South America
Is Venezuela safe?
L3Reconsider travel
Is Venezuela safe?
Among the riskiest countries in the Americas: armed robbery, express kidnapping, detention of foreigners and lawless border and mining regions. The political transition remains uncertain.
Key facts
- US travel advisory: Level 3: Reconsider travel, updated 2026-03-18.
- Homicide rate: 12.6 per 100,000 people (2022, UNODC via World Bank).
- Road deaths: 39.0 per 100,000 people a year (2019, WHO).
- Emergency numbers: Police 911 · Ambulance 911 · Fire 911 · All emergencies 911.
- Solo women: Violent crime affects everyone, and harassment is common. Use trusted local contacts and pre-booked drivers, and avoid walking after dark.
Risks, scams and laws
Main risks
- Armed robbery, carjacking and express kidnapping, often violent
- Detention or long questioning of foreigners by security forces
- Armed groups in Zulia, Táchira, Apure and the Orinoco mining arc
- Power, water and fuel shortages; phone networks drop during blackouts
Common scams
- Fake officials at Maiquetía airport; check with airline staff
- Unlicensed airport taxis, or cars with passengers already inside
- Bribe demands at police and National Guard checkpoints
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
Safety by place in Venezuela
Quick answers
Is Venezuela safe for tourists?
Among the riskiest countries in the Americas: armed robbery, express kidnapping, detention of foreigners and lawless border and mining regions. The political transition remains uncertain.
Is Venezuela safe for solo female travelers?
Violent crime affects everyone, and harassment is common. Use trusted local contacts and pre-booked drivers, and avoid walking after dark.
What is the emergency number in Venezuela?
Police 911 · Ambulance 911 · Fire 911 · All emergencies 911.
Safety by place
Sources
- World Bank: intentional homicides
- US State Department travel advisory
- UK FCDO travel advice: Venezuela
- SAIME (immigration)
- Speedtest Global Index: Venezuela
- World Bank open data
Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.