South America
Venezuela
Caribbean islands, Angel Falls and the Andes, but very few visitors: violent crime, risk of arbitrary detention, power cuts and a fragile political transition after January 2026. Experienced travelers with local contacts only.
- US travel advisoryLevel 3Reconsider travelDetails
- Visa71 of 198passports can visit visa-freeDetails
- CurrencyVESUS$1 ≈ Bs871.37Details
- English3/5Common in tourist areasDetails
- PlugsType A, B120 V, 60 HzDetails
- Emergency911Police 911 · Ambulance 911 · Fire 911 · All emergencies 911
- Tap waterNo, drink bottledDon't drink tap water; supply is intermittent and treatment unreliable.Details
- LGBTQ+LegalPublic affection draws hostility and police harassment; in May 2026 police detained about 30 people in a raid on a Barquisimeto LGBTQ+ venue.Details
- Internet127 MbpsMedian fixed broadband · mobile 28 MbpsDetails
- DrivingOn the rightForeign licences are valid for a year. Carry passport copy with entry stamp; expect checkpoints and bribe requests.
Where to go in Venezuela
2 places with full guides. Comfortable monthly budget for one person, rent included.
When to visit Venezuela
December–April is dry, best for Los Roques, the coast and the Andes. Angel Falls flows strongest in the June–November rains, when floods and storms can disrupt travel.
Good to know
Entry
- Air arrivals get a tourist card with proof of onward travel; arrivals by land or sea may need a visa in advance.
- Airport questioning can last hours; foreigners have been held or deported. Carry hotel bookings and a return ticket.
- After the June 2026 earthquakes, Caracas airport reopened on 1 September with limited flights; Valencia and Barcelona also have international flights.
- Venezuelan dual nationals must enter and leave on a Venezuelan passport.
Laws visitors break by accident
- Photographing military sites, the presidential palace or airports is illegal
- Always carry ID; police can detain people without it
- Drug trafficking brings 8–15 years in dangerous prisons
Etiquette
- Never flash phones, watches or cash in public
- Politics is sensitive; avoid sharing opinions with strangers or officials
- Greet with a handshake; friends kiss once on the cheek
Tipping
10% is customary in restaurants, often paid in US dollars; check whether service is already on the bill.
Neighbouring countries
Sources
- US State Department travel advisory
- UK FCDO travel advice: Venezuela
- SAIME (immigration)
- Speedtest Global Index: Venezuela
- World Bank open data
Country facts are researched by SoloSquare; advisory levels, crime, health and visa figures come from the sources listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.