General Juan Pablo Peñaloza National Park Facts for Kids

Quick facts for kids General Juan Pablo Peñaloza National Park Parque Nacional General Juan Pablo Peñaloza
IUCN Category II (National Park)
Grande Lagoon, General Juan Pablo Peñaloza National Park
General Juan Pablo Peñaloza National Park Parque Nacional General Juan Pablo Peñaloza Location in Venezuela
Location	Venezuela
Area	752 km² (290 sq mi)
Established	January 18, 1989 (1989-01-18)

The General Juan Pablo Peñaloza National Park is a special place in Venezuela. It is also known as the Páramos Batallón y La Negra National Park. This park is made up of several high-altitude areas called páramos. These páramos, especially Batallón and La Negra, are very important because they provide a lot of fresh water.

The park is located between the states of Mérida and Táchira. You can find it in the northwest part of the Táchira Depression. It was officially created on January 18, 1989, to protect its unique environment.

About the Park
- Mountains and Lagoons
- Important Rivers
Gallery
See also

About the Park

This national park covers a large area of 752 square kilometers. It is a land of tall mountains and deep valleys. The park's elevation ranges from about 1,800 meters (5,900 feet) to 3,942 meters (12,933 feet) above sea level.

Mountains and Lagoons

The highest point in the park is El Pulpito peak. This peak is also the highest in the Táchira state. The park's landscape is very rugged, with many steep slopes. You can even see signs of old glaciers in some areas.

One of the most amazing features of the park is its many lagoons. There are more than 130 of these beautiful lakes. They were formed by ancient glaciers. Some of the biggest and most well-known lagoons include the Bobo River Lagoon (also called Babu), Grande Lagoon, Verde Lagoon, Negra Lagoon, and Piedra Lagoon. Many other smaller lagoons are still waiting to be officially named.

Important Rivers

The General Juan Pablo Peñaloza National Park is like a giant natural water tower. Many important rivers start their journey here. These rivers provide water for people and wildlife in the surrounding areas.

Some of the main rivers that begin in the park are:

Uribante River
Escalante River
La Grita River
Mocotíes River
El Molino River
Torbes River
Orope River
Umuquena River
Bobo River
Pereña River
Quebrada Grande

The park's waters also feed the Uribante-Caparo hydroelectric complex. This complex uses the power of water to create electricity for many homes and businesses. Protecting this park helps ensure that these important water sources stay clean and flowing.