In 1972, Los Roques Archipelago National Park was established to conserve a maritime ecosystem that had tremendous ecological value. The park has plenty of mangroves, coral reefs and seagrass beds. Los Roques is arguably the most stunning natural region in Venezuela.
This park is located 80 miles north of port ‘La Guaira’ near Caracas. It covers nearly 546 acres, which makes it the one of the largest marine parks among the Caribbean islands.
Coral reefs are home to the most stunning underwater flora and fauna in the Caribbean region. The park has exquisite white sand beaches and varied color waters. This makes it a paradise for sailing, diving and fishing.
Before its declaration as a national park, a vital fishing tradition was developing in this archipelago. It later developed into a tiny town of Island of Gran Roque. This region produces nearly 90% of the lobster for human consumption.
It was during the mid 20th century that fishermen from Venezuela began inhabiting the archipelago on a permanent basis. They originated from Island of Margarita and even brought along their families. At the end of 1941, the population of Los Roques touched 484. The people spread through eight islands: Crasqui, Gran Roque, Carenero, Domusquí, Cayo Pirata, Isla Fernando, Esparaqui and Prestonquí.
By 1950, the population touched 559. In 1956, a school became operational in the region. Electricity was generated and plans were made to construct a desalination plant. The population was constrained to Gran Roque Island with the creation of the national park. A census was carried out in 1987 Scientific Foundation of Los Roques. At present, there are 1209 permanent residents, including tourist operators, native settlers, and other personnel.
Los Roques received a declaration to be a Ramsar site because of its rich biodiversity and ample food resources. Fishing is the primary activity on the archipelago. However, it is strictly regulated. During the fishing season, nearly 300 fishermen gain temporary stay at the island.
The national park provides protection to coral reefs with regards to area of live coverage, species diversity, and incidence of diseases in the entire Caribbean region. Los Roques is home to nearly 61 species of coral reefs, 60 of sponges, and 280 of fish. Of the 92 species of bird, 50 are migratory. Highly endangered turtle species regularly nest on the island.
During the course of the last ten years, tourism has surpassed fishing as the primary economic activity. Local inhabitants started getting involved in tourist businesses from 1990. Prior to this, wealthy Venezuelans and foreigners bought houses within the park. They managed the existing lodges and access was confined to aircraft and private boats.
The only airline that was operational at that time was Aerotuy. The average number of visitors per year has touched 50,000. They reside in the 60-odd available inns, which were locally known as posadas.
This archipelago offers plenty of recreational activities. Natural beauty surrounding the beaches is the main attraction. Scuba divers throng the coral reefs in large numbers. Windsurfing and sport fishing are popular. Other traveler attractions include celebrations of Virgen del Valle during September’s second week. Lobster Festival is another popular event.
Wed, Apr 7, 2010
Beach Destinations