Snapshot: The Lost World of Mount Roraima

On some days, it ascends into the heavens, peeking in and out of clouds to create an other-worldly landscape. On a clear day, Mount Roraima cuts an unusual picture, a wide expanse of Table Mountain that straddles the borders of Venezuela, Brazil and Guyana.

The mountain got its name from the word ‘Roroi-ma’, which means the “Big Blue-Green” in the Pemon (the indigenous people of South America) language. Some parts of Mount Roraima are believed to make up the oldest geological formations on earth, going back two billion years.

From far, the plateaued top rising above jagged cliffs paints a surreal image. When near, it’s an intimidating sight, rising sharply to an impressive height of over 9,000 feet (2,810 meters). That’s the height of over six Empire State Buildings. It’s little wonder Mount Roraima provides the perfect inspiration for Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s classic novel The Lost World in 1912. In his story, he envisioned prehistoric animals and cavemen gallivanting atop the summit. That’s not quite the case in reality, but that gives you an idea of how primeval the mountain appears. Scientists labelled the mountain “islands in time”, having discovered species that evolved in utter isolation on these mountain top over centuries.

You can find unique wildlife at the top, with its unusual environmental conditions. It rains almost daily at Mount Roraima, and with its surface mostly covered in bare sandstone, few vegetation can survive the harsh conditions. Erosion at the top led to creation of ponds dotted on the plateau with pools of crystalline water, and with sporadic pink sands scattered around the area, the top of the Table mountain is a sight to behold on its own. Add the panoramic views of the surroundings, Mount Roraima offers us dreamy landscapes we’ve only read of.

You can visit this spectacular table mountain from Venezuela. Hiking is a must, Mount Roraima has one of the most breath-taking trails in the world. You get to the Pemon Village in Paraitepui by buses or shuttles from the Santa Elenta town. Then you’re all set to go. Before that though, you’d need to make advanced reservations at the village, at least 4 days prior to avoid disappointment. The indigenous people will be your tour guides for a token sum.

Tip: Always start your hike in the morning. Trekking is not allowed after 2pm.

Before the hike, a bag check will be conducted to ensure you don’t over carry, you can’t haul anything above 15 kilos for your safety. Pack wisely, take only the essentials. You can camp overnight at the top of the mountain, which you might wish to consider because then you can soak in the sunset, with golden flecks casting a magical sheen over the mountains and cliffs around you. Then wake up to catch the sunrise and marvel at how the skies change from a deep, dark blue into a light pink hue with plenty of colors in between.

Tip: the weather at the top of the mountain can get freezing at night, pack something thick and warm.

Mount Roraima is called The Lost World for its natural, untouched beauty. To be able to catch a glimpse of the fascinating landscapes the Table Mountain provides makes the hike up all worthwhile

Is Mount Roraima on your bucket list?

Picture Source: Wikipedia