The delta region covers Barrancas and Piacoa. The Atlantic coast forms its base, 165 mi (275 km) long between Pedernales and the Gulf of Pariah to the north, and Punta Barima and the Amacuro to the south, currently extending 12,000 sq mi (30,000 sq km), is still growing in size. Fluctuating in size and depth are the Macareo, Sacupana, Araguao, Tucupita, Pedernales, Cocuima channels as well as a branch of the Grande river.
The delta of the Orinoco constantly changes as the river brings sediment to create and enlarge islands, change channels and waterways called caños. It is pushing out into the Atlantic ocean, but as the sediment gathers and spreads outwards, the weight of it creates the sinking that also changes the topography of the delta. Dredging keeps the main channels open for navigation, but in the back channels, where mangroves and vegetation are lush,
Tortola, Isla de Tigre and Mata-Mata are some of the better-known islands of the delta.
The Delta del Orinoco (Mariusa) in the delta covers 331000 hectares of forest, marshes, mangroves, varied flora and fauna. It is the home of the Warao tribe who continue their traditional lifestyle of hunter/fishers. The delta here is prone to extreme tidal action. Here too is the cueva del Guácharo, the cave with prehistoric petroglyphys discovered by Humboldt as he explored the area. Details of other parks and national monuments in the states of Monagas, Sucre y Delta Amacuro. (see map)
Camps and lodges located in the area give visitors the opportunity to explore the cañas by small boat, fish, enjoy the flora nd fauna and go birding.
