Things to Do in Venezuela

About Venezuela

Venezuela unfolds like a continent in miniature, where the thunderous roar of Angel Falls—the world's highest waterfall—echoes across ancient tepuis that pierce cloud-draped skies. This land of superlatives captivates with its raw, untamed beauty: emerald rainforests harbor jaguars and exotic birds, while the Orinoco Delta weaves serpentine channels through pristine wilderness. Caribbean beaches stretch endlessly along coral-kissed shores, their white sands meeting turquoise waters that rival any tropical paradise. In the Andes, snow-capped peaks overlook colonial cities where salsa rhythms spill from weathered doorways, and the aroma of arepas mingles with strong coffee in bustling plazas. The Llanos grasslands stretch to infinity, where cowboys tend cattle beneath star-filled skies that seem close enough to touch. Venezuela's soul beats strongest in its people—warm, resilient, and generous—who transform every encounter into an invitation to experience their profound love for this extraordinary homeland.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Use domestic flights for long distances due to fuel shortages affecting bus schedules. Book with Avior or Conviasa airlines in advance. For ground transport, negotiate taxi fares beforehand and consider hiring private drivers through hotels for safety and reliability.

Money: Bring US dollars in small denominations and exchange at official rates through banks or authorized casa de cambio. Avoid black market exchanges. Credit cards work sporadically; cash is essential. Budget $50-80 daily for mid-range travel including meals and transport.

Cultural Respect: Greet with handshakes or cheek kisses among friends. Dress conservatively when visiting churches. Venezuelans are warm but appreciate formal address initially. Avoid political discussions and be patient with service delays—relationship-building takes precedence over efficiency.

Food Safety: Stick to bottled water and well-cooked meals at reputable restaurants. Try local specialties like arepas, pabellón criollo, and fresh fruit juices. Avoid street food initially until acclimatized. Popular chains like Arturo's Parrilla offer reliable, delicious Venezuelan cuisine.

When to Visit

Venezuela's optimal visiting window spans December through April during the dry season, when temperatures average 75-85°F (24-29°C) with minimal rainfall (1-2 inches monthly). This peak season brings 30-40% higher accommodation prices but guarantees access to remote destinations like Angel Falls and Roraima tepuis. The wet season (May-November) sees heavy rainfall (6-12 inches monthly) with temperatures reaching 90°F (32°C), making some areas inaccessible but offering 40-50% savings on lodging and stunning waterfalls at full flow. December-January coincides with Christmas festivities and Año Nuevo celebrations, while February brings vibrant Carnival celebrations in cities like Barquisimeto and Maracaibo. March-April offers the perfect balance of good weather and moderate pricing (20% above low season). Adventure travelers should visit September-November when waterfalls peak magnificently despite challenging conditions. Beach enthusiasts will find December-March ideal for Caribbean coast visits with calm seas and cooling trade winds. The shoulder months of November and May provide excellent value with improving/declining weather respectively, perfect for budget-conscious travelers willing to accept occasional rain showers for authentic experiences and significant savings.