travel brochure venezuela

Introducing Venezuela

About venezuela.

• Images of Venezuela
• History, language & culture
• Weather & geography
• Doing business & staying in touch

Plan your trip

• Travel to Venezuela
• Where to stay

While you’re there

• Things to see & do
• Shopping & nightlife
• Food & drink
• Getting around

Before you go

• Passport & visa
• Public Holidays
• Money & duty free

Book your flights

• Caracas Simón Bolívar International Airport

Cruise Locations

• Isla Margarita

Venezuela travel guide

With its reputation for violence and political instability, many travellers opt to give Venezuela a wide berth. But those brave enough to visit this feisty South American nation will discover a country of extraordinary diversity and abundant natural beauty; a land of lofty Andean peaks, mysterious Lost World plateaus, wildlife rich rainforests, vibrant cities and idyllic Caribbean islands. At the heart of all this lies Caracas, Venezuela’s thronging capital. A hotchpotch of hillside favelas, crumbling colonial buildings and glistening skyscrapers, the city has much to offer visitors; there’s a fine collection of museums, galleries and historic monuments, not to mention a pulsating nightlife. Even the food’s good, nowadays. But for all its appeal, most of Venezuela’s attractions lie beyond the capital city, hidden away in national parks and reserves which cover an impressive 40% of the country.

The lush tropical lowlands of Los Llanos harbour abundant wildlife, with eco-conscious  hatos (ranches) offering safaris to view caiman, puma, anaconda, capybara, hundreds of birds and much more. Then there are the table-top mountains of the Guyana Highlands, whose summits loom over golden savannahs and bristle with prehistoric flora and fauna. These towering peaks spawn dramatic waterfalls, including the awesome Angel Falls, officially the world’s highest.

Those with an appetite for adventure can be sated with an excursion into the virgin rainforest of Amazonas, Venezuela’s least-visited region, where indigenous communities cling onto traditional lives in the jungle. Alternatively, head to Mérida to tackle the soaring Andean peaks or go piranha fishing in the Orinoco, South America’s second longest river, which empties into the wildlife-rich wetlands of the Orinoco Delta.

Beyond that, the clear waters of the Caribbean lap onto Venezuela’s stunning coastline, where numerous offshore islands provide ample opportunities for reef diving, partying and pandering to pleasure. Amongst them the Los Roques archipelago, which is the epitome of Caribbean island idyll and a very long way from the unsavoury headlines of the mainland.

912,050 sq km (352,144 sq miles).

31,518,855 (UN estimate 2016).

32.1 per sq km.

Interim-President Juan Guaidó since 2019.

Travel Advice

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Areas where FCDO advises against travel

Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against FCDO advice.

Within 80km of the Venezuela-Colombia border 

FCDO advises against all travel to within 80km (50 miles) of the border with Colombia. Drug traffickers and illegal armed groups are active along the border area with Colombia and there is a risk of criminal kidnapping.

Zulia State

FCDO advises against all travel to Zulia State, which has prolonged power cuts, water shortages, violence and local conflict.

Within 40km of the Venezuela-Brazil border

FCDO advises against all travel to within 40km (25 miles) of the border with Brazil. Drug traffickers and illegal armed groups are active along the border area with Brazil and there is a risk of criminal kidnapping.

All other areas of Venezuela

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the remaining areas of Venezuela, due to ongoing crime and instability.

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide and see support for British nationals abroad for information about specific travel topics.

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

This advice reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Venezuela set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Venezuelan Embassy in the UK (in Spanish).

COVID-19 rules 

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Venezuela.

Passport validity requirements

To enter Venezuela, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you plan to leave.

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

If you’re a resident in Venezuela, your passport must be valid at the time of your arrival. Your residence visa or permit must also be valid.

Visa requirements

If you arrive by air, you can stay for up to 90 days visa-free on a ‘tourist card’, issued on arrival. You must show your return or onward travel ticket.

If you’re arriving overland or by sea, you may need to get a visa in advance. Contact the nearest Venezuelan embassy or consulate  for advice.

You can apply for an extension of up to 90 days before your tourist card and entry stamp expire. Apply and pay the fee at any SAIME (immigration service) office (in Spanish). If you live in Venezuela, you must apply at the main regional SAIME office of the state where you are living.

If you overstay your allowed time, you may be arrested and fined when leaving Venezuela.       

Dual nationality

If you’re a Venezuelan dual national, you must use your Venezuelan identity documents for entry and departure of the country. The authorities may not allow you to depart Venezuela if you are not in possession of a valid Venezuelan passport, as required by law.

Travelling with children   

Children travelling unaccompanied, with a guardian, or with one parent, must provide a travel permit from the non-travelling parent(s). This permit is available from the nearest local SAREN (Servicio Autónomo de Registros y Notarías) office, or the respective Court for Children and Adolescents.

If the child is resident overseas, you can get the permit from the nearest Venezuelan embassy or consulate .

The child should carry this travel permit while travelling within the country and also at time of departure from Venezuela. Children may be denied exit from the country otherwise.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Venezuela guide .

Depending on your circumstances, this may include a yellow fever certificate.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Venezuela (in Spanish). You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

You must declare any goods, including personal luggage, worth more than 1,000 US dollars. You may have to pay import tax if your goods appear to be new.

Taking money into Venezuela

Declare cash or travellers cheques worth 10,000 US dollars or more when entering Venezuela. You must pay tax on the excess.

Local banknotes are in short supply. Most people use card payments, bank transfers and US dollars instead. You may need to attempt debit or credit card transactions several times due to poor connectivity.  

If you find your bank cards do not work, you can arrange for friends and family overseas to deposit funds through Western Union and pick up the deposited funds at any Grupo Zoom branch.

You should also read FCDO ’s overall travel advice and regional risks advice .

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. You should remain vigilant at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad .

Terrorism in Venezuela

Terrorist attacks in Venezuela cannot be ruled out.

Political and economic situation  

The UK does not accept the legitimacy of the current administration put in place by Nicolás Maduro. National presidential elections are due to be held in 2024.

Basic public services including health care and security, and the supply of electricity, water and fuel, have deteriorated in the last decade. Prolonged power cuts affect living conditions and cut mobile networks and internet. There are serious shortages of everyday essentials. Consider storing tinned food and water.

Avoid political rallies and demonstrations, as they may turn violent and the police and army use tear gas and buckshot to control crowds. Monitor developments closely and keep up to date with this travel advice.

Commercial flights to and from Venezuela remain very limited. Caracas International Airport is often affected during power failures, causing what few flights there are to be delayed or cancelled. Keep in close contact with your airline or travel agent to see if your flight is affected.

Venezuela has one of the highest murder rates in the world. Armed robbery, mugging, carjacking and burglary are all very common and often accompanied by extreme violence. Do not resist an attacker. Remain alert and avoid displaying electronics or valuables while on the street or in a vehicle.

Private security services are becoming standard for business and official visitors and residents. Armoured vehicles are commonly used in Caracas, especially after dark and for transport to and from the airport.

Avoid public transport. A number of robberies at gunpoint have taken place on the Caracas metro. There are regular reports of passengers being robbed on public buses.

Use pre-booked taxis only. Hotels will normally book a taxi from a reputable company or supply their own service.

Laws and cultural differences

Personal id.

Always carry identification with you. You can carry copies of the photo page of your passport and your entry stamp. Keep your passport in a safe place where you can access it quickly if you need to. Local security forces may ask you to show ID at any time, particularly at police checkpoints. If you cannot produce it, you could be arrested and detained pending an investigation.

Illegal drugs and prison sentences

Drug trafficking is a serious crime in Venezuela. Detection methods are sophisticated, and drug traffickers should expect to be arrested. Conviction leads to a lengthy prison sentence of between 8 and 15 years. Conditions in Venezuelan jails are harsh and dangerous, and among the worst in the region.

Using cameras and binoculars in secure areas

It is illegal to photograph military or strategic installations, including military airports and the presidential palace. Avoid plane spotting.

Networks and internet

Internet service is generally slow as high speed connections are not widely available. Mobile network operators run modern 4G (LTE) networks in most major cities, while they also operate slower legacy 3G (WCDMA) networks for their nationwide voice and data services.

Power cuts can affect mobile signals and internet across the whole country, including Caracas. Keep in contact with your airline or travel agent as flights can be delayed or cancelled when there are power cuts.   

LGBT+ travellers

Same-sex relationships are not illegal. However, showing affection in public will most likely be frowned on by locals and may draw negative attention from the police and other security forces. Venezuelan law does not recognise same-sex partnerships, so same-sex partners have no rights as next of kin.

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers .

Age of consent

The age of consent in Venezuela is 18 and sex with anyone 17 and under is illegal. Offenders face long jail sentences.

Outdoor activities

Swimming safety.

The waters of the Caribbean can be deceptive. There are strong currents and undertows in some areas that can make swimming hazardous. Lifeguards and warnings are not normally in place.

Transport risks     

Travelling to and from maiquetia airport, caracas.

Be especially vigilant around Maiquetia airport as this is a known hotspot for criminal activity, from low-level pickpocketing to armed robberies. You could be targeted at the arrival or departure terminals, at the airport’s car park and during travel to or from the airport. If you show signs of wealth this could lead to targeting by criminals. 

You are at most risk when travelling to and from the airport at night. There have been armed robberies on buses on this route. Ideally, arrange for friends, business contacts or your tour operator to meet you at the airport. If that’s not possible, consider travelling by licensed taxi from the official taxi rank outside the arrivals hall. Do not accept offers of transport in the arrivals hall and do not get into a taxi if there are passengers already in the car. 

The National Guard carries out random drug and security checks at Maiquetia Airport, particularly on departure. Departing passengers are sometimes asked to accompany an officer to a local hospital for an X-ray. Beware of bogus security officials. If you’re in any doubt ask other airline or airport staff.

Road travel

If you are planning to drive a hire car or a UK vehicle, see information on driving abroad .

You can use a UK photocard driving licence to drive in Venezuela for up to one year, and after that you will need a Venezuelan driving licence. If you still have a paper driving licence, you may need to update it to a photocard licence or get the correct version of the international driving permit (IDP) as well.

Heavy rains and lack of maintenance can affect road conditions. Get local advice about your route before you set out, leave plenty of time for your journey and keep to the main roads. Avoid travelling after dark. All vehicles must carry a spare tyre, wheel block, jack and reflector triangle.

Fuel shortages are common across all parts of the country. You must pay a set amount of US dollars for the amount of fuel you need, rather than simply filling up the tank. Pay the correct price, as petrol stations do not usually give any change. You should check the local situation ahead of any travel.

There are regular police and National Guard checkpoints throughout the country. Drive slowly through these and stop if asked. There have been reports of attempts by the police and National Guard to extract bribes for traffic offences, so ask for a written record giving details of the offence and the officer’s details.

Driving under the influence of alcohol is illegal but common, especially at weekends. Many vehicles are in poor condition and drivers routinely ignore red lights.

If you’re in a traffic accident, you must stay at the scene until the traffic police arrive. Police can seize your vehicle if you cannot show them your insurance documents, driving licence and passport. You can show a copy of your passport as long as you can show both the photo page and the entry stamp. Insurance companies will not pay claims on vehicles that have been moved without a police accident report.

The UK Air Safety List ( ASL ) lists all known airlines in Venezuela that do not meet international safety standards and are banned from operating commercial air services to and from the UK. Check the ASL when considering which airlines to fly with. The list is maintained by the Department for Transport, based on advice from the UK Civil Aviation Authority . The UK Civil Aviation Authority .

Check whether your tour operator has concerns about airlines in Venezuela.

There have been incidents of piracy and armed robbery in and around Venezuela’s waters, especially east of Puerto La Cruz and in waters between Venezuela and Trinidad and Tobago. Avoid these areas if possible, or follow advice for British nationals on piracy and armed robbery at sea .

Extreme weather and natural disasters

The hurricane season runs from June to November and affects parts of northern Venezuela. Follow the weather reports on local TV and radio. You can also monitor weather updates online from the  World Meteorological Organization  and the  US National Hurricane Center . Always follow the advice of the local authorities.

During the rainy season from May to November there may be flooding in low-lying areas (for example, the Llanos) and in some valleys in the Andes, mainly in Merida State. There may be disruption to transport, services and infrastructure.

Earthquakes

There is a risk of earthquakes in Venezuela. These are mostly tremors but there are occasionally more serious quakes. Monitor media reports and follow the advice of the local authorities. The US Federal Emergency Management Agency website has advice about what to do before, during and after an earthquake .

This section has safety advice for regions of Venezuela. It only covers regions where FCDO has specific advice.  

You should also read FCDO ’s overall travel advice and safety and security advice .  

Within 80km of the Venezuela-Colombia border

FCDO advises against all travel to within 80km (50 miles) of the border with Colombia. Drug traffickers and illegal armed groups are active along the border area with Colombia and there is a risk of criminal kidnapping. Crossing the border from Colombia can be a lengthy process.

FCDO advises against all travel to Zulia State, which borders Colombia and is subject to prolonged power cuts, water shortages, violence and local conflict.

FCDO advises against all travel to within 40km (25 miles) of the border with Brazil. Drug traffickers and illegal armed groups are active along the border area with Brazil and there is a risk of criminal kidnapping. Crossing the border from Brazil can be a lengthy process.

Check the situation ahead of any travel to Canaima National Park and the Gran Sabana area of Bolívar State. Occasionally, protests by locals have led to the closure, sometimes for days, of Canaima airport. Main road closures may include parts of Road 10 between El Callao and the Venezuela-Brazil border. 

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the remaining areas of Venezuela. Almost all states outside Caracas are experiencing increased crime and instability, including prolonged power cuts as well as water and fuel shortages and a general lack of essential services.

During power cuts or in an unstable security situation, the British Embassy may be limited in the assistance that it can provide.

Before you travel check that:

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a pre-existing health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Call 911 and ask for an ambulance.

Nationwide ambulance services like AeroAm  (in Spanish) can help you get back to Caracas or other major cities if you’re in an accident.

Contact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Vaccinations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip check:

• the latest information on recommended vaccinations and health risks in TravelHealthPro’s Venezuela guide – these include yellow fever, dengue and schistosomiasis (a parasitic infection)
• where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of Venezuela, mainly in the Andean region of the country: Mérida, Táchira and Trujillo states. Read more about altitude sickness on TravelHealthPro .

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro .

The NHS has information on whether you can take your medicine abroad .

The Venezuelan Pharmaceutical Federation has reported a shortage of 80% of medical supplies due to the economic crisis. Make sure you bring enough medication for your stay, including extra medication in case your return is delayed.

Healthcare facilities in Venezuela

Medical facilities in Venezuela vary widely in quality. In large cities, private clinics provide acceptable care for routine treatments but are vulnerable to acute shortages of medical supplies and medicines. More complex treatments may require evacuation. Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation.

Public health facilities are poor, with frequent shortages of medicines and funding. Ambulance services in remote areas are unreliable and hospitals often lack adequate medical supplies and equipment.

FCDO has a list of English-speaking doctors in Venezuela .

There is also guidance on healthcare if you’re living in Venezuela .

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health . There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro .

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.

Emergency services in Venezuela

Telephone: 911 (ambulance, fire, police)

Contact your travel provider and insurer

Contact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.

Refunds and changes to travel

For refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first.

Find out more about changing or cancelling travel plans , including:

• where to get advice if you are in a dispute with a provider
• how to access previous versions of travel advice to support a claim

Support from FCDO

FCDO has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:

• finding English-speaking  lawyers ,  funeral directors and  translators and interpreters
• dealing with a  death in Venezuela
• being  arrested or imprisoned in Venezuela
• getting help if you’re a victim of rape or sexual assault
• getting help if you’re a  victim of crime
• what to do if you’re  in hospital
• if you’re affected by a crisis , such as a terrorist attack

Contacting FCDO

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.

You can also contact FCDO online .

Help abroad in an emergency

If you’re in Venezuela and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the British Embassy in Caracas .

FCDO in London

You can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.

Telephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)

Find out about call charges

Risk information for British companies

The  Overseas Business Risk service  offers information and advice for British companies operating overseas on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.

Book a Hotel

© Columbus Travel Media Ltd. All rights reserved 2024

Venezuela Travel Guide

Your ultimate venezuela travel guide, with tips, and things to see and things to do in venezuela. great for first-time and returning travelers..

Rich with culture, history, and friendly locals, Venezuela is a chance to see something different.

Located on the northern coast of South America, it is filled with many white-sand beaches, blue waters, and natural wonders, making it a great getaway.

Fans of the outdoors will love Angel Falls, the highest waterfall in the world, or Pico Bolívar, the highest mountain in Venezuela.

As English is not spoken here as much, it presents a great opportunity to immerse yourself in a new language.

This Venezuela travel guide will help you plan your next vacation. 

Popular Guides

5 Unexpected Reasons to Visit Venezuela

Our Highlight

Table of contents

Table of Contents

Fast Facts about Venezuela

• Power voltage is 120V at 60 Hz.
• Venezuela’s currency is the Venezuelan Bolívar and 1 Bolívar is equal to 0.100125 USD.
• The best way to get around Venezuela is by taxi or bus.
• You will need to get a Venezuelan Tourist Visa prior to visiting, as well as a US passport valid for at least 6 months after your stay.
• Crime can and does happen here, so keep valuables close to you and avoid being out at night.
• Popular network providers in Venezuela include Digitel, Movilnet, and Movistar Mobile. Prepaid SIM cards can be purchased through any of these networks. Note that your phone needs to be unlocked in order to use a SIM card, meaning you will probably have to contact your current mobile provider to change your settings to unlocked.
• Venezuela has a sales tax rate of 16%.

Things to See and Do in Venezuela

• Canaima National Park:  Fans of natural wonders will love the Canaima National Park. Declared a World Heritage Site, this park is the sixth-biggest national park in the world and is full of beautiful landscapes, diverse fauna, table-top mountains, and cliffs. Points of interest include Angel Falls (the highest waterfall in the world) and Mount Roraima (the highest of the table-top mountains). This park also has camping spots.
• Parque El Agua:  Come see Venezuela’s first waterpark. Whether you want to relax in the lazy river or venture through numerous waterslides (including the 18-meters high Churun Meru), this is sure to be a fun day for the whole family.
• Morrocoy National Park:  Set on the Caribbean coast of Venezuela, this island is perfect for those looking for a getaway. Relax on white-sand beaches, explore numerous cays (including the very popular Cayo Sombrero), look for dolphins, whales and green sea turtles, and stroll through the nearby towns.
• National Pantheon of Venezuela:  Come learn more about Venezuela’s history at this landmark in Caracas. Created in 1870, this mausoleum is now a final resting place for many of the heroes of South America, and also contains historical works of art, including a four-thousand-piece crystal chandelier.
• Teleférico de Caracas:  Take a cable lift and enjoy beautiful aerial views of Caracas while you ride to the El Ávila Mountain. Once on top, explore the El Ávila National park, grab a bite to eat, or go to the skating rink.

Venezuela Travel Guides

• 32 of The Tallest Mountains in the World by Continent
• All You Need to know about the Top 10 Best Hikes in South America

Accommodation

Budget:  You can find some cheaper hotels at around 200 to 400 Bolívars per night. These hotels come with private rooms, Wi-Fi, and sometimes the hotel’s restaurant and bar. 

Mid-Range:  For mid-range hotels, expect to pay between 500 to 800 Bolívars per night and enjoy private rooms and suites, an outdoor pool, fitness centers, and one (or more) restaurants inside the hotel. 

High-End:  Upscale hotels can go from 1,000 to 2,500 Bolívars per night. Amenities include outdoor pools, saunas, massage and salon services, airport transportation, a gift shop, and banquet rooms.

Check out our favorite booking platforms Booking.com , Tripadvisor and VRBO for the best deals on accommodation.

The Best Ways to Get Around Venezuela

Getting to venezuela:.

Getting to Venezuela:  The Simón Bolívar International Airport is the main airport for getting to Caracas, the capital of Venezuela, and is just 13 miles from the city center. The La Chinita International Airport is an alternative airport located in Maracaibo (northwest Venezuela), and is just over 9 miles from the downtown area.

Flights:   You can check for the best flights to Venezuela on   Skyscanner .

Transportation:

Train:  The train system for passengers is nonexistent.

Bus:  Buses are a cheap way to get around Venezuela and can be found in all major cities and towns. You can find buses for short trips with very cheap fares, as well as buses for long-distance trips that come with their own air-conditioning. You can also look for por puestos, which are essentially a ride share service that operates like a bus. Caracas also has its own metro system that runs frequently, with a typical fare costing less than 5 Bolívars.

Taxis:  Taxis are another good way to get around and come with cheap fares compared to other countries. As they do not operate on a meter, it is a good idea to ask around about typical fares so you can negotiate the price with the driver. You can take a taxi for an individual trip or, if you know where you will be traveling, you can contact a travel agency and arrange private taxi transfers between cities.

Rent a car:  To rent a car in Venezuela, you need to be at least 21 years old and have a U.S. driver’s license. Prices start at around 400 to 600 Bolívars a day.

You can also compare  prices here

When to go To Venezuela

• Venezuela, with its tropical climate, has two seasons: wet and dry. The wet season is between May and October and is considered the best time to see Angel Falls due to the increase in rainfall. March through May are the warmest months in Caracas. For those who want to pursue outdoor activities like hiking, November is a good month to visit due to the warmer temperatures and the start of the dry season. If you’re going to Los Llanos, October may give you the best chance to see wildlife.

Where to Stay in Venezuela

Hotel Waldorf:  Stay in this beautiful 3.5-star hotel in Caracas. Its prime location makes it a quick trip to the local movie theaters and beauty shops, as well as the Government Palace. Afterwards, relax in an air-conditioned room or suite, head to the fitness center, lounge in the swimming pool and terrace area, or dine at the sky bar and restaurant.

InterContinental Maracaibo:  Featuring beautiful views of the Maracaibo Lake, this four-star hotel is just minutes away from the Vereda del Lago park and the Aguamania waterpark, and just a thirty-minute drive to the La Chinita Airport. InterContinental’s amenities include complimentary breakfast, an Italian restaurant with 2 bars, and an outdoor pool and hot tub. Languages spoken at this hotel include English.

Lidotel Hotel Boutique Barquisimeto:  Come stay at this four-star hotel in Barquisimeto. Featuring a grand piano in the lobby and beautiful artwork in the rooms, this stylish hotel also includes a fitness center and outdoor pool, complimentary breakfast, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs in each room, and the hotel’s own restaurant. The Lidotel also includes a private and secure walkway to the nearby shopping mall with many stores. 

What to Pack for Venezuela

• Sunscreen:  Protect your skin from the beautiful sun with some sunscreen.
• Spanish Phrasebook:  As many people do not speak English, bringing a phrasebook to help with translations will help you out.
• Swimsuit:  With so many beaches and waters to explore, make sure to bring a swimsuit with you.

See our packing tips:  packing tips

Venezuela Travel Guide: Best Booking Resources

Whenever we travel to we make sure to start with these companies. We have tried a lot of different ones over the years and all of these have consistently proven to be the best when it comes to offering great prices.

We have used every one of these personally and continue to do so.

• Booking.com : This is our go site to when comparing prices for accommodation. It usually has the cheapest prices, especially in Europe and we love their interface. Not to mention you get free cancellation and you are guaranteed the best price.
• Trip Advisor :  What we like about Trip Advisor is that we can look at all the reviews and then book our accommodation. TripAdvisor is where we go when we want to compare prices with multiple accommodation providers.
• VRBO : is the main search engine we use when we are looking for a home or apartment rental. It can sometimes be cheaper than hotels and it is the best way to stay in areas that offer a more local feel.
• Hostelworld :  With one of the largest databases of hostels in the world, Hostelworld is the go-to site when you are looking for budget accommodation.
• Skyscanner : This is the first place we check for flights. It consistently comes back with the cheapest and best options. It allows us to compare a lot of airlines to get the best price.
• Rome 2 Rio :  If you want to see how to get somewhere by plane, train, bus, ferry or car Rome2Rio lays it all out for you as well as related costs.I love how they show it all to you on a Google Map and it works offline.
• Get Your Guide:  For all your day trip and city guide needs, we use Get Your Guide. It has the world’s largest collection of things to do with more than 30,000 activities in 7500 destinations.
• World Nomads Insurance:  When traveling to Italy you should always have travel insurance. We have found the best bang for your buck is by far World Nomads.

Venezuela Travel Guide: Related Articles

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Travel Advisory July 17, 2023

Venezuela - level 4: do not travel.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Do not travel to Venezuela due to  crime , civil unrest, kidnapping , and the  arbitrary enforcement of local laws . Reconsider travel due to  wrongful detentions ,  terrorism , and  poor health infrastructure .

Country Summary:  On March 11, 2019, the U.S. Department of State announced the withdrawal of diplomatic personnel from U.S. Embassy Caracas. All consular services, routine and emergency, remain suspended until further notice. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Venezuela. U.S. citizens in Venezuela who require consular services should try to leave the country as soon as safely possible and contact a U.S. embassy or consulate in another country.

Violent crimes, such as homicide, armed robbery, kidnapping, and carjacking, are common.  Political rallies and demonstrations occur, often with little notice.  Demonstrations typically elicit a strong police and security force response that includes the use of tear gas, pepper spray, and rubber bullets against participants and occasionally devolve into looting and vandalism. Reports from the Independent International Fact-Finding Mission document human rights abuses attributed to the Maduro regime, including torture, extrajudicial killings, forced disappearances, and detentions without due process and/or fair trial guarantees or as a pretext for an illegitimate purpose. Shortages of gasoline, food, electricity, water, medicine, and medical supplies continue throughout much of Venezuela. The CDC issued a  Level 3 ‘Avoid Nonessential Travel’  notice on September 30, 2021, due to inadequate healthcare and the breakdown of the medical infrastructure in Venezuela.

The Department has determined that there is a risk of wrongful detention of U.S. nationals by the Maduro regime.

Regime-aligned security forces have detained U.S. citizens for long periods.  The Maduro regime does not notify the U.S. government of the detention of U.S. citizens and the U.S. government is not granted routine access to those U.S. citizens.

Colombian terrorist groups, such as the National Liberation Army (ELN), Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia – People’s Army (FARC-EP), and Segunda Marquetalia, operate in Venezuela’s border areas with Colombia, Brazil, and Guyana.

Due to risks to civil aviation operating within or in the vicinity of Venezuela, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) prohibiting all flight operations in the territory and airspace of Venezuela at altitudes below 26,000 feet. For more information, U.S. citizens should consult the  Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions and Notices . Emergency medical evacuation flights between the United States and Venezuela may not be possible.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Venezuela.

If you decide to travel to Venezuela:

• Avoid all land border crossings into Venezuela on the Colombian border.
• Ensure you have a valid Venezuelan visa. Visas are not available upon arrival.
• Draft a will and designate appropriate insurance beneficiaries and/or power of attorney.
• Develop a communication plan with family and/or your employer or host organization. Establish a “proof of life” protocol with your loved ones, so that if you are taken hostage, your loved ones know specific questions (and answers) to ask the hostage-takers to be sure that you are alive (and to rule out a hoax).
• Have a contingency plan in place that does not rely on U.S. government assistance.
• Keep travel documents up to date and easily accessible.
• Avoid travel between cities, or between Simón Bolívar International Airport and Caracas at night.
• Do not take unregulated taxis from Simón Bolívar International Airport and avoid ATMs in this area.
• Consider hiring a professional security organization.
• Bring a sufficient supply of over the counter and prescription medicines for the duration of travel.
• Consider purchasing medical evacuation insurance.
• Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Venezuela.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.
• Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .
• Be prepared for the high risk of indefinite arbitrary detention on specious charges without consular access.

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

Two pages, for visa and entry stamp.

Yes. You must get a Venezuelan visa before traveling to Venezuela. Visas are not available upon arrival. Note: U.S. travelers risk lengthy or indefinite detention for attempts to arrive at any Venezuelan border crossing without a valid Venezuelan visa.

Yellow fever vaccination required if coming from or transiting for more than 12 hours through Brazil.

USD 10,000 (or equivalent) or more must be declared.

Embassies and Consulates

U.S. Embassy Colombia  Calle 24 Bis No. 48-50  Bogotá, D.C. Colombia  Telephone: +(57)(1) 275-2000  Emergency: +(57)(1) 275-2000  Fax: No fax  Email:  [email protected]   Website

The U.S. Department of State strongly recommends that U.S. citizens do not travel to Venezuela, and that U.S. citizens remaining in Venezuela depart immediately.  More information can be found in the U.S. Department of State’s  Venezuela Travel Advisory .  

The  U.S. Embassy in Caracas  suspended operations on March 11, 2019, and therefore cannot provide protection or consular services to U.S. citizens in Venezuela.  The U.S. Embassy in Colombia assists U.S. citizens in Venezuela when possible.  

If you are a U.S. citizen in Venezuela in need of assistance, or are concerned about a U.S. citizen in Venezuela, please contact us in one of the following ways:

Email  [email protected] ; or

Call us at +1-888-407-4747 (from the U.S. & Canada) or +1-202-501-4444 (from overseas).

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

The U.S. Department of State strongly recommends U.S. citizens do not travel to Venezuela. If you must travel to Venezuela, we recommend you avoid all land border crossings into Venezuela on the Colombian border.  Detentions of U.S. citizens at formal or informal border crossings into Venezuela are common.    

To enter Venezuela, you must have:

• A valid U.S. passport in good condition with at least six months of validity, and
• A valid Venezuelan visa.  Visas are not available upon arrival.

Visas:  The Venezuelan embassy and consulates in the United States are not open for visa processing.  Contact the Venezuelan Embassy in Washington  at 202-342-2214 for updates about the future availability of visa services.  You must have the proper visa class and appropriate accreditation before traveling to Venezuela or face refusal of admission, expulsion, or detention.

Immigration officials often require proof of accommodation while in Venezuela, adequate means of support, and an onward departure itinerary.  Use only official crossing points when entering Venezuela.  You must obtain an entry stamp upon entry.

If you reside in Venezuela as a non-citizen, you must obtain legitimate Venezuelan residency documentation and renew your residency visa well in advance of expiration.  Do not use intermediaries to purchase resident visas and/or work permits.  

Traveling with Children:  Venezuela’s child protection law mandates that minors (under 18) of any nationality who are traveling alone, with only one parent, or with a third party, must present extensive, specific, and notarized documentation granting permission for travel.  Consult the nearest Venezuelan embassy or consulate for further information.

Dual Nationality:  Venezuelan law requires Venezuelan citizens to enter and depart Venezuela using Venezuelan passports.  If you hold dual U.S. and Venezuelan nationality, you must plan to travel between the United States and Venezuela with valid U.S. and Venezuelan passports.  Dual-national minors are only allowed to depart Venezuela with both parents present or with a legal authorization signed by the absent parent in a family court. 

Immunizations:  Visit the  CDC Traveler website for vaccination information, including Yellow Fever vaccination requirements.  Carry your International Certificate of Vaccination (or yellow card) with you upon arrival or departure.

HIV/AIDS:  The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Venezuela.  Be aware that HIV/AIDS medications, like other medications, are often not available in Venezuela.

Find further information on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction , and  customs regulations  on our websites.

Safety and Security

Terrorism:  Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad.  Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to more effectively target crowds.  Frequently, their aim is focused on unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as:

• High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists
• Places of worship
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights)

Terrorist groups such as the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia – People’s Army (FARC-EP), Segunda Marquetalia, and the Colombian-origin National Liberation Army (ELN) have expanded in Venezuela in recent years.  We are aware of reports of cooperation between FARC dissidents and the ELN in the areas of road/border checkpoints, forced displacement of communities, and narcotics trafficking.

For more information, see our  Terrorism  page.

Crime:  Violent crime is pervasive throughout Venezuela.  Venezuela has one of the highest homicide rates in the world, and kidnappings are a serious concern.  Be alert of your surroundings at all times and take personal security precautions to avoid becoming a victim of crime.  Maintain a low profile, travel in groups of five or more, and provide family or friends with your itineraries prior to departure.

Avoid police activity.  Corruption within the police forces is a concern, and criminals may be posing as police officers or National Guard members.  National Guard members may target U.S. citizens, especially at remote land border crossings, for bribery, extortion, or detention, possibly in collusion with criminal organizations.  

Criminal gangs operate openly and with little repercussion, often setting up fake police checkpoints.  Armed robberies, including with grenades and assault rifles, take place throughout the country, including in tourist areas and institutions such as banks and ATMs, national parks, shopping malls, public transportation stations, and universities.

Drugs:  Do not attempt to bring any narcotics or controlled substances into Venezuela, or substances that may be confused with illegal drugs.  Do not accept packages from anyone and always keep your luggage with you.  U.S. citizens have been actively recruited to act as narcotics couriers or “drug mules.”  Arrestees can expect extended jail terms under extremely difficult prison conditions.

Transportation:   Do not use any taxis hailed on the street.  Some taxi drivers in Caracas are known to overcharge, rob, injure, and even kidnap passengers.  Use only radio-dispatched taxis from taxi services, hotels, restaurants, and airline staff.  Do not use public transportation such as city buses and the metro (subway) in Caracas.  If you drive, be aware of attacks in tunnels and avoid obstacles in the road.

Maiquetía International Airport:  Only travel to and from Maiquetía International Airport near Caracas in daylight hours.  Kidnappings, robberies at gunpoint, thefts, and muggings are common.  Do not pack valuable items or documents in checked luggage.  Individuals wearing seemingly official uniforms and displaying airport or police credentials have been involved in crimes inside the airport, including extortion and robberies.  Make advance plans for transportation from the airport to your hotel or destination using a trusted party or dispatch taxi service.

ATMs:   Most ATMs do not accept U.S. debit or credit cards, and malfunctions are common.  Use only those located in well-lit, public places.  ATM data is often hacked and used to make unauthorized withdrawals.  Criminals target ATM users for robberies.  Many ATMs do not have cash.

Demonstrations  occur occasionally.  They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events.  

•  Demonstrations can be unpredictable; avoid areas around protests and demonstrations.  
• Past demonstrations have turned violent.
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.  

International Financial Scams:   See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for information.

Internet romance and financial scams are prevalent in Venezuela.  Scams are often initiated through Internet postings/profiles or by unsolicited emails and letters.  Scammers almost always pose as U.S. citizens who have no one else to turn to for help.  Common scams include: 

• Romance/online dating 
• Money transfers 
• Grandparent/relative targeting 

Victims of Crime:  The U.S. government has extremely limited means of providing consular services to U.S. citizen crime victims in Venezuela.  U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy in Bogota.  Report crimes to the local police at 171, and contact the  U.S. Embassy in Bogota  by emailing [email protected] or dialing +57 (1) 275-2000 or +57 (1) 275-4021 after hours.  Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime. 

See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crimes overseas .

• Help you find appropriate medical care 
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent 
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation  and following its conclusion 
• Provide a list of local attorneys  
• Provide our information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.  
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home  
• If you are able to travel to a U.S. Embassy, we can replace a stolen or lost passport and provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution 

Domestic Violence:   U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the  U.S. Embassy in Bogota  for assistance.

Colombian Border:  The area within a 50-mile radius along the entire Venezuela and Colombian border is extremely dangerous.  U.S. citizens near the border are at risk of detention by Maduro regime authorities.  U.S. citizens must obtain a visa to enter Venezuela legally.  Visas are not available upon arrival.  U.S. citizens attempting to enter Venezuela without a visa have been charged with terrorism and other serious crimes and detained for long periods.  The Maduro regime does not notify the U.S. government of the detention of U.S. citizens and the U.S. government is not granted access to those citizens.  Additionally, cross-border violence, kidnapping, drug trafficking, and smuggling are common.  Some kidnapping victims are released after ransom payments, while others are murdered.  Do not attempt to cross the land border.

Tourism:  No formal tourism industry infrastructure is in place on any level.  Tourists participate in activities at their own risk.  Emergency response and subsequent appropriate medical treatment is not available in-country.  U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance.  See our webpage for more information on  insurance providers for overseas coverage . Serious medical issues require costly medical evacuation complicated by restrictions on air travel to and from Venezuela.  Air evacuations to the United States from Venezuela may not be possible.

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:  You are subject to local laws.  If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned.  Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities prior to practicing or operating a business.  Application of local laws can at times be arbitrary and/or politically motivated.

In Venezuela, it is illegal to take pictures of sensitive buildings, including the presidential palace, military bases, government buildings, and airports.

Drug trafficking is a serious problem in Venezuela and treated as such by Venezuelan authorities.  Convicted traffickers receive lengthy prison sentences.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law.  For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice website.

Arrest Notification:   If you are arrested or detained, attempt to have someone notify the U.S. Embassy in Bogota immediately.  See our webpage for further information. 

Please note that the U.S. Department of State may not be informed of your detention, particularly if you also hold Venezuelan citizenship.  Due to the suspension of operations of the U.S. Embassy in Caracas, consular visits to detained U.S. citizens are not possible. There have been instances of U.S. citizens in recent years who have been detained without being afforded due process or fair trial guarantees, or as a pretext for an illegitimate purpose, often due to their U.S. citizenship.

Currency and Exchange:   Venezuela has started to allow dollarized commercial transactions and shopping, but policies and availability are subject to change.  Some local businesses accept U.S. credit cards and electronic transfers through certain online vendors.  “Black market” currency exchanges – often offering significantly favorable exchange rates – are technically prohibited under Venezuelan foreign exchange controls.  Violators may be detained by Venezuelan authorities and face criminal penalties.

Wire Transfers:  Wire transfers cannot be used reliably as a source of emergency funds, and receipt of funds is generally restricted to Venezuelan citizens and residents.

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods:   Although counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries, they may still be illegal according to local laws.  You may also pay fines or have to give them up if you bring them back to the United States.  See the  U.S. Department of Justice  website for more information.

Faith-Based Travelers:   See the following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report  – see country reports
• Human Rights Report  – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTQI+ Travelers:  There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTIQ+ events in Venezuela.  

See our  LGBTI Travel Information  page and section 6 of our  Human Rights report  for further details.

Travelers with Disabilities:  The law in Venezuela prohibits discrimination against persons with physical and mental disabilities, but the law is not enforced.  Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is not as prevalent as in the United States.  Expect accessibility to be limited in public transportation, lodging, communication/information, and general infrastructure.  Accessibility is more prevalent in the capital city of Caracas than in the rest of the country. 

The availability of rental, repair, and replacement parts for aids/equipment/devices as well as service providers, such as sign language interpreters or personal assistants, is limited.

Students:   See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers:  See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

All air passengers entering Venezuela must present a certificate of vaccination against COVID-19 (completed vaccination schedule) in either physical or digital format (with QR code), with the last dose administered at least 14 days prior to the entry date in Venezuela.  If more than 270 days has passed since the last dose of a completed vaccination schedule, proof of a booster dose is required.  In lieu of proof of vaccination, passengers must present a negative PCR-RT COVID-19 test result, taken within 72 hours of arriving.  Please visit the U.S. Embassy’s  COVID-19 page  for more information on COVID-19 in Venezuela.

For emergency services in Venezuela, dial 171.

Ambulance services are:

• not widely available, depending on the individual’s health insurance, and training and availability of emergency responders may be below U.S. standards.
• unreliable in most areas. 
• not equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment. 

Injured or seriously ill travelers may prefer to take a taxi or private vehicle to the nearest major hospital rather than wait for an ambulance.

Emergency medical evacuation flights between the United States and Venezuela may not be possible.

We do not pay medical bills.   Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance:   Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas.  Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments.  See  our webpage  for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage.  Visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on types of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas. 

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.  Before travelling to Venezuela with prescription medications, travelers should research current Customs and Immigration restrictions in place at Venezuelan ports of entry.

Vaccinations:  Be up to date on all  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.  A Yellow Fever vaccination is required if coming from or transiting for more than 12 hours through Brazil.  Carry your International Certificate of Vaccination (or yellow card) with you upon arrival.

Health Facilities in General:

• Do not depend on health care facilities in Venezuela for medical care. Serious medical issues require costly medical evacuation complicated by restrictions on air travel to and from Venezuela.  Air evacuations to the United States may not be possible.
• Public medical clinics lack basic resources and supplies, including soap and water.  In recent years, hospital infrastructure has deteriorated significantly, and medical staff are in short supply.  Patients frequently must supply their own water, medication, and medical instruments to receive care.
• Adequate private health facilities are available in Caracas and other major cities, but health care in rural areas is well below U.S. standards.  Many private hospitals and clinics are increasingly overcrowded and experience shortages of public utilities such as electricity and running water.
• Some private hospitals and doctors require cash payment “up front” prior to service or admission.  Credit card payment and online transfers are sometimes available.  If you cannot provide an up-front payment, you may be referred to a public institution.
• Medical staff may speak little to no English.
• Generally, in public hospitals only minimal staff is available overnight.  Consider hiring a private nurse or having family spend the night with the patient, especially a minor child. 
• Patients may be required to bear costs for transfer to or between hospitals. 
• Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in the larger cities. 

Medical Tourism and Elective Surgery

•  U.S. citizens have suffered serious complications or died during or after having cosmetic or other elective surgery.   
• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for information on medical tourism, the risks of medical tourism, and what you can do to prepare before traveling to Venezuela. 
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation in the event of unforeseen medical complications.  
• Your legal options in case of malpractice are very limited in Venezuela.   

  Pharmaceuticals: 

• Some medical supplies are unavailable in Venezuela, and you should not expect to find all necessary medications in Venezuela.  Travelers should carry over the counter and prescription drugs sufficient to cover the entire duration of their trips.
• Exercise caution when purchasing medication overseas.  Pharmaceuticals, both over the counter and requiring prescription in the United States, are often readily available for purchase with little controls.  Counterfeit medication is common and may prove to be ineffective, the wrong strength, or contain dangerous ingredients.  Medication should be purchased in consultation with a medical professional and from reputable establishments.  
• U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration are responsible for rules governing the transport of medication back to the United States.  Medication purchased abroad must meet their requirements to be legally brought back into the United States.  Medication should be for personal use and must be approved for usage in the United States.  Please visit the U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration websites for more information.   

Assisted Reproductive Technology and Surrogacy 

•  If you are considering traveling to Venezuela to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please see our ART and Surrogacy Abroad page . 
• There is no legal framework for foreigners or same-sex couples to pursue surrogacy in Venezuela.  According to Venezuelan law, the birth mother of a child born in Venezuela is the legal mother.  Surrogacy agreements between foreign or same sex intending parents and gestational mothers are not enforced by Venezuelan courts. 
• If you decide to pursue parenthood in Venezuela via assisted reproductive technology (ART) with a gestational mother, be prepared for long and unexpected delays in documenting your child’s citizenship.  Be aware that individuals who attempt to circumvent local law risk criminal prosecution.  

Water Quality:  

• Tap water is not potable, even in major cities.  Bottled water and beverages are generally safe, although you should be aware that many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested.  Be aware that ice for drinks may be made using tap water. 
• Expect frequent shortages in running water.  
• Gastrointestinal illnesses such as severe diarrhea are common throughout the country.

Adventure Travel  

• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about Adventure Travel . 

General Health

The following diseases are prevalent:

• Chikungunya
• Chagas Disease (Trypanosomiasis)
• Measles (Rubeloa)
• Leishmaniasis
• Schistosomiasis (Bilharzia)
• Travelers’ Diarrhea
• Use the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended mosquito repellents and sleep under insecticide-impregnated mosquito nets.  Chemoprophylaxis is recommended for all travelers even for short stays.  
• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about Resources for Travelers regarding specific issues in Venezuela.

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:

• Avoid driving in Venezuela.  If you do drive, drive defensively, as most drivers do not obey rules.
• Do not drive at night outside major cities.  Police and national guard checkpoints are mandatory, and criminals often set up fake checkpoints during nighttime to rob or kidnap victims.
• Road damage is not clearly marked.
• Traffic jams are common within Caracas during most of the day and are frequently exploited by criminals.  Armed motorcycle gangs operate in traffic jams.  Comply with demands as victims may be killed for not complying.
• Do not use buses due to high levels of criminal activity.
• Venezuela is experiencing severe shortages in gasoline, and you should plan accordingly.

Traffic Laws:

• Child car seats and seatbelts are not required and are seldom available in rental cars and taxis.
• Some Caracas municipalities have outlawed the use of handheld cell phones while driving.
• Stops at National Guard and local police checkpoints are mandatory.  Follow all National Guard instructions and be prepared to show vehicle and insurance papers and passports.  Vehicles may be searched.

Public Transportation:  Subways, buses, trains, and other means of public transport in Venezuela do not have the same safety standards as in the United States. 

 See our Road Safety page for more information.  

Aviation Safety Oversight:   The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed that Venezuela’s Civil Aviation Authority is not in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Venezuela’s air carrier operations.  Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page .

The U.S. Department of Transportation issued an  order  suspending all nonstop flights between the United States and Venezuela. The Department of Homeland Security concluded that conditions in Venezuela threaten the safety and security of passengers, aircraft, and crew traveling to or from that country.

Due to risks to civil aviation operating within or in the vicinity of Venezuela, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) and/or a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR). For more information, U.S. citizens should consult the Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions, and Notices . Emergency medical evacuation flights between the United States and Venezuela may not be possible.

Maritime Travel: 

Mariners planning travel to Venezuela should check for U.S. maritime  advisories  and  alerts .  Information may also be posted to the  U.S. Coast Guard homeport  website, and the NGA broadcast warnings website .

Incidents of piracy off the coast of Venezuela remain a concern.  Yachters should note that anchoring offshore is not considered safe.  Marinas, including those in Puerto la Cruz and Margarita Island (Porlamar), provide only minimal security, and you should exercise a heightened level of caution in Venezuelan waters.

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Venezuela . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

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Venezuela, home to some of South America's most incredible landscapes, rightly has a terrible image problem at the moment. Hyperinflation has led to a dramatic drop in living standards and issues with the supply of basic goods, while personal safety, particularly in Caracas, is worse than anywhere else on the continent. Thousands of its own citizens have fled the country and spread throughout South America (it's estimated more than two million have left since 2014). While visiting can be incredibly cheap because of the black-market value of the dollar/euro, safety is a serious concern.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Caracas

Occupying the eastern end of the Parque Central complex, the Museum of Contemporary Art is by far the best in the country, though it can be a little…

Salto Ángel (Angel Falls)

Thundering Angel Falls is the world's highest waterfall and Venezuela's number-one tourist attraction. Its total height is 979m (3211ft), of which the…

Iglesia Santa Capilla

This neo-Gothic church, one block north of Plaza Bolívar, is modeled on the Sainte Chapelle of Paris. It was ordered by General Antonio Guzmán Blanco in…

Plaza Bolívar

This leafy square is the nucleus of the old town. It's always alive with huddled groups of caraqueños engaged in conversation and children feeding freshly…

Fundación Bigott

If you’d like to dig a little deeper into traditional Venezuelan culture – perhaps learn to play joropo music with the bandola llanera (a string…

Parque Nacional Sierra Nevada

The most popular high-mountain trekking area is the Sierra Nevada national park, which has all of Venezuela's highest peaks, including Pico Bolívar (5007m…

Iglesia de San Francisco

Just south of the Capitolio Nacional, the Church of San Francisco was built in the 1570s, but was remodeled on several occasions during the 17th and 18th…

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The Best 2-Week Venezuela Travel Itinerary – The Ultimate Guide

South America , Venezuela / May 22, 2023 by christin.theilig

Discover the hidden treasures of Venezuela’s Caribbean Coast in this two-week Venezuela travel itinerary. In a land of enchantment and contrasts, expect to encounter pristine beaches fringed by lush jungles, colonial towns nestled amidst breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant cities coexisting with serene fishing villages.

Immerse yourself in the wonders of this captivating country with my comprehensive two-week Venezuela travel itinerary, curated to showcase the best of Northern Venezuela. From indulging in luxury accommodations to embarking on thrilling offbeat adventures, get ready to say ‘yes’ to every extraordinary experience that awaits you.

(Updated Jan 2024)

Venezuela, a country located in South America, is known for its rich and diverse offerings.

Venezuela has a fascinating history, being the birthplace of Simon Bolivar, a key figure in South America’s fight for independence. It also boasts impressive colonial architecture, such as the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Coro and Ciudad Bolivar.

The country is blessed with breathtaking natural wonders, including Angel Falls, the world’s tallest waterfall, and the stunning landscapes of Canaima National Park.

Venezuelan culture is a vibrant mix of indigenous, African, and European influences. The Venezuelans are known for their warmth, hospitality, and zest for life, and despite facing challenges, they maintain a positive spirit and are proud of their cultural heritage. One of the parts that stood out while traveling the country is how easy it was to connect!

Join me on this remarkable journey and let the magic of Venezuela unfold before your eyes in this travel itinerary!

Venezuela Travel Itinerary: Quick Overview & FAQ

Is venezuela safe to travel.

Venezuela has been through some tough years, and traveling to this country is probably not for the inexperienced. As with every destination, but probably even more so in South America, it’s wise to ask locals how to behave in a way that keeps you safe, where not to go etc.

In places such as Coro, Morrocoy, Puerto Cabello and Choroni – all towns relying on local tourism – I was assured that it’s safe. I could walk around freely after sunset, have my belongings on me and take photos on the street.

In places such as Caracas, even in the city center I found it to be very relaxed and have not had a bad feeling. However, I did follow the suggestion of locals and wore my backpack at the front (especially in the busy metro) and stayed in East Caracas, which was said to be the safest.

In areas such as Chacao in East Caracas, is where all the embassies are, and walking after dawn was still a safe thing to do – also because there were still many other people in the streets.

Do I need a Visa for Venezuela?

If you are from an EU Member state you don’t need a visa and can visit Venezuela for up to 90 days. Other countries of South America, Japan, South Africa, Russia, or the United Kingdom (among others) also don’t need a visa. As things change a lot, it’s best to check for your specific situation. Citizens from America need to apply for a visa at the Venezuelan Embassy in America beforehand – there is no visa on arrival.

To enter without any issues you should have a booking confirmation of your hotel for the first day(s), a confirmation of paymen t of the hotel, and perhaps an Invitation Letter from the hotel. Also, make sure to have proof of an onward flight ticket .

The money situation in Venezuela is still a tricky one. While the bolivar is the official currency of the country, four years of hyperinflation made it almost worthless. Only recently you can now also own and pay in US Dollars . When I visited the current rate was: US$1 = Bs. 24.65 (10th May 2023)

Keep in mind that your foreign Visa/Mastercard will (most likely) not work on ATM’s in Venezuela. In some cases, you might be able to pay with your card in a hotel or restaurant, if there is a machine (‘ Hay Punto’ ).

The easiest way to avoid any problems is to bring all your money in cash , in small notes of 5, 10, and 20 bills. Change is hard to come by, many places cannot change notes of 50 or 20 ie. in a local restaurant.

Venezuelans pay online, via Zelle or bank transfer – hence having US Dollars in cash is still something new and reserved to a few.

If you have an American bank account, I’d recommend you to register for Zelle (similar to PayPal). With Zelle you will easily be able to pay in restaurants, bus terminals and many other shops.

Do I need a VPN for Venezuela?

While it is not mandatory to use a VPN in Venezuela, some people choose to use it for various reasons. A VPN like Express VPN can provide additional security and privacy by encrypting your internet connection and masking your IP address, which can be useful when accessing sensitive information or when browsing the internet in countries with stricter online censorship – as is the case in Venezuela.

In Venezuela, there have been occasional reports of internet restrictions and limited access to certain websites and platforms.

How to get around Venezuela

Taxi – a common mode of transportation within Venezuelan cities. It’s recommended to use registered and licensed taxis, preferably booked through reputable companies or arranged by your accommodation. Venezuela doesn’t have Uber or DiDi but similar ride-sharing apps called Ridery and Yummy Rides .

Always exercise caution and use reputable taxi services for safety reasons!

Bus – a popular means of transportation for both short and long distances within Venezuela. There are different types of buses available, ranging from public buses to private companies offering intercity services. Public buses are typically more affordable but may be crowded and have varying levels of comfort.

As another safety measure, I did not use night buses and made to sure to arrive in daylight to my next destination.

Plane – For traveling between cities or covering longer distances, domestic flights are a convenient option in Venezuela. Several airlines such as Conviasa operate domestic routes, connecting major cities and popular destinations.

Check for your best flight connections from Panama City with Copa or Colombia with Wingo directly to Caracas!

Day 1: Maracaibo (Arrival)

Let’s start your Venezuela two-week travel itinerary in one of Venezuela’s most significant cities. Maracaibo, a once vibrant city in Venezuela, holds great significance as a hub of cultural heritage, economic activity, and natural wonders. Nestled on the shores of Lake Maracaibo, the largest lake in South America, it offers breathtaking sunsets and the mesmerizing phenomenon of Catatumbo Lightning.

Maracaibo’s strategic location in the oil-rich region has fueled its growth as a key player in Venezuela’s oil industry. With its blend of historic architecture and modern developments, the city showcases a captivating fusion of past and present.

Explore La Vereda del Lago Park and stroll along the Malecon, a scenic waterfront promenade offering picturesque views of Lake Maracaibo, lined with restaurants, bars, and shops.

From there it’s only a short drive to the city center. Wander through Maracaibo’s colonial streets, admire the architecture, and visit landmarks like Plaza Bolivar, the Municipal Palace, and Santa Lucia Church.

When I visited the city on a Sunday, the center and especially around Calle Carabobo (which is famous for its colourful colonial houses) was extremely deserted. It could have been the heat or the fact it was Sunday – but my taxi driver suggested to not wander around alone.

Where to stay in Maracaibo

Ragazza Suites in a good part of Maracaibo, offers a family environment and economic room options. The owners was super helpful, always there for questions and organized my taxi to the bus terminal. The price per double room started at 22 USD with a bathroom.

Day 2: Maracaibo to Adicora, Coro

Coro, the entrance to Venezuela’s most northern point is a spectacle in itself. The desert vibes begin once you leave town, greeted by huge dunes covering half of the street. A 60-minute drive leads you to the peaceful town of Adicora. Known as one of South America’s top kite surf spots, it’s a wonderful place to unwind.

Quiet and sleepy during the week, the kite surf enthusiasts and nearby locals flock to the beaches. In the past, many Germans, Dutch and Italians arrived here, settling back in the days, when many of the colonial buildings still belonged to them. A true highlight of every travel itinerary for Venezuela!

How to get from Maracaibo to Coro

Leave Maracaibo in the early morning hours to arrive in Coro before 2 pm to catch the next bus. The ride can be 4-5 hours long, prolonged by police checks and random pullovers to pick up new passengers. The price for the bus was 10 US$. Once in Coro change to a public or take a shared taxi for the one-hour ride to Adicora. Cost for the taxi cost 5 US$.

Where to Stay in Adicora, Coro

30 Nudos – your best option for a mix of eco focus & unique design! If you’re after having a sustainable hotel plus the chance to learn how to kite surf, 30 Nudos is your best choice!

Your room is an old shipping container that might have traveled as much as you and features a comfy terrace with a hammock. They’ve got their own kitesurfing school by the ocean which is the ideal place to learn or to improve your skills. From weekly DJ nights and a knowledgeable kite-surf team this makes a unique place to stay!

Apartahotel Hipocampo – the first hotel in Adicora that was tailored to kitesurfing holidays, offers spacious, serviced apartments with dining room and kitchen. As part of your stay, you can enjoy daily Venezuelan breakfast and a great restaurant that opens for dinner.

It’s just a short 5-minute walk to the beautiful beach, ideal to also wander around the village. From relaxing by the idyllic pool to the best staff – this is a fantastic option for longer stays and kitesurfing holidays!

Day 3: Adicora

Start your day with a traditional Venezuelan breakfast and maybe even try ray for the first time! As tours aren’t really a thing, you can ask your hotel if they can put you in touch with a trusted taxi service. From Adicora it’s about a one-hour ride up north that will lead you past lagoons full of flamingos, pinkish salt flats (and kids who want to explain you the history of it), abandoned hotels and long stretches of sand.

If you reach the lighthouse, you have officially made it to the most northern point of Venezuela. On a clear day, you can even see Aruba in the distance. Drive a little further and you will encounter a single, large sand dune – right by the ocean and a top highlight of any Venezuela travel itinerary.

Head back home, and take a stroll through the sleepy town. Its not unusual to hear that many of the colonial houses you see by the beachfront have or had, owners from different countries.

To end the day, head to Posada Rosada Restaurant for some of the best-grilled fish, patacones and sunset views! Expect to pay around 12 US$ for a fish and 2$ for two beers.

Day 4: Adicora

As Adicora is one of South America’s kite surfing hot spots it should be on your list to try it out! Along the coast are many kite surf schools that offer introductory courses as well as packages.

In the afternoon make sure to visit the local beach for some downtime and beautiful sheltered water to swim. There are many sunchairs you can hire and locals will likely flock to the beach once it hits 4 pm!

Day 5: Adicora to Morrocoy

Situated on the Caribbean Coast of Venezuela, Morrocoy is a piece of heaven that you shouldn’t skip when planning your Venezuela travel itinerary. Its idyllic white-sandy beaches, crystal clear water, and tropical islets are what beach dreams are made of.

Adding Morrocoy to your Venezuela travel itinerary guarantees an unforgettable experience of sun-soaked bliss and natural beauty.

How to get from Adicora to Morrocoy

Taxi + Bus – right in town is a bus station that connects the peninsula with Coro. You can either wait for a bus to pass or take a shared taxi back to Coro which should cost about 5$.

In Coro, you will take a bus that heads towards Valencia, but get off at Tucacas. The bus will cost about 10 US$ and can take some 3-5 hours.

Where to Stay in Morrocoy

Tuqueque Lodge – this ultimate adventure hotel sits within the Morrocoy National Park and is a true adventure hotel. With only 3 cabins, this is as boutique as it gets. They serve the most wonderful breakfast, elaborated 4-course dinner plus the tastiest coffee. I absolutely loved their attention to detail, their personalized service and how they made me feel so at home.

A two-night stay in this eco-luxury lodge gives you access to an excursion in their private speedboat including a cooler with beverages & drinks for the day.

El Solar de la Luna – sitting on top of a hill, the views from this unique posada is top notch. Greeted by owner Pedro, you’ll be staying in one of 7 uniquely decorated rooms, all with an eco-focus. As a founding member of the Circuito de Excellencia, you’ll be welcomed with a tasty drink and can enjoy an outstanding 4-course dinner and sumptuous breakfast during your stay.

The service is impeccable, with an amuse bouche, Chilenian wine, and a mix of Venezuelan or international dishes that vary from day to day. Your stay will include a comfortable air-conditioned transfer, to and from the harbor to catch a speedboat to the nearby Cayos.

Booking top hotels that include transfers, dinner and extra experiences will highly improve the overall experience within your Venezuela travel itinerary!

Check out my luxury hotel portfolio if you want to see what I can capture for your hotel!

Day 6: Morrocoy National Park

The Morrocoy National Park is known for its mangroves, tropical islets, and beaches near the coast. It’s from the park itself where the lanchas (speedboats) leave to visit the Cayos. Here you can either rent a boat yourself or join a public one.

Prices ranged from 70-100 US$ per day for the whole boat and depending on which island(s) you want to visit. The public boat costs around 10-20$ and visits only one island.

On your first day in Morrocoy, rent a boat or join a public trip to explore one of the Cayos. The local’s top destination is Cayo Sombrero – and it’s truly stunning! Bring a cooler with some drinks and lots of reef-safe sunscreen and you’re good to go!

Return in the late afternoon to your hotel and unwind from a beach-filled day, salty hair and sunkissed skin.

Day 7: Morrocoy National Park

Chichirivichi.

Chichiriviche, a nearby town to Tucacas and Morrocoy, is a popular alternative destination for Venezuelans. The town offers attractive package deals at hotels, which include breakfast, dinner, and a boat trip to nearby cays like Cayo Sal and Cayo Muerto. It’s a convenient and enjoyable option for a memorable getaway.

Cayo Sal is a fantastic Cayo to visit, featuring lots of shade from the palm-fringed beach to having watersport activities available. The beach is truly spotless and friendly vendors are selling Venezuelan oysters, drinks and other dishes.

I’d recommend you bring enough water!

If you’re enjoying this itinerary, make sure to have a look at my Unusual Colombian two-week itinerary !

Day 8: Tucacas, Morrocoy to Puerto Cabello

Many things didn’t come to mind when I thought of Venezuela, so discovering a picturesque seaside town with vibrant colonial houses was such a surprise. Little did I know that Puerto Cabello, a hidden gem on the Caribbean Coast, would become a highlight of my Venezuela travel itinerary.

Puerto Cabello has a rich history and played a significant role during Venezuela’s struggle for independence from Spanish colonial rule. It was the site of various battles and witnessed key events in Venezuelan history.

With its charming architecture, stunning beaches, and historical center boasting houses that have withstood the test of time for over 400 years, Puerto Cabello is a must-visit destination on any Venezuelan travel itinerary.

How to get from Tucacas, Morrocoy to Puerto Cabello

Regular buses are heading from Tucacas towards the village of Moron. The ticket costs 2 US$ and takes about an hour. From there, you take another bus to Puerto Cabello which should be another 2-3 US$.

I’d suggest contacting your hotel in advance and organizing them to pick you up or send a trusted taxi.

If you have time in the afternoon, definitely head for a stroll along the promenade and marvel at the stunning house front. Walk towards the marina and visit Playa Sonrisa while sipping on some local drinks in the beach bars.

Where to stay in Puerto Cabello

Posada Santa Margarita – as part of Circuito de Excelencia, they are a collection of three colonial houses, that are more than 250 years old. From unique interior, princess-like rooms with treasure chests, a grand pool room, a terrace with an ocean view, and a pool – it’s one of the most unique places you can stay in.

A stay can include breakfast and some of the best staff that helps with anything you need! In your free time, have a look at their newly opened gallery that features the hotels owner’s father, an important figure in Puerto Cabello’s history.

Day 9: Isla Larga

Isla Larga should deserve an extra spotlight on your Venezuelan travel itinerary. This unique island, just off the coast of Puerto Cabello boats an incredibly idyllic, pink beach!

Two striking shipwrecks that are visible from the beach itself, make this island one of a kind in Venezuela!

To reach the stunning Isla Larga, start your journey by taking a taxi or a local bus to the embarkation point in Ganango. From there, board a lancha—a small motorized boat—that will ferry you across the water to the island. The crossing itself is an exciting and adventurous experience, as the high reef acts as a natural barrier between the open ocean and the island.

For a fee of around 10 US dollars, you can enjoy a full day in this pristine paradise before the boat returns to pick you up around 4 pm, ensuring you have ample time to relax and explore the island’s wonders.

Upon arrival, find your ideal spot under the shade of the umbrellas, where you can unwind and bask in the island’s natural beauty. Alternatively, venture further towards the shipwreck area, where you can lounge under the trees and immerse yourself in the tranquil ambiance of the surroundings.

Don’t forget to bring your snorkel gear, as the highlight of Isla Larga is the opportunity to explore the captivating shipwrecks beneath the crystal-clear waters. Dive into the vibrant underwater world and witness the fascinating marine life that has made these shipwrecks their home.

Day 10: Puerto Cabello – Cacao Finca

Begin your day in Puerto Cabello by exploring the charming historical center, which boasts a rich 400-year-old history. Take a leisurely stroll along the promenade, admiring the colorful colonial architecture.

For a unique cultural experience, make your way to the nearby stadium, where you can marvel at the colorful eco-marine mural crafted entirely from bottle caps. It’s a fascinating display of art and sustainability.

In the afternoon, venture out of the town and ascend the mountain to Hacienda Luna Clara, where you can immerse yourself in a captivating Cacao Experience, adding a unique touch to your Venezuela travel itinerary. This interactive experience takes you back to Colonial times, offering insights into the growth, processing, and roasting of cacao.

Learn about the traditional methods employed and savor the aroma of freshly roasted cacao. Indulge your senses by tasting the rich flavors of the roasted cacao and savor the final product, perhaps even with closed eyes. It’s a truly delightful experience that allows you to appreciate the journey from bean to chocolate.

Check the Parque Termatico out here @cacaolaexperiencia !

Day 11: Puerto Cabello to Choroni

It’s time to leave Puerto Cabello and head towards the wild jungle-like region of Choroni. Choroní is a small coastal town located in the Aragua state of Venezuela. It is known for its beautiful beaches, lush vegetation, and relaxed atmosphere, making it a popular tourist destination within the country.

Choroni offers picturesque landscapes, including palm-fringed beaches, crystal-clear waters, and nearby tropical rainforests.

How to get from Puerto Cabello to Choroni

I suggest leaving Puerto Cabello no later than 10 am. Buy a ticket to ideally Maracay or if no buses are available, to Valencia. This trip should cost around 2 $US. In Valencia change to a bus heading to Maracay. The trip will also be about 2 $US.

In Maracay, you have the option to take a public bus that heads to Choroni. Keep in mind these buses only leave when full and it can take a few hours if it’s low season. Alternatively, you can take a shared taxi for 7 $US.

The trip will take you for about 3 hours through windy mountain roads.

Where to stay in Choroni

Posada Bequeve – situated by a river, is an absolute gem to stay in. Its original hacienda has been around for over 20 years, now combining the old with new elements. Your stay will include a delicious breakfast and fusion-inspired multi-course dinner that will leave no room for wishes!

The unique decoration, its focus on sustainability and the wonderful staff make this posada a true highlight on every trip to Choroni!

TIP – if you head to Los Roques, they’ve got another one there!

Day 12: Choroni

The town of Choroni, nestled amidst lush tropical vegetation and dense forests, sets the stage for unforgettable outdoor adventures as part of your Venezuela travel itinerary. The nearby Henri Pittier National Park, Venezuela’s oldest national park, offers opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and exploring the diverse flora and fauna of the region.

Choroní is known for its breathtaking beaches with turquoise waters and powdery golden sands. In the morning, don’t miss the chance to visit Playa Grande, the main beach in Choroni, where you can soak up the picturesque scenery, swim in the inviting waters, and bask in the warm sun.

In the afternoon, head to its quaint town center. Choroní’s town center features charming colonial-style architecture, with colorful buildings, cobblestone streets, and small artisan shops. Exploring the town’s narrow streets and interacting with the friendly locals can provide a glimpse into the region’s history and daily life.

Just before sunset, head up the hill to the Christ statue for some of Choroni’s best viewpoints. The boat-filled river below, and the mountains in the distance it make watching the sunset so much more special!

Day 13 Choroni to Caracas

As you near the end of your Venezuela travel itinerary, make sure to save time for a visit to Caracas, the dynamic capital city. Nestled in a picturesque valley surrounded by majestic mountains, Caracas is a bustling metropolis that serves as the final stop of your journey.

It’s the perfect place to soak in the political, cultural, and economic heartbeat of the country. With a population of over three million people, it serves as the country’s political, cultural, and economic center.

While Caracas has much to offer, it’s important to stay informed about the current situation and travel advisories in Venezuela!

How to get from Choroni to Caracas

Get to the bus terminal of Choroni before 11 am for your best chance of arriving in Caracas in daylight. As the buses need to fill up, I’d suggest you take a shared taxi for 7 US$ back to Maracay. In Maracay you can find many buses that leave to Caracas regularly. The trip will cost about 4-5 US$ and ends at La Bandera Terminal. The whole trip can take between 6-7 hours.

Near the bus station is also a metro stop which is your best bet to get into the city cheaply. It’s fine to walk this stretch as many people head the same way.

The metro in Caracas usually works by paying with a Venezuelan card. I have been waived every time as nobody accepted the price of 10 Bolivares in cash.

Where to stay in Caracas

Caracas, like any large city, has areas with varying levels of safety. It is crucial to prioritize safety when choosing a place to stay in Caracas. The Altamira and Las Mercedes neighborhoods are generally considered safer areas for tourists. These neighborhoods have a higher concentration of hotels, restaurants, embassies and shopping centers and are known for their relatively safer environment.

Day 14: Caracas

Caracas has a fascinating history dating back centuries. It was founded in 1567 and played a significant role in Venezuela’s struggle for independence from Spanish rule. Historical landmarks like the Caracas Cathedral, Bolivar Square, and the birthplace of Simon Bolivar, the liberator of several South American countries, showcase the city’s historical importance.

To start your day of exploring, head towards the center of Caracas and get off at Bellos Artes metro station. The city is home to numerous museums, art galleries, theaters, and cultural centers that showcase Venezuelan art, history, and performing arts.

TIP: If you visit from Thursday-Sunday you should be lucky and the museums are open for visitors!

In the afternoon, head to Parque del Este to admire the striking modern skyline of Caracas, with its tall skyscrapers and contemporary architecture. The El Avila National Park, a majestic mountain overlooking the city, provides a stunning backdrop from there!

To end your day, head over to Altamira Suites Hotel and visit its 360 Rooftop bar for some of the top views of Caracas!

Day 15: Leaving Caracas

It’s time to leave this wonderful country.

To reach the Maiquetía “Simón Bolívar” International Airport, you have a couple of convenient options. One option is to call a Ridery cab, which typically costs around $25 from Altamira. Alternatively, you can take the metro to Bellos Artes and make your way toward the Alba Hotel or the nearby bridge. From there, you’ll find regular shuttle buses departing every 15 minutes to the airport. The journey, covering a distance of 21 km, shouldn’t exceed 30 minutes.

You’re two-week Venezuelan travel itinerary is completed and it hopefully has made your trip unforgettable!

Any questions about the trip? Give me a message on my Instagram @christintheilig !

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. If you purchase using these links, I earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend services and tools I know and trust myself. 

Women Travel Essentials I Can’t Live Without

Travel insurance.

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Pin for your future Venezuela trip!

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Travel Itineraries | Luxury Travel | Travel Tips

7 Ultimate Days in Venezuela | Travel Itinerary and Guide

Venezuela is one of the countries in South America well-known for its adventurous and beautiful natural wonders . From its landscapes to its bustling cities, most wanderers feel inclined to travel and experience the ambiance of Venezuela. One of the unique and enticing things about Venezuela is its stunning waterfalls. In this jam-packed schedule, we are going to explore the striking water features of Venezuela.

7 Day Venezuela Travel Itinerary – In Brief

Day 1 – reach venezuela | stay in ciudad bolivar, venezuela, day 2 – fly from ciudad bolivar to cainama, day 3 – boat riding to angel falls, day 4 – getting back to ciudad bolivar, day 5 – exploring kukenan river, day 6 – reaching the roraima falls, day 7 – the roraima summit and packing-up.

First off, a few reminders before starting this journey . It will be challenging to get a good sleep while sleeping in hammocks. It is advisable to bring mosquito nets to prevent from being bitten by mosquitoes. It also gets noisy, especially when the rain starts to fall. Since you will spend a long time sitting on hardwoods while riding on a curiara (a South American dug-out canoe), it is better to bring a cushion to prevent sore bums and stiff legs.

One Week Epic Venezuela Travel Itinerary and Guide

After arriving at Caracas, you will take a regional flight to Ciudad Bolivar, Venezuela. You can also find flights from Caracas going directly to Canaima if you prefer. The flight to Ciudad Bolivar should only take about an hour. Once you touch down, Ciudad Bolivar is a great place to explore. Touring the city, seeing their colonial-style architecture, and trying their cassava bread is a relaxing way to spend the day there. When tired, you can check into a hotel here to spend the night after the long trip. Take a rest from the long flight and eat dinner.

Departing from Ciudad Bolivar, you can visit the Angel Falls by riding on a twin-propeller plane for another hour flight over the tepuis of Canaima, then a short transfer to one of the lodges near Laguna de Canaima. Some lodges include your airplane transportation with their booking, which can be convenient. From the shores, you can enjoy the Hacha Falls and waterfalls in the dark lagoon.

After eating your lunch, you are on your first adventure to either Hacha Falls, Sapo Falls, or both. After crossing the lagoon, you will take a short hike to reach the top of Sapo Falls with the view of Canaima and feel the refreshing experience brought by walking a trail behind the falls. Staying at Sapo falls is a relaxing experience for those who want to go sunbathing or swimming. Afterward, you will return to your lodge to eat dinner and take a good rest.

On Day 3, you will now head to the outdoor camp of Angel Falls for your remote camping adventure. After taking your breakfast at the lodge, you will now take a short adventure hiking to Ucaima Port, then board a curiara rowing along the Carrao and Churun Rivers to the stunning Angel Falls. The boat ride can take four to six hours, depending on the river flow and water level. Note that boats can only reach Angel Falls during the rainy season (June to December), so plan accordingly!

As you ride on the curiara, you will be able to enjoy the scenery and the massive tepuis. Be prepared to get out of the boat a few times to hike when you pass through some rapids along Carrao! The confluence between the two rivers is also impressive, as the Carrao river suddenly opens up into a sprawling, pebbly space. You can also enjoy a picnic lunch on the river banks.

Once you switch to the Churun River, you slowly enter the Devil’s Canyon. Devil’s Canyon is the valley where we find Angel Falls. Reaching the end of the Devil’s Canyon, you can now see the stunning Angel Falls cascading around 979 m in height from the top of the Auyan-tepui to the Churun River. From Churun, you will have a one-hour trek to Mirador Laime and then go down to the rock pools to enjoy swimming at the base of the falls. End your day with delicious food at a camp in Angel Falls before resting.

On the fourth day of the trip, you will need to leave Angel Falls to explore Roraima.  You will start your day by experiencing an exquisite breakfast while enjoying the magnificent view of Angel Falls. After enjoying the full breakfast and a sip of coffee, ride a boat traveling down to the rivers of Canaima.

After lunch, take a one-hour trip going back to Ciudad Bolivar. Arriving around mid to late afternoon, you will have the chance to explore the city of Ciudad Bolivar one more time since the scheduled private transfer or bus to Sta. Elena, your starting point for Roraima, will still be early in the evening. The ride should take around 10 hours for a private vehicle, so you would get a good rest during the travel.

On the fifth day of the trip, you can explore the exhilarating Kukenan river. Early in the morning, you will leave Sta. Elena by jeep. The drive will take approximately two to three hours going to Pareitepuy, a Pemón village. Pareitepuy will be the starting point for your trek. You first need to register at the local chief house and InParques (Natural Parks Office) to get permission to hike to the Kukenan River. The hike is going to take up to five hours.

This adventurous trail will allow you to enjoy two refreshing river crossings. The Kukenan River can be pretty challenging, depending on the water level. Rest assured that your guides will be helping you throughout the way. After this exhausting adventure, you can have your dinner and overnight in the tents at the campsite in Kukenan. You can choose either the Rio Kukenan or Rio Tek Camp to rest at, as they are pretty close to each other.

You are now on to your sixth day, and this day you will experience one of the famous natural wonders of Venezuela, the Roraima Falls. Some travelers opt to stay in Mount Roraima for up to six to eight days . The extra days give them time to further explore the area and hike to the tripoint at the top.

After having your breakfast at the Kukenan campsite, your long adventure will start as you trek past sprawling fields that, depending on the season, could be filled with orchids. The approximate uphill trek is two hours and then another two to four hours before you arrive at the base camp, which has fresh running water coming from the top of Roraima, also known as “The Ever Fruitful Mother of Streams”. Here is where the water of three of the largest rivers in the South originates. As usual, you will be spending your night in tents in Roraima.

You are now on the last day of your trip after spending your night sleeping in the exuberant forest surrounding the tepui. After having breakfast, you are now to trek the tropical rainforest with abundant plants such as bromeliads and tree ferns. It will take another two to four hours hiking the ramp of big rocks to reach the top of the plateau, named “Hotel Indio” Camp. At the top, you will feel like you have been to the moon. After this exhausting adventure, you will now eat your lunch at the campsite in Roraima before packing your bags to say goodbye.

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Your full Wanderlust guide to travel in Venezuela

With more beauty queens than anywhere else and the highest waterfall in the world, Venezuela sure is easy on the eye. Christopher Columbus described the south-east of the country as “paradise on earth”.

Venezuela offers amazingly diverse experiences, from delving into the Amazon rainforest to taking a dip in the gently lapping Caribbean sea. In the west is Los Llanos, the great plain where local flora and fauna – such as scarlet ibis and Orinoco crocodile – share their territory with cattle and   llanero   cowboys.

Further west, at Mérida, you can be whisked off your feet by the highest cable car in the world as it glides up through the mist-swirled peaks of the Andes. Pull on your hiking boots and march out onto the grassy trails of the   páramo   and the highland pastures studded with wild flowers.

In the east, where Venezuela meets Brazil and Guyana, the Gran Sabana – watered by the mighty cascade of Angel Falls – soars to the flat-topped tepui, including Roraima, the 'lost world'. 

A stop on your Venezuelan itinerary should certainly be Mochima National Park on the coast, where you can hire a boat and chug round the clusters of islands until you find a deserted cove where you can drop anchor and spend a day padding across your own beach. Or perhaps head to the spectacular Los Roques archipelago, with miles of pristine white-sand beaches and crystal-clear water.

• Capital city: Caracas
• Population: 28.7 million
• Money: bolívar soberano
• Int dialing code: + 58
• Languages: Spanish & Castillan
• Visas: If you’re arriving by air, you can enter for up to 90 days on a tourist card issued on arrival. You must have a valid return ticket. If you’re arriving overland or by sea, you must get a visa in advance from your nearest Venezuelan Embassy or Consulate.
• Voltage: 120 V
• Time: GMT - 4

Further Reading

When to go to venezuela.

Venezuela is generally considered to be a year-round destination. The dry season (December to April) is more pleasant for travelling but the mighty waterfalls in the Gran Sabana of the south-east look more impressive during the wet season.

International airport

Simon Bolivar International Airport (CCS) is 27km from Caracas

Getting around in Venezuela

Most Venezuelans use   buses   to get around and services between major centres are regular and cheap. Go for   servicio ejecutivo   or   bus-cama   for extra comfort. Shorter distances are covered by large cars known as   por puestos ,   carros   or   carritos   which ply a fixed route and leave when full. Renting a   car   (and filling it with petrol) is cheap in Venezuela but driving standards are poor. Several airlines offer domestic flights. Venezuela is not a good place for cyclists.

Venezuela accommodation

Venezuela isn’t short of accommodation but there are almost no   hostels   or organised   campsites .   Posadas   (family-run guesthouses) are a good bet if you’re on a budget as many of the cheaper hotels rent out rooms by the hour. At the top end, Caracas and Isla de Margarita have the most options. Note that walk-in prices are usually cheaper than those online. Only the most expensive hotels accept credit cards.

Venezuela food & drink

Arepas   are a national favourite – dense disks of white maize flour that come baked or fried with a variety of fillings and sit heavy on the stomach.   Pabellon criollo   is a robust plate of shredded beef, often accompanied by   plantanos   (cooking bananas),   caraotas negras   (black beans) and rice.   Orinoco river fish   are a delicacy, but best enjoyed close to the source. Coffee drinking is an art form; a zingy   negrito   (espresso) will kick start your day, but ask for it ‘ sin azucar ’ (without sugar) if you don’t share the nation’s sweet tooth.

Health & safety in Venezuela

Check with your GP or local travel clinic about vaccinations and malaria prevention. Yellow fever and dengue fever are a risk. Crime is a problem in Caracas: try and leave your money and valuables somewhere safe before walking the streets. Venezuelans go a bit Wacky Races behind the wheel so take extra care when crossing the road and never assume that drivers are going to stop.

Our recommendations for travelling in Venezuela

• Climb the  tepui  (flat-topped mountain) Roraima for stunning views from a ‘lost world’
• Head upriver and overland in Venezuela to the highest waterfall in the world: Angel Falls
• Swim with turtles in beautiful Caribbean archipelago Los Roques
• Relax with some pampering massages between shopping trips and beach visits on Margarita Island
• Pick up some Chocolates El Rey: they will change your perception of chocolate forever
• Explore Los Llanos, watching out for giant anteaters lumbering across the savannah

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The Ultimate Adventure Guide to Venezuela

Hola amigos! Welcome to our Venezuela travel guide. We are Valery and Emmanuel. Two Venezuelans from Caracas. We met each other while working for Soco Adventures , our adventure travel agency.

Let us tell you about our beautiful country. The people here are always happy. Despite the adversities, we always try to look on the brighter side of life. We’ve had the pleasure of meeting many Venezuelans across the country – from indigenous populations to people from small towns.

One thing we know is that people are always happy to meet you and share with you what they have. It’s an honour for us. When we travel we try to donate money to small communities too. Interacting with the people of Venezuela makes us come back happier and more in love with our country each and every time.

Exploring all Corners of the Beautiful Venezuela

We started traveling through Venezuela two years ago. I guess we have covered around 80% of the country now. However, we do think that less is more sometimes. It’s nice to travel deeper into each place that we visit.

Venezuela is small: 916.000km2. You could experience the best of the best of the country in around two-three months max. For us, we also have other responsibilities when we travel like our adventure travel agency. So we can’t be traveling full-time. We utilise weekends and small trips of 7-10 days to visit the most amazing destinations of Venezuela.

Venezuela Travel Guide: Visit Angels Falls and Mount Roraima

We both have different favourite places in Venezuela. Valery’s favourite is Angel Falls . It’s the highest waterfall in the world at a staggering 979m. The feelings and sensations of navigating the river to reach the base camp are indescribable! Honestly, you have to see it in real life for yourself. Truly a magical place that should be included in every Venezuela travel guide!

In Emmanuel’s case, Mount Roraima is his favourite. This Tapuy or “Big Rock” requires seven days of trekking and camping. After three days you can touch the wall and reach the top at 2800 metres above sea level. The views are simply spectacular.

All the effort of hiking for more than 30km to reach the top and seeing the magic of our planet – it’s an amazing experience! Exploring the top of Roraima and seeing the diversity of its landscapes is a huge WOW moment. You can see more about this destination in the YouTube video we made below.

Venezuela Travel Guide: Top 5 Experiences

Our number one recommendation for our Venezuela travel guide is (of course) Angel Falls. It’s one of the most amazing places on earth. Emmanuel has visited 30 countries in the world and for him there is no place that quite compares to Angel Falls.

We review a lot of places on Google and if you see the interactions we’ve had on our Angel Falls review, you’ll realise that it’s not a common destination. Not only because of the height of the waterfalls, but also because people don’t tend to visit Canaima National Park in general.

Honestly, we are blessed to have Angel Falls in our country. The best way to visit is to contact a tour agency. We recommend our adventure travel agency . We create custom trips to all parts of Venezuela. This is one of our most popular trips that we do. We pick up tourists from the airport and stay with them for their entire stay in our country.

Our second experience is Mount Roraima. As mentioned above, this magical place actually looks like a floating island as the plateau sits 7000 metres above the forest. The mountain is surrounded by three different countries: Venezuela, Brazil and Guyana.

If you want to scale the cliff walls, you will need to have experience in climbing and mountaineering. However, there is a path up which is more suited for everyday hikers who have a decent level of fitness.

Coming in third on our list is Los Roques. This archipelago of more than 50 islands located on the Caribbean coast is pure paradise. The most popular island is El Gran Roque which is the only island where people live (the airport is situated here too). Other islands you should explore are Francisqui, Nordisqui, Madrisqui, Crasqui and many more!

La tortuga island is another must-do island destination. It’s located just three hours from the coast of Venezuela. No one lives here and it’s pure untouched island paradise. Our final recommendation is to do a road trip to Falcon. More details on this unique destination below.

Las Salinas de las Cimaraguas in Falcon State

One of the most beautiful places to visit in Falcon State is Las Salinas de las Cumaraguas. At the beginning of this road trip, you pass through a road of palm trees and you start to feel like you’re entering paradise.

Then you can go to Tucacas and visit Morrocoy National Park. Next you go to the desert at Médanos de Coro and trek it’s dunes and take some amazing pictures. You can also practice sandboarding which is a lot of fun!

After tearing up the sand of Coro, head to Adicora – the wind paradise. This is the perfect beach for kitesurfing. Drive for a further 20 minutes and you’ll reach your main destination: Las Salinas de lals Cimaraguas. Seeing those amazing pink and salty waters for the first time will totally blow you away!

You can visit the salt lakes all year round. The best time to visit during the day is from 11am – 2pm because this is the time when the sun is shining brightest. The pinks are more intense and colourful during this time. These vibrant colours are created from bacteria (nothing bad) under the water that, mixed with sunlight, produces the pink colour.

Venezuela Travel Guide: Where to Find the Best Beaches

In our top 5 experiences of Venezuela we mentioned some destinations with amazing beaches like Los Roques, La Tortuga Island and the Falcon State with its Morrocoy National Park. The best beaches are probably located in these three different destinations.

But honestly, there are several other places with stunning stretches of beach too like Choroni, La Blanquilla Island, La Orchila Island, Margarita Island and Cubagua Island.

Venezuela is a country with the biggest Caribbean coastline. It’s located on the equator line, so there’s not just beautiful places but also lovely weather. Sunny days and warm waters year round – isn’t that just perfect?!

Our Most Cherished Travel Memory in Venezuela

It’s hard for us to have one single favourite travel moment in Venezuela because we live by the motto: “the best trip is the next one”! We always try to live every moment to the max in each day of our lives. However, one moment that comes to mind was from September last year when we were invited to explore Angel Falls.

We visited the falls and its surroundings for 10 days. It wasn’t the easiest trip since we had to do a lot of walking. We met many indigenous communities and did a lot of photography and videography work.

The best moment was when we went to the base at Angel Falls. Our guide asked us if we wanted to touch the wall of the Auyantepui (the big mountain or rock where Angel Falls is located). For context, on regular tours, you reach a viewpoint located 3km away from the exact location of the waterfall.

As we started to walk towards the waterfalls and feel the immense vibrations, we just started crying in gratitude for the opportunity to be there. We showered in the base of Angel Falls with water coming straight down from the top, over 900 metres of free fall!

Venezuela Travel Guide: Taste the Delicious Food

Venezuela has several typical meals that you can find everywhere. The most recommended food is the Arepa. It’s like a salty corn doughnut cake that you open and can fill with chicken, beef, cheese, and whatever you like! Anything fits inside a Venezuelan Arepa.

Cachapa is another favourite with sweet corn dough that’s slightly bigger than the Arepa. It’s best eaten with pork, cheese and sweet plantains inside. If you come in December you can also try the Hallaca which is like a Mexican Tamale filled with chicken, pork, steak, vegetables and Venezuelan seasoning all wrapped in plantain leaves. Yum!

Venezuela Travel Guide: Is it Safe to Visit?

The safety of traveling here is a controversial theme to talk about. It’s probably the most requested topic in any Venezuela travel guide. Social media and the news has shown only the worst parts of our country. It’s obviously the stuff that gets the most attention to sell advertising.

However, Venezuela is an amazing country. For sure, it’s not 100% ready to embrace mass tourism but we are on the way. You will find it a safe country if you want to visit the tourist destinations. People are respectful and embrace other cultures.

It’s a shame that politics has destroyed the economy and much of the society in Venezuela. Many people find themselves in poverty because of this. There are dangerous areas where we recommend tourists don’t visit (at least by yourself). Although, those areas are neighbourhoods far away from tourist spots.

We have been affected by politics in things like the quality of our roads and the price of gas at gas stations. Apart from that, if you take precautions (like the ones we recommend in our YouTube videos) then you will not only be safe but Venezuela will be one of your favourite countries for sure!

What you Need to Know Before you Go

Our number one tip for our travel guide to Venezuela is to try contact people who live here before you arrive. We are always here to help. Do not exchange your currency at the airport to bolivars (our currency) because they always pay you way less than the real price.

Try to get in touch with adventure travel agencies. It’s the best, safest and most exclusive way to visit the most incredible places in Venezuela. Be prepared to fall in love and stay forever in this amazing country.

Thanks for reading our Venezuela travel guide! We hope it has inspired you to visit one of the most beautiful countries on earth. Feel free to get in touch with us if you have any more questions or would like to book a tour with our agency: Soco Adventures!

BY VALERY & EMMANUEL IG: @DOSLOCOSDEVIAJE IG: @SOCOADVENTURES

Author:  Valery & Emmanuel

Travel couple from Caracas who run the adventure travel agency in Venezuala called Soco Adventures.

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Venezuela Travel Information

Though best known for its oil, politics, and feisty former president, Venezuela is in fact an action-packed traveller's destination endowed with an astonishing array of landscapes and experiences. Tropical beaches, vast wetlands, great rivers, idyllic colonial towns, little-explored jungle and majestic mountains are among the South American country's varied settings. Visitors can choose from a wealth of adventure activities or just kick back and enjoy the resort experience.

Venezuela is an amazingly diverse country : from the peaks of the Andes to the long stretches of sunny beach, the beautiful Caribbean islands, the hustle and bustle of busy Caracas to the vast areas of Amazon rain-forest. 

Geographically Venezuela is bordered to the north by the Caribbean, to the east by Guyana and the Atlantic Ocean, to the south by Brazil , and to the west and southwest by Colombia . The country consists of four distinctive regions: the Venezuelan Highlands in the west; the Maracaibo Lowlands in the northwest; the vast central plain of Los Llanos around the Orinoco River; and the Guyana region in the extreme south, which includes part of the Amazon rainforest and the Guyana highlands.

Whether you are visiting Venezuela purely for pleasure or as part of a business trip, Goway hopes to help you make your visit a great one.

At Goway we believe that a well-informed traveller is a safer traveller. With this in mind, we have compiled an easy to navigate travel information section dedicated to Venezuela.

Learn about the history and culture of Venezuela, the must-try food and drink, and what to pack in your suitcase. Read about Venezuela's  nature and wildlife , weather and geography, along with 'Country Quickfacts' compiled by our travel experts. Our  globetrotting tips , as well as our visa and health information will help ensure you're properly prepared for a safe and enjoyable trip. The only way you could possibly learn more is by embarking on your journey and discovering Venezuela for yourself. Start exploring… book one of our Venezuela vacations today !

Extend Your Trip

After your Venezuela tour , why not consider another of Goway's   Latin America tours .  These include a large selection of other exciting countries in Central and South America. We offer  Chile vacation packages and Easter Island tours ,  Ecuador vacation packages   which include  Galapagos cruises ,  Peru vacation packages  which include  Machu Picchu tours  and  Brazil tours  including  Iguassu Falls tours  among many others.

Book your Venezuela tour with Goway!  

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Budget Venezuela Travel Guide 8 Ways to Save More Money

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Budget Venezuela Travel Guide includes 18 Important Travel Planning Tips that will allow you to see and do more on your budget. Learn how you can benefit.

Table of Contents

Welcome to the Venezuela Travel Guide! Very few countries can boast quite so diverse and spectacular natural beauty as Venezuela. From the stunning Angel Falls through to the Los Llanos grasslands, Los Roques archipelago, and the sumptuous Medanos de Coro desert – this country is the perfect match for any traveler with a hefty dose of wanderlust.

At the time of writing the Venezuela Travel Guide, the country is experiencing considerable internal problems – and a good proportion of international governments are advising their citizens to avoid all but essential travel to the country. Such issues are hardly new to Venezuela – and will hopefully pass quicker than the pessimists predict – and should not put anyone off visiting this country once tempers have cooled back down towards a ‘simmering level’.

Those who take the plunge to explore Venezuela can seriously fall head over heels for this gorgeous, fascinating, and delightfully welcoming country. Here’s everything you need to know about visiting Venezuela – be it next month or further down the line.

Budget Venezuela Travel Guide – What Are the Best Places to Visit in Venezuela?

Venezuela is best known for the Angel Falls – the highest uninterrupted waterfalls in the world – that flow from the Auyantepui Mountain. The exact height of the falls varies depending on the time of year, and we’d highly recommend making these the center point of exploring the rest of the Canaima National Park . Far too many visitors simply check out the falls for a day and skip on without appreciating the real beauty of the surrounding terrain (where you’ll still have plenty of views of the iconic falls).

Check out the many conservation charities and environmental agencies working around this region for some expert tours, sustainable accommodation options, and make the most of a well-developed network of hiking trails and campsites too. There’s also plenty of indigenous culture around the falls (incidentally still referred to by their original name – Kerepakupai Vená in closeby communities) so this is a handy place for checking out the more immersive aspects of Venezuelan culture too.

While the Angel Falls are certainly a showstopper when it comes to national attractions, Venezuela has much more to offer the more adventurously minded visitor. Time your visit right and Los Lanos (the plains) can deliver some sensational bird and animal watching – look hard enough and you may spot a caiman or even a rare jaguar. While you can explore this region yourself – it has some surprisingly decent infrastructure and good enough roads – tours may be the safest and most educational way of doing so. When the heat becomes too much make sure to head over to the simply stunning Los Roques Archipelago.

This is hands-down one of the best ‘hidden gems’ in Latin America for scuba/snorkeling and general waterside exploration. There are not many places to stay – plan this carefully – but the lack of too many exclusive resorts is certainly part of why this region is so wonderful to roam about and enjoy at leisure. Get it right and it could be the absolute highlight of any trip. When you feel the pangs for civilization head instead towards Choroni for some laid back small-city vibes.

Make sure to read Arthur Conan Doyle’s ‘The Lost World’ before heading out to Mount Roraima. This tabletop mountain inspired the sci-fi classic, and you’ll be blown away at how atmospheric this popular destination can be. You’ll likely be keeping an eye out for passing velociraptors as much as gazing in awe at the wonderful natural scenery and wildlife! As with Angel Falls, do your best to appreciate the surrounding environment and avoid the temptation for ‘checklist tourism’ – this place demands way more than a casual selfie. There are some outstanding sustainable eco-lodges in the area that – for once – do not blow an enormous chunk into anyone’s travel budget!

You may have noticed that most of the best sites in Venezuela lean towards the country’s natural splendor – and there are quite a few other places well worth taking the effort to see. The Mochima National Park focuses mostly on marine life and the forests/foothills around the Turimiquire mountains. Once again you really need to explore to find the best parts. Expect plenty of diving amidst shipwrecks, dolphins galore, nesting pelicans, and some lazy days hopping between truly unspoiled islands.

If you decide you wish for some more creature-comforts then consider a trip to glitzy Isla Margarita for plenty of beachside fun. It’s famous for kite surfing and has a wonderfully eclectic nightlife! Honorable mentions must also do to the amazing sand dunes of the Medanos de Coro National Park (weirdly accessible by taxi!) that are well worth exploring by camel or even by throwing in a little sandboarding for the more adrenalin minded.

You’ll find most of the more interesting museums in Caracas – but do be careful should you visit the city, as it does deserve it’s somewhat murky reputation. Visitors would be better off checking out the much more pleasant, colorful, and friendly towns such as Carupano, Porlamar (on Margarita Island), Merida, and Lechiria. We’ll discuss personal safety matters later in the Venezuela Travel Guide – but it is worth mentioning at this stage that the fragile Venezuelan travel economy does really look to deliver its best for visitors.

You’ll find most people are highly protective of travelers – and massively appreciate their willingness to visit their currently somewhat troubled country. Some parts of the country are currently no-go areas, but that applies to at most 10% of the total land. Follow your government’s advice and keep an eye on the situation. Time it right and you’ll enjoy one of the most gorgeous countries in South America in perfect tranquility!

Budget Venezuela Travel Guide – What Are the Best Things to Do in Venezuela?

As discussed above you’ll likely be spending plenty of time exploring the countryside, coastal regions, mountainscapes, waterfalls, and occasional golden desert during your spell in Venezuela. Besides a handful of mostly gorgeous coastal towns, there isn’t a huge amount to recommend the larger cities – at least not at the moment. Our advice would be to look at the various ways of making this country as accessible and safe as possible – and the best way of ensuring this is to take plenty of organized tours that currently cost very little indeed.

Even travelers on an absolute shoestring budget can enjoy a practically limitless experience in Venezuela at the moment – so make your money count in the right ways and spend it with locals scraping a living from occasional passing visitors. Pick the right tour/expedition and you’ll have an incredible time (hostels are a universally amazing resource for sharing tips of the best).

Chances are that you’ll spend plenty of time checking out the scenery and wildlife throughout your stay in Venezuela. One of the best aspects of this country is that you can quite easily pass from one National Park straight into another, and providing you plan accordingly you can cram a huge amount into a surprisingly modest timescale (not that we’d recommend you try and rush this country).

Try and take the time to appreciate that you’ll find waterfalls and wildlife practically everywhere – and that much as they try to promote specific attractions within the national parks they are all quite similar – not that that is a bad thing! Anticipate instead stumbling across opportunities that you didn’t expect pretty much wherever you go. Be prepared to interrupt that jaguar spotting expedition with the occasional scramble up a waterfall and you’ll literally get the picture.

Variety is the key to exploring Venezuela properly – so be ready to mix it up when hiking the mountains. Mount Roraima gets the headlines but visitors will also love the likes of Auyantepuy and El Pauji which offer more varied trails with the same degree of atmospheric wonder. The exact same is true of the beaches – take the opportunity to head a little further than the most popular sites and you’ll discover some majestic and utterly untouched stretches. We’d suggest that the beaches in Venezuela are quite probably the most perfect you’ll find in Latin America – check out Crasqui or Francisqui islands and you’ll be along the right path.

Taking advantage of the most random opportunities is what will make your Venezuelan adventure last long in the memory. The Merida Cable Car – by some distance the highest and longest in the world – serves as a perfect example. It is far less rickety than it looks and provides utterly amazing views around the surrounding landscape. Many safari expeditions choose to include a two-way trip on this providing they are passing nearby and make sure to take the opportunity if it is presented. Even if you do not have a head for heights this is the kind of unique adventure – where you write your own script – that personifies the ideal Venezuelan travel experience.

There’s really not a whole lot more we’d suggest visitors specifically try and squeeze into their Venezuelan travel itinerary. You’re best off approaching this country with an open mind and looking down the most unlikely avenues – chances are that you’ll find something amazing. Just like many other countries without a massive tourist economy you should not expect everything to be signposted or even that handy or accessible. Ask around, take advice from other visitors, and go with the flow.

Providing you pick the right guides and stick to the safer parts of the country you’ll be able to have a mesmerizing time here. Just be warned – time passes very quickly in Venezuela so allow for longer than you may expect.

Budget Venezuela Travel Guide – When is The Best Time to Visit Venezuela?

Choosing when to visit Venezuela can make a decisive difference. Should you want to see the various falls in their most tremendous splendor then look to visit over the rainier months that stretch between May and late November.

The later you push that (October/November) the closer you’ll get towards the ‘low season’ – meaning you can enjoy most of the gorgeous beaches in relative peace and quiet. We’d recommend this time of year if you want to see the best of the natural side of the country. Urban explorers may prefer the much livelier times of the year. Carnival season spans between February and March in most regions – although just remember that these festivities are not quite as prominent as they are during more peaceful times at the moment.

Budget Venezuela Travel Guide – Do I Need A Tourist Visa in Venezuela?

Even though your home government may well advise against visiting Venezuela at the moment, getting into the country is generally really easy with a couple of exceptions. Visitors from the EU, Canada, Australia, NZ, Japan and a good number of others do not need a visa and will have their passport (make sure it is valid for at least six months) stamped with a 90-day tourist permit upon arrival. American and Israeli citizens are still subjected to more scrutiny – a hangover from the Chavez days – and need to apply for an advance permit that costs about $30. Apply at your local consulate.

It is worth mentioning that visa extensions ought to be arranged as soon as possible and you’ll need to provide a good reason for why you want one, plus probably prove you have funds for sustenance and onward/homeward travel. Be careful to keep a close eye on your baggage when passing through land borders.

Budget Venezuela Travel Guide – What Currency Is Used in Venezuela?

The Venezuelan Bolivar – introduced in 2018 to try and limit rampant hyperinflation – has so far utterly failed to achieve this task. Prices are incredibly inconsistent in Venezuela and you’re best off using a combination of USD (wired into the country) or changing Brazilian or Colombian currency on the black market. Money is not easy to handle in Venezuela and really is the root of most of the country’s current problems – so plan for this accordingly. For the sake of convenience – we’ll estimate local prices in USD over the course of the Ultimate Venezuela Travel Guide. Remember that these are seriously liable to change!

Unlike the rest of Latin America, visitors should not use local ATMs – the exchange rate is utterly awful and there’s a good reason why many have armed guards posted nearby. You’ll need to use the black market – don’t worry, the government only chases those at the high end of the ladder – to get a reasonable exchange rate. Avoid official change desks.

Ask at your accommodation and understand that many guides, hotels, and so forth will accept online/international money orders as payment. Irritating as it sounds the Venezuelans are rather adaptable people and once you have figured out the ways that this works you should get to grips with it readily enough. Avoid credit cards at all costs – the exchange rates will be calculated on local values and you’ll be seriously out of pocket.

Get ready to carry a lot of banknotes while you are in Venezuela – and needless to say that makes money belts and secret wallets an essential factor in visiting this country at the time being. Use hotel safes wherever possible and try not to carry more currency that you’ll need to get by for a couple of days. One of the positive aspects of the black market is that once you have established a good source you’ll be set – and it really is not very difficult to do that.

Budget Venezuela Travel Guide – Do I Tip In Venezuela?

10% is the standard tip in restaurants and you should feel tempted to consider leaving gratuities throughout your stay in Venezuela. You’ll be carrying plenty of banknotes and the local wages and prices are so staggeringly low you’ll feel morally obliged to do so. Make sure to tip tour guides, porters, room attendants, and so on wherever you can. Most of the people who do not ask for tips (the vast majority) are those working the jobs which are at the bottom of the ladder.

Budget Venezuela Travel Guide – What Kind Of Budget Do I Need In Venezuela?

Venezuela is so cheap to visit that it borders something close to the outrageous. It is absolutely plausible to spend days on the beach while staying in a local budget hostel, eating three basic meals a day, on a $10/day budget. Travel, more upmarket hotels, the lavisher end of the nightlife scene, and essential tours/expeditions will cost considerably more but are still not going to come anywhere close to what you’d pay for similar experiences in neighboring countries.

Remember that with your additional spending power comes a degree of responsibility. You’ll be spending way beyond what the average Venezuelan does over the course of a day – do not be outraged at being charges 10% more on meals and bus fares just because you’re a visitor. Use the black market wisely and try to find a money changer who uses it to supplement a family run business or hotel.

Here are three very approximate budget estimates for exploring Venezuela.

Budget ($10-20/day)

Hostels that cater to international visitors are often more expensive than locally run budget hotels – with the advantage that they’re excellent hubs for sharing information/tips and tend to be more secure, handier for changing money, and often very well located. We’d advise that even the most penny-pinching visitor tries to make use of locally owned hostels for these reasons – and prices rarely cost more than $10/night for a dorm bed anyway. Hotels are about the same for a double room but do not expect the Ritz, any kind of complimentary breakfast, or to be located in the handiest places.

We’ll cover transportation and getting around later in the Ultimate Venezuela Travel Guide, just be assured that prices are similarly low and even superior quality options (where available) rarely cost close to what you’d expect to pay in Colombia. Our advice here would be to only consider ‘doing Venezuela’ under your own steam if you are an experienced traveler who speaks good Spanish.

The vast majority of visitors will be better off making use of organized tours that are going to cost substantially more, with the added advantages of better security, transit arrangements, and local knowledge. Needless to say, that is going to substantially increase the costs of your Venezuelan adventure and leads us to…

Mid-Level ($50-70/day)

You’ll have days in Venezuela where you barely need to spend any money whatsoever – but those are going to be between days when you will be enjoying expertly managed local tours instead. Those are essential for the vast majority of visitors to enjoy the country securely – and the good news is that they are still amazing value. We’d recommend that most visitors stick to the best hostels and use the rest of their money to choose between the many high-quality tours operating throughout the country.

This is the key difference – you can spend a couple more bucks on a better quality meal, but really that is going to be inconsequential supplementary spending from most visitor’s perspective.

Prices vary depending on what kind of equipment (if any) is included/provided, transit costs, lodgings, and so forth. For a rough estimate, allow about $50/day for all-inclusive overland expeditions and perhaps closer to $80 if that includes sea sports and activities. Throw in some modest daily tips and that $70/day estimate is pretty close to what you’d be expecting to pay – and anticipate some really rather spectacular adventures!

High-End ($100+)

Luxury resorts do still exist in Venezuela – and you can expect to pay about a third or a quarter of what you would in neighboring countries. If that is your bag then the best way to arrange for these would be to pay for everything upfront and in advance. Remember to include any excursions in those costs and avoid the temptation to use your credit cards unless you want to be burning about 30% in exchange rates and commission.

Tempting as it could be to think of living the high-roller lifestyle in Venezuela it is really rather trickier than you may expect. Our advice would be to blow than bankroll by skipping the luxury end of the market and staying in some really progressive eco-lodges, usually as part of high quality and often internationally led tour groups. There’s plenty of specialist options that really can unlock the many wonders of the country – just remember that it’ll likely be a rather ‘sanitized’ perspective of the country that can put off some more worldly travelers.

Budget Venezuela Travel Guide – What Languages Are Spoken in Venezuela?

Venezuela is still home to at least 40 indigenous languages but you’ll find that Spanish is also universally spoken (at least as a second language). Basic English is now taught in some elementary schools and the language has enjoyed an upsurge in popularity recently, but visitors would still be well advised to try and learn some simple Spanish before they visit.

English is widely spoken throughout the travel/tourism industry but not so much in official agencies such as border control/immigration. Overall the language difference is only going to be an issue if you try and explore Venezuela entirely under your own steam. Those who stick to established routes and make use of traveler services/tours will not have any problems.

Budget Venezuela Travel Guide – What Religions Are Practiced in Venezuela?

Close to 90% of the Venezuelan people are registered as Christians and around 75% of that figure are Roman Catholics with the rest being mostly Protestants. The rest of the population (official statistics do not take into account ‘no religion’) follow Judaism, Buddhism, and a handful of other faiths. Despite the nation’s recent history religion still retains a considerable cultural power – although it is unlikely going to affect most visitor’s experiences within the country. Dress a little smarter than you may expect if visiting religious sites and practice any of your own beliefs respectfully.

Budget Venezuela Travel Guide – Practical Tips From The Venezuela Travel Guide

Since the death of Hugo Chavez back in 2013 Venezuela has endured a series of economic and social catastrophes. Inflation runs at one of the worst rates in the world, corruption is endemic throughout the country’s administration, crime rates have rocketed and political opponents arrested and imprisoned without the right to anything close to a fair defense. To say Venezuela is suffering some hard times at the moment would be a massive understatement – and these are fair reasons that explain why many travelers are currently understandably shy of dipping their toe inside the country.

The challenges facing Venezuela are substantial and tragic for those who have been lucky enough to experience the wonders of the country before these times of significant strife. While people do still visit the country – and in some roundabout ways now can be an excellent opportunity to do so – it is important to do so responsibly and in as safe a possible manner. Large parts of the country remain peaceful and visitors are unlikely going to be picked on just because they are from elsewhere. But property crime is an issue – and that is something we’ll talk about more closely in a moment.

Travelers who are experienced in tougher countries should still find Venezuela isn’t that bad compared to many others out there. With some luck, responsible travelers who showcase the indisputable wonders of the country and prove that Venezuela still loves to warmly receive visitors could help kickstart an upsurge in the popularity of the destination over the coming years. 20 years ago very few people visited Colombia – and now it is one of the hottest destinations in global travel. There is no reason why Venezuela cannot follow a similar path, but some people are still going to need to make those first positive steps forward.

Budget Venezuela Travel Guide – What About Health and Safety in Venezuela, Is It Safe?

It is important to take some serious precautions before visiting Venezuela. Crime is a substantial problem – in the same manner, that it is in most desperately poor countries – so take care in the cities, try and travel in groups, and stick to taxis at night. The vast majority of crime is money/property theft-related so don’t carry huge amounts of money, use hotel safes, make copies of essential documents, and follow your government’s local travel advice for which areas/districts are experiencing civil unrest. Keep well clear of policial demonstrations – these can flare up without much warning so keep alert at all times.

You should only plan to visit Venezuela at the moment if you are in good overall health. Medical services within the country are threadbare and even the best insurance (providing you can get some) will not guarantee that you’ll be seen urgently. Medications are at best thin on the ground – so the best advice if you fall seriously ill, injured, or lose priority medication in Venezuela would be to get out of the country as soon as possible. Take a comprehensive medical kit with you and ensure you are totally vaccinated against local risks of disease and infection. Keep an eye out for heat exhaustion, dehydration, and environmental hazards.

Remember that one of the many advantages of using tour services in Venezuela is that they’ll help avoid/prevent a good number of these problems that are going to present considerably higher risks to lone/solo travelers and groups. Tap water is not recommended anywhere in the country besides basic oral hygiene use.

Scary as Venezuela may seem at the moment the situation is constantly evolving. Large parts of the country are far safer than the cities and no riskier than what you’ll experience in other nearby countries. Our advice would be to approach Venezuela – at the moment – with a degree of sensible caution, but do not rule out the possibility of visiting entirely.

Budget Venezuela Travel Guide – What is the Best Transportation in Venezuela?

Venezuela used to be one of the easiest countries in Latin America to get around – but nowadays that is not quite the case. While internal flights do still run between the major cities, services are far more limited and the network is generally much patchier compared to before. Boat services out to the islands are also noticeably reduced although you’ll still find scheduled ferry services on popular routes and plenty of private charter vessels.

The vast majority of people will instead make use of the comprehensive bus network – and this can present some challenges, even to those used to using the roads in Colombia and Brazil. Security is a major concern – so keep an eye on your bags and try to avoid traveling at night through more remote regions.

Keep warm clothing in your daypack as the aircon is usually set to maximum levels, and politely refuse food/drinks when offered unless you are certain that whoever is offering them is legit and no risk. You can easily hire your own vehicle in Venezuela – the roads are in generally good condition – but the risks may not make it worth it. Even the Venezuelan police do not travel on certain stretches of road at night.

Given how cheap prices are throughout the country a good proportion of recent travelers have looked at using private cabs for secure, speedy, and more comfortable long-distance travel. You can easily hire a car with a driver for little more than $30/40 per day including fuel. If visiting as part of a group we’d strongly recommend this even if the prices you are quoted are substantially higher. The savings in time and effort will be worth a few bucks.

Budget Venezuela Travel Guide – What Are the Best Accommodations in Venezuela?

As discussed during the money and costs section of the Venezuela Travel Guide , accommodation options are abundant and universally cheap. Hostels certainly have an advantage over hotels although you should approach your choices with an open mind. Opting to stay with locally run and managed places – be it a B&B or small hotel – provides money to the local economy and this is the sort of country where you want to be doing that as much as possible.

You could haggle over prices but really it won’t be necessary unless you’re being utterly ripped off. There’s enough competition out there to make this an unlikely prospect no matter where you opt to stay. Make sure you understand the prices and remember than currencies have different ‘practical’ exchange values.

One thing you certainly will not lack in Venezuela is a choice in where to stay. You’ll rarely struggle to find somewhere with beds for the night, although given the security issues in the country at the moment it is convenient to know exactly where you are heading before you arrive in a new town.

Try and book either in advance before you arrive in the country, or a day or two ahead if you are taking a more relaxed/flexible approach to travel. Almost all hostels and a good proportion of hotels offer some kind of online booking system although you’ll find that being able to call ahead and speak Spanish is invaluable in securing the best accommodation as you go.

Budget Venezuela Travel Guide – How Can I Practice Responsible Tourism In Venezuela?

Where to begin? The first step must be to raise the profile of the country using your various social media platforms. Highlight the work that many aid charities and local foundations are performing against all the odds – and encourage your friends/followers to donate towards these causes. International currency can go a long way towards providing genuine help to people facing desperate times – so use it responsibly while also highlighting the many beautiful places you discover during your adventures.

Try and spend a proportion of your time touring the much forgotten indigenous regions. Venezuela does home some impressive relics, crumbling ruins, castles and so forth that are just screaming out for some more exposure and international attention. Visit these and stay within the more isolated communities as you travel about. Spend your money in the local markets when choosing out your souvenirs.

One of the indisputable highlights of visiting Venezuela at the moment is the simple fact that you’ll enjoy stunning beaches and only share them with a handful of other visitors. We really advise you to head a little further away from the most famous spots – you’ll almost always find that your money goes to needier communities who enjoy just as glorious an environment.

Perhaps the best overall way of being a responsible traveler in Venezuela is simply to visit and enjoy the country as much as possible. While there are challenges to exploring this country at the moment, it is nowhere near as dangerous or difficult as many people assume. Show the way and encourage others to follow in your footsteps!

Budget Venezuela Travel Guide – What Food Should I Try In Venezuela?

Venezuelan cuisine is quite similar to what you’ll find in surrounding countries. Expect plenty of rice, corn, yams, beans, and grilled meat and fish! That being said, there are some standout regional classics that are well worth trying out during your travels.

Arepa is a kind of a cross between a tortilla and a bread roll, usually rolled folded over and stuffed with plenty of whatever ingredients are at hand. You’ll find these often made to demand and sold at invariably busy streetside stalls. Cachapa is another Venezuelan staple and arguably the ‘national dish’ – basically enormous corn pancakes topped with soft cheese, herbs, and fried meats. Tequinos are like deep-fried cheese sticks and just as delicious as they sound, while Pabellon Criollo is the equivalent of a ‘Sunday roast’ involving beans, shredded slow-cooked meats, vegetables, and often a thick luscious gravy.

While meat is often on the menu in Venezuela it can be surprisingly straightforward to get away with vegetarian and even vegan eating providing you aren’t too ‘fussy’. Those with intolerances and allergies should take care though as these are rarely very well understood.

Budget Venezuela Travel Guide – What Should I Pack for A Trip to Venezuela?

Durable clothing, good boots, money belts, electricity converters/battery packs, and a comprehensive medical kit are all highly recommended. High-quality replacement clothing and outdoors wear are hard to find in Venezuela so try and make sure you remember to pack these. A waterproof poncho is a good idea, as is a sleeping bag and hat/gloves depending on what you plan on doing and when you intend to visit. While you should securely upload your essential documents to the Cloud beforehand it is a good idea to keep a copy of these on a USB stick too.

Budget Venezuela Travel Guide – What Clothes Should You Wear In Venezuela?

The Venezuela Travel Guide recommends that you try and avoid looking too much like a stereotypical tourist while traveling around the country. Avoid wearing anything that will cause offense or attract attention – so try and stick to relatively rugged and hard-wearing clothes with long sleeves to add an element of additional environmental protection. Consider packing relatively smarter clothes for the occasional night out in the big city – but you won’t need to dress up much outside of the capital. Wear smarter and more respectful clothes when visiting nationally significant and religious destinations.

Budget Venezuela Travel Guide – What Are Some Interesting & Important Facts About Venezuela?

We hope you have enjoyed reading this Venezuela Travel Guide and understand that while this is a more challenging destination at the moment, you do not need to be some kind of ‘super-traveler’ to enjoy this remarkable country safely and in a positive manner. Venezuela is going through tough times at the moment and it’ll be fascinating to see this place develop once it has sorted out these issues.

There is so much going for Venezuela – so much untapped potential – that there is a very strong chance that soon enough it’ll become one of the hottest and most fashionable places in the world to visit. Anyone who wants to experience the best in the country before the masses descend should take a serious look – either as part of a regional tour or as a unique destination in its own right. Venezuela is a remarkable country and one that has a real habit or rewarding the openminded and adventurous visitor.

Let’s now wrap up the Venezuela Travel Guide with a few fun little facts about this amazing country:

▸ Unlike pretty much every other Latin American country Venezuelans prefer baseball to soccer (they love both!).

▸ ‘The Simpsons’ is still banned from TV for long-forgotten reasons.

▸ As is Diet/Zero Coke.

▸ Venezuela was the first country to abolish the death penalty for all crimes – they did so back in 1863.

▸ Bird spotting is no joke – the country has over 1400 species and is the 17th most biodiverse on the planet.

▸ Venezuela has only two recognized seasons – wet and dry. Otherwise, the weather is remarkably consistent!

▸ Kids can choose to attend classes during the morning or afternoon. Teenagers can opt to attend in the evenings instead.

▸ Despite the poverty and associated social problems, the literacy rate is an impressive 96%

▸ It also has one of the largest oil and natural gas reserves in the world.

▸ Only 22% of Venezuelan’s feel safe in their own country.

We hope you enjoyed reading the Budget Venezuela Travel Guide – and good travels! Contact us with any questions you may have about travel to Venezuela.

Now that you have read about Venezuela, what’s next? Let’s learn more about an Ecuador trip. Check out The Ultimate Ecuador Travel Guide

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Caracas travel guide

Caracas tourism | caracas guide, you're going to love caracas.

Caracas is the capital city of Venezuela, set in a beautiful valley overlooked by Avila Mountain. This is a city of great contrasts, excellent food, and edgy nightlife. There are some good museums, fine architecture, and one of the best galleries in South America at the Museo de Arte Colonial.

Top 5 Reasons to Visit Caracas

1. its natural beauty.

Caracas has one of the most amazing settings of any capital city. Take the cable car up Avila Mountain to see the city to the south and the Caribbean Sea to the north.

2. The Food

Caracas' position on the coast and its varied European heritage results in an exciting mixture of Caribbean, European, and indigenous dishes.

3. The Parks

Walk in the Parque del Este and find the zoo, planetarium, and ponds with delightful turtles. Nature lovers will also enjoy the collection of tropical plants at the Jardín Botánico.

4. The Nightlife

Dance in the tasca bars around Sabana Grande or go for more upmarket cocktails in Chacao. Las Mercedes is the place to go for nightclubs.

5. The History

See the birthplace of Simón Bolivar at La Casa Natal de Simon Bolivar and explore Venezuelan history at the Panteón Nacional.

What to do in Caracas

1. modern masters on display.

Established in 1973, the Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Caracas displays an international collection of paintings, sculptures, drawings, photographs and films from modern masters. With a permanent collection of over 3,000 works, the museum, directed by founder Sofia Imber, features artworks by Picasso, Miro, Leger, Chagall and Botero, among others. The museum has also featured temporary exhibitions spotlighting such renowned artists as Francis Bacon, Miguel Von Dangel, Alberto Magnelli, Marisol, Larry Rivers and Pedro León Zapata.

2. Center Of Venezuelan Culture

A private institution, the Fundación Bigott aims to preserve the values of traditional Venezuelan culture. Founded in 1981, the foundation offers programs designed for the educational enhancement of popular culture. The center features craftsmen and musicians, as well as programs on gastronomy, history, literature, music and popular art, among other subjects.

3. From Assisi To Bolívar

The Iglesia de San Francisco, a church in Caracas dedicated to Saint Francis of Assisi, was designed by Antonio Ruiz Ullán and constructed in 1593 as an annex of the Convent of San Francisco. The church is renowned for being the site where Simón Bolívar received the title El Libertador. His funeral was held at the church in 1842. The church features baroque altarpieces placed along both sidewalls, as well as a statue of San Onofre.

4. Homage To A Hero

Situated on the site of the National Pantheon of Venezuela, which was built in the 1870s on the former location of a ruined church, the Simón Bolívar Mausoleum features his bronze sarcophagus, as well as 1930s paintings that depict the life of the late 18th/early 19th century military and political leader. The mausoleum also showcases a crystal chandelier that was installed in 1883 on the centennial of his birth. The mausoleum was reopened in 2013 after an extensive restoration.

5. Hidden Church Treasures

Originally built in 1641, the Caracas Cathedral in the Plaza Bolívar houses a number of crypt chambers, including those of Simón Bolívar and his parents and wife. The cathedral features a Romanesque plan, which consists of five naves, as well as a main altar and altarpiece within the presbytery. The cathedral's organ, built in 1711 by Claudio Febres, a French immigrant, is one of the church's highlights. Among the artworks found in this holy place are The Resurrection by Rubens, the Presentation of the Virgin by Murillo, and the Last Supper by Arturo Michelena.

Where to Eat in Caracas

Aranjuez is a good steakhouse on Calle Madrid and El Granjero del Este on Avenida Río de Janeiro does excellent local cuisine. A meal for two at either will cost around Bs500.

When to visit Caracas

Caracas has a tropical climate, with little variation in temperature throughout the year. Because it is approximately 2,700 feet above sea level, it is surprisingly mild, with temperatures rarely topping 82 degrees Fahrenheit.

How to Get to Caracas

The city's airport is Simón Bolivar International Airport, some 15 miles from the city center. A taxi into town will cost around Bs2,800. The bus into the city takes around 30 minutes and costs just Bs50.

Caracas has the cheapest gas in the world (around USD$0.12 per gallon), so the roads can get very busy. There are good highways to Venezuela's other major cities, including Maracay and Valencia to the west, and Puerto la Cruz and Barcelona to the east.

The main bus stations are La Bandera, which connects the city with destinations to the west, and Terminal del Oriente, which serves destinations in eastern Venezuela.

Airports near Caracas

Airlines serving caracas, where to stay in caracas.

The Gilmar Hotel is a good budget option on Avenida Guaicaipuro. At the other end of the scale, Gran Meliá is an excellent 5-star hotel on Avenida Casanova.

Popular Neighborhoods in Caracas

El Hatillo - is a beautiful colonial neighborhood with lots of good restaurants, shops, and bars.

Chacao - sitting at the foot of Mount Avila, it has lots of outdoor bars and restaurants and many of the city's coolest clubs.

Libertador - is the oldest and most historic part of the city, containing most of the government buildings and tourist sites, as well as the Universidad Central de Venezuela.

Where to stay in popular areas of Caracas

Most booked hotels in caracas, how to get around caracas, public transportation.

The Caracas Metro is extensive and cheap, with single journeys from Bs4.

Taxis are plentiful but fares vary wildly and you should expect to negotiate. A typical city journey may cost around Bs30.

The streets are crowded, so driving can be a little hectic. Budget and Hertz outlets are in town, and car rental is available from around Bs200 per day.

The Cost of Living in Caracas

Shopping streets.

Centro Comercial Sambil is one of the largest malls in South America, and Altamira is the place to go to for upscale fashion stores.

Groceries and Other

A quart of milk will cost Bs10 as does a loaf of bread.

A Short Guide to Traveling in Venezuela – How, Where & Frequently Asked Questions

When our friends found out that we are traveling to Venezuela , it wasn’t the usual reaction we get. They were pretty worried and in fact, advised us to bring our own tissue, water, and food. We took necessary precautions and brought supplies, just in case. But to our surprise, we didn’t really need to bring all of those.

There were actually a lot of supplies available to us in Venezuela and our experience didn’t differ much from the other South American countries we’ve already visited, aside from the unique experiences the country itself has to offer. Of course, we’re not disputing that times are hard, economically and politically, for many Venezuelans, but as tourists there we felt like we had reasonable access to everything we needed.

Venezuela is a federal republic on the northern coast of South America and has a population of almost 32 million. While political riots in the city can be frequent at times, we found it very safe to travel in the between the cities by both air and road. Even the random police checks on the highways were a simple experience and the officers inspecting the vehicle and our identification were polite, friendly and happy to have a casual chat with us in Spanish. Exploring Caracas itself is best advised with a knowledgeable guide, who understands where to go, when and how. The local people we met along the way were wonderful, traveling was extremely affordable and the raw, authentic beauty of the country actually made it one of our top must-visit destinations.

Questions and Answers about Venezuela

Where is Venezuela?

Venezuela is bordered by several different countries. You have Colombia on the west, Brazil to the south, Guyana on the east, and the island of Trinidad and Tobago to the north-east.

Is it safe to travel to Venezuela?

We can’t really say it’s perfect for solo backpackers and hitch-hikers at the moment, however, the condition of the country fluctuates, so what you read in the media is often reflective of something that happened weeks, months or even longer before. It’s important to find current information about what is going on at the time you’re planning to go there so that you can make an informed decision. Like in any part of South America, or the world for that matter, there are areas which you should stay clear of. We decided that we wanted to travel there with someone local who knows the country inside out, understands the situation and also knows how to use that knowledge to make a safe and exciting experience without feeling like a guided bus tour.

After a small amount of research we contacted Osprey Expeditions , who have been a leading guide and travel specialist in Venezuela since the 1990’s, have the the top Lonely Planet reviews and are the advisors of choice for travel writers looking to document Venezuela, even when government travel advisories tell you to stay away! Osprey Expeditions also offer tours and travel services all over South America.

How to Change Money in Venezuela?

Money in Venezuela is an interesting phenomenon. An economy in depression and long term inflation mean that you can cover a double bed in $50 USD worth of Venezuelan Bolivars, that’s how incredible the exchange rate is! Part of the issue for tourists is that if you try to use your foreign debit or credit card in Venezuela, then the exchange rate the government is trying to set (unsuccessfully) will see you paying $50 USD for a cup of coffee, but technically, bringing in USD’s to exchange them into local currency at the actual market rate is… let’s just say… not allowed! The situation in Venezuela has seen some dramatic changes since we were there a few months ago, so we suggest doing some research on travel forums and contacting your chosen local operator there to give you the most current information.

What is Unique about Venezuela?

If you are a fan of Miss Universe, then you already know that Venezuela is home to some of the most beautiful women on the planet. But that’s not the reason we went there! I am not exaggerating when I say that they have great landscapes, beaches, and sights which can’t be seen anywhere else. Venezuela is also one of the most ecologically diverse countries in the world – mountains, forests, jungle, wetlands, tropical deltas, coastal wilderness – all densely packed with wildlife!

What is the culture of Venezuela?

Like most South American countries, Venezuela has a very rich culture brought by groups from different parts of the world. You can see minor influences from Italians, Arabs, Germans, and Portuguese to name a few. But in general, the Venezuelan culture has a very prominent Spanish and Caribbean influence.

And if you are a baseball fan, then initiating a conversation with the locals wouldn’t be hard as baseball is the most popular sport in Venezuela.

It might surprise you to know that even with the political rifts in the country, Venezuelans are known as one of the happiest people on earth.

What is the Geography of Venezuela?

Venezuela is around twice the size of California. The country is shaped like an inverted triangle and has a 2,800 – kilometer coastline, which occupies much of the northern coast of the continent.

The climate varies wildly depending on your location, mostly due to altitude. The coastal areas are some of the hottest, but with the added benefit of a sea breeze. Lowland areas inland also have a very tropical climate with high temperatures and plenty of humidity. Moving up into the Andean mountains sees a decrease in temperature relative to the increase in altitude, where temperatures can drop to as low as 9°C (48°F). Like most tropical environments, Venezuela has a heavy rainy season, which is from May to December.

The mountain ranges in Venezuela create 4 distinct regions.

• The Maracaibo lowlands
• Mountainous regions in the north and northwest
• Orinoco Delta – A wetland and jungle region leading out to the Caribbean
• Guiana Highlands

There are over 10,000 rivers in the country, but the most significant is the Orinoco river being the 3 rd longest river in South America.

How to travel to Venezuela?

If you are planning to travel to Venezuela, here are some of the airlines that will take you to this amazing country.

• From the USA – From Miami Florida, you can take non – stop flights going to Caracas via SBA and American Airlines.
• From London – There are no direct flights but you may take Air France, American Airlines, United Airlines and Avianca.
• From Dubai – If you are from the Middle East, specifically in Dubai, there are a number of flights going to Venezuela. Swiss, Air France, Lufthansa, British Airways, KLM are just a few of your choices.
• From Singapore – You may choose, Air France, Singapore Airlines or Lufthansa.

How to travel in Venezuela – Transport in Venezuela?

Public buses – As always, this would be the cheapest option. However, public buses do not have a good reputation when it comes to safety. Reputations are not always correct or in date, so make sure you find reliable information before making this decision

• Train – Caracas has a subway system if you still want to stretch your budget.
• Taxis – The taxis in Venezuela don’t have meters and in fact, there are a lot of unlicensed taxis. Make sure you negotiate a fixed fare before going inside the taxi. This is the most practical means of transportation.
• Private transfers – If you can spend more, then it is always best to have private transfers. Osprey Expeditions have a network of trusted drivers to pick you up and deliver you to hotels, airports or whatever your planned destination is.

What’s the food like in Venezuela?

When you go to Venezuela, the food is different from region to region. Some are influenced by European, West African and even Native American cuisines.

The staple foods in Venezuela are rice, yam, corn, and beans. For sides, these are potatoes, onions, squash, and spinach to name a few. Being one of the most fertile lands in the world, the country is able to cultivate a huge range of fruits and vegetables, much like neighbouring Colombia.

What is the weather like in Venezuela?

The different regions of Venezuela have different climates, which makes this country even more interesting.

• Maracaibo Lowlands – Dry and hot
• Andes Mountains – Cooler in higher areas
• Central Plain fronting Orinoco Rivers – Warm
• Guiana Highlands (where you can find the world’s highest waterfall, Angel Falls)  – Hot and humid

Important things to pack for a trip to Venezuela?

If you are about to pack your bags, here are some things you should keep for your Venezuelan adventure.

• Lightweight clothes – Cotton and linen will do you good.
• Sunscreen and hat – The sun is strong and you’ll burn faster than you think.
• Money belt – Or some other discreet storage device.
• Light jacket and umbrella – May to July are the rainy months
• Water – Once you arrive, keep plenty of water with you, especially on hiking trips.

Comfortable shoes – Much of Venezuela’s attraction is the great outdoors, so make sure you have outdoor shoes that let you enjoy it!

10 Amazing places to see and things to do in Venezuela!

1. Caracas City Tour – This is a full day tour that will allow you to see the real capital city of Caracas behind the stories and news reports. You can even visit museums and ride a cable car at Avila National park.

2.  Angel Falls Expedition – It would be a mortal sin not to see Angel Falls when you are in Venezuela. You will get into the jungle and will set up a camp close to the waterfalls. The flight by light Cesna aircraft from Bolivar to Canaima National Park is an experience in itself!

3.  Choroni and Henri Pittier National Park – This is just 3 hours away from the capital city. Enjoy the fantastic view of the waters and palm tree beaches. You can even go, snorkelling, paddle boarding and have fresh tuna barbecue on the beach!

4.  Roraima Trek – Go to the highest rock formation of Canaima National Park. This place is very sacred to the Pemon indigenous people and the rock stack itself is formed mostly from pure rose quartz.

5.  Orinoco Delta – See the mangrove swamps and the virgin jungle of the Warao, where wildlife like monkeys, snakes, macaws, river dolphins, tarantula spiders and load more are so densely packed you won’t know where to look first! Compared to more frequented tourist destinations, the Orinoco Delta is seriously unspoiled and unique.

6.  Los Roques Archipelago – This is truly a paradise! The coral reef formation and the white sand is like heaven under water.

7. Catatumbo Lightning – This phenomenon happens only in April to November. If you want to see and witness such beauty, you know which dates to book. Before you go, do some research on lightning photography to grab the best shots of this display of pure meteorological power!

8.  Merida – This town is known to be the adventure-sports capital of Venezuela. You can go hiking, rafting, mountain biking or paragliding, to name just a few!

9. Isla Margarita – This is the best place if you want to see the most popular beaches in Venezuela. You can also try snorkeling and kitesurfing and there are a host of very affordable luxury hotels if you just want to relax and recover after all the hiking and exploring.

10. Pan de Azucar – Join this tour as it is considered one of the most interesting treks in the Venezuelan Andes mountains. Pan de Azucar peak is one of the highest peaks in the country.

Final thoughts on Venezuela

We all know that politically and economically, Venezuela is going through some of the toughest times in the history of the country’s existence, and we all hear the negative news and travel warnings portrayed in the media. We would be lying if we said that all of these things are untrue, or that there is zero risk in visiting Venezuela, but as with any country the risks are localised and are often not as constant or severe as they are made out to be. It is entirely possible to travel the country and be just as safe as you would in any other South American country, particularly if you plan your journey properly and work with a local specialist who can give you the best real-time information to help you make the right decisions.

Give this beautiful country and its wonderful people a chance to show you things and offer you experiences that you will never forget and cannot be experienced anywhere else on Earth, and you will be rewarded with more than you can imagine!

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14 thoughts on “ A Short Guide to Traveling in Venezuela – How, Where & Frequently Asked Questions ”

Hi ive worked in venezuela 7 years ago and would like to return to visit. Do you have any services or recamendations for safe travels there?

The Country and people suck and there are much better places to go . I should have had my head examined before I went Bloody thieves . My bags were ransacked desperate pigs . My wife is Venezuelan and hates it their. Hope they all starve and Die!

I don’t think your disaster tourism is very ethical. At least help the local folks and don’t just go with the major tour providers. Stay with locals, hire local guides, and eat at mom and pop places.

Hi! Did you receive any paid advertising from the Venezuelan government for saying only good things about the trip and posting a lot of food pictures?

Nope not really.. we actually paid for our trip! =)

And we’re not investigative journalists.. we’re travel bloggers and focused on the positive vibes and things you can do safely! =)

So if I fly by air I should be able to get a visa to stay for at least 20-30 days right? And how do you travel around with bricks of Bs??? Like going to bars or clubs??? Do you just carry a back pack with bricks of Bs in it? Lol

now is very different the exchange rate change because a convert of the currency, if you want more information i’m happy to help i’m a living in venezuela, telegram: angel23as

Hi, I would love more info, I dont have the telegram thing….maybe u can ad me on facebook https://www.facebook.com/fizz.tf , Fizzah Mian

Thanks a lot for your well explained and detailed guide. Amazing pictures. Now it invites me to visit Venezuela. Peace

Hi thanks for the great advice. I heard they are not giving out visas so easy for Americans Do you know about this? Thank you

Is pretty easy i think is just a formality and to take like 50$ for the entry.

Hello, I really liked your post on Venezuela and the pics! I have been reading Lot about it lately and your description is a stark contrast to what I’ve been reading about the severe poverty and malnutrition of the people that live there. I was curious if you came across any of these things and if you were scrutinized heavily when you arrived since I hear they aren’t allowing food or foreign aid into the country.

Amazing post with cool photos. Certainly on my list of places to visit. Whenever I travel I use Avianca Airlines to book affordable plane tickets.

Loved your post! Cool Photos!! This is first time I am visiting your website and I find this post very very useful thanks for giving such a great information.. Regards!

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Written by Kach Umandap

Founder of Two Monkeys Travel Group. Since 2013, Kach has visited all the 7 continents (including Antarctica) and 151 countries using her Philippines Passport. In 2016, she bought a sailboat and went on sailing adventures with her two cats - Captain Ahab & Little Zissou in the Caribbean for 2 years. She now lives in Herceg Novi, Montenegro where she's enjoying her expat life and living on a gorgeous Stonehouse. She writes about her experiences traveling as a Filipina traveler with a PHL Passport. Also tips on backpacking trips, luxury hotel experiences, product reviews, sailing & adventure travel.

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Venezuela travel advice

Latest updates: Health – editorial update

Last updated: March 13, 2024 14:22 ET

On this page

Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, venezuela - avoid all travel.

Avoid all travel to Venezuela due to the significant level of violent crime, the unstable political and economic situations and the decline in basic living conditions, including shortages of medication, gasoline and water.

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Guayana Esequiba region

The security environment is volatile at the border between Venezuela and Guyana due to the ongoing dispute over the Guayana Esequiba region.

If you are in Venezuela, avoid discussing the dispute of the Guayana Esequiba region.

If you choose to travel near the border with Guyana:

• exercise caution at all times
• monitor local media to stay informed on the evolving situation
• follow instructions from local authorities and security forces

The security situation in Venezuela remains unstable and could deteriorate with very little warning.

International borders

Flights to and from Aruba are suspended until further notice.

Direct flights to and from the U.S. are also suspended.

Armed criminal groups frequently operate on both sides of the border with Colombia, conducting illegal activities such as:

• drug trafficking
• black market sales

There is a high military presence in a number of municipalities located along the border.  Nevertheless, general lawlessness, particularly in the area within 20 km of the border with Colombia, increases the risk of extortion and kidnapping in this region.

Smuggling, drug trafficking and illegal mining also occur along the borders with Brazil and Guyana which pose a greater security risk in this region.

Stay informed of the security situation, as well as which border crossings are open, and their hours of opening.

At the airport

Simón Bolívar International Airport in Maiquetía (Caracas) is dangerous. Incidents of violent crime occur frequently, both inside the facilities and in the surrounding areas.

Kidnappers and armed robbers have targeted foreigners, who are assumed to be holding large amounts of foreign currency. Criminals often approach tourists at the airport and offer to exchange money. They may also pose as taxi drivers.

• Arrange your travel so that you arrive and depart the airport during daylight hours
• Have a friend, family member or a trusted transportation service waiting to pick you up upon arrival
• Don’t take a taxi from this airport

Violent crime

Venezuela has one of the world’s highest homicide rates.

Violent crimes are pervasive throughout the country but particularly frequent in the capital city of Caracas. Crimes include:

• armed robbery
• home invasion
• kidnapping for ransom

Violence against locals and visitors alike can occur in both urban and rural areas, including in those popular with tourists.

Organized criminal groups and gangs are rampant. Many criminals carry firearms, and victims are often injured or killed for failing to cooperate.

• If you are threatened, stay calm and don’t resist
• Don’t walk through city streets at night, and avoid walking alone in less busy or isolated areas during the day
• Don’t visit “barrios” (heavily populated slums), especially in eastern and western areas of Caracas but also in any part of the country. Barrios are extremely unsafe

Petty crime

Street crime is common, particularly in major cities, and often results in violence. Pickpockets are active in crowded buses and subway stations.

Criminals often target pedestrians and motorists, sometimes from motorcycles.

Authorities (e.g. police, airport, immigration) have harassed and extorted money from travellers. If you experience such problems, report the incident to the Canadian embassy to Colombia, in Bogotá.

Police response times are poor or non-existent in most parts of the country, and most reported crimes don’t result in prosecution.

• Ensure that your belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
• Don’t show signs of affluence or display valuables, particularly jewellery and electronics, including cell phones
• Avoid carrying large sums of cash and keep foreign currency out of sight
• Maintain a low profile and remain aware of your surroundings at all times

Express kidnappings are frequent and can occur anywhere in the country. Victims are usually kidnapped from the street and forced to take the criminals to their houses to give foreign currency, electronics or other valuables.

• Be careful when dealing with recent acquaintances, especially when they offer rides
• Be discrete when handling money in public

Credit card and ATM fraud may occur.

Be cautious when using debit or credit cards:

• pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others
• use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Spiked food and drinks

Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances. These items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

There are shortages of medicine and medical supplies. This has led to difficulties in the health care sector.

Basic food and personal care products are available but very costly. You will need U.S. currency to purchase them.

Service disruptions

Power outages and rationing of electricity is common in many parts of the country, including in Caracas. Outages lasting several days may occur suddenly. Other services are often disrupted during such events, including: 

• medical services
• public water supply
• communications, mainly cellular telephone and Internet
• purchasing goods
• transportation, including flights

Rioting, fighting and theft occur during power outages.

Water rationing is common in most parts of the country, even during the rainy season, due to water shortages in municipalities.

Fuel may also be scarce outside of cities, particularly in the border areas with Colombia, Brazil and Guyana.

Ensure that your emergency kit is complete.

Emergency kit

Demonstrations and social unrest

Large-scale and violent demonstrations frequently occur in Caracas and many other areas across the country. They have resulted in many arrests, including of foreign reporters, injuries and deaths in the past.

Demonstrations can take many forms, including:

• large-scale gatherings
• national strikes
• roadblocks, including on major highways

Demonstrations can lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Don’t attempt to cross road blockades, even if they appear unattended
• Don’t participate in political discussions or activities in public, or appear to take sides on any local issue related to the current political situation
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Communications

Telecommunication infrastructure is in a state of disrepair. Interruptions are frequent. It is very difficult to make international calls.

Some areas don’t have cellular coverage. Check local providers’ coverage.

Road travel

Road conditions and road safety are poor throughout the country.

Road conditions

Unmarked road damage or construction poses a hazard. Street lighting is often inadequate.

After heavy rains, sewer grates may have been displaced and potholes may be hidden in puddles.

Outside of cities, gas stations and restaurants can be few and far between, and gas pumps are often empty.

Road safety

Drivers do not respect traffic laws. They are extremely aggressive and reckless. Drinking and driving is prevalent.

Incidents of crime along intercity roads are common. Armed bandits set up illegal roadblocks and rob vehicles, including intercity buses.

Crime increases at nightfall.

There have been incidents of motorists being robbed after stopping to assess the damage to their vehicle from improvised spikes on the road or stone throwing from highway overpasses and bridges near poorer neighbourhoods.

• Keep your valuables out of plain sight
• Remain vigilant when driving, especially when stopped
• Always drive with the doors locked and windows closed
• Avoid driving after dark

Public transportation

Public transportation has declined in number and quality due to the shortage of parts and reduced capacity for maintenance and repair of vehicles.

There is a risk of theft in the subway, and some subway stations are unsafe.

• Only take the subway during daylight hours, and avoid peak hours
• Seek advice from locals before using this means of transportation

There is a high risk of theft on both inner city and intercity buses, especially at night.

Licensed taxis are safer than unlicensed taxis. Mototaxis are not recommended as drivers can be reckless.

• Pre-book a licensed, radio-dispatched taxi
• Avoid hailing a taxi in the street
• Advise a friend of your movements, the taxi company’s name and the taxi number

Pirate attacks and armed robbery against ships occur in coastal waters. Mariners should take appropriate precautions.

Live piracy report  - International Maritime Bureau

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Travelling within or out of the country on short notice can be difficult. International and domestic commercial flights are limited. Some international airlines have reduced the number of flights arriving to and departing from Venezuela or have suspended services altogether.

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Venezuelan authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Venezuela.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: required Business visa: required Work visa: required Student visa: required

Other entry requirements

Customs officials may ask you to show them a return or onward ticket and proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay. 

Ensure that you receive an entrance stamp in your passport from Venezuela’s immigration office at the port of entry.

Dual citizenship

Canadian citizens who also hold Venezuelan citizenship must enter and exit Venezuela using a Venezuelan passport.

Children born outside Venezuela to Venezuelan parents are assumed to be Venezuelan citizens and must also enter and exit the country using a Venezuelan passport.

Although immigration authorities have allowed dual citizens to enter without a Venezuelan passport, they have later prevented them from leaving the country.

Venezuelan documents

It is very difficult to obtain a new Venezuelan passport or to extend an expired passport. As a result, you may not be able to obtain a passport in Venezuela for your Canadian-born child.

If you are a dual citizen and planning to travel to Venezuela, make sure your Venezuelan passport is valid beyond the duration of your trip. If you need to renew your passport or obtain a new one for your Canadian-born child, contact the nearest Venezuelan embassy or consulate to make arrangements.

If you enter Venezuela with an expired Venezuelan passport, authorities may not stamp your travel documents upon entry. This may lead to difficulties when exiting the country.

Servicio Administrativo de Identificación, Migración y Extranjería (SAIME)   - Venezuelan Migration Department (in Spanish)

Children and travel

Children born outside Venezuela to Venezuelan parents are assumed to be Venezuelan citizens and must enter and exit the country using a Venezuelan passport.

• Travelling with children

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• Zika virus: Advice for travellers - 31 August, 2023
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever   is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is a risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*    

• Proof of vaccination is required if arriving from   Brazil,   including travellers having transited for more than 12 hours through an airport in Brazil.

Recommendation          

• Vaccination is recommended depending on your itinerary.
• Contact a designated   Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre   well in advance of your trip to arrange for vaccination.
• Discuss travel plans, activities, and destinations with a health care professional.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada * It is important to note that   country entry requirements   may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest   diplomatic or consular office   of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

Malaria  is a serious and sometimes fatal disease that is caused by parasites spread through the bites of mosquitoes.   There is a risk of malaria in certain areas and/or during a certain time of year in this destination. 

Antimalarial medication may be recommended depending on your itinerary and the time of year you are travelling. Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic before travelling to discuss your options. It is recommended to do this 6 weeks before travel, however, it is still a good idea any time before leaving.    Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times:  • Cover your skin and use an approved insect repellent on uncovered skin.  • Exclude mosquitoes from your living area with screening and/or closed, well-sealed doors and windows. • Use insecticide-treated bed nets if mosquitoes cannot be excluded from your living area.  • Wear permethrin-treated clothing.    If you develop symptoms similar to malaria when you are travelling or up to a year after you return home, see a health care professional immediately. Tell them where you have been travelling or living. 

In this destination, rabies is commonly carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. In this destination, rabies treatment may be limited or may not be available, therefore you may need to return to Canada for treatment.  

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

There is a risk of schistosomiasis in this destination. Schistosomiasis is a parasitic disease caused by tiny worms (blood flukes) which can be found in freshwater (lakes, rivers, ponds, and wetlands). The worms can break the skin, and their eggs can cause stomach pain, diarrhea, flu-like symptoms, or urinary problems. Schistosomiasis mostly affects underdeveloped and r ural communities, particularly agricultural and fishing communities.

Most travellers are at low risk. Travellers should avoid contact with untreated freshwater such as lakes, rivers, and ponds (e.g., swimming, bathing, wading, ingesting). There is no vaccine or medication available to prevent infection.

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

There is a risk of chikungunya in this country.  The risk may vary between regions of a country.  Chikungunya is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.

• In this country,   dengue  is a risk to travellers. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
• Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
• The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
• Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites . There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue.

Zika virus is a risk in this country. 

Zika virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can also be sexually transmitted. Zika virus can cause serious birth defects.

During your trip:

• Prevent mosquito bites at all times.
• Use condoms correctly or avoid sexual contact, particularly if you are pregnant.

If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, you should discuss the potential risks of travelling to this destination with your health care provider. You may choose to avoid or postpone travel. 

For more information, see Zika virus: Pregnant or planning a pregnancy.

American trypanosomiasis (Chagas disease)   is a risk in this country. It is caused by a parasite spread by infected triatomine bugs. The infection can be inactive for decades, but humans can eventually develop complications causing disability and even death.

Risk is generally low for most travellers. Protect yourself from triatomine bugs, which are active at night, by using mosquito nets if staying in poorly-constructed housing. There is no vaccine available for Chagas disease.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Medical services and facilities

Good health care is limited in availability. Public health care has deteriorated, which has placed increased pressure on private facilities which are now low on supplies and extremely costly.

Payment is required in advance of treatment.

Emergency and ambulance services are very limited and response times are slow, especially in rural areas.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

There is a severe shortage of pharmaceutical drugs throughout the country.

Some medicines are no longer available in hospitals. Most hospital pharmacies and drugstores no longer stock basic medicine or supplies.

• Bring all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you may need with you
• Pack an extra supply in case you are away for longer than expected

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect immediate detention and lengthy jail terms.

All departing visitors are thoroughly screened for drugs by the Bolivarian National Guard. Pack your luggage yourself and keep it with you at all times. Don’t carry anything through customs for anyone else.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Identification

You must carry your passport at all times.

Photography

Photography of sensitive installations, including the presidential palace, military sites, government buildings and airports, is prohibited.

Importations

You must declare imports worth more than US$1,000 to customs officials and pay appropriate taxes.

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Venezuela.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Venezuela, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Venezuela.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Venezuela, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Venezuelan court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Venezuela to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• The Hague Convention - Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

Stopping at Bolivarian National Guard of Venezuela and police checkpoints is mandatory. There are many control points throughout the country. Follow all instructions and have vehicle and insurance papers and passports readily available.

Vehicles may be searched. It is not uncommon for authorities to seek bribes.

In the case of an accident, don’t move your vehicle until a traffic police officer fills out a report. Police response times are often slow.

You should carry an international driving permit.

International Driving Permit

The currency in Venezuela is the Venezuelan bolivar (Bs or VEF). It can be difficult to obtain local currency.

US dollars are widely accepted.

Carry small bank notes to facilitate daily transactions.

You must change money at the official government rate.

Banks often restrict transactions to their clients only. Official exchange houses are scarce outside of major cities and the law prohibits the sale and purchase of any foreign currency outside of authorized institutions. You are subject to a fine if you are caught exchanging foreign currency outside of authorized institutions. Very few exchange houses or banks will exchange bolívars outside Venezuela.

You cannot rely on wire transfers as a source of emergency funds.

Cash withdrawals from foreign bank accounts at ATMs are not possible. Malfunctions and insufficient cash are recurring problems. Many ATMs don’t accept international credit cards or ask for additional codes to confirm identity.

• Change your money in the official exchange offices only
• Don’t use the black market
• Only U.S. dollars can be exchanged

Identification is required for a credit card transaction.

If you are entering or leaving Venezuela with more than US$10,000, you are required to declare it to the authorities.

Rainy season

The rainy season extends from May to December. Heavy rains, flooding and landslides can occur during this period.

In the event of heavy rains, coastal roads and highways may not be fully operational and some utilities, especially water services, may be disrupted.

Earthquakes

Venezuela’s coastal range, which includes Caracas, is located in an active seismic zone. It is prone to earthquakes and landslides.

Local services

Dial 911 for emergency assistance.

Consular assistance

The Embassy of Canada to Venezuela, in Caracas, has temporarily suspended its operations. You can obtain consular assistance and further consular information from the Embassy of Canada to Colombia, in Bogotá.

Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao, Venezuela

Making international phone calls from Venezuela may be challenging. For emergency consular assistance, send an email to [email protected] to request a phone call. A consular officer will call you back without delay. Ensure that you provide a phone number where we can reach you.

From elsewhere, call the Embassy of Canada to Colombia, in Bogotá, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

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Latest update

We continue to advise:

Do not travel to Venezuela due to the dangerous security situation, the risk of food, water, medicine and petrol shortages, and the threat of violent crime.

Venezuela (PDF 366.91 KB)

Americas (PDF 3.25 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies.

Call 911 or go to the nearest hospital.

Call 911 or visit the nearest police station.

Advice levels

Do not travel  to Venezuela.

Do not travel  to Venezuela due to the dangerous security situation, the risk of food, water, medicine and petrol shortages, and the threat of violent crime.

See  Safety

• Common violent crime includes murder, armed robbery, drive-by shootings, sexual assault and carjackings. Criminals are often armed. Avoid walking in isolated areas, especially at night. Terrorist groups and criminal gangs are active along Venezuela's borders with Colombia, Brazil and Guyana.
• Kidnapping is a serious threat. The risk is higher along airport routes and in border regions. Only use official taxis organised through your hotel. Avoid kidnapping hotspots.
• Venezuela's political situation is volatile. Demonstrations and protests are common and can turn violent. If you're in an affected area, leave if it's safe to do so.
• Shortages of basic goods can result in long line-ups at stores. This can lead to fighting, looting and theft. Be ready to change travel plans. Keep extra supplies of food, water, medicines and other necessities.
• Severe weather, earthquakes, hurricanes, tropical storms, flooding and landslides can occur. The rainy season is from May to December. Monitor local media and the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System  for updates.

If you're in Venezuela, you should consider leaving by commercial means if it's safe to do so. If despite our advice you remain in Venezuela, stay alert, keep stocks of essential supplies and be ready to leave at short notice.

Full travel advice: Safety

• Serious outbreaks of insect-borne diseases, including yellow fever and malaria, can occur. Get vaccinated against yellow fever. Consider taking medicine to prevent malaria. Use insect repellent. Zika virus can occur. If you're pregnant, talk to your doctor about the risk of Zika virus.
• HIV/AIDS is common. Take steps to reduce your risk of exposure to the virus. Other infectious diseases include typhoid, hepatitis, tuberculosis, Venezuelan haemorrhagic fever, measles, mumps, rubella, bilharzia and rabies. Boil drinking water or drink bottled water. Don't swim in freshwater.
• Medical services, medical supplies, medicines and emergency services are limited. If you become seriously ill or injured, you'll need to be evacuated. Get appropriate travel insurance and make sure your insurance covers medical evacuation.

Full travel advice: Health

• Don't use or carry illegal drugs. Severe penalties for drug offences include long jail sentences. Carrying even a small amount of marijuana can result in jail time. Jails in Venezuela are dangerous and among the worst in the world.
• Drug trafficking in Venezuela is a big problem. Authorities screen travellers at the airport when they arrive and leave.
• It's illegal to photograph military sites and installations, sites of strategic importance and airports. Be careful when taking photos.

Full travel advice: Local laws

• If you decide to travel to Venezuela, despite our advice, you won't need a visa for tourist visits of less than 90 days. Sea and air borders with Trinidad and Tobago, Aruba, Bonaire and Curaçao are being re-opened in stages. Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. You should contact the nearest embassy or consulate of Venezuela for the latest details.
• Carry your yellow fever vaccination certificate. You may need to show it for onward travel.
• In some cases, a child cannot enter or exit Venezuela without written permission from both parents. If you're travelling with a child, you may need a letter of consent for travel.
• Driving in Venezuela is dangerous. Police and National Guard checkpoints are common. Slow down at checkpoints or stop as directed. Ask for local advice about your route before you drive.

Full travel advice: Travel

Local contacts

• The  Consular Services Charter tells you what the Australian Government can and can't do to help when you're overseas.
• Our ability to provide consular services in Venezuela is extremely limited.
• Australia doesn't have an embassy or consulate in Venezuela. The Canadian Embassy is no longer providing consular assistance to Australians in Venezuela.
• Be aware consular services may be limited due to local measures. 
• For full consular assistance, contact the Australian Embassy in Colombia .

Full travel advice: Local contacts

Full advice

Violent crime.

There's a high level of violent crime in Venezuela. 

If, despite our advice, you travel to Venezuela:

• always pay close attention to your personal security
• monitor the media and other sources for new security risks

Actual crime rates may be higher than official figures indicate. Venezuela has one of the world's highest murder rates.

Violent crime occurs throughout Venezuela. Incidents include:

• armed robbery
• drive-by shooting

Many criminals carry firearms. They may kill or injure you if you resist.

Police response times are poor. They don't solve most murders and major crimes.

On roads, the threat of serious crime is high. Australian Government officials take extra security precautions when travelling by car.

Crimes you could come across include:

• mugging and kidnapping, sometimes by criminals posing as taxi drivers at Maiquetia Simon Bolivar Airport
• violent street crime and robbery near ATMs, money changers or damaged vehicles
• armed motorcycle gangs robbing passengers in vehicles stopped in heavy traffic
• 'express kidnappings', where criminals force you to withdraw funds from ATMs
• harassment and extortion by criminals posing as officials
• drink or food spiking, often followed by robbery and assault , including sexual assault
• widespread theft of credit card data.

Petty crime is also common. This includes:

• pickpocketing on public transport
• theft from hotel rooms, safe deposit boxes and rental cars

Crime hotspots

Crime rates are especially high in Caracas, including:

• central Caracas
• Sabana Grande district
• Avila National Park
• the Maiquetia Simon Bolivar Airport area, and the road between the airport and Caracas
• 'barrios' or 'ranchitos' slum areas, especially after dark 

Crime is also high in:

• poorer areas, such as Cumana, Maracaibo, Paraguana and Valencia
• on the islands of Los Testigos
• Margarita Island (Isla de Margarita)
• tourist and resort areas

If you go to Venezuela despite our advice, arrive and leave Caracas during the day. Organise your transport before you arrive at the airport.

If possible, have a friend, family member or trusted transport service pick you up on arrival. Only use official taxis that you have booked through your hotel or from the official taxi rank outside the airport arrival hall. Be cautious of bogus taxi drivers at the airport. Don't accept offers of transport in the arrivals hall, and do not board a taxi if there are other passengers already inside the car. Stay alert at the airport car park.

Criminal groups operate in the Maiquetia airport area. Members of these groups work inside the airport to spot passengers who appear to be wealthy and then inform carjackers and muggers waiting on the roads outside the airport. Avoid displaying expensive jewellery, electronic items or other valuables. Don't bring large amounts of cash to Venezuela.

Avoid travelling on the road between Caracas and Maiquetia airport after dark. There have been armed robberies on buses travelling to Maiquetia airport.

If you're coming to Venezuela to work, bring a letter from your employer and details of your local contact organisation (including a Spanish translation).

There have been occasions where passengers have been asked for bribes at the airport.

The National Guard carries out random drug and security checks at Maiquetia airport, particularly on departure. Departing passengers are sometimes asked to accompany an officer to a local hospital for an x-ray. Beware of bogus security officials, if in doubt ask other airline or airport staff.

To stay safe when you're out and about:

• be alert to your surroundings and always pay attention to your safety and security
• carry only what you need — leave other valuables in a secure place
• keep vehicle doors locked, windows up and valuables out of sight, even when moving
• avoid walking or driving in secluded areas, especially at night
• exchange currency at official exchange booths only

If you're female, take extra care when dealing with strangers or people you've just met. Be especially wary about accepting rides or invitations.

Check the local situation before travelling to Canaima National Park and the Gran Sabana area of Bolívar State, as there may be protests and closures (sometimes for days) of Canaima airport and main roads.

The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn’t make payments or concessions to kidnappers.

Express kidnappings, where victims are abducted for a short period, are frequent and occur anywhere in the country. Victims are forced to withdraw funds from their bank account or taken to their house/hotel and forced to hand over foreign currency, electronics or other valuables.

If, despite this advice, you decide to travel to an area where there's a threat of kidnapping:

• seek professional security advice
• avoid displaying expensive jewellery, electronics or other valuables
• arrange effective personal security measures

More information:

• Sexual assault
• Advice for women

Cyber security

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you’re connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth.

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions, or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media.

Cyber security when travelling overseas

Civil unrest and political tension

Protests and demonstrations.

Demonstrations and other civil unrest are common, often in major urban centres, such as:

• San Cristóbal

The political situation is volatile.

Since January 2019, unrest has increased, often becoming violent. Many people have been killed, injured or arrested.

Disruptions to essential services occur.

On-the-spot demonstrations and other ongoing unrest are likely. Violent incidents and military responses are possible.

Roads and highways are often blocked during demonstrations, disrupting public transport systems.

Days of national significance could motivate civil unrest.

National strikes can be called at short notice, often causing disruptions to:

• public transport
• banking services
• government services

Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent.

The economic situation in Venezuela continues to be unstable. Shortages of basic food items and necessities, including water, electricity, petrol and medical supplies, are common. 

Power outages may impact communications, banking, and transportation, including airport operations and make international calls from Venezuela challenging.  

Shortages of basic items and long lines at grocery stores have led to:

• avoid all protests, political activity and large public gatherings
• leave affected areas as soon as it's safe
• monitor the media and other sources for news about possible unrest
• be particularly alert during days of national significance
• follow the instructions of local authorities
• keep spare supplies of food, medicines and other necessities
• keep enough bottled water supplies on hand. Tap water is not safe for drinking.

Border areas

Avoid border areas, as they can be dangerous due to the presence of terrorist groups. 

Sea and air borders with Trinidad and Tobago, Aruba, Bonaire and Curaçao are being re-opened in stages. Monitor local media and contact your transport provider for updated information. 

In border areas, there are limits on the right to:

• free movement

Demonstrations and civil unrest

Terrorism is a threat in Venezuela.

Terrorist groups are particularly active in the region within 80km of Venezuela's border with Colombia. This region includes parts of:

Colombian terrorist groups, such as the ELN (Ejército de Liberación Nacional), and criminal gangs are active along Venezuela's borders with:

Hostages, including foreigners, have died after being kidnapped in these areas.

The Venezuelan military conducts searches and arrests in border regions, but threats remain. Troop movements and border closures can occur at short notice.

If, despite our advice, you decide to visit an area where there's a threat of kidnapping:

• find out about  kidnapping before you travel

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

Climate and natural disasters

Venezuela experiences natural disasters and severe weather , including:

• earthquakes

If a natural disaster occurs:

• secure your passport in a safe, waterproof place
• monitor local media and other sources, such as the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System
• follow the advice of local authorities
• keep in touch with friends and family
• seek local advice before entering affected areas

Hurricanes and severe weather

The rainy season is from May to December, bringing:

Tropical storms and hurricanes can also occur in other months.

The direction and strength of hurricanes can change with little warning.

If there's a hurricane or severe storm:

• you may get stuck in the area
• flights could be delayed or suspended
• available flights may fill quickly
• sea ports may close
• proper shelter may not be available

If a hurricane is approaching:

• know your hotel's or cruise ship's evacuation plan
• identify your local shelter
• monitor alerts and advice from the US National Hurricane Center and Tropical Prediction Center

Travel insurance

Get comprehensive  travel insurance  before you leave.

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won’t pay for these costs.

You'll probably need a special insurance policy that covers travel to high-risk destinations. Most Australian policies won't cover you for travel to Venezuela.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you’ll be away

You're likely to need a specialised insurance policy for travel to a 'do not travel' destination. Some Australian insurance policies may not cover you for travel to 'do not travel' destination.

Physical and mental health

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare, or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition.

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Medications

Most pharmacies, including in hospitals, no longer stock basic medicine or supplies due to short supply.

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Venezuela with the nearest Venezuelan Embassy . Take enough legal medicine for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription and a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use

Health risks

Insect-borne diseases.

Rates of insect-borne and infectious diseases are increasing. Diseases not seen for many years are re-emerging.

Venezuela has  yellow fever . Yellow fever is a potentially fatal virus spread by mosquitoes. It's prevented by vaccination. Get vaccinated before you travel.

Malaria occurs year-round in some areas of Venezuela. The risk is highest in rural areas of:

• Bolívar , including the Angel Falls
• Delta Amacuro

Strains of malaria that are hard to treat have been reported.

Other insect-borne diseases in Venezuela include:

• Chagas disease
• leishmaniasis

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

Zika virus  is widespread.

To protect yourself from disease:

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing

Consider taking medicine to prevent malaria.

Get medical advice if you develop a fever, muscle pain, a rash or a bad headache.

• Infectious diseases
• Immunisation

HIV/AIDS is common. Take steps to reduce your risk of exposure to the virus.

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne, and other widespread infectious diseases include:

• tuberculosis
• Venezuelan haemorrhagic fever

To reduce your risk of illness:

• drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid raw and undercooked food, such as salads
• don't swim in fresh water 
• avoid contact with dogs and other mammals

If you're bitten or scratched by an animal, get medical help straight away.

Visit a doctor if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

Medical care

Medical facilities.

The standard of public medical facilities in major cities is poor. It's even poorer in rural areas.

Basic medical supplies and medicines are hard to find.

Caracas and other major cities have good private hospitals and clinics. These hospitals are expensive and often require up-front cash payment.  Bear in mind that they may also be affected by medication and power shortages.

Most healthcare providers don't speak English.

Emergency and ambulance services are very limited. Response times are slow, especially in rural areas.

Find hyperbaric chambers at:

• Unidad de Buceo PDVSA in Lagunillas Norte
• Hospital Naval Raul Perdomo in Catia La Mar
• Compania Oriente marine Group in Puerto La Cruz
• Venezuela Divers in Ciudad Ojeda

If you become seriously ill or injured, you'll need to be evacuated to Caracas. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.

If you need emergency medical assistance during your trip, dial 911 (free of charge) from a landline or mobile phone.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

You must carry photo ID in Venezuela . You can carry a copy of your passport and keep the original passport in a safe place. Local security forces may ask you to show a form of ID at any time, particularly at police checkpoints.

Penalties for drug offences are severe. They include long sentences in dangerous local jails that are among the worst in the world.

If you're found with even a small quantity of marijuana, you may face a prison term.

Drug trafficking in Venezuela is a serious problem. Advanced detection methods have been introduced to help identify drug traffickers.

You'll be screened for drugs when you arrive and depart. You may also be screened while waiting in the airport.

Carrying or using drugs

It's illegal to photograph:

• military buildings and surrounds
• sites of strategic importance, including the Presidential Palace and airports

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you’re overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

Staying within the law and respecting customs

Dual citizenship

Australian-Venezuelan dual nationals must enter and leave Venezuela on a Venezuelan passport. This applies to children born to Venezuelans abroad, as they are assumed to be Venezuelan. Contact the nearest  Venezuelan embassy or consulate  for further information.

If you're a dual citizen, this limits the consular services we can give if you're arrested or detained.

Venezuela has national service obligations. You may have to comply if you're a male dual citizen aged 18 years or older.

Dual nationals

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

Visa-free travel for short stays

If you decide to travel to Venezuela despite our advice, you won't need a visa for tourist visits of less than 90 days. However, you'll need:

• a passport valid for at least 6 months
• proof of return or onward travel

You can be detained or deported if you don't comply with your visa conditions.

Ensure your visa status is up to date by contacting the Venezuelan migration department (Spanish) .

Entry and exit conditions can change. Contact the nearest Venezuelan embassy or consulate for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

Travel via the United States

If you're transiting via the USA, you must meet US entry and transit rules.

Check your visa requirements with the nearest US embassy or consulate well in advance of travel.

Travel advice for the US

Travel via Chile

If you’re travelling via Chile, ensure you meet all current entry or transit requirements.

• Travel advice for Chile

Border measures

We recommend that you do not travel to border areas or cross borders due to a high risk of terrorism and violent crime.

Do not attempt to cross Colombia, Brazil, and Guyana's borders by land.

Flights to and from Venezuela continue to be limited. 

Other formalities

Yellow fever vaccination.

You may need a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate to enter Venezuela. Some airlines may want to see one when you leave.

Find out about returning to Australia after exposure to yellow fever .

Countries with a risk of yellow fever

Embassy or consulate of Venezuela

Travel with children

To enter and leave Venezuela, children of any nationality under 18 years who travel alone or with one parent will need a certified copy of their birth certificate and a notarised permit. The permit must be obtained through the nearest local  SAREN  office or the respective Court for Children and Adolescents. It must include all the relevant travel details.

If the child resides overseas, the permit and birth certificate must be certified by a Venezuelan embassy or consulate . The child should carry this travel permit while travelling within the country and also at time of departure from Venezuela. Children may be denied exit from the country otherwise. Both documents must be translated into Spanish.

Advice for people travelling with children

Departure tax

You'll have to pay a tax if you leave the country via an international airport.

Payment must be made in cash, in Venezuelan Bolivar.

The cost of your ticket sometimes includes the departure tax. Check with your airline.

Don't make any non-official payments at airports and ask for a receipt for any customs duty payments you make.

Some countries won’t let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you’re just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport’s expiry date before you travel. If you’re not sure it’ll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate .

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can’t guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers.

• LGBTI travellers

The local currency is the Venezuelan Bolivar Fuerte (VEF).

It's not easy to exchange Australian dollars for local currency. Accessing money from an Australian bank account may be challenging.

There are 2 official exchange rates as well as black market rates. It's only legal to change money at the official government rate. 

Differences in exchange rates can mean you need much larger amounts of Australian dollars for small purchases.

US dollars are widely accepted. 

Money changers will exchange US dollars and travellers' cheques for VEF but generally can't convert them to other currencies. 

The inflation rate is high.

Demand for large-value notes remains high, and notes are hard to obtain.

You are required to declare to authorities if you are entering or leaving Venezuela with more than US$10,000.

Credit cards and ATMs

Credit card transactions are charged at the official exchange rate.

Local EFTPOS machines don't always accept international credit cards. You'll need to enter your passport number when using them.

ATMs have low limits for cash withdrawals on international cards. Don't rely on ATMs as your main way to access money.

With the shortage of banknotes, the local card payment system is under extra strain. Debit or credit card transactions may take longer than expected or require several attempts.

Credit card fraud is common. Always keep your card in sight.

Local travel

Driving permit.

You can drive in Venezuela for up to 1 year if you have both:

• a valid Australian driver's licence
• an International Driving Permit (IDP)

After 1 year, you'll need to apply for a local driver's licence.

Get your IDP before you leave Australia.

Road travel

Driving in Venezuela is dangerous.

Hazards include:

• poorly maintained roads and vehicles
• drunk drivers
• drivers ignoring red lights, particularly at night

Fuel shortages are common across all parts of the country.

Rural roads are often unmarked. They have little or no street lighting.

Make sure you have copies of insurance documents, driving licence and passport with you always. Failure to produce documents can result in your vehicle being seized by police.

There's a risk of extortion on roads outside major cities. Armed groups may pose as police and set up illegal roadblocks. Beware of attacks in tunnels. See Safety

At regular police and National Guard checkpoints:

• drive slowly
• stop if you're asked

Checkpoint officials might ask for bribes.

If you plan to drive in Venezuela:

• check you have the right insurance cover
• get to know local traffic laws and practices before driving
• get local advice and monitor local media about routes you plan to travel

Avoid hitchhiking and cycling.

There is a risk of theft on both inner city and inter city buses, especially at night.

Driving or riding

Motorcycles

Make sure your insurance policy covers you to ride a motorbike, quad bike or similar vehicle.

Always wear a helmet.

Crimes involving taxis occur. See Safety

If you need a taxi, use either:

• a pre-booked, licensed, radio-dispatch taxi
• a limousine service

Arrange these through your hotel. Don't hail taxis on the street.

Public transport

Avoid public transport. Theft is prevalent in public transport, including subway stations. Public transport providers, including state-owned companies, may not carry out routine maintenance. Services could be cancelled or delayed.

Your safety may be at risk.

Transport and getting around safely

Ferry companies may not look after their fleets properly. This could make them unsafe. Services could be cancelled or delayed.

Piracy occurs in the coastal areas of Venezuela. The International Maritime Bureau issues piracy reports .

• Travelling by boat

DFAT doesn’t provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check Venezuela's air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

Tours and adventure activities

Tour operators don't always meet the safety standards you might expect.

They may not take safety precautions or follow maintenance schedules. Safety gear, such as life jackets and seatbelts, may not be provided.

If you plan do a tour or adventure activity :

• check if your travel insurer covers it
• check the operators' credentials and safety equipment before booking
• ask about or insist on minimum safety requirements
• always use available safety gear, even if others don't

If standard safety equipment is not available, use another provider.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

Phone operators may not speak English.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your travel insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the  Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can’t do to help you overseas.

Australia doesn't have an embassy or consulate in Venezuela. Contact the Australian Embassy in Colombia for assistance.

Australian Embassy, Bogota

Edificio Tierra Firme

Avenida Carrera 9 No. 115-06

Oficina 2003

Bogotá, Colombia

Phone: +57 6016578030

E-mail: [email protected]

Website: colombia.embassy.gov.au

Facebook: Embajada de Australia en Colombia y Venezuela

X (Twitter): @AusEmbCO

Check the embassy websites for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

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