Venezuela

Venezuela is home to some of the most stunning natural wonders in South America. Angel Falls, the world’s highest uninterrupted waterfall, plunges 979 meters from a tabletop mountain in Canaima National Park—a remote yet breathtaking destination best accessed by plane and boat. The Los Roques Archipelago offers picture-perfect white sand beaches and crystalline waters ideal for snorkeling, kite surfing, or simply relaxing in isolation. In Mérida, the famed Teleférico de Mérida—the highest and longest cable car in the world—ascends the Andes Mountains for panoramic views. Meanwhile, the wildlife-rich plains of Los Llanos invite travelers to explore a vast ecosystem teeming with caimans, capybaras, and anacondas through guided safaris and birdwatching excursions. For an otherworldly experience, the Catatumbo Lightning near Lake Maracaibo presents a spectacular atmospheric phenomenon where lightning flashes nearly every night.

Venezuelan cuisine is hearty and flavorful, deeply rooted in indigenous and Spanish influences. Arepas are the cornerstone of Venezuelan dining—thick cornmeal cakes stuffed with a variety of fillings such as shredded beef (carne mechada), cheese, or black beans. Pabellón Criollo, considered the national dish, is a colorful plate of shredded beef, rice, black beans, and fried plantains. Cachapas are sweet corn pancakes usually filled with soft white cheese and folded like an omelet. Hallacas, typically reserved for holidays, are banana leaf-wrapped parcels of seasoned meat, raisins, olives, and corn dough. To quench your thirst, try papelón con limón, a refreshing sugarcane drink with lime, or chicha, a creamy rice-based beverage popular among locals.

Navigating Venezuela can be challenging but rewarding for adventurous travelers. Domestic flights are often the most efficient way to cover large distances, especially when visiting remote destinations like Canaima or Los Roques. Public buses, known as "por puestos" or colectivos, are common and inexpensive but may lack safety standards and punctuality. In urban areas like Caracas, the metro system is clean and affordable, though caution is advised due to pickpocketing. Taxis and ride-hailing apps are available in larger cities but should be used with verified drivers and arranged through hotels or trusted sources. Renting a car is not generally recommended due to road conditions, fuel shortages, and security concerns.

Traveling on a budget in Venezuela requires careful planning, but the low cost of living makes it accessible. Accommodations such as guesthouses (posadas) or budget hostels are widely available and affordable. Eating at local restaurants or areperas can significantly cut costs while offering authentic cuisine. Using shared transport or colectivos is cheaper than private taxis, though safety should be prioritized. Travel with U.S. dollars or euros, as foreign currency is often preferred over the bolívar and exchange rates can vary widely. It's best to exchange money through reliable sources or in advance. Booking tours or flights in advance can also yield better rates, especially in popular areas like Los Roques or Canaima.

Due to ongoing political and economic instability, Venezuela currently poses several safety concerns for international travelers. Petty crime, including pickpocketing and scams, is common in urban areas, while violent crime can occur in certain regions. It is highly advised to avoid traveling after dark, steer clear of protests or large gatherings, and stay updated on local conditions through embassy alerts. Only travel with reputable guides and tour operators. Carry photocopies of your passport, use hotel safes, and avoid displaying valuables in public. It’s also essential to consult travel advisories from your home government before and during your trip.

Venezuelans are warm, friendly, and value social interactions. It’s customary to greet with a handshake or a cheek kiss among friends. Politeness and formality are appreciated, especially when addressing elders or people in authority. When dining, wait for everyone to be served before eating and try not to leave food on your plate. Dress modestly and neatly in public spaces. Tipping is customary, typically around 10% in restaurants unless service is included. It's polite to learn a few Spanish phrases, as English is not widely spoken outside major tourist hubs.

Venezuela is best suited for adventurous travelers who are comfortable navigating logistical challenges and unpredictable infrastructure in exchange for raw, natural beauty. It appeals to backpackers and eco-tourists drawn to untamed wilderness, waterfalls, and vibrant ecosystems. Nature lovers and photographers will find it especially rewarding. However, due to ongoing safety concerns and limited tourist infrastructure, it's less ideal for first-time international travelers or those seeking convenience and luxury without effort. Those who thrive on off-the-beaten-path travel and are equipped to handle uncertainty will find Venezuela a captivating and unforgettable experience.

Budget travelers can find affordable posadas (guesthouses) in areas like Mérida and Puerto Colombia, often family-run establishments that provide clean rooms and local charm at low cost. Travelers seeking a balance of comfort and affordability might enjoy mid-range hotels such as Hotel La Floresta in Mérida or Posada Galápago in Los Roques, offering warm hospitality and convenient amenities. Luxury travelers may opt for exclusive island retreats like Posada Acuarela in Los Roques, where turquoise waters and personalized service create a tropical haven.

One common mistake is underestimating the importance of cash—ATMs often do not work, and card acceptance is limited, so bringing enough U.S. dollars is crucial. Some travelers also make the error of assuming safety levels are consistent throughout the country; always research current conditions and avoid high-risk areas. Drinking tap water is another misstep to avoid; stick to bottled water to prevent illness. Finally, don’t rely on public Wi-Fi or expect reliable internet access, especially in rural areas—download maps and translations in advance.

Before traveling to Venezuela, download offline maps such as Maps.me or Google Maps offline mode to navigate areas with unreliable service. A reliable translator app like Google Translate can help bridge the language gap, especially in non-touristy regions. Secure messaging apps like Signal or WhatsApp are useful for communication, and XE Currency is helpful for quickly checking exchange rates when converting bolívars or dollars. It's also wise to use a VPN to ensure secure internet browsing, as some websites may be restricted or unstable.

A well-rounded 7–10 day itinerary might start with a flight to Caracas followed by a direct transfer to Los Roques for three days of beach relaxation and water activities. Next, catch a domestic flight to Canaima to experience Angel Falls and the surrounding rainforest for three days. Spend the final stretch in Mérida exploring the Andes and taking the cable car ride. For those with more time, an extension to Los Llanos for a wildlife safari or to Lake Maracaibo for a glimpse of the Catatumbo Lightning would add an adventurous twist. Throughout your itinerary, allow for extra time in case of delays due to transportation or weather.

Venezuela is home to more than 40% of the Orinoco River Basin, one of the longest rivers in South America and a vital ecosystem for diverse wildlife. The country also boasts the largest proven oil reserves in the world. Angel Falls was named after American aviator Jimmy Angel, who crash-landed near the falls while searching for gold. Baseball is more popular than soccer in Venezuela, with many players making it to Major League Baseball in the United States. The country is one of the few in the world where lightning occurs almost every night at the same place—over Lake Maracaibo—due to its unique topography and humidity levels.