples, while nearby sights include Cerro Pintado with its rock carvings, the Tobogan de la Selva rapids and views over tepui-studded jungle. Piaroa communities and river trips can be arranged through local operators.
It suits adventurous travellers and those keen on indigenous cultures and wild rivers. The region is hot and humid, and the drier months from December to March are easier for river travel.
- Country
- Venezuela
- Currency
- VES
- Time zone
- America/Caracas
- Nearest airport
- PYH
Last updated
Top places to visit in Puerto Ayacucho
Museo Etnológico de Amazonas
Museum · 4.3 rating · about 1 h · check the fee at the gate
A small but excellent museum on the indigenous peoples of the Venezuelan Amazon — Yanomami, Piaroa, Yekuana and more.
Tobogán de la Selva
Nature · about 2.5 h · check the fee at the gate
A giant smooth rock slope down which a jungle river rushes, forming a natural waterslide and pools — a beloved day trip from Puerto Ayacucho.
Cerro Pintado
Heritage · about 1 h · check the fee at the gate
The largest known petroglyph in South America, a giant pre-Columbian serpent carved high on a granite cliff face.
Things to do
- Orinoco & Piaroa Culture Jungle Tour Adventure · 48 h · from USD 220 per person
Where to stay in Puerto Ayacucho
- Centro Puerto Ayacucho about VES 35 per night
The compact centre near tour operators for jungle and Orinoco trips.
Hotels
- Orinoquia Lodge 3-star · USD 60 to USD 110 per night
Where to eat
- Cherazad Venezuelan · about USD 10 per person
Getting to Puerto Ayacucho
Airport: Puerto Ayacucho (PYH)
Getting around
- Boat
- Ride Hail
- Taxi
- Walking
More in Venezuela
Frequently asked questions about Puerto Ayacucho
- What are the main places to visit in Puerto Ayacucho?
- Places covered in our Puerto Ayacucho guide include Museo Etnológico de Amazonas, Tobogán de la Selva, Cerro Pintado.
- Where should I stay in Puerto Ayacucho?
- Our guide covers these areas to stay in Puerto Ayacucho: Centro Puerto Ayacucho.
- How do I get around Puerto Ayacucho?
- Ways to get around Puerto Ayacucho covered in our guide: Boat, Ride-hailing app, Taxi, Walking.
- Which airport is nearest to Puerto Ayacucho?
- The nearest airport to Puerto Ayacucho has the code PYH.