Things to Do in Venezuela in September
September weather, activities, events & insider tips
September Weather in Venezuela
Is September Right for You?
Advantages
- September sits right at the tail end of Venezuela's wet season, which means you'll catch the country's waterfalls at their absolute most spectacular - Angel Falls actually has enough water flow to be properly dramatic, unlike the disappointing trickle you might see in dry season. The jungle is impossibly green and alive.
- Tourist numbers drop significantly in September compared to the December-April peak, meaning you'll have places like Los Roques and Morrocoy largely to yourself. Hotels in Merida and the Andes typically run 30-40% cheaper than high season, and you won't be fighting crowds at Roraima's campsites.
- The Caribbean coast gets intermittent rain but it's mostly quick afternoon showers, not all-day washouts. Water visibility for diving and snorkeling around Los Roques is actually excellent - typically 20-30 m (65-100 ft) - because the rain hasn't stirred up sediment yet and the water temperature sits at a comfortable 27-28°C (81-82°F).
- September marks the beginning of several regional harvest festivals, particularly in the Andean states. You'll find fresher produce in markets, better coffee at origin prices in Merida, and locals are generally more relaxed and social than during the stressed-out high season tourist rush.
Considerations
- The currency situation in Venezuela remains genuinely complicated in 2026. While things have stabilized somewhat, you'll still need to navigate multiple exchange rates, cash requirements, and payment systems that change frequently. Budget at least 2-3 hours of research on current payment methods before you arrive, and expect some frustration.
- September weather is unpredictable in a way that can mess with tight itineraries. That flight to Canaima might get delayed by storms, the road to Merida could have landslide delays after heavy rain, and boat departures to Los Roques sometimes get pushed back a day. Build buffer days into any schedule that involves domestic flights or boat transfers.
- Infrastructure challenges persist across Venezuela - power outages happen, internet is spotty outside major cities, and ATMs frequently run out of cash. September's rains can exacerbate road conditions, particularly in Gran Sabana where the unpaved stretches become legitimately difficult. You need to be a flexible, patient traveler who can handle inconvenience without it ruining your trip.
Best Activities in September
Angel Falls and Canaima Lagoon Tours
September is actually one of the best months to visit Angel Falls because the Churun River has strong flow from recent rains, making the falls properly impressive rather than the sad trickle you get in dry months. The 4-6 hour boat journey up the river is still possible but more dramatic with higher water levels. The downside is flights to Canaima can be weather-dependent, so you need flexibility in your schedule. The red-tinted lagoons around Canaima are stunning this time of year with full water levels.
Los Roques Archipelago Beach and Snorkeling
The 350+ islands of Los Roques are genuinely spectacular in September because tourist numbers drop but the weather is still mostly cooperative. You'll get occasional rain showers, but they're usually brief afternoon events. Water visibility for snorkeling is excellent at 20-30 m (65-100 ft), and the coral reefs around Crasqui and Madrisqui islands have recovered nicely in recent years. Sea turtles are active this time of year. The white sand beaches feel almost private compared to the crowded high season.
Merida Andes Mountain Activities
The Andes around Merida are beautifully green in September with wildflowers still blooming at higher elevations. The teleferico cable car to Pico Espejo at 4,765 m (15,633 ft) operates weather permitting, giving you views across five different climate zones. September is actually decent for this because while you'll get some cloudy days, the afternoon fog tends to clear earlier than in peak wet season. Paragliding conditions are variable but possible. The mountain villages like Los Nevados and Jaji are accessible and less touristy than high season.
Morrocoy National Park Island Hopping
Morrocoy's collection of small islands and cays offers some of Venezuela's most accessible Caribbean beach experiences. September means fewer crowds at popular spots like Cayo Sombrero and Cayo Peraza, and the water is warm at 28°C (82°F). You'll likely get some afternoon clouds or brief showers, but mornings are typically clear and perfect for snorkeling among the coral gardens. The mangrove channels are full and beautiful for kayaking. Pelicans and frigatebirds are everywhere.
Caracas Cultural and Culinary Experiences
Caracas gets unfairly dismissed by many travelers, but September is actually a good time to spend 2-3 days exploring the capital's surprisingly good food scene, contemporary art galleries, and mountain backdrop. The weather is warm but manageable, with afternoon showers that locals just wait out in cafes. The teleferico up Avila mountain offers incredible city views on clear mornings. Neighborhoods like Las Mercedes and Altamira have excellent restaurants serving modern Venezuelan cuisine, and the street food scene around Sabana Grande is legitimately great.
Gran Sabana and Roraima Trek Preparation
While the full 6-day trek to the summit of Mount Roraima requires serious planning, September is actually the transition period where conditions start improving after the wettest months. The tepui landscapes of Gran Sabana are dramatically beautiful with dozens of waterfalls at full flow. The drive along the highway to the Brazilian border passes stunning scenery. If you're considering the Roraima trek, late September is when some operators start running trips again, though you'll face muddy conditions and need to be properly equipped for wet camping at 2,000+ m (6,500+ ft) elevation.
September Events & Festivals
Virgen del Valle Festival
This is the most important religious celebration in eastern Venezuela, centered on Margarita Island. Thousands of pilgrims travel to the Valle del Espiritu Santo basilica to honor the patron saint of fishermen and sailors. You'll see processions, traditional music, and the island takes on a genuinely festive atmosphere. Even if you're not religious, it's a fascinating cultural experience and the energy is remarkable.
Feria del Sol Preparations in Merida
While the actual Feria del Sol happens in February, September is when Merida starts gearing up with preliminary cultural events, music performances in the plazas, and the city takes on a more festive mood. You'll find better traditional music performances in venues around the city, and locals are generally more social and welcoming as they prepare for their biggest annual celebration.