José Miguel Pérez-Gómez is a Venezuelan explorer and archaeologist, currently an associated researcher at the Direccion de Cultura, at Universidad Simon Bolivar in Venezuela, specializing in both terrestrial and underwater archaeology. Over the course of his career, he has led more than 100 expeditions to the remote and uncharted regions of southern Venezuela, uncovering significant archaeological and geographical sites. Among his most notable achievements are navigating the vast Orinoco and Caroní rivers, retracing Humboldt’s route along the Casiquiare Canal to its confluence with the Negro River, and exploring remote areas like the Maturacá channels, the high Siapa River plateau, and the isolated regions of Tamacuari peak and Cerro de la Neblina. He was also a pioneer in discovering the first quartzite cave on Mount Roraima, and one of the first divers to explore submerged cave systems in Venezuela.

Driven by an unwavering passion for exploration and discovery, José Miguel has dedicated his life to uncovering the hidden histories of ancient cultures. His approach combines the rigor of traditional fieldwork with cutting-edge technologies such as satellite remote sensing and virtual reconstructions. This unique blend allows him to bring the past to life in innovative ways, revealing previously unknown details of South American prehistory. His goal extends beyond personal achievement; he aims to inspire future generations of explorers and archaeologists by combining the thrill of discovery with a deep commitment to preserving the world cultural heritage. His work has not only enriched our understanding of ancient landscapes and human activity in southern Venezuela but also exemplifies how exploration and archaeology, when intertwined, and blended with technology, can open new windows into the past, connecting it with the present and the future. Through his expeditions, José Miguel continues to push the boundaries of what is known, bringing to light the untold stories of the past hidden in some of the most remote corners of the world.