The route that im Thurn and Perkins used to reach the summit was the natural ramp on Roraima’s west face — a geological feature where the cliff is interrupted by a broad angled slope of rock debris that provides a walkable ascent to the plateau rim.

This ramp, which exists because of a geological fault that created a break in the cliff structure, is still the standard route used by trekkers today.

It is not a technical climb requiring specialized equipment — it is a steep walk over rocky and sometimes muddy terrain, but it does not require rope work or climbing skills.

The approach to the base of the cliffs from the Gran Sabana typically takes two to three days on foot, following a trail through the lowland forests and savannas and crossing several rivers.

The ascent of the ramp from the base of the cliffs to the summit plateau adds several more hours.