Angostura Bridge: History, Facts and the Best Place to See It in Ciudad Bolívar

The Angostura Bridge is the suspension bridge that crosses the Orinoco River at Ciudad Bolívar, linking Bolívar state with Anzoátegui state. It opened on 6 January 1967, runs 1,678 metres end to end, and its central span between the two main towers is 712 metres. Until the Second Orinoco Crossing opened near Ciudad Guayana in November 2006, it was the only bridge over the river.

You do not need to go far to see it: from the historic centre and the Paseo Orinoco waterfront it sits across the river, and sunset is the best moment. This guide covers what is known for certain, where the name comes from, and how to fit it into a walk.

Why it is called Angostura

*Angostura* means «narrows»: the place where the Orinoco tightens. It was the city's name until 1846, when it became Ciudad Bolívar, and it is the same name as the Congress of Angostura of 1819, where Simón Bolívar gave his famous speech. The bridge keeps the old name as a tribute to that history.

At this stretch the Orinoco narrows to roughly 800 metres wide, as described in our guide to the historic centre on foot. That narrowness is why the city settled here and why a crossing made sense.

Key facts

• Type: suspension bridge over the Orinoco River.
• Opened: 6 January 1967.
• Total length: 1,678 metres.
• Central span: 712 metres between the main towers.
• Role: connects Ciudad Bolívar (Bolívar state) with the Soledad area (Anzoátegui state), and links the Guayana region to the rest of the country by road.
• History: the only bridge over the Orinoco until November 2006.

Where to see it best

From the Paseo Orinoco. The riverside promenade is the most natural spot: walk along the water and the bridge frames the view. It is a short stroll from Plaza Bolívar and the Casa del Congreso.

At sunset. Low light over the Orinoco is the bridge's photo moment. Arrive early; the heat of the day eases by then.

From the viewpoints of the historic centre. Heading up toward the Mirador Angostura or the Fortaleza El Zamuro area gives you perspective over river and city. Opening times and access vary, so ask at the front desk before you go.

Do not walk across the bridge or stop on the roadway to take photos: it carries heavy traffic. Enjoy it from the riverbank.

An afternoon plan

1. Start at the Casa del Congreso de Angostura, facing the plaza.

2. Stroll the historic centre following our 48 hours in Ciudad Bolívar route.

3. Finish on the Paseo Orinoco as the light falls over the river and the bridge.

4. If you have time left, try local food: sapoara, Guayana cheese and merey sweets, in where to eat in Ciudad Bolívar.

If you stay the night

Hotel Laja City is at Av. Bolívar cruce con Av. Táchira, Ciudad Bolívar, Bolívar state. It has a 24-hour front desk, and parking, WiFi, smart TV and complimentary afternoon coffee are included in every rate, with rooms from USD 60 a night. There is a cafeteria but no restaurant.

For one person or a couple, the double-bed room; for travelling with a colleague or friend, the twin room. We book over WhatsApp at +58 414 8995993; payment is by bank transfer, Pago Móvil or cash on arrival. We do not accept credit or debit cards.

See all rooms or check availability.