SUNDAY IN GALIPÁN

In spite of living in Caracas for about 15 years, I’ve gone hiking only twice in El Ávila mountain. First time, the ascent was done through one of the mountain access named Sabas Nieves. I put all my efforts trying to go up, but it was a steep path and my physical strength disappeared. I just couldn’t make it. The second time, I tried by a path in Boca de Tigre (Tiger’s Mouth), giving me a totally different hiking experience!

On a sunny Sunday morning, a group of friends and I decided to go up to the mountain. We met at Cotiza which is one of the public access to the National Park. Once there, a 4x4 vehicle took us to Boca de Tigre, the point of departure towards El Picacho, a rocky outcrop of the mountain from which a wonderful view of the sea, Galipán town and Hotel Humboldt can be enjoyed, weather permitting. There are places to eat in Boca de Tigre, where one can have breakfast, maybe some coffee, hot cocoa, a sandwich or salty pastry. Much energy is needed.

As a result of my first hiking experience through Sabas Nieves access, I was deeply concern about walking El Ávila again; however, I knew I had to face my fears and hike this new trail. I found that this is narrower and not so rough as the first one, only a couple of difficult hills. It’s an enjoyable and quiet path, around 1 walking hour for those who take it easy, with singing birds as background music.

It was exciting to see El Picacho not so far in the distance. I walked the last part of the trail and voilà, a wonderful view of the Venezuelan central coastline and the mountain. The nice weather gave us a clear sky. Pleasant surroundings and good vibes from the group made this trip an unforgettable experience. Photos, photos and more photos!

Time to go back. Boca de Tigre once again and now moving in direction to eating places in Galipán. The roast pork sandwich is a must when visiting this small town. Many people go there to have lunch, the choices are usually fried pork chunks, cachapas with cheese, sausages, soups and hamburgers. For dessert, strawberries and apricots with whipped cream. Highly recommended to drink calentaíto and handcrafted wines.

It was a wonderful day, like a spiritual cleanse, a release from the big city, a day to clear up the mind and to exercise in the green lung of Caracas, a good alternative for those interested in having a different day without going too far from home.