Rivas Davila brings together two highland destinations with different natural attractions. Páramo La Negra lies at elevations starting from 2,600 meters in the western part of the Municipio and within Parque Nacional Batallón y la Negra. Páramo de Morillo is located at 2,800 meters in Sector Nieto within Municipio Rivas Dávila and features two waterfalls with distinct shapes. La Negra’s high elevation and park designation thus complement Morillo’s waterfall landscape as two distinct focuses for trip planning.
Highlands and protected areas
The Veriguaca–Páramo La Negra sector is designated as a nature restoration zone within Parque Nacional Gral. Juan Pablo Peñalosa. Páramo de Morillo in Sector Nieto is considered an ABRAE for the protection of biodiversity, ecological balance, flora and fauna species, and watersheds. In addition to the high elevations, different conservation priorities are therefore in focus: nature restoration in the aforementioned sector and the protection of biodiversity and watersheds at Morillo. Each designation applies to its specified location.
The waterfalls at Páramo de Morillo
One of the waterfalls resembles a moss-covered brick wall. The second plunges 70 meters into a pool approximately 8 meters long and 6 meters wide. This places a striking description of its shape alongside specific measurements of the drop and pool: the resemblance to a brick wall describes one waterfall, while the height and pool measurements refer to the second.
The waterfalls lie outside the national park’s recreational areas and have not been developed for tourism. Access is on foot along a 7 km route, which is said to take about five hours; an escort by park rangers is required. This makes a visit a dedicated excursion with a clearly stated time commitment, not a casual stop. Before making specific plans, confirm whether a visit is possible and how the required escort can be arranged.
The Ruta Turística de las Flores
The Ruta Turística de las Flores offers another regional perspective. Municipio Rivas Dávila launched the project on October 28, 2024; it was jointly supported by agricultural and flower producers and the national government. Its aim was to promote tourism in the region and highlight its natural and cultural resources. The producers’ involvement connects the initiative with agricultural and floral themes. If you would like to include the Ruta in your plans, check in advance how it is currently being implemented.
In the wider destination of Mérida
For expeditions and mountaineering ascents to the glacial peaks of the Sierra Nevada, registration and monitoring are required in the wider destination of Mérida. Check INPARQUES’ current procedures before undertaking such an excursion.
If Morillo is a key priority, confirm current access arrangements and how to organize the escort in advance. This will help you plan your accommodation around your preferred natural focus.
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