Laguna de Urao, Natural salt lake in Lagunillas, Venezuela

Laguna de Urao is a natural saltwater reservoir of tectonic origin in the semi-arid landscape near Lagunillas, about 870 metres long with an average depth of 5 metres. Its water carries salts and sediments from underground sources, which concentrate as the mineral urao (sodium sesquicarbonate).

A Spanish explorer named Juan Rodriguez Xuarez encountered this lake in 1558 during an expedition through the Venezuelan Andes. This discovery led to the founding of the nearby settlement of Lagunillas, which developed around the lake's resources.

Local communities have traditionally used this lake for salt extraction, which they mixed with tobacco to create chimo, a consumption product still recognized in the region today.

The lake sits in a dry region, so bring water and sun protection if you plan to spend time here. Early morning or late afternoon visits are more comfortable, as temperatures are milder during these times.

The lake's indigenous name was Yohama, though the source also records Yamuén. Local legends say spirits demand sacrifices to stay calm, a giant serpent guards the waters, and the lagoon once flew from the Andean páramos to settle here.