Venezuelan Llanos

The Venezuelan Llanos are vast grasslands in northern South America, primarily in Venezuela and extending into Colombia. This region is characterized by elevations rarely exceeding 1,000 feet (300 meters) and is drained by the Orinoco River and its tributaries. The Llanos experience distinct wet and dry seasons, with annual precipitation concentrated between April and November.1

The landscape is largely treeless savanna, featuring swamp grasses in low-lying areas and longer grasses in drier zones. Seasonal flooding is common in the lower plains. Wildlife includes various deer, rabbits, anteaters, armadillos, tapirs, jaguars, and capybaras.1

Economically, the Llanos have long been central to cattle ranching. Since the mid-20th century, small-scale farming has also developed. The region's economic significance has been further boosted by oil fields in western Venezuela. The Orinoco River itself flows through much of the Llanos, with its basin covering a significant portion of Venezuela and Colombia.12