Mérida

Entry requirements depend on your passport. Check your specific requirements on the Venezuela page at Yoogo.

Venezuela uses the Venezuelan bolivar soberano (VES). The currency has experienced severe hyperinflation; the US dollar is widely used in practice and is the most practical currency for visitors. Card acceptance is inconsistent. Bring US dollars in cash and exchange through authorised channels.

Venezuela faces significant security challenges, including high rates of violent crime, kidnapping, and political instability. Most governments advise against all but essential travel to many areas. Caracas has one of the highest murder rates in the world. If you do travel, exercise extreme caution, avoid displaying valuables, use private transport, and stay in well-secured accommodation. Check your government's travel advisory carefully.

Domestic flights connect major cities and can be more reliable than road travel in some areas. Road conditions vary greatly, and long-distance road travel at night is not recommended. For natural attractions such as Angel Falls and the Gran Sabana, organised tours with reputable operators are strongly advised.

December to April is the dry season and the best time for visiting the Gran Sabana, tepuis, and the Orinoco Delta. Angel Falls is most impressive during the rainy season (May to November) when water flow peaks. Beach destinations on the Caribbean coast are pleasant year-round.

Spanish is the official language and is spoken throughout the country. Numerous indigenous languages are spoken by communities in remote regions. English is limited outside some tourist contexts and among some business communities.

Yellow fever vaccination is recommended for most travellers visiting Venezuela, and is required if arriving from a yellow fever endemic country. Malaria is present in some regions, particularly near the Orinoco and in the south-east; consult a travel health clinic for advice. Hepatitis A, typhoid, and routine vaccinations are recommended. Medical facilities outside Caracas are very limited.

Tipping is customary in Venezuela. In restaurants, 10% is standard where a service charge is not included. Hotel staff, tour guides, and taxi drivers typically appreciate tips. Given the economic situation, tips in US dollars are particularly valued.

Mobile networks operate across urban areas and major towns via CANTV and Movistar. Service quality can be inconsistent, and internet speeds are often slow due to infrastructure issues. Wi-Fi is available at some hotels. Connectivity in remote areas such as the Gran Sabana is very limited.