3 Best Hotels in Elsewhere in Venezuela, Venezuela

This self-contained luxury camp is on the bank of the Río Caroni, just outside the boundaries of Parque Nacional Canaima. After a full day of land and water excursions, enjoy a glorious sunset from the hilltop dining area before retiring to a stylish cabaña, where attention to detail is evident in the hand-painted sinks and the curious figures carved into the walls. All of the building materials are produced locally and the entire camp is powered by solar energy. Most importantly, the hotel is staffed by extremely personable, multilingual guides who create a fun, informative atmosphere. Packages for this 90-person facility, including round-trip airfare, lodging, meals, and guided excursions, start at $375 per couple, and are arranged through charter airline Aerotuy.

Besides being a working ranch, this place also functions as a biological research center. So in addition to the wildlife that exists across the region, Hato El Frio also houses animals that are the subject of conservation efforts and biological studies, from tortoises to pumas. Want to see a caiman up close? Accompany one of the biologists in residence when they head out for the daily feeding. These knowledgeable—and English-speaking—scientists take you on twice-daily excursions in trucks or boats, answering any questions about the varied flora and fauna. There's also ample opportunity to mingle with the llaneros, whose quarters are a short distance away. The cowboys and researchers work closely together, frequently coming together for an outdoor barbecue or a night out in the local village.

Facilities are basic but comfortable. Fans and a cool breeze make it comfortable enough for sleeping, even in the summer. There is no hot water, but even the "cold" water in these sun-drenched grasslands is warm enough for bathing. Meals are hearty and always fresh, as the ranch produces its own eggs, meats, and dairy products. You can bet that the fruit that made your juice was still on the tree that morning.

Trips to Hato El Frío must be arranged through a travel agent such as Caracas-based Orinoco Tours. The tour company can also arrange for a car to transfer you from the airport in the town of San Fernando de Apure, two hours away.

This camp in the Manapiare Valley, just east of Puerto Ayacucho, appeals to families who prefer the comfort of real beds, private baths, and sit-down meals. Built and run year-round by José Raggi, the camp has a 5,000-foot airstrip and accommodations for about 30. During the day you trek through the jungle in search of howler monkeys, or float down a river to view spectacular waterfalls. A two-night package from Caracas, including air and meals, runs about $450 per person.