Venezuela

Venezuela: general info for travelers

Venezuela is a country located in the northern part of South America. It is bordered by Colombia to the west, Guyana to the east, and Brazil to the south. The capital and largest city of Venezuela is Caracas.
Venezuela has a diverse landscape that includes the Andes Mountains, the expansive Amazon rainforest, and the Caribbean coast. Its climate is generally tropical, with temperatures usually ranging between 20 and 30 degrees Celsius.
Venezuela is a country rich in culture, and its people have a strong passion for music, dance, and food. Popular music genres in Venezuela include salsa, merengue, and reggaeton.
However, the country has been facing political and economic turmoil in recent years, resulting in challenges such as food and medicine shortages and increasing crime rates. As a result, visitors should exercise caution when traveling to Venezuela and stay informed about the current situation.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Venezuela, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Venezuela: places to visit

Sure, here are some of the main places to visit in Venezuela: 1. Angel Falls - This is the world's highest uninterrupted waterfall, with a plunge of over 3,200 feet. Located in the Canaima National Park, the waterfall drops from a tabletop mountain, surrounded by lush rainforest. It's considered to be one of Venezuela's most stunning natural wonders.
2. Isla Margarita - A popular beach destination located off the northeast coast of Venezuela. With turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and a laid-back Caribbean vibe, Isla Margarita is perfect for relaxation and water sports.
3. Los Roques National Park - This archipelago consists of over 300 islands and islets, surrounded by coral reefs and crystal-clear waters. Los Roques National Park is a dream destination for snorkelers, divers, and beach lovers.
4. Mount Roraima - This tabletop mountain sits on the border between Venezuela, Brazil, and Guyana, and is home to unique flora and fauna. Hiking to the summit is quite challenging, but the views from the top are amazing.
5. Mérida - Known as "The City of Eternal Spring," Mérida is surrounded by majestic mountains and boasts a rich cultural heritage. Visitors can take a cable car up to Pico Espejo, the highest point in Venezuela accessible by car, and enjoy breathtaking views of the Andes.
6. Orinoco Delta - This vast wetland covers over 20,000 square miles, and is the second-largest river delta in South America. The Orinoco Delta is home to dozens of indigenous communities, as well as unique wildlife such as pink river dolphins and anacondas.
7. Canaima National Park - This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to the stunning Angel Falls, as well as other waterfalls, rivers, and mountains. The park is also a cultural hub, with indigenous communities practicing traditional ways of life.
These are just a few of the many amazing places to visit in Venezuela. Each one offers a unique experience and a chance to discover the beauty of this country.
There is more to see and do in Venezuela: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Venezuela: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Venezuela, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
Venezuela has a warm, tropical climate with two primary seasons: a dry season from December to April, and a rainy season from May to November. The best time to visit Venezuela depends on your preferences. If you're looking for the best weather and the highest chances of sunny days, then the dry season is the best time to go. However, keep in mind that this is also peak tourist season, so popular destinations will be crowded and prices may be higher. If you don't mind the occasional rain shower and want to avoid the crowds, then the rainy season is a good time to go. The landscapes are lush and green during this period, and wildlife is easier to spot since it comes out to forage after the rains. Generally speaking, the best months to visit Venezuela are December through February, which is the peak of the dry season. But you can also consider visiting in June through September, which is a great time for whale watching and bird watching, or in October and November, which is when the Orinoco Delta region sees a peak in ecological activity.

Venezuela: activities and what to do

Venezuela offers a wide variety of outdoor activities and sports to enjoy on your holiday. Here are some popular options: 1. Explore the National Parks: Venezuela has an abundance of National Parks that offer hiking, trekking, and birdwatching. Canaima National Park, home to the world-famous Angel Falls, is one of the most popular parks to visit.
2. Go Scuba Diving: The waters surrounding Venezuela are perfect for scuba diving with its coral reefs and unique marine life. Los Roques is a popular destination for diving on your trip.
3. Climb a Mountain: Mount Roraima, located on the border between Venezuela, Brazil, and Guyana, is a popular spot for mountain climbing. The trek to its summit will offer you amazing views, waterfalls, and unique landscapes.
4. Paragliding and Hang Gliding: For adventure junkies, paragliding and hang gliding is a must. Some popular spots for these activities are Merida and Caracas.
5. Surfing: Caribbean waters near the north coast of the country are ideal for surfing.
6. Kitesurfing and Windsurfing: For those who love water sports, Venezuela's waters offer incredible opportunities for kitesurfing and windsurfing. Playa El Yaque, located in Margarita Island, is one of the most popular spots for these activities.
These are just a few examples, but there are many other outdoor activities and sports to enjoy on your holiday in Venezuela.

Venezuela: few words on history and culture

Venezuela is a country with a rich and diverse history and culture. The first indigenous people in Venezuela were the Caribs and Arawaks. Later, the Spanish colonizers arrived in the 16th century and brought African slaves to work in the sugar cane and cocoa plantations.
Venezuela gained independence from Spain in 1811. The country has been marked by political instability and coups d'état throughout its history. Currently, there is a political and economic crisis in the country.
Venezuela's culture is a mix of indigenous, African, and European traditions. Music, dance, and food play an important role in the culture. The national dance is the joropo, which originated in the plains region of the country. The most common dish is the arepa, a cornmeal cake filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables.
The country is also known for its beautiful natural landscapes, including the Angel Falls (the highest waterfall in the world) and the Orinoco Delta. Overall, Venezuela is a country with a vibrant culture and history that is worth exploring.

Venezuela: how to move around on holiday

The most common means of transportation to reach Venezuela are: 1. Airplane: Most visitors arriving from outside Venezuela will likely arrive at the Simon Bolivar International Airport (located near Caracas), which is the largest international airport in the country.
2. Land: Visitors can also enter Venezuela by road from Brazil, Colombia, and Guyana. However, it is recommended to check the current situation in the region before planning a road trip.
3. Boat: Visitors can also arrive by boat from nearby Caribbean islands such as Trinidad and Tobago, Grenada, or Aruba.
Once in Venezuela, the most popular means of transportation within the country are: 1. Bus: The bus network connects most of the major cities in Venezuela, and it is relatively inexpensive.
2. Taxi: Taxis are easily available in the major cities of the country. However, it is advised to agree on the fare before starting the journey.
3. Domestic flights: To visit some of the remote areas of Venezuela, visitors may need to take domestic flights from one city to another.
It is recommended to confirm the mode of transportation before traveling and take necessary safety precautions while traveling within the country. To hire a car to visit Venezuela, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Venezuela: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Venezuela with a full stomach:D
Sure, here are some of the typical foods of Venezuela: 1. Arepas: Arepas are a typical Venezuelan bread made from cornmeal dough that is cooked on a griddle or fried. Arepas can be eaten plain or stuffed with many different fillings, such as cheese, meat, avocado, or beans.
2. Pabellón Criollo: Pabellón Criollo is Venezuela's national dish, and it consists of shredded beef, black beans, white rice, and fried plantains. This dish is often served with a side of arepas.
3. Empanadas: Empanadas are a popular snack in Venezuela. They are made from corn flour or wheat dough and stuffed with meat, cheese, or vegetables. Empanadas can be fried or baked.
4. Hallacas: Hallacas are a traditional Venezuelan food that is typically eaten during the Christmas season. They are made from cornmeal dough stuffed with a mixture of meat, onions, raisins, olives, and spices. The dough is then wrapped in banana leaves and boiled.
5. Cachapas: Cachapas are sweet corn pancakes made with fresh corn, milk, and salt. They are typically served with cheese and butter or filled with meat or chicken.
6. Asado Negro: Asado Negro is a flavorful beef stew that is slow-cooked with onions, tomatoes, garlic, and spices. The meat is then shredded and served over rice.
These are just a few examples of some of the delicious foods you can try in Venezuela!

Venezuela: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

Venezuela is generally considered an affordable country for tourists, with prices varying depending on the region and activity. However, due to the current economic and political situation, prices have increased significantly in recent years and may continue to fluctuate. It's important to research current prices and exchange rates before planning a trip to Venezuela.

Venezuela: where to find accodation

There are several options to look for accommodation in Venezuela, including: 1. Online travel agencies: Websites such as Booking.com, Expedia, or Airbnb offer a wide selection of accommodation options in Venezuela.
2. Hotel websites: You can visit the official websites of hotels in Venezuela to see their availability and pricing.
3. Local travel agencies: Local travel agencies can help you find suitable accommodation options based on your preferences and budget.
4. Social media: You can find accommodation options from social media groups or accounts dedicated to travel in Venezuela.
5. Ask locals: When you arrive in Venezuela, you can ask locals for recommendations on where to stay based on your needs.
It is important to research and book accommodation in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
You can check hotel prices in Venezuela here:
Booking.com

Venezuela: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
According to the World Tourism Organization, Venezuela received approximately 750,000 international tourists in 2018. However, due to the current political and economic situation in the country, tourism has significantly decreased in recent years. In the past, the high season for tourism in Venezuela was during the months of December to April, where it can get quite crowded in popular tourist destinations such as Margarita Island. However, it is important to note that due to the current situation, it is recommended to research and plan your trip carefully and take into consideration safety concerns before traveling to Venezuela.
It is important to note that Venezuela has been experiencing a political and economic crisis in recent years, which has led to a significant increase in crime rates and social unrest. Therefore, some areas of the country can be unsafe for tourists.
The U.S. Department of State has issued a Level 4 "Do Not Travel" advisory for Venezuela due to violent crime, social unrest, and the lack of basic goods and services. Additionally, the Venezuelan government has implemented a number of security measures that may affect tourists, such as strict curfews and restrictions on travel.
If you decide to travel to Venezuela, it is recommended that you avoid certain areas, such as the Venezuelan-Colombian border area, certain neighborhoods in Caracas and other major cities, and areas with a high level of criminal activity.
It is also important to take precautions to ensure your safety when traveling in Venezuela, including staying in well-lit and well-populated areas, avoiding displaying valuables, and being aware of your surroundings at all times. It is also a good idea to enlist the help of a local guide or travel agency who can advise you on the safest places to visit.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Venezuela on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Venezuela: events for tourists

Venezuela offers a wide range of cultural, sporting, and natural events that can be of interest to tourists. Some of the most popular events include: 1. Carnival - celebrated in February, Carnival is the biggest cultural celebration in Venezuela, with music, dance, and colorful costumes.
2. Semana Santa - the Holy Week leading up to Easter is marked by a variety of religious processions and celebrations across the country.
3. Meridiano de Oro - this annual music festival in the city of Merida showcases traditional and contemporary Venezuelan music.
4. International Book Fair - this event in Caracas brings together authors, publishers, and readers from all over the world to celebrate literature.
5. Beach festivals - Venezuela's many beautiful beaches are the setting for a variety of festivals and parties throughout the year, such as the Margarita Island International Salsa Festival.
6. International Film Festival - held annually in Mérida and Caracas, this festival showcases the work of up-and-coming Latin American filmmakers.
7. Orinoco Delta Birdwatching Festival - a popular event for nature lovers, this festival offers guided trips deep into the Orinoco Delta to observe the region's diverse birdlife.
These are just some of the many events that Venezuela offers, and there are many others throughout the year to suit all interests.

Venezuela: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Venezuela, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
Here's a two-week travel itinerary for a typical tourist in Venezuela: Day 1-2: Caracas - explore the capital city, visit museums and cultural sites such as the National Art Gallery, see the panoramic view of the city from Mount Avila.
Day 3-4: Los Roques - take a quick flight from Caracas to this small archipelago made up of coral reefs.
Day 5-6: Mérida - visit a coffee plantation, take a cable car ride to the highest peak in Venezuela - Pico Bolivar.
Day 7-8: Canaima National Park - visit the world-famous Angel Falls and travel through the jungle to see the Tepuis.
Day 9-10: Margarita Island - known for its Caribbean beaches and water sports activities.
Day 11-12: Colonia Tovar - visit a small German-style village located in the mountains.
Day 13-14: Orinoco Delta - explore the river delta by boat and learn about the indigenous culture of the Warao people.
This itinerary can be customized depending on your interests and preferences, but it is a good way to see a diverse range of landscapes and attractions in Venezuela.

Venezuela: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Venezuela described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Barinas is a city located in the southwestern region of Venezuela. It is the capital of the Barinas state, and it has a population of approximately 353,000 people. The city has warm and humid we... CONTINUE here for a trip to Barinas
- Barquisimeto is a city located in the northwest of Venezuela, being the fourth-largest city in the country. It is the capital of the state of Lara and has a population of approximately 1.5 million peo... CONTINUE here for a trip to Barquisimeto
- Caracas is the capital and largest city of Venezuela, located in the northern part of the country, near the Caribbean coast. It has a population of approximately 2.8 million people and is known for it... CONTINUE here for a trip to Caracas
- Carupano is a coastal city located in the eastern part of Venezuela, specifically in the state of Sucre. It is known for its beautiful beaches, such as Playa Medina and Playa Parguito, and its rich cu... CONTINUE here for a trip to Carupano
- Chichiriviche is a small town located on the coast of Venezuela, specifically in the state of Falcon. It is known for its beautiful beaches and clear blue waters, making it a popular destination for b... CONTINUE here for a trip to Chichiriviche
- Choroní is a small and picturesque town located in the northern coast of Venezuela, in the Aragua state. It is famous for its stunning beaches, lush green mountains, and colonial-style architecture th... CONTINUE here for a trip to Choroní
- Ciudad Bolívar is a city located in the southeastern region of Venezuela, on the banks of the Orinoco River. It is the capital of Bolívar State and has a population of around 350,000 inhabitants. The ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ciudad Bolívar
- Ciudad Guayana is a city located in the state of Bolívar, Venezuela. It was founded in 1961 and is known for its industrial activity, especially in the aluminum and iron sectors. Ciudad Guayana is loc... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ciudad Guayana
- Ciudad Ojeda is a city located in western Venezuela, in the state of Zulia. It was founded in 1937 as a planned city for workers in the nearby oil industry. The city has a population of approximately ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ciudad Ojeda
- Coro is a coastal city in western Venezuela and is the capital of the Falcon state. It was founded in 1527 and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993 for its rich colonial history and archi... CONTINUE here for a trip to Coro
- Cumana is a city located in the northeast of Venezuela, specifically in the state of Sucre. It is the capital of this state and has a population of approximately 750,000 people. It is a coastal city t... CONTINUE here for a trip to Cumana
- El Amparo is a small town located in the central-west region of Venezuela, specifically in the state of Apure. It is situated near the border with Colombia and is known for its beautiful natural lands... CONTINUE here for a trip to El Amparo
- El Cafetal is a residential and commercial neighborhood located in the eastern part of Caracas, the capital city of Venezuela. It is known for its picturesque location, with a view of the Avila mounta... CONTINUE here for a trip to El Cafetal
- El Dorado is a town located in the Venezuelan state of Bolivar, southeast of the country. It is known for its gold mines and its position in the middle of the lush Venezuelan Amazon Rainforest. The to... CONTINUE here for a trip to El Dorado
- El Hatillo is a municipality located in the eastern part of Caracas, the capital city of Venezuela. It is renowned for its picturesque colonial architecture and scenic mountain views, as well as its l... CONTINUE here for a trip to El Hatillo
- Sure, El Limón is a small town located in the Aragua state of Venezuela. It is a popular tourist spot because of its beautiful natural attractions such as the El Limón waterfall, which is about 40 met... CONTINUE here for a trip to El Limón
- El Tigre is a city located in the Anzoátegui state of Venezuela. It is situated in the eastern region of the country, approximately 200 km from the capital city of Caracas. The city has a population o... CONTINUE here for a trip to El Tigre
- El Tocuyo is a city located in the state of Lara in Venezuela. It was founded in 1545 and has a rich historic and cultural heritage, being one of the oldest cities in the country. El Tocuyo is known f... CONTINUE here for a trip to El Tocuyo
- El Valle de la Pascua is a city located in central Venezuela, in the state of Guarico. It is a rural area mainly known for its agricultural activity, particularly the cultivation of corn, rice, and ve... CONTINUE here for a trip to El Valle de la Pascua
- El Vigía is a city located in the Andean region of Venezuela, in the western state of Mérida. It is situated at an altitude of 740 meters above sea level and has a population of approximately 100,000 ... CONTINUE here for a trip to El Vigía
- El Yaque is a small town located on the southern coast of the Venezuelan island of Margarita. It's famous for its beautiful white sand beaches, crystal-clear water, and ideal conditions for windsurfin... CONTINUE here for a trip to El Yaque
- Isla Margarita, also known as the Pearl of the Caribbean, is a beautiful island located in the Caribbean Sea, off the coast of Venezuela. It is renowned for its white sandy beaches with turquoise wate... CONTINUE here for a trip to Isla Margarita
- La Asunción is a city located on the eastern coast of the Margarita Island in Venezuela. It is the capital of the state of Nueva Esparta and the second oldest city of Venezuela, founded in 1565. La As... CONTINUE here for a trip to La Asunción
- La Esmeralda is a small town located in the Amazonian state of Amazonas, Venezuela. It is situated within the Canaima National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its remarkable natural beaut... CONTINUE here for a trip to La Esmeralda
- La Guaira is a port city located north of Venezuela, in the state of Vargas, bordering the Caribbean Sea. It is known for its beautiful beaches, stunning sunsets, and delicious seafood. La Guaira is a... CONTINUE here for a trip to La Guaira
- La Sabaneta is a small town located in the state of Barinas, in Venezuela. It is known for its agricultural production, especially in the cultivation of cotton, maize, and rice. The town also has a li... CONTINUE here for a trip to La Sabaneta
- Los Llanos is a vast tropical grassland plains region in northern South America, predominantly in Venezuela and Colombia. The term "llanos" means "plains" in Spanish. In Venezuela, Los Llanos covers a... CONTINUE here for a trip to Los Llanos
- Los Roques Archipelago is a group of islands and coral reefs located in the Caribbean Sea, about 128 kilometers north of the Venezuelan mainland. The archipelago is a protected national park and is kn... CONTINUE here for a trip to Los Roques Archipelago
- Los Roques National Park is located in the Caribbean Sea and is a protected area that encompasses over 40 small islands, cays, and atolls. It is situated about 128 kilometers (80 miles) north of Venez... CONTINUE here for a trip to Los Roques National Park
- Los Roques is a stunning archipelago located off the northern coast of Venezuela, consisting of over 300 small islands, cays, and sandbanks. The crystal-clear turquoise waters surrounding the islands ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Los Roques
- Los Teques is a city located in the Miranda state of Venezuela, just outside the capital city of Caracas. It has a population of approximately 210,000 people and is known for its beautiful natural sce... CONTINUE here for a trip to Los Teques
- Maracaibo is a city located in the western part of Venezuela, along the shores of Lake Maracaibo. It is the second-largest city in the country after Caracas and is regarded as the economic powerhouse ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Maracaibo
- Maracay is a city in central Venezuela, located about 120 kilometers west of Caracas. It is the capital of the Aragua state and is an important commercial and industrial center in the region. Maracay ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Maracay
- Margarita Island is a popular tourist destination located in the Caribbean Sea, off the northeastern coast of Venezuela. It is known for its beautiful beaches, warm climate, and vibrant nightlife scen... CONTINUE here for a trip to Margarita Island
- Mérida is a city located in the western region of Venezuela, in the Andes Mountains. It is the capital of the Mérida state and known as the "City of Gentlemen". The city has a population of around 300... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mérida
- Puerto Ayacucho is the capital city of the Amazonas state in Venezuela. It is located in the southern part of the country along the Orinoco River, and it is often referred to as the "Gateway to the Am... CONTINUE here for a trip to Puerto Ayacucho
- Puerto La Cruz is a city located on the northeastern coast of Venezuela, in the state of Anzoategui. It has a population of approximately 455,000 people and is known for its beautiful beaches, nightli... CONTINUE here for a trip to Puerto La Cruz
- Puerto Ordaz is a city located in the northeastern part of Venezuela, specifically in the state of Bolívar. It is a relatively young city, founded in the 1950s as a result of the development of the ir... CONTINUE here for a trip to Puerto Ordaz
- San Antonio de los Altos is a town located in the state of Miranda in Venezuela, about 30 kilometers south of Caracas. The town is situated at an altitude of 1,100 meters above sea level and has a tem... CONTINUE here for a trip to San Antonio de los Altos
- San Cristóbal is a city in southwestern Venezuela, and it is the capital of the state of Táchira. It is located near the border with Colombia and is known for its rich history, charming colonial archi... CONTINUE here for a trip to San Cristóbal
- San Fernando de Apure is a city located in the southern part of Venezuela, specifically in the state of Apure. It is known for its agricultural activities, especially cattle and dairy farming. The cit... CONTINUE here for a trip to San Fernando de Apure
- San Juan de los Morros is a city located in the middle of Venezuela, specifically in the state of Guárico. The climate is generally warm, with an average temperature of 28°C (82°F). The city has a pop... CONTINUE here for a trip to San Juan de los Morros
- Santa Elena de Uairén is a small town located in the southeastern part of Venezuela, near the border with Brazil. It is the capital of the Gran Sabana municipality in the state of Bolivar. The town is... CONTINUE here for a trip to Santa Elena de Uairen
- Tucacas is a coastal town located in the state of Falcón in Venezuela. It is situated on the shores of the Caribbean Sea and is known for its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters. Tucacas is a p... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tucacas
- Tucupita is a city located in the Delta Amacuro state of Venezuela. It is the capital city of the Delta Amacuro state and is situated on the banks of the River Orinoco. The population of Tucupita is a... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tucupita
- Valencia is a city located in the north-central region of Venezuela. It is the capital of the Carabobo state and it has a population of approximately 1.5 million people. Valencia is an industrial city... CONTINUE here for a trip to Valencia


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