Despite severe political and economic challenges, Venezuela retains Angel Falls (the world's highest waterfall), the Caribbean's best diving at Los Roques, and the extraordinary biodiversity of the Amazon basin.
- Capital
- Caracas
- Population
- 28,517,000
- Area
- 912,050 km²
- Languages
- Spanish
- Currency
- VES Bs
- GDP
- $108,511M
Good to know
Driving side
Right
National dish
Pabellón criollo
Annual visitors
429,000 (2017)
Safety
Elevated (12.65/100k)
Big Mac
$4.04
Avg temp
25.7°C
Religion
Christianity
Coast
Coastal
☎ Police 171 · Ambulance 171 · Fire 171
Travel guide
Venezuela is replete with stunning natural wonders and sights such as countless national parks, magnificent waterfalls, and three UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The world's tallest waterfall, the Angel Falls (Kerepakupai Vená), is found here. Venezuela used to be one of South America's most politically and economically stable countries, but since the 1980s, it has been in the news for all the wrong reasons and is unsafe to travel to. A long, winding history of gross economic mismanagement and ineffective governance has completely battered the country and the country has been experiencing its worst ever humanitarian crisis since the mid-20th century. Venezuelans are known for their tolerance, hospitality, and zest for life and you can expect a warm welcome from them.
© Wikivoyage (CC BY-SA)
Explore Venezuela
Best time to visit
December–April is the dry season — best for Angel Falls approach and Los Roques. May–November is rainy. Current conditions require careful research and planning before any visit.
Visa
Visa requirements vary widely by nationality. Check with a Venezuelan consulate well in advance. Travel advisories from most Western governments are at high level — independent travel carries significant risks.
Highlights
Angel Falls is one the most popular tourist attractions in Venezuela as it is the highest uninterrupted waterfalls in the world. It is 978 meters (3,208 feet) tall, and drops off the side of Auyantepui Mountain in Canaima National Park in Bolivar State. Located on the Gauja River, the falls were originally known as Kerepakupai Vená, or “fall from the highest point” by the local natives.
Public holidays
UNESCO World Heritage Sites (3)
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