Mochima National Park

Mochima National Park is a marine and coastal protected area spanning the border between Anzoátegui and Sucre states along Venezuela's northeastern Caribbean coast. Created in 1973, it was the second marine national park in Venezuela and encompasses approximately 94,935 hectares of both terrestrial and marine environments. The park includes 32 offshore islands, white-sand beaches, coral reefs, and a mainland coastal strip stretching from Puerto La Cruz to Cumaná. Its name comes from the small fishing village of Mochima within the park boundaries.

The climate is tropical and warm year-round, with average temperatures of 26–33 °C. The best time to visit is during the dry season (December–April) when seas are calmest and visibility for snorkelling is at its peak. The wet season (May–November) can bring rougher seas and afternoon storms that occasionally disrupt boat trips.

The park is accessed primarily by boat from Puerto La Cruz, Guanta, or Cumaná. There is no road access to most beaches within the park — they are reachable only by water. Facilities are minimal, with basic camping permitted on designated beaches and a few small fishing communities within the park boundaries.

By Plane

General José Antonio Anzoátegui International Airport (BLA) in Barcelona is the nearest airport, about 20 km from the Puerto La Cruz departure point. From there, taxis to the waterfront cost USD 10–15.

By Car / Road

Puerto La Cruz and Guanta are the main departure points, reachable by road from Caracas (320 km east, 4–5 hours). The park itself has limited road access — the Mochima village approach from Santa Fe is possible by bus and then a shared van, but most visitors arrive by boat.

Boats are the only practical way to explore the park's islands and beaches. Departure points:

• Paseo Colón, Puerto La Cruz — Boats to the western islands (Chimana Grande, Isla de Plata)
• Guanta port — Boats to the central and eastern islands
• Cumaná — Boats to the eastern park section

Boat trips can be arranged as shared tours (USD 10–20 per person) or private charters (USD 50–100 for a full day). Boats typically depart when full and run from about 08:00 to 16:00.

• Isla Chimana Grande — The largest island in the park, with white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and the popular Playa Puinare.

• Isla de Plata — A small island known for its silvery beach and excellent snorkelling over coral reefs.

• Islas Borrachas — A group of small islands with calm, clear waters ideal for swimming.

• Playa Colorada — One of Venezuela's most photographed beaches, featuring reddish-gold sand and clear water.

• Mochima village — A small fishing community within the park, offering a glimpse of traditional coastal life.

• Snorkelling — The park's coral reefs host colourful fish, sea turtles, and rays. Snorkelling gear can be rented from boat operators (USD 5–10).

• Beach-hopping by boat — The classic Mochima experience: visiting multiple beaches and islands in a single day trip.

• Dolphin watching — Bottlenose dolphins are frequently spotted in the park's waters, especially in the morning.

• Camping on the islands — Permitted on designated beaches with prior permission from Inparques (the national parks institute). Bring all supplies.

• Kayaking — Calm waters around the islands make for excellent sea kayaking.

There are no restaurants in the park. Day trips typically include lunch prepared by the boat operator — usually fresh fish, arepas, and salad. Bring additional snacks and plenty of water. In Mochima village, basic home-cooked meals may be available from local residents.

Bring ample drinking water — there are no sources of potable water on the islands. Soft drinks and beer are often available from boat vendors at inflated prices. Tap water in Venezuela is not safe to drink.

• Camping — Permitted on designated beaches. Bring a tent, sleeping bag, and all supplies. Camping fees apply. Register at the Inparques office first.
• Mochima village — Basic posadas (guesthouses) offer rustic accommodation from USD 10–20 per night.
• Puerto La Cruz — The closest city with full accommodation options for all budgets.

There are no shops within the park. Bring all supplies (water, food, sunscreen) before departing. Vendors at the Puerto La Cruz waterfront sell snacks, drinks, and basic supplies.

• Puerto La Cruz — The main departure city, with the Paseo Colón promenade, restaurants, and nightlife.
• Cumaná — The oldest European-founded city in South America, with colonial fortresses and access to the eastern park.
• Guanta — A secondary departure point with a working fishing port atmosphere.
• Barcelona — State capital with the nearest airport and colonial architecture.
• Margarita Island — Reachable by ferry from Puerto La Cruz (3.5 hours), with island beaches and duty-free shopping.