PROBYTRAVEL
Venezuela

Things to Do in Venezuela

From Caribbean shores to ancient tepui highlands.

  • CapitalCaracas
  • CurrencyVenezuelan Bolívar (VES)
  • LanguageSpanish
  • Time zoneUTC-4
  • Emergency911

Why visit Venezuela?

Venezuela offers an extraordinary geographical diversity, stretching from the white-sand beaches of the Caribbean coastline to the ancient, flat-topped table mountains (tepuis) of the Guiana Highlands. Travelers seeking raw natural wonders will find the world's highest uninterrupted waterfall, Angel Falls (Kerepakupai Merú), plunging deep within Canaima National Park, alongside the wildlife-rich savannas of Los Llanos and the high peaks of the Sierra Nevada de Mérida.

Navigating Venezuela requires careful planning, up-to-date local intelligence, and realistic expectations regarding infrastructure. While the country has faced well-documented economic and political challenges, seasoned travelers can access its remarkable wilderness areas safely by booking comprehensive, pre-arranged tours through reputable local agencies. These structured expeditions bypass domestic logistics hurdles and provide private transport, domestic charter flights, and experienced guides.

Visiting Venezuela is primarily an expedition-focused endeavor. Cash is king here, with US dollars widely accepted alongside the local bolívar, and digital payment methods are often restricted for foreigners. Whether you are flying into Caracas, taking a boat through the Orinoco Delta, or hiking the ancient landscapes of Mount Roraima, preparation is key to unlocking one of South America's most dramatic and least-crowded destinations.

Angel Falls (Canaima National Park)

The world's highest uninterrupted waterfall drops 979 meters from the Auyán-tepui. Accessible primarily by riverboat and small charter flights from Ciudad Bolívar or Puerto Ordaz during the wet season.

Mount Roraima

A massive, flat-topped sandstone tepui marking the border tripoint of Venezuela, Brazil, and Guyana. Treks take 6 to 8 days, starting from the indigenous Pemon village of Paraitepuy.

Los Roques Archipelago

A protected national park consisting of over 350 islands, cays, and islets in the Caribbean Sea. Renowned for its coral reefs, bonefishing, and windsurfing, accessible via short flights from Caracas.

Los Llanos

Vast tropical grasslands shared with Colombia that act as a haven for wildlife viewing. Visitors can spot anacondas, capybaras, caimans, and over 300 bird species, particularly during the dry season.

The Orinoco Delta

A labyrinth of waterways and mangrove swamps where the Orinoco River meets the Atlantic. Eco-lodges offer guided canoe excursions and opportunities to meet the indigenous Warao people.

Choroni and Henri Pittier National Park

Venezuela's oldest national park protects cloud forests hosting over 500 bird species, transitioning down to the colonial beach town of Choroní on the Caribbean coast.

Popular regions

The Andes

The Andes

Home to Mérida and Venezuela's highest peaks, offering trekking, high-altitude paragliding, and historic mountain villages.

The Caribbean Coast & Islands

The Caribbean Coast & Islands

Stretching from Falcon state to Sucre, including Morrocoy National Park, Los Roques, and Margarita Island, featuring white-sand beaches and colonial ports.

The Guayana Highlands

The Guayana Highlands

Covering the south and east of the Orinoco, this ancient geological shield contains Canaima, Gran Sabana, and Mount Roraima.

Los Llanos

Los Llanos

The central plains where cattle ranching culture and massive wildlife populations dominate the seasonal wetlands.

When to visit Venezuela

Based on average conditions in Venezuela.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Temperature26°27°28°28°28°27°27°27°28°28°27°26°
Rain3d2d3d6d12d16d16d15d14d13d11d6d
CrowdsMedMedMedLowLowLowLowLowLowLowMedHigh
  • Cold
  • Comfortable / dry / low crowds
  • Cool–hot / typical / moderate
  • Very hot / wetter / high crowds

Plan your trip to Venezuela

7-Day Highlight

Canaima & Caracas

Spend 2 days in Caracas utilizing private guides, followed by a 5-day fly-in excursion to Canaima National Park to see Angel Falls by riverboat.

10-Day Nature & Beach

Canaima & Los Roques

Combine the dramatic jungle waterfalls of Canaima (5 days) with a relaxing beach and snorkeling trip to the pristine Los Roques archipelago (5 days).

14-Day Adventure

Gran Sabana & Orinoco

An overland expedition through the Gran Sabana, hiking the foothills of the tepuis, followed by a 3-day boat tour deep into the Orinoco Delta.

Recommended Pace

Slow and guided

Because of frequent flight delays, fuel shortages, and unexpected checkpoints, always build buffer days into your itinerary when transitioning between regions.

Getting around Venezuela

Domestic Charter Flights

The safest and most practical way to reach remote destinations like Canaima or Los Roques. These are typically booked directly through specialized travel agencies.

Private Transfers

Highly recommended for city-to-airport transfers and inter-city travel. Reputable agencies provide air-conditioned SUVs with drivers who understand local road conditions and checkpoint protocols.

Long-Distance Buses

An economical but slow option. They are subject to frequent military checkpoint delays and varying safety standards; we advise avoiding overnight bus journeys.

Costs, food & practical info

Costs

  • Budget

    $40 - $70 USD per day

    For independent travelers using public buses where safe, staying in basic posadas, and eating local street food like arepas.

  • Mid-range

    $120 - $250 USD per day

    Includes regional flights, mid-tier posadas with breakfast, and booking individual local excursions.

  • Luxury

    $400+ USD per day

    All-inclusive private expeditions to Canaima or Los Roques, chartered flights, luxury eco-lodges, and private security transfers.

Venezuela is not a cheap destination for independent travelers due to infrastructure bottlenecks. Prices for domestic flights, private guides, and park entries are often quoted in USD and must be paid in cash.

Food & drinks

  • Arepas (with shredded beef or cheese)$2 - $4 USD
  • Pabellón Criollo (traditional lunch plate)$6 - $10 USD
  • Tequeños (portion of 5-6 cheese pastries)$3 - $5 USD
  • Fresh fish lunch on the coast (Los Roques/Choroni)$12 - $20 USD
  • Local Polar beer or fresh fruit juice$1.50 - $3 USD

Practical

  • Currency & Cash

    Carry crisp, undamaged US dollar bills in small denominations ($1, $5, $10, $20). Change is rarely available, and torn or marked bills are routinely rejected.

  • Safety and Security

    Avoid walking alone at night in major cities, particularly Caracas. Stick to registered private taxis or pre-arranged transfers, and do not display valuable items or electronics in public.

  • Entry Requirements

    Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months. Many nationalities, including US citizens, require a visa pre-approved at a Venezuelan consulate before arrival.

  • Health & Vaccines

    A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is required to enter Canaima National Park and other southern regions. Bring all personal prescription medications with you, as local pharmacies face supply shortages.

Insight in one click

Frequently asked questions about visiting Venezuela

Is it safe to travel to Venezuela? +

Travel is possible but requires high caution. We recommend booking all-inclusive packages with reputable local tour operators who provide private security, pre-arranged transport, and up-to-date regional advice.

What is the best time of year to see Angel Falls? +

The rainy season from June to November is best. During these months, the river levels are high enough to allow the dugout canoes (curiaras) to navigate upriver to the base of the falls.

Can I use my credit card in Venezuela? +

Credit and debit cards are rarely accepted for international travelers due to sanctions and currency controls. You must bring sufficient cash in clean, low-denomination US dollars.

Do I need a visa to visit Venezuela? +

Yes, many nationalities, including US, Canadian, and European Union citizens, require a tourist visa. Check with your nearest Venezuelan embassy or consulate well in advance.

How do I get to Los Roques? +

Los Roques is reached via a 40-minute flight from Maiquetía Airport (serving Caracas) on small regional turboprop aircraft. These flights must be booked in advance.

What should I pack for a tepui trek like Mount Roraima? +

Pack sturdy, broken-in hiking boots, waterproof gear, warm layers for cold mountain nights, heavy-duty insect repellent for puri-puri flies, and dry bags for your electronics.