Caroní

The Caroní is a major river in eastern Venezuela, located primarily in Bolívar state. It is one of the principal tributaries of the Orinoco and plays a central role in the hydrology and economy of the region due to its volume and the hydroelectric facilities built along its course.

The river originates in the Gran Sabana, part of the Guayana Shield, and flows through the Guayana region toward the city area of Ciudad Guayana. Its lower course runs northeast into the Orinoco river system, with its confluence near the conurbation of Puerto Ordaz and San Félix.

A defining feature of the Caroní is its role as a site for hydroelectric development. The Guri Dam, also known as Raúl Leoni, creates the Lago de Guri and supplies a substantial portion of Venezuela’s electricity. Additional hydroelectric installations on the river include the Macagua and Caruachi dams, which are part of the larger hydroelectric complex that supports Ciudad Guayana and the national grid.

Ecologically, the Caroní basin encompasses diverse tropical environments within the Guayana region, including parts of Canaima National Park and surrounding rainforest and tepui landscapes. Economically, the river supports industry and mining activities in the Ciudad Guayana area and underpins the country’s power generation infrastructure. Environmental management of the river faces challenges related to dam-related impacts, sedimentation, and water quality, balanced against its importance for energy production and regional development.