Queniquea

Queniquea is a mountain settlement in Táchira state, Venezuela, situated at roughly 1,600 meters elevation across rugged terrain. The area is organized into eight distinct villages, including Colinas de Queniquea, La Blanca, La Colorada, La Pérez, Machado, and Santa Filomena.

Father Casimiro Mora founded the settlement in 1808, which later became the capital of Sucre Municipality within Táchira state. This establishment marked an important step in the administrative organization of the mountain region.

The settlement's identity centers on coffee cultivation, with local farmers using time-honored growing methods suited to the mountain conditions. This agricultural practice shapes daily life and the appearance of the surrounding landscape.

The mountainous terrain requires careful navigation when moving between the eight villages, so suitable footwear and transport are essential. The elevation means visitors should prepare for cooler temperatures and changeable weather conditions typical of high-altitude areas.

Archaeological excavations near Colinas de Queniquea uncovered evidence of advanced agricultural communities dating back to 300 BC when discovered in 1991. This finding reveals that the region was inhabited long before its formal establishment as a Spanish colonial settlement.