Venezuela

Venezuela boasts some of the most spectacular and diverse landscapes in South America. Its crown jewel is Angel Falls, the world's highest uninterrupted waterfall, which plummets from the top of a massive table-top mountain (tepui) deep within the jungle of Canaima National Park. The country also features the Caribbean paradise of the Los Roques archipelago, the vast plains of Los Llanos teeming with wildlife, and the snow-capped peaks of the Andes. However, the current political and humanitarian crisis has made the country one of the most dangerous in the world.

This guide is provided for informational purposes, as the situation may change in the future. At present, most foreign governments advise their citizens against all travel to Venezuela due to the risk of violent crime, kidnapping, and civil unrest. The tourism infrastructure has largely collapsed, and basic services like electricity, water, and medical care are unreliable.

Reasons to Visit

• Angel Falls: Witness the breathtaking sight of the world's tallest waterfall.
• Caribbean Paradise: Explore the idyllic white-sand beaches and turquoise waters of the Los Roques archipelago.
• Incredible Biodiversity: Discover a vast range of ecosystems, from the Amazon basin to the high Andes.
• The Tepuis: See the unique, ancient table-top mountains that rise dramatically from the jungle, inspiring stories like "The Lost World."

Things to Avoid

• Traveling to the Country: The primary advice from most governments is to avoid all travel to Venezuela at this time.
• Walking Anywhere at Night: This is extremely dangerous in all parts of the country, including areas that might seem safe.
• Displaying any Valuables: Flashing a smartphone, camera, or any jewelry can make you a target for violent crime.
• Relying on Public Transport: Public transportation is unsafe and unreliable.

Local Transportation Tips

In a future, stable context, domestic flights would be the main way to travel the large distances. In the current crisis, all transport is unreliable and unsafe. Any essential travel must be undertaken with trusted, private security arrangements.

Travel Etiquette

• Be Discreet and Low-Key: In the current situation, drawing as little attention to yourself as possible is a key safety strategy.
• Politeness: Venezuelans are historically warm and friendly people. A polite demeanor is important.
• Avoid Political Topics: Do not engage in any discussions about the political situation.

Did You Know?

The name Venezuela means "Little Venice." It was given by the explorer Amerigo Vespucci, who saw the stilt houses of the indigenous people on Lake Maracaibo and was reminded of the Italian city.

Cool Venezuela Stats

• Highest Waterfall: Angel Falls has a total height of 979 meters (3,212 ft), with an uninterrupted drop of 807 meters (2,648 ft).
• Massive Lake: Lake Maracaibo is one of the largest lakes in South America and is famous for the Catatumbo lightning, a unique atmospheric phenomenon of near-continuous lightning.
• Biodiversity Hotspot: Venezuela is considered one of the 17 most megadiverse countries in the world.

Recommended Age Group

Due to the current severe security risks, travel to Venezuela is not recommended for any age group.

• Babies (0-2 years): Not recommended.
• Kids (3-12 years): Not recommended.
• Teens (13-19 years): Not recommended.
• Adults (20-64 years): Not recommended.
• Seniors (65+ years): Not recommended.

Accessibility Level: Low

• Due to the collapse of infrastructure, there is no accessibility in the country.
• The country's infrastructure is currently not functional or maintained.
• There are no provisions for travelers with disabilities.