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Venezuela
Venezuela is a land of dramatic landscapes, vibrant cities, and lush rainforests. Explore Angel Falls, the Andes, and Canaima National Park for an adventurous South American journey.
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Summary
Neighboring Countries
Overview
Months
01. January, 02. February, 03. March, 04. April, 05. May
Vacation type
Beach, Couple, Family, Nature, Hiking, Mountains
Expenses
<150€, <200€, Over 200€, 0-50€, <100€
Temperature
25-30°C, Over 30°C
Rainfall
0-50mm
Safety
Dangerous
Continent
South America
Currency
Venezuelan bolívar, U.S dollar
Languages
Spanish
Currency Converter
When to visit
The best time to visit Venezuela is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. During this period, the weather is generally warm and dry, making it ideal for exploring the country’s diverse landscapes and attractions.
- December to April: Features lower humidity, minimal rainfall, and warm temperatures, making it perfect for outdoor activities and visiting natural wonders like Angel Falls, the Gran Sabana, and the Andes Mountains.
The wet season, from May to November, brings higher humidity and more frequent rainfall. While this period can offer lush landscapes and fewer tourists, heavy rains might affect travel plans and accessibility to some destinations.
Weather, Crowds and Costs
Per one person
Tourist Season: December-April (Dry Season)
Ideal weather for visiting Angel Falls, Los Roques, or the Andes. This season also includes festive celebrations.
Budget Vacation ($25-50/day)
Accommodation: $10-20/night (budget guesthouses or hostels).
Food: $5-10/day (local eateries, street food).
Activities: $5-15/day (hiking, local guided tours, cultural visits).
Transportation: $5-10/day (public buses, shared taxis).
Other Costs: $5/day (souvenirs, tips).
Mid-Range Vacation ($50-100/day)
Accommodation: $20-50/night (mid-range hotels or lodges).
Food: $10-20/day (local restaurants, casual dining).
Activities: $10-30/day (guided tours, boat trips in Los Roques, cultural activities).
Transportation: $10-20/day (domestic flights, private taxis).
Other Costs: $10-20/day (souvenirs, additional activities).
Luxury Vacation ($100+/day)
Accommodation: $50+/night (upscale lodges, resorts in Los Roques).
Food: $20+/day (fine dining, premium restaurants).
Activities: $30+/day (private tours, scenic flights to Angel Falls, luxury boat excursions).
Transportation: $20+/day (private cars, first-class transport).
Other Costs: $20+/day (luxury shopping, premium activities).
Off-Peak Season: May-November (Wet Season)
Rainfall is heavier, particularly in jungle areas, but many attractions remain accessible, often at lower costs.
Budget Vacation ($20-40/day)
Accommodation: $10-15/night (simple hostels or local stays).
Food: $5-10/day (local meals, street vendors).
Activities: $5-10/day (reduced guided tours, cultural visits).
Transportation: $5/day (local buses, shared rides).
Other Costs: $5/day (souvenirs, basic expenses).
Mid-Range Vacation ($40-90/day)
Accommodation: $15-40/night (mid-range hotels).
Food: $10-20/day (local restaurants).
Activities: $10-20/day (limited boat trips, guided cultural tours).
Transportation: $10/day (domestic travel, private cabs).
Other Costs: $10/day (souvenirs, shopping).
Luxury Vacation ($90+/day)
Accommodation: $40+/night (higher-end hotels or eco-lodges).
Food: $20+/day (fine dining options).
Activities: $20+/day (luxury excursions, private tours).
Transportation: $15+/day (private rentals, premium flights).
Other Costs: $15+/day (high-end purchases, premium experiences).
Best Regions to visit
Cities
1. Caracas
- The capital and largest city, known for its cultural attractions, vibrant nightlife, and proximity to the Avila National Park.
2. Mérida
- Famous for its beautiful Andean landscapes, outdoor activities, and the world’s highest and second-longest cable car.
3. Maracaibo
- The second-largest city, known for its colonial architecture, the picturesque Lake Maracaibo, and its distinct culture.
4. Canaima
- A gateway to the Canaima National Park, where you can explore Angel Falls, the world's highest waterfall.
5. Ciudad Bolívar
- A historic city on the Orinoco River, known for its colonial architecture and as a starting point for trips to the Gran Sabana and Angel Falls.
Caracas
Islands
1. Margarita Island
- The most famous and largest island in Venezuela, known for its beautiful beaches, luxury resorts, and vibrant nightlife. Popular spots include Playa El Agua and Playa Parguito.
2. Los Roques Archipelago
- A stunning national park made up of around 300 islands and cays. It’s famous for its crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and excellent opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and windsurfing.
3. Coche Island
- Located near Margarita Island, Coche is known for its calm beaches, clear waters, and excellent conditions for windsurfing and kitesurfing. Playa La Punta is one of the most popular beaches on the island.
4. Cubagua Island
- A small, tranquil island known for its rich history, including the ruins of Nueva Cádiz, one of the first Spanish settlements in the Americas. The island is also great for snorkeling and diving.
5. La Tortuga Island
- An uninhabited island known for its pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and excellent fishing and diving spots. It’s a perfect destination for those seeking seclusion and natural beauty.
Things to see
Natural Attractions
1. Angel Falls
- Witness the world's highest waterfall, dropping nearly 1,000 meters from the Auyán-tepui mountain, surrounded by the lush, remote jungles of Canaima National Park.
2. Canaima National Park
- Explore this vast UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its unique tepuis (tabletop mountains), waterfalls, and diverse ecosystems.
3. Los Roques Archipelago
- Enjoy pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and exceptional snorkeling and diving opportunities in this stunning archipelago.
4. Roraima Tepui
- Trek to the top of this iconic flat-topped mountain, one of the most famous tepuis, offering breathtaking landscapes and rare flora and fauna.
5. Médanos de Coro
- Experience the surreal landscape of massive sand dunes in this desert region, ideal for sandboarding and photography.
6. Mochima National Park
- Discover the picturesque coastline, islands, and coral reefs of this park, popular for boating, snorkeling, and beach relaxation.
7. Orinoco Delta
- Explore the extensive river delta, home to diverse wildlife, indigenous communities, and unique landscapes of wetlands and forests.
Cultural Attractions
1. Ciudad Bolívar
- Walk through the historic streets of this colonial city, which played a significant role in Venezuela's independence, with well-preserved architecture and museums.
2. Mount Avila National Park
- Take a cable car ride up El Ávila to enjoy panoramic views of Caracas and explore hiking trails through the lush forests.
3. Panteón Nacional
- Visit this national mausoleum in Caracas, where the remains of Simón Bolívar, the country’s liberator, and other national heroes are interred.
4. Los Llanos
- Experience the vast plains of Los Llanos, known for their cowboy culture, abundant wildlife, and traditional music like joropo.
5. Museum of Contemporary Art (Caracas)
- Explore one of Latin America’s most important art museums, housing works by Venezuelan and international artists, including a significant collection of modern art.
6. Basilica of Our Lady of Chiquinquirá
- Visit this important religious site in Maracaibo, dedicated to the Virgin Mary, and a major pilgrimage destination.
7. Colonia Tovar
- Discover this unique town founded by German settlers, known for its Alpine-style architecture, traditional German cuisine, and picturesque scenery.
8. Cultural Festivals
- Attend vibrant festivals such as Carnival, with its colorful parades and traditional music, or the Feria de la Chinita in Maracaibo, celebrating the region’s patron saint.
9. Caracas Cathedral
- Explore this historic cathedral, a key religious site with significant colonial-era architecture and connections to Venezuela's history.
10. Teleférico de Mérida
- Ride the world’s longest and highest cable car system, offering stunning views of the Andes Mountains and access to mountain activities.
How to get around
1. Domestic Flights
- Domestic flights are the fastest way to cover long distances within Venezuela. Conviasa and Estelar Airlines operate flights connecting major cities like Caracas, Maracaibo, Valencia, Margarita Island, and Canaima. This is especially useful for reaching remote areas and islands quickly.
2. Buses
- Long-distance buses are a popular and economical option for travel between cities and regions. Companies like Expresos Occidente, Turistar, and Cata provide services connecting cities such as Caracas, Maracaibo, Valencia, and Margarita Island. Buses are a good choice for reaching more rural areas.
3. Trains
- Trains are limited in Venezuela. The Terrestrial Train services, like the Caracas-Cúa line, are available but not extensive. For most long-distance travel, buses and flights are more commonly used.
4. Car Rentals
- Renting a car provides flexibility to explore Venezuela at your own pace. It’s ideal for road trips to destinations such as Margarita Island, Los Roques, and The Andes. Ensure you have a valid international driver’s license and be prepared for varying road conditions.
5. Taxis and Ride-Sharing
- Taxis are available in major cities like Caracas, Maracaibo, and Valencia. They can be hailed on the street or booked via phone. Ride-sharing services such as Uber operate in Caracas and provide a convenient alternative to traditional taxis.
6. Motorcycle Taxis
- Motorcycle taxis are common in some areas, especially in smaller towns. They are a flexible and relatively affordable option for short distances. Ensure safety by using reputable operators and wearing helmets.
7. Boats and Ferries
- Boats and ferries are used to travel to islands and coastal regions. For example, ferries operate between the mainland and Margarita Island or Los Roques Archipelago. Boats are also used for excursions and tours in the Orinoco River and Canaima National Park.
8. Walking
- Walking is ideal for exploring city centers and local attractions. In cities like Caracas, Valencia, and Margarita Island, many landmarks, markets, and cultural sites are within walking distance.
For the best experience, use domestic flights for long distances, buses for budget-friendly and extensive coverage, and car rentals for flexibility and exploration. Taxis and ride-sharing services are convenient for local trips, while motorcycle taxis offer flexibility for shorter distances. Boats and ferries are useful for reaching islands and coastal areas, and walking is great for urban exploration.
What to eat
1. Arepas
- Cornmeal patties filled with various ingredients like cheese, meat, and avocado.
2. Pabellón Criollo
- A traditional dish made with shredded beef, black beans, rice, and fried plantains.
3. Tequeños
- Cheese sticks wrapped in dough and fried, often enjoyed as snacks.
4. Hallacas
- A festive dish made with corn dough filled with meat and vegetables, wrapped in plantain leaves.
5. Dulce de Lechosa
- A sweet dessert made from green papaya and syrup, enjoyed as a treat.
Arepas
Flights
Flight prices are approximate and vary by departure city, airline, and booking time. Check airlines or travel platforms for the latest details.
Main Airport: Simón Bolívar International Airport (CCS)
Flight Prices and Seasons:
From Europe
- Average Round-Trip Cost: €500 to €1,000.
- Cheapest Months: April to October.
- Peak Prices: December holidays and summer months (June to August).
From North America
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $400 to $800.
- Cheapest Months: April to October.
- Peak Prices: December holidays and summer months (June to August).
From Asia
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $600 to $1,200.
- Cheapest Months: April to October.
- Peak Prices: December holidays and summer months (June to August).
From Australia
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $1,100 to $1,800.
- Cheapest Months: April to October.
- Peak Prices: December holidays and summer months (June to August).
From Africa
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $700 to $1,500.
- Cheapest Months: April to October.
- Peak Prices: December holidays and summer months (June to August).
Visa
1. Visa Requirement
- Citizens of the U.S., Canada, the U.K., Australia, and many other countries need a visa to enter Venezuela.
2. Visa Application
- Travelers must apply for a Venezuelan visa at a Venezuelan embassy or consulate before traveling.
3. Types of Visa
- Common visa types include a Tourist Visa: Typically valid for tourism, allowing stays of up to 90 days.
4. Processing Time
- Visa processing can take several days to a few weeks, so it’s advisable to apply well in advance.
5. Duration of Stay
- Tourist visas generally allow for stays of up to 90 days, with possible extensions in some cases.
6. Health Requirements
- Vaccinations, especially for yellow fever, may be recommended depending on travel history.
7. COVID-19 Regulations
- Check for any current COVID-19 entry requirements before traveling, as regulations may change.
8. Safety Considerations
- Travelers should stay informed about the current political and security situation in Venezuela.
Important things to know
1. Payments
- The local currency is the Venezuelan Bolívar (VES). Credit cards are accepted in urban areas.
2. Tap Water
- Tap water is generally not safe to drink. Bottled water is recommended.
3. Electricity
- The voltage is 120V, and plug types A and B (flat pins) are used.
4. Tipping in Restaurants
- Tipping is appreciated, usually around 10%.
5. SIM Cards
- Local SIM cards are available from providers like Movilnet.
6. Driving Side
- In Venezuela, people drive on the right side of the road.