Cayo Sombrero, Caribbean island in Morrocoy National Park, Venezuela.
Cayo Sombrero is a small island within Morrocoy National Park, on the Caribbean coast of Venezuela, surrounded by shallow water and coral reefs. The land itself is narrow and flat, with open sandy beaches on one side and sheltered coves with calmer water on the other.
The island became part of Morrocoy National Park in 1974, when Venezuela placed the surrounding marine area under formal protection. Before that, it was mainly visited by fishermen from nearby coastal villages who used the reefs for their daily work.
The name Cayo Sombrero means "hat island" in Spanish, likely referring to the rounded shape the land forms when seen from above. Small food stalls and vendors along the beach sell freshly grilled fish and cold drinks, which is how most visitors eat during the day.
The island is only reachable by boat, with departures from Tucacas or Chichiriviche depending on where you are staying. Bring sun protection and enough drinking water, since shade is limited on the island and the heat on open water can be strong.
A natural saltwater lake hidden by dense mangroves sits in the northern part of the island, largely out of reach for most visitors. Colonies of water birds nest there, making it a separate world from the open beaches just a short walk away.
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