A natural corner in the concrete jungle

I remember that since I was little, I had never paid much attention to this park, known as Leofling Park. I usually went with my family to the most popular parks in the city of Puerto Ordaz, Venezuela, such as Cachanay Park and La Llovizna Park. Although all of these parks are relatively close, you can even walk around them all if you know the paths well and have enough time. But now I see that Leofling Park has great potential; it has its own beauty and countless vantage points that offer wonderful views. A wide variety of plant and animal species, this place naturally serves as a refuge for many animals that still remain in the area after the city's growth.

Until about two years ago, when my wife and I returned to the city of Puerto Ordaz, I began taking these tours through Leofling Park. Initially, I was a little afraid of any eventuality that might happen. It's important to keep in mind that these forests or jungle areas still contain dangerous animals, such as ocelots (cranberries) and even wild boars. Although their sightings aren't as frequent, it's always important to be alert because I often hear some of these animals from a distance. However, these animals can be dangerous, as can some poisonous snakes.

But even these aren't obstacles to continuing to visit this park, where I've been able to take countless photos of various species of trees and plants, the views of all the rushing waters between waterfalls, and the Caroní River, the main river that runs through this park. It's a river that stretches far enough to reach other, more distant towns in Bolívar state. In short, it's a variety of natural elements that can be appreciated by all those who visit these places; it's a whole universe and paradise in two cities.

However, this park, despite its great appeal, isn't very crowded. At certain points along its paths, some people pass by for physical activity, but from other points where you can access other rivers, pools, lagoons, and other places, you rarely see people, with the exception of some local fishermen who usually go to catch some fish, which at certain times of the season can be very profitable for the river.

For any international or national tourist, when they visit the city, they usually visit La Llovizna Park. Of course, it's the one with the most publicity and boasts great spots like waterfalls and an entire ecotourism complex throughout the park. However, as I mentioned before, Leofling Park also has its own potential, amidst all its beauty, in addition to the fact that it hosts a whole host of life among species of local animals and striking plants. Perhaps it's better that it's not so crowded, so that it's better preserved, because humans can be so reckless that they destroy or contaminate everything in their path. But these places also serve as examples of necessary environmental education, as well as points of reference for understanding the natural habitat and its importance to the ecosystem as a whole. I hope to return soon to make more visits to stay connected to this park and learn more about every corner of its surroundings.

All photographs are my own.