Things To Do
in Sarare

Sarare is a small riverside town in western Venezuela beloved for its laid-back pace and scenic views along the Sarare River. Its markets bustle with color, offering fresh produce, regional snacks, and a glimpse of rural Venezuelan life. The town serves as a convenient base for exploring nearby natural areas, local ranches, and cultural traditions.

Visitors should be prepared for warm tropical weather, occasional rain, and transportation that is most comfortable with a local guide or private transit.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Begin your day with a stroll through the vibrant streets of Sarare's historic center, where colonial architecture tells stories of the past. Stop by the local bakery to enjoy fresh arepas and a cup of rich Venezuelan coffee for breakfast. As the sun rises higher, visit the central plaza to observe the daily life and interactions of the friendly locals.

afternoon
:

After lunch at a nearby restaurant offering traditional Venezuelan dishes, explore the nearby artisan markets where you can find handmade crafts and souvenirs. Engage with local artisans who are eager to share their skills and the significance of their crafts. As you wander, take in the colorful murals that showcase the culture and history of Sarare.

evening
:

As dusk falls, find a cozy spot in one of the local eateries to enjoy a dinner of pabellón criollo, a beloved Venezuelan dish. Spend your evening mingling with locals or enjoying live music that often fills the air, creating a lively atmosphere. End your night with a leisurely walk through the illuminated streets, soaking in the warm, friendly vibe of Sarare.

day 2
Nature Walks in the Surrounding Countryside
morning
:

Rise early to embark on a guided nature walk in the lush countryside surrounding Sarare, where you can spot diverse flora and fauna. The crisp morning air is perfect for observing birds and other wildlife as you hike through scenic trails. Enjoy a packed breakfast amidst nature, allowing the tranquility of the environment to refresh your spirit.

afternoon
:

After your morning hike, head to a local farm to learn about sustainable agricultural practices and enjoy a farm-to-table lunch featuring fresh produce. Participate in hands-on activities such as picking fruits or tending to animals, which offers a unique insight into rural life. Spend the afternoon relaxing under the shade of trees, soaking in the peaceful countryside atmosphere.

evening
:

Return to Sarare as the sun sets, feeling rejuvenated from your day outdoors. Dine at a local restaurant known for its authentic Venezuelan cuisine, where you can savor dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. End your evening with a visit to a local bar to enjoy live music and connect with both locals and fellow travelers.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$6-12
Coffee or tea$1-3
🗺️Local tour or taxi ride (half-day)$15-35
🧊Bottled water (1.5L)$0.50-1.50
🎟️Entrance to attractions$2-8

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • La gente es amable y cálida
  • Buena comida y experiencias locales auténticas
  • Acceso limitado a servicios médicos avanzados
  • Transporte fuera de la ciudad puede ser irregular
  • "¿Dónde está el mercado?" - Where is the market?
  • "¡Buen día!" - Good day!
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "¿Puede ayudarme?" - Can you help me?

Places to Visit in Sarare

Visit one of these nice places.

Río Sarare Riverside at Dawn

Soft morning light over the calm river with reflections of palm groves and distant hills; ideal for serene landscape and portrait photography.

Plaza Central and Colonial Facades

Colorful storefronts, arcades, and a sense of daily life in a traditional town square—great for street photography and architectural shots.

Local Market Scenes

Vibrant stalls, vendors at work, and candid interactions that capture the rhythm of everyday life.

Culinary Guide

Food in Sarare

The local cuisine blends Venezuelan staples with river and ranch influences; expect hearty dishes, corn-based foods, fresh fruit, and café culture with strong, sweet coffee.

Sarare Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Arepa Llanera

A substantial corn flatbread filled with cheese, beans, or shredded beef, commonly enjoyed for breakfast or a light meal.

Must-Try!

Pabellón Criollo

The national dish featuring shredded beef, black beans, rice, and fried plantains for a comforting, balanced plate.

Cachapas con Queso

Sweet corn pancakes folded with soft white cheese; a popular choice for breakfast or a casual lunch.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Local de Sarare

A bustling market where you can sample arepas, empanadas, fresh fruit juices, and regional snacks.

Riverfront Street Stalls

Evening stalls offering grilled corn, tequeños, and fried plantains; great for a casual, inexpensive bite.

Climate Guide

Weather

Tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round; distinct wet and dry periods influence outdoor activities and river levels; humidity can be high.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A courteous hello ('hola') with a handshake or light kiss on the cheek in familiar circles; maintain friendly eye contact.

Respect for Elders

Listen carefully in conversations, avoid interrupting elders, and show politeness in public spaces.

Safety Guide

Safety

Practice standard travel safety: secure belongings in markets, use reputable transport, avoid isolated areas after dark, and stay informed about local advisories. Insurance and prepared plans are advisable for medical and evacuation needs.

Tipping in Sarare

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In eateries, rounding up the bill or leaving 5–10% for service is common; small tips to guides and drivers are appreciated.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used; some larger spots may accept debit cards; carry small denominations for street vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry season (roughly November–April)

Warmer days with lower humidity and clearer skies; excellent for outdoor activities and photography, though evenings can still be cool near rivers.

Wet season (roughly May–October)

Higher humidity and frequent afternoon showers; landscapes become lush, but plan for rain gear and potential travel delays.

Nightlife Guide

Sarare at Night

In Sarare, nightlife tends to be modest, centered on cafes and riverside social scenes. Many venues close by late evening, with family-friendly gathering spots and occasional informal music or dancing in community spaces.

Hiking in Sarare

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Rural River Trail

Scenic hiking along the Sarare riverbank with farmland views and forested sections.

Cerro Vista Lookout

Easy to moderate hike to a high viewpoint overlooking the valley and river bend.

Airports

How to reach Sarare by plane.

Barquisimeto International Airport (BRM)

Primary international gateway for the region; typically a 1.5–2 hour drive to Sarare by road.

Simón Bolívar International Airport (CAR)

Caracas gateway for international flights; used when regional options are limited, though it involves a longer road or air transfer.

Getting Around

Walkability

Sarare is walkable within town limits, with markets, plazas, and riverfront paths; longer trips require bus or taxi.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Mestizo and rural communities

Most residents are of mixed ancestry with rural traditions; communities vary by neighborhood and region.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

The most popular sport; local teams and informal games are common in plazas and fields.

Transportation

Traffic

Roads around Sarare can be narrow and winding; public transport exists but is limited outside major towns. Taxis or private car hires are common for longer trips.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Sarare.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian options exist (beans, plantains, fresh curries, arepas with cheese). Communicate clearly with vendors and consider homespun meals with beans and rice.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities are limited in town; for major medical care, travelers should go to Barquisimeto or larger cities with hospitals. Carry travel insurance and access to private clinics.

Discover Venezuela

Read more in our Venezuela 2025 Travel Guide.

Venezuela Travel Guide