Angel Falls

Salto Churún Merú

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Angel falls panoramic 20080314

Angel Falls (Spanish: Salto Ángel) is the world's highest uninterrupted waterfall, with a height of 979 meters (3,212 ft) and a plunge of 807 meters (2,648 ft). The waterfall is located in the Canaima National Park, in the Gran Sabana region of Venezuela. It is named after Jimmy Angel, a US aviator who was the first to fly over the falls in a small plane in 1933. The indigenous Pemon name for the falls is Kerepakupai Merú.

Discovery and History

The falls were known to the local Pemon indigenous people, but they were not known to the outside world until the mid-20th century. Jimmy Angel, a US aviator, landed his plane atop Auyán-tepui in 1937 in search of a legendary gold ore. Although the plane was damaged upon landing, this event led to the international recognition of the falls. Angel and his companions were forced to descend the tepui on foot, a journey that took them 11 days. The falls have been named after him, although the Pemon people continue to use their traditional name.

Geography

Angel Falls is located in the Canaima National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park is part of the Guiana Highlands, which is an ancient geological formation that spans several South American countries. The falls drop from the edge of the Auyán-tepui mountain, one of the many table-top mountains (tepuis) that are characteristic of this region. The water falls into the Kerep River, which flows into the Carrao River, a tributary of the Orinoco River.

Tourism

Despite its remote location, Angel Falls is a popular tourist attraction. Access to the falls is usually by river trips from the nearby settlements, which can take several days. The best time to visit is during the rainy season from June to December when the rivers are full and the falls are at their most spectacular. However, the area's natural beauty can be appreciated year-round.

Flora and Fauna

The Canaima National Park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. The tepuis and surrounding areas are considered some of the oldest geological formations on Earth, with many species of plants and animals that are endemic to the region. This includes various species of orchids and carnivorous plants, as well as unique bird species like the tepui swift and the orange-throated sunangel.

Conservation

The conservation of Angel Falls and its surrounding environment is of paramount importance. The Canaima National Park is a protected area, but it faces threats from illegal mining, deforestation, and the impacts of climate change. Efforts are being made by both the Venezuelan government and international organizations to protect this unique natural heritage.