Venezuela: Capital, Flag and Fun Facts

About Venezuela

Venezuela is on the northern coast of South America, facing the Caribbean Sea. It has Andes mountains, wide grassy plains called the llanos, the mighty Orinoco River and flat-topped mountains called tepuis. It is known for Angel Falls, arepas and amazing wildlife.

About Caracas

Caracas lies in a mountain valley about 900 metres above sea level, separated from the Caribbean coast by El Ávila National Park. It is the birthplace of Simón Bolívar, and its University City campus is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Fun facts about Venezuela

1. Angel Falls, with a total height of 979 metres, is the world's tallest uninterrupted waterfall.
2. Venezuela's name is usually said to mean "Little Venice," after stilt houses explorers saw near Lake Maracaibo in 1499.
3. Catatumbo lightning flashes over Lake Maracaibo on up to 160 nights a year, among the most lightning anywhere on Earth.
4. Flat-topped table mountains called tepuis cover about two-thirds of Canaima National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
5. Pico Bolívar, at about 4,979 metres, is the highest mountain in Venezuela.
6. Arepas, round cornmeal flatbreads stuffed with fillings like cheese or beans, are a favourite everyday food in Venezuela.