Travel Facts
US State Dept Travel Advisory
The US Department of State currently recommends US citizens DO NOT TRAVEL to Venezuela due to crime, civil unrest, kidnapping, and the arbitrary enforcement of local laws. Reconsider travel due to wrongful detentions, terrorism, and poor health infrastructure. Consult its website via the link below for updates to travel advisories and statements on safety, security, local laws, and special circumstances in this country.
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories.html
Passport/Visa Requirements
US citizens should make sure their passport will not expire for at least 6 months after they enter the country even if they do not intend to stay that long. They should also make sure they have at least 1 blank page in their passport for any entry stamp and or visa that will be required. A visa is required. US citizens will need to get in touch with the country’s embassy or nearest consulate to obtain a visa prior to visiting the country. If you are a dual citizen you must have a valid Venezuelan passport in your possession.
US Embassy/Consulate
Note - on 11 March 2019, the Department of State announced the temporary suspension of operations of the US Embassy in Caracas and the withdrawal of diplomatic personnel; all consular services, routine and emergency, are suspended; previously - +58 (212) 975–6411; US Embassy in Caracas; F St. and Suapure St., Urb . Colinas de Valle Arriba, Caracas, Venezuela 1080; ACSBogota@state.gov; https://ve.usembassy.gov/
LGBTQIA+ Travelers
Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and asexual (LGBTQIA+) travelers can face unique challenges when traveling abroad. Laws and attitudes in some countries may affect safety and ease of travel. Legal protections vary from country to country. Many countries do not legally recognize same-sex marriage. Approximately seventy countries consider consensual same-sex sexual relations a crime, sometimes carrying severe punishment.
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/before-you-go/travelers-with-special-considerations/lgbtqi.html
Telephone Code
58
Local Emergency Phone
171
Vaccinations
An International Certificate of Vaccination for yellow fever is required for travelers arriving from countries with a risk of yellow fever transmission and for travelers having transited through the airport of a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. See WHO recommendations.
http://www.who.int/
Climate
Tropical; hot, humid; more moderate in highlands
Currency (Code)
Bolivars (VEB)
Electricity/Voltage/Plug Type(s)
120 V / 60 Hz / plug types(s): A, B
Major Languages
Spanish, numerous indigenous dialects
Major Religions
Nominally Roman Catholic 96%, Protestant 2%, other 2%
Time Difference
UTC-4 (1 hour ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
Potable Water
Opt for bottled water
International Driving Permit
Suggested; additionally, if you plan to drive in Venezuela, you will need an Inter-American Driving Permit issued by the AAA
Road Driving Side
Right
Tourist Destinations
Los Roques Archipelago; Isla de Margarita; Morrocoy National Park; Canaima National Park (includes Angel Falls, Mount Roraima, Gran Sabana)
Major Sports
Baseball, basketball, soccer
Cultural Practices
Offering coffee is a sign of hospitality in Venezuela, so declining a cup from a host may be seen as rude.
Tipping Guidelines
Most restaurants already add a 10% service charge, but an additional 5-10% tip is still expected. Bellhops expect the equivalent of $1 (USD) per piece of luggage. Taxis do not expect a tip, but do appreciate rounding up the bill.
Souvenirs
Handwoven baskets, blankets, and hammocks; papier mâché devil masks; musical instruments; jewelry; liquor
Traditional Cuisine
Pabellón criollo — black beans, white rice, and slices of steak cooked with tomatoes; often served with fried plantains and arepas (cornbread) and white cheese
Please visit the following links to find further information about your desired destination.
World Health Organization (WHO) - To learn what vaccines and health precautions to take while visiting your destination.
US State Dept Travel Information - Overall information about foreign travel for US citizens.
To obtain an international driving permit (IDP). Only two organizations in the US issue IDPs:
American Automobile Association (AAA) and American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA)
How to get help in an emergency?
Contact the nearest US embassy or consulate, or call one of these numbers:
from the US or Canada - 1-888-407-4747 or from Overseas - +1 202-501-4444
Page last updated: Tuesday, July 18, 2023
