Guri Dam

Guri Dam is a dam and hydroelectric power station in Bolívar State, Venezuela, stretching across 1,300 meters (4,265 feet) in length. The associated reservoir covers an area of roughly 4,250 square kilometers (1,641 square miles) and forms the largest artificial body of water in the country.

Construction work on the facility began in 1963 and the first phase was completed in 1969. Major expansions followed between 1976 and 1986, significantly increasing the power station capacity.

The central dam takes its name from independence leader Simón Bolívar and stands as a symbol of technical progress in the region. Local communities often call the water body simply Guri and draw much of their electricity from this facility.

The reservoir sits in a tropical region with frequent rainfall, so visiting during drier months offers better visibility. The facility is accessible, but visitors should note that it is an active power station with restricted areas.

The reservoir ranks among the largest artificial blackwater lakes worldwide and maintains a constant water level at 215 meters (705 feet) above sea level. This dark coloring comes from organic matter in the surrounding rainforest dissolving into the water.

Location: Bolívar

Inception: 1978

Length: 1,300 m

GPS coordinates: 7.76944,-62.98861

Latest update: December 13, 2025 16:01