Vargas state

Vargas is an administrative state along the Venezuelan Caribbean coast, stretching between sea and mountains and forming the gateway to El Ávila National Park. The coastline connects beach settlements with steep slopes that rise quickly from sea level to forested heights.

The territory became Venezuela's 23rd state in 1998 through an administrative reform that separated it from the capital district. In December 1999, heavy rains and landslides reshaped the coastal landscape and led to the rebuilding of many settlements.

In Naiguatá and other coastal towns, masked groups dance to drums during the devils celebrations, a tradition that blends African and Catholic customs. Fishermen head out in small boats early in the morning and sell their catch directly on the beach, while families gather in simple restaurants to share seafood dishes.

The coastal road connects settlements along the sea and provides access to beaches, while mountain trails lead to hikes into higher elevations. Simón Bolívar International Airport is located in Maiquetía and serves as the main hub for flights to Venezuela.

The steep slopes between coast and mountain ridge form one of the shortest transitions from sea level to over 2000 meters (6500 feet) in the Caribbean. In some places, you can climb from the beach to cloud forests with completely different temperatures and vegetation in just a few hours.

Location: Venezuela

Inception: 1589

Capital city: La Guaira

Elevation above the sea: 1,110 m

Shares border with: Aragua, Miranda, Capital District

Website: http://estadovargas.gov.ve

GPS coordinates: 10.56667,-66.86667

Latest update: December 15, 2025 11:05