Los Roques National Park (Parque Nacional Archipiélago Los Roques)

Los Roques National Park, officially established in 1972, is an extensive marine protected area spanning approximately 221,300 acres in the Caribbean Sea, north of the Venezuelan coast. The park consists of around 350 small islands, cays, and coral reefs forming the Los Roques Archipelago, with Gran Roque Island serving as the main inhabited hub. Its geography features shallow lagoons, mangroves, sandbanks, and barrier reefs that provide critical habitat to diverse marine and terrestrial life. The park's warm, crystal-clear waters support abundant coral communities, sponges, and seagrass beds, making it a hotspot for marine biodiversity, including over 280 species of fish, sea turtles, dolphins, and migratory birds. The dry climate and sparse vegetation on the islands support unique bird species such as the brown pelican and the magnificent frigatebird. Visitors are attracted to Los Roques for its range of outdoor activities including world-class kite surfing, sport fishing, snorkeling, scuba diving, and sailing across calm turquoise waters. The park offers several remarkable landmarks such as Cayo de Agua with its pristine beaches and natural pools, and Francisquí Islands, known for vibrant underwater life and sandy beaches. Cultural elements include Gran Roque's small fishing village atmosphere with colorful homes and local seafood cuisine. Los Roques is a protected zone focused on balancing tourism with conservation, drawing eco-conscious travelers who seek both adventure and natural beauty in an unspoiled Caribbean setting.