Accommodation
Hotels
There are many excellent hotels in Caracas. Numerous smaller hotels are open throughout the country but it is essential to make reservations at both these and the larger international hotels well in advance. It normally follows that the more expensive the hotel, the better the facilities. Hotels do not add a service charge, and generally there is no variation in seasonal rates. Hotels outside the capital tend to be cheaper and the standard may not be as high. Hotels in Venezuela have been graded 3-star to 5-star.
Youth hostels
There are a number of youth hostels in Venezuela.
Camping/Caravanning
Camping in Venezuela can involve spending a weekend at the beach, on the islands, in the Llanos or in the mountains. Camping can also be arranged with companies who run jungle expeditions. As in much of South America, however, good facilities are not widespread and camping is not used by travellers as a substitute for hotels on the main highways. No special campsites are yet provided for this purpose.
Accommodation Information
Hostelling International Avenida Lecuna Partque Central, Edificio Tajamar, Nivel OFC 1, Oficina 107, Caracas, Venezuela Tel: (212) 576 4493.E-mail: hostellingven@cantv.net Idiomas Vivos s.r.l. (Information on Youth Hostels)Residencia La Hacienda, Local 1-4T, Final Avenida ppal. de las Mercedes, Apartado 80160, Caracas 1080, Venezuela. Tel: (212) 993 6082.Website: www.ividiomas.com
Business
•
GDP: US$118 billion (2005).•
Main imports: Machinery and transport equipment, manufactured goods and construction materials.•
Main exports: Petroleum, aluminium, steel, chemical products, iron ore, cigarettes, plastics, fish and cement and paper products.•
Main trade partners: Brazil, Colombia, Cuba, Japan and USA.
Economy
Venezuela was a primarily agricultural country until the discovery and extraction of oil began in the 1920s. Oil is now dominant, providing 50 per cent of government revenue and 70 per cent of export earnings. The national oil corporation, PDVSA, is one of the world’s largest companies. Venezuela has some of the largest known reserves in the world. There are long-term plans to introduce greater diversity into the economy but little change in its basic structure may be expected in the near future. Agriculture’s share of the workforce has now fallen to 4 per cent of GDP, but the sector remains important by providing a non-oil export income in the form of its dairy and beef produce. Some cash crops – mostly rice, sugar and coffee – are grown. Most of the other farming activity is devoted to staple crops for domestic consumption. As well as oil, Venezuela has substantial deposits of iron and aluminium ores, plus gas, coal, diamonds, gold, zinc, copper, titanium, lead, silver, phosphates and manganese. The processing of these ores and the country’s agricultural products account for the bulk of the industrial sector. However, over-dependence on oil income has meant that Venezuela’s industries are suffering from a historic failure to modernise. Venezuela was a prominent founding member of the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and the current President, Hugo Chávez, has played a leading role in the revival of the organisation’s fortunes since the late 1990s. Since the beginning of 2002, Venezuela’s recent economic performance has been severely affected by the turbulent political situation. After the currency crisis of February 2002 came an attempted coup. Then in December large parts of the economy – including the all-important oil industry – were affected by a two-month-long strike. This had a devastating impact: the economy is believed to have contracted by around 10 per cent during 2003. In 2004, the decline was reversed with a growth rate of 17.4 per cent. Venezuela belongs to the Asociación Latinoamericana de Integración (ALADI), which seeks to promote a common market for Latin America, and to the Inter-American Development Bank.
Business Etiquette
English is becoming more widely spoken in business circles, particularly at executive level. Nevertheless, Spanish is essential for most business discussions. Appointments are necessary and a business visitor should be punctual. It is common to exchange visiting cards. Office hours: Mon-Fri 0800-1800 with a long midday break.
Conferences/Conventions
Larger hotels have facilities. For further information, contact the INATUR (see Top Things To Do).
Commercial Information
Consejo Nacional de Promoción de Invensiones, CONAPRI (National Council for Investment Promotion) Edificio Forum, Local LC-A (planta baja), Calle Guaicaipuro, El Rosal, Caracas 1060, Venezuela Tel: (212) 951 6507.Website: www.conapri.orgFederación Venezolana de Cámaras y Asociaciones de Comercio y Producción, FEDECAMARAS (Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry)Apartado 2568, Edificio Fedecámaras, Pent-House 2, Avenida El Empalme, El Bosque, Caracas, VenezuelaTel: (212) 731 1711.Website: www.fedecamaras.org.ve
Climate
Climate
The climate varies according to altitude. Lowland areas have a tropical climate. The dry season is from December to April and the rainy season from May to December. During the rainy season, there is the possibility of flooding in certain low-lying areas, such as the Llanos and in some valley of the Andes. Various parts of Venezuela, including Caracas and the eastern part of Sucre, are vulnerable to earthquakes, although there have been no serious earthquakes for many years. The best time to visit is between January and April.
Communications
Telephone
IDD is available. Country code: 58.
Mobile telephone
Roaming agreements exist with some international mobile phone companies. Coverage is limited to around Caracas and major cities.
Internet
There are Internet cafes in most urban areas.
Post
There is an efficient mail service from Venezuela to the USA and Europe. Airmail to Europe takes three to seven days. Internal mail can sometimes take longer. Surface mail to Europe takes at least one month.
MEDIA
President Chávez's attitudes towards the media have attracted criticism from external watchdogs. A 2005 media law banned the inappropriate airing of scenes of sex and violence, as well as material deemed harmful to national security. Opponents of the bill claimed it was an attempt to silence media criticism. Both private and state-owned broadcasters operate in the country. President Chávez has his own weekly TV and radio programme. Press: The English-language daily newspaper is The Daily Journal, published in Caracas. Spanish-language dailies include El Nacional (website: www.el-nacional.com), El Mundo (website: www.elmundo.com.ve), El Universal (website: www.eluniversal.com) and Ultimas Noticias (website: www.ultimasnoticias.com.ve). TV: Venezolana de Television is Government-run. Other channels include Caracas-based Radio Caracas Television (RCTV), private networks Televen and Venevision and 24-hour news channel Globovision. Telesur is a pan-American broadcaster based in Caracas.Radio: Radio Nacional de Venezuela is a state broadcaster with 15 stations. Union Radio Noticias is a commercial news network.
Duty Free
The following items may be imported into Venezuela without incurring customs duty:200 cigarettes and 25 cigars; 2l of alcoholic beverages; four small bottles of perfume; new goods up to a value of US$1000.
Prohibited Items
Flowers, fruit, meat and meat products, live plants and birds or bird products or bird by-products from Chile.
Entertainment
Food & Drink
Cumin and saffron are used in many dishes but the distinctive and delicate flavour of most of the popular dishes comes from the use of local roots and vegetables. There is no good local wine, although foreign wines are bottled locally. There are several good local beers, mineral waters, gin and excellent rum. National specialities: •
Arepas (the native bread made from primitive ground corn, water and salt).•
Pabellón criollo (hash made with shredded meat and served with fried plantains and black beans on rice). •
Hallaca (cornmeal is combined with beef, pork, ham and green peppers, wrapped in individual pieces of banana leaves and cooked in boiling water, traditionally eaten at Christmas and New Year).• Parrilla criolla is beef marinated and cooked over a charcoal grill. •
Hervido (soup made with chunks of beef, chicken or fish and native vegetables or roots). National drinks:•
Coffee. •
Merengada (fruit pulp, ice, milk and sugar). •
Pousse-café is an after-dinner liqueur. Things to know: Bars have either table or counter service. A lisa is a glass of draught beer and a tercio a bottled beer. Most bars are open very late and there are no licensing laws. Table service is the norm and opening hours are 2100-2300. Tipping: Tips are discretionary but in the majority of bars and restaurants, 10 per cent is added to the bill and it is customary to leave another 10 per cent on the table. Bellboys and chambermaids should be tipped and, in Caracas, tips are higher than elsewhere.
Nightlife
There are many nightclubs and discos in the major cities of Venezuela. The National and Municipal Theatres offer a variety of concerts, ballet, plays, operas and operettas. There are other theatres - some of which are open-air - in Caracas, as well as several cinemas.
Shopping
There are many handicrafts unique to Venezuela that are made by local Indian tribes. Good purchases are gems and jewellery, cacique coins, gold, pearls, pompom slippers, seed necklaces, shoes and handbags, Indian bows, arrows, mats, pipes and baskets, alpargatas (traditional local footwear of the Campesinos), chinchorros (local hammocks) and many other Indian goods. Shopping hours: Mon-Sat 0900-1300 and 1500-1900.
General Information
Area
916,445 sq km (353,841 sq miles).
Population
26.6 million (UN, 2005).
Population Density
29.02 per sq km.
Capital
Caracas. Population: 3.6 million (metropolitan area, 2004).
Geography
Venezuela is bordered to the north by the Caribbean, to the east by Guyana and the Atlantic Ocean, to the south by Brazil, and to the west and southwest by Colombia. The country consists of four distinctive regions: the Venezuelan Highlands in the west; the Maracaibo Lowlands in the north; the vast central plain of the Llanos around the Orinoco; and the Guiana Highlands, which take up about half of the country.
Government
Republic. Gained independence from Spain in 1830. Head of State and Government: President Hugo Chávez Frías since 1998. Recent history: Venezuelans either love or loathe Hugo Chávez. In August 2004, the opposition gathered enough names for a petition demanding a referendum on Chávez's rule. Chávez won the ballot, with 59 per cent of people agreeing that he should serve out his remaining two-and-a-half years of term. The opposition is driven exclusively by its dislike of Chávez: with his removal, the alliance of business, unions, the old political parties and assorted interest groups will fragment. However, for now, Chávez's future is secured. In the 2005 Parliamentary elections, Chávez's party won 114 seats in the 167-seat National Assembly. Voter turnout was low and the main opposition parties boycotted the elections, protesting against what they perceived to be a biased electoral board. However, despite the opposition's doubts regarding the election's legitimacy, a two-thirds majority in Parliament now paves the way for Chavez to alter the constitution, which currently limits a President to two terms in office.
Language
Spanish is the official language. English, French, German and Portuguese are also spoken by some sections of the community.
Religion
86 per cent Roman Catholic.
Electricity
110 volts AC, 60Hz. US-style two-pin plugs are the most commonly used fittings.
Social Conventions
Shaking hands or using the local abrazo, a cross between a hug and a handshake, are the normal forms of greeting. In Caracas, conservative casual wear is the norm. Men are expected to wear suits for business, and jackets and ties are usual for dining out and social functions. Dress on the coast is less formal but beachwear and shorts should not be worn away from the beach or pool. Smoking follows European habits and in most cases it is obvious where not to smoke. Some public buildings are also non-smoking areas.
Health
Health
1
A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required from travellers over nine months old, except in the northern coastal area. The cities of Caracas and Valencia are not in the endemic zone. The last outbreaks of yellow fever were in September 2004, when one person died in the municipality of Sucre, Merida State. Sporadic cases are, however, under control due to a countrywide vaccination and surveillance programme.
2
Cases of autochthonous cholera were reported in 1996. Visitors are advised to take necessary precautions. Up-to-date advice should be sought before deciding whether these precautions should include vaccination as medical opinion is divided over its effectiveness. See the Health appendix for more information.
3
Vaccination against typhoid is advised.
4
Malaria risk in the benign vivax form exists throughout the year in some rural areas of Apure, Amazonas, Barinas, Bolívar, Sucre and Táchira states. The malignant falciparum form is restricted to certain jungle areas of Amazonas (Atabapo), Bolívar (Cedeño, Gran Sabana, Raul Leoni, Sifontes and Sucre) and Delta Amacuro (Antonia Diaz, Casacoima and Pedernales) states and is reported to be highly resistant to chloroquine in the interior of Amazonas state. The recommended prophylaxis is chloroquine in vivax risk areas and mefloquine in falciparum risk areas.
Food & drink
Mains water is not drinkable and should be boiled or filtered. Bottled water is available and is advised for the first few weeks of the stay. Drinking water outside main cities and towns may be contaminated and sterilisation is advisable. Milk is pasteurised and dairy products are safe for consumption. Local meat, poultry, seafood, fruit and vegetables are generally considered safe to eat.
Other risks
Bilharzia (schistosomiasis) is present in north-central Venezuela. Avoid swimming and paddling in fresh water; swimming pools that are well chlorinated and maintained are safe. Paragonimiasis (oriental lung fluke) has been reported. Hepatitis A also occurs; hepatitis B and D (delta hepatitis) are highly endemic. Cutaneous and mucocutaneous leishmaniasis occur in rural areas. Visceral leishmaniasis is rarer. In the southeast, some deaths have been caused by mercury in the river water. Dengue fever is increasingly common and there are epidemics of viral encephalitis at times. Brucellosis has occasionally been acquired by travellers through eating or drinking contaminated milk products. Filariasis, onchocerciasis and American trypanosomiasis (chagas disease) are present.Rabies has been reported. For those at high risk, vaccination before arrival should be considered. If you are bitten, seek medical advice without delay. For more information, consult the Health appendix.
Health care
The best-equipped hospitals are in the state capitals. Emergency treatment is free and most hospitals have intensive care units. However, private hospitals are of a much higher standard, and although health insurance is not mandatory, it is recommended.
History and Government
History
Originally inhabited by Carib and Arawak Indians, Venezuela was claimed as a Spanish territory by Christopher Columbus in 1498. Spanish rule was administered from a distance, leaving the various regions to develop separately from the capital, Caracas, which was founded by Diego de Losada in 1567. In the 18th century, an attempt to inject a measure of unification by the Spanish was met with widespread resistance and uprisings led by Simón Bolívar (after whom the currency is named). In 1830, Venezuela became a sovereign state, led by José Paéz. The precise territorial limits were not, however, well defined and Venezuela’s borders have since been the subject of periodic disputes with its neighbours. The dictatorship of Juan Vincente Goméz, between 1909 and 1935, was a period of rapid economic development. This was largely driven by the exploitation of the country’s substantial oilfields, which began in 1918. Venezuela is now essentially an oil economy and the national producer, PDVSA, is one of the world’s largest companies (see Economy). In 1936 and 1937, Venezuela held democratic elections for the Presidency and National Assembly for the first time but the experiment in pluralism lasted only until 1945. The first of a rapid succession of military dictatorships lasted until 1961. That year, the current Venezuelan constitution came into force. From then until the 1990s, Venezuelan politics were dominated by the struggle between the Partido Social Cristiano, known as COPEI, and the social democratic Acción Democrática (AD). Following the 1973 price hike, Venezuela had enjoyed the benefits of large oil revenues accruing throughout the 1970s, and ran up a substantial overseas debt (although not on the scale of those burdening other Latin American countries). The country’s oil wealth was far from evenly distributed – a relatively small section of the population enjoyed the benefits, while the vast majority was excluded. In the 1980s, successive Governments struggled to stabilise the country and the economy in the face of persistent social and labour unrest, as well as external pressure from creditors pursuing scheduled loan repayments. At the turn of the 1990s, the Government’s opponents found support from sections of the army who considered themselves ill-equipped and badly paid. In February 1992, a number of army units launched a completely unexpected military coup. It was suppressed by loyal army units but the Perez Government was fatally undermined and it was little surprise when Perez was removed from office by Congress the following year, before completing his term. Elections at the end of 1993 resulted in Rafael Caldera, who had served as President in the mid-1970s, assuming the post once again. Meanwhile, the leader of the 1992 coup attempt, Colonel Hugo Chavez, was seeking to establish himself as a national political figure, drawing on the support of millions of disaffected poor people, who had been disregarded during the oil boom. The established parties, dominated by wealthy and increasingly corrupt interests, held little attraction for them. In 1997, Chavez announced the formation of his own party, the Movimiento Quinta República (MVR, the Fifth Republic Movement), and his candidacy at the 1998 Presidential election. He won, while his party – with the support of other smaller groupings – was able to take control of the National Assembly. Further polls in July 2000 secured his position and, de facto, an endorsement of the constitutional changes that he planned to increase Presidential powers. Chavez’s problems now began in earnest. Always a controversial figure, as a result of the 1992 coup attempt and his courting such Heads of State as Iraq’s Saddam Hussein and Cuba’s Fidel Castro, Chavez has attracted powerful enemies both inside and outside Venezuela. In April 2002, a right-wing alliance of dissident military officers and prominent businessmen led by Pedro Carmona failed in a coup attempt against Chavez. Many believe that the United States had a hand in the plot: while that remains unproven, there is no doubt that the Bush administration would be happy to see the back of Chavez. The Government was certainly shaken by the coup. The economy was in serious difficulty following a currency collapse in February 2002 and remains so two years later (see Economy). In December 2002, the opposition tried a different strategy. With the support of key union leaders, especially in the all-important oil industry, Venezuela was brought to a virtual standstill by a general strike. However, after more than two months, the strike petered out. The anti-Chavez alliance now turned to a constitutional device, exploiting a clause which allows for a referendum requiring a Presidential election, before the end of the normal six-year term, on the basis of a petition signed by at least 20 per cent of the electorate (about 2.5 million people). Such a petition was submitted in August 2003 but controversially rejected by the national electoral commission. A second petition was drawn up in December 2003, containing 3.4 million signatures. This tension culminated in clashes in between opponents and supporters of Chavez in March 2004. A referendum was triggered in August 2004, which Chavez won, with 59 per cent of people agreeing that he should serve out his remaining two-and-a-half years of term. The opposition is driven exclusively by its dislike of Chavez: with his removal, the alliance of business, unions, the old political parties (COPEI and AD) and assorted interest groups will fragment. However, for now, Chavez's future is secured. In the 2005 parliamentary elections, Chavez's party won 114 seats in the 167-seat National Assembly. Voter turnout was low and the main opposition parties boycotted the elections, protesting against what they saw as a biased electoral board. However, despite the opposition's doubts regarding the election's legitimacy, a two-thirds majority in parliament now paves the way for Chavez to alter the constitution, which currently limits a President to two terms in office.
Government
A ‘national constitutional assembly’ was convened in July 1999 to rewrite the country’s constitution. Executive power is vested in the President, who is popularly elected for a six-year term. The legislature is the unicameral Asemblea Nacional, whose 165 members are directly elected to serve a five-year term
Money
Currency
Bolívar (VEB) = 100 céntimos. Notes are in denominations of VEB50,000, 20,000, 10,000, 5000, 2000, 1000, 500, 100, 50, 20, 10 and 5. Coins are in denominations of VEB500, 100, 50, 25, 5, 2 and 1, and 50, 20, 10 and 5 céntimos.
Currency exchange
Banks will change cheques and cash, and cambios will change cash only; as will hotels, although often at a less favourable rate. Travellers are advised to bring currency in US Dollars.
Credit & debit cards
American Express, MasterCard and Visa are accepted in main cities and tourist centres; Diners Club has more limited acceptance. Check with your credit or debit card company for details of merchant acceptability and for other facilities which may be available.
Traveller's cheques
Widely accepted, although one may be asked to produce a receipt of purchase when changing them in Venezuela. Exchange is more difficult in some places than others. Some kinds of traveller's cheques are not accepted; seek advice before travelling. To avoid additional exchange rate charges, travellers are advised to take traveller's cheques in US Dollars.
Currency restrictions
The import and export of local and foreign currency is unlimited.
Exchange rate indicators
DateAt time of publishing£1.00=VEB3783.71$1.00=VEB2149.88
Banking hours
Mon-Fri 0830-1530.
Note
The above rates are the official rates for non-commercial transactions. ‘Essential Import’ and ‘Preferential’ rates are also used.
Overview
Country Overview
Venezuela is bordered by the Caribbean, Guyana, the Atlantic Ocean, Brazil and Colombia. Venezuela offers the tourist a great variety of landscapes – tropical beaches, immense plains, enormous rivers, forests, jungle, waterfalls and great mountains. Nestling in a long narrow valley, Caracas, the capital, is typical of the ‘new Venezuela’, despite being one of the oldest established cities in the country (founded in 1567). The 4000km (2800 miles) of Caribbean coastline represents the major tourist destination in the country. The area has numerous excellent beaches and resorts ranging from the comparatively luxurious to the unashamedly opulent, which stretch along the coastline. The coastal regions to the north of the Guyana Highlands have some fine tourist beaches and resorts. These include Higuerote and Lecheria. The Guyana Highlands lie to the south of the Orinoco River and constitute half the land area of the country. The Gran Sabana National Reserve is the largest of the Venezuelan plateaux and has an extraordinary array of wildlife. Some local specialities are tequenos (thin dough wrapped around a finger of local white cheese and fried crisp) and arepas (the native bread). There are many nightclubs and discotheques in the major cities of Venezuela.
OverviewII
Originally inhabited by Carib and Arawak Indians, Venezuela was claimed as a Spanish territory by Christopher Columbus in 1498. Spanish rule was administered from a distance, leaving the various regions to develop separately from the capital, Caracas, which was founded by Diego de Losada in 1567. In the 18th century, an attempt to inject a measure of unification by the Spanish was met with widespread resistance and uprisings led by Simón Bolívar (after whom the currency is named). In 1830, Venezuela became a sovereign state, led by José Paéz. Today's politics are dominated by President Hugo Chávez, the leader of a coup attempt in 1992, who formed his own party and, drawing on the support of millions of disaffected poor people, won the 1998 Presidential election. Despite attempts by the opposition to remove him, Chávez's position remains secure for now. In the 2005 Parliamentary elections, his party won a majority of seats in the National Assembly.Venezuela offers a myriad of landscapes and experiences - tropical beaches, immense plains, enormous rivers, forests, jungle, waterfalls and great mountains. The clear, warm waters of its Caribbean coastline are ideal for snorkelling and diving, while numerous islands off the coast invite visitors to explore. The tropical lowlands hide a huge array of wildlife, lush vegetation and dramatic waterfalls, yet within the same country lie high Andean peaks, providing a challenge to trekkers and mountaineers. The country is home to the world's highest waterfall, Angel Falls (about 16 times higher than Niagara Falls), and the world's longest and highest cable car, whisking tourists from the university town of Mérida to the 4765m- (15,629ft-) high Pico Espejo. The capital, Caracas, boasts fine historical monuments, an excellent collection of museums and art galleries, and contrasting examples of old and new architecture. Visitors to this country have the choice of a relaxing resort experience, a cultural city break or a wealth of adventurous activities. Whether they wish to experience one, or all of the above, Venezuela has more than enough to offer on all counts.
Passport/Visa
Passport/Visa
Passports
Passport valid for at least six months (if entering with a visa) or for the duration of stay (if entering with a Tourist Entry Card) required by all.
Visas
Required by all except the following, who do, however, require a Tourist Entry Card (DEX-2), which is issued free of charge by an authorised air carrier on presentation of valid air tickets (including return or onward ticket) for stays of maximum 90 days (non-extendable):(a) nationals of countries mentioned in the chart above, except 1. nationals of Cyprus, Estonia, Latvia and Malta who do need a visa;2. (b) nationals of Andorra, Antigua & Barbuda, Argentina, Barbados, Belize, Brazil, Bulgaria, Chile, Costa Rica, Croatia, Grenada, Guatemala, Hong Kong (SAR), Iceland, Jamaica, Liechtenstein, Malaysia, Mexico, Monaco, Netherlands Antilles, New Zealand, Norway, Panama, Paraguay, Romania, San Marino, St Kitts & Nevis, St Lucia, St Vincent & the Grenadines, South Africa, Switzerland, Taiwan, Trinidad & Tobago and Uruguay.
Types of visa and cost
Tourist Entry Card: Free of charge (single-entry). Tourist: £21.90 (multiple-entry). Business: £43.80 (multiple-entry). Student: £43.80 (multiple entry). Transit: £21.90 (single-entry).
Validity
Tourist/Tourist Entry Cards: 90 days (tourist visas are valid for up to one year but only permit entry for 90 days in any one period). Business: 180 days. Transit: up to 72 hours.
Application to
Consulate (or consular section at Embassy); see Passport/Visa Information. Tourist Entry Cards are available at the airport check-in desk prior to departure.
Application requirements
Tourist: (a) Completed and signed application form. (b) Two recent colour passport-size photos. (c) Passport with at least six months' validity at time of visa application. (d) Fee (postal order). (e) Self-addressed, recorded delivery envelope for postal applications. (f) A letter of employment from employer, stating date of commencement, position and salary. (g) Latest bank statement. Business: (a)-(e) and (f) Employer’s reference and letter confirming purpose of visit. (g) Reference from company to be contacted in Venezuela. Student: (a)-(e) and, (f) Letter of admission from educational institution. (g) Proof of academic degrees/attestations. Transit: (a) Ticket confirming you will be continuing to a third country. (b) Name of airline carrier. (c) Flight number. (d) Date you will be entering and departing Venezuela. (e) Name of entry and departing Venezuelan port or airport.
Working days required
Three.
Temporary residence
Special authorisation is required from the Ministry of Internal Affairs in Caracas.
Passport/Visa Information
Embassy of the Republic of Venezuela in the UK1 Cromwell Road, London SW7 2HR, UKTel: (020) 7584 4206/7. Website: www.venezlon.co.ukOpening hours: Mon-Fri 0900-1600.Embassy of the Republic of Venezuela (Consular Section) in the UK56 Grafton Way, London W1P 5LB, UKTel: (020) 7387 6727. Website: www.venezlon.co.ukOpening hours: Mon-Fri 1000-1300.Embassy of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela in the USA1099 30th Street, NW, Washington, DC 20007, USATel: (202) 342 2214. Website: www.embavenez-us.org
Public Holidays
Public Holidays
Below are listed Public Holidays for the January 2006-June 2007 period. Jan 1 2006 New Year’s Day. Feb 27-28 Carnival. Apr 13 Holy Thursday. Apr 14 Good Friday. Apr 19 Declaration of Independence. May 1 Labour Day. Jun 24 Battle of Carabobo. Jul 5 Independence Day. Jul 24 Birth of Simón Bolívar. Oct 12 Columbus Day. Dec 25 Christmas Day. Dec 31 New Year’s Eve. Jan 1 2007 New Year’s Day. Feb 19-20Carnival. Apr 5 Holy Thursday. Apr 6 Good Friday. Apr 19 Declaration of Independence. May 1 Labour Day. Jun 24 Battle of Carabobo.
Note
There are some additional regional holidays; enquire at the Corporación de Turismo de Venezuela (see Top Things To Do).
Resorts & Excursions
Introduction
Venezuela offers a great variety of landscapes – tropical beaches, immense plains, enormous rivers, forests, jungle, waterfalls and great mountains. Unfortunately, the flash floods and mudslides which hit Venezuela in 1999 severely damaged the country’s infrastructure; some of which may still not have been fully restored. Travellers should check prior to departure, particularly if planning to visit Vargas State.
Caracas
Nestling in a long narrow valley in the coastal mountain range 16km (10 miles) from the north coast, Caracas is typical of the ‘new Venezuela’, despite being one of the oldest established cities in the country (founded in 1567). The city is constantly growing and changing but, among the new developments, there are still areas of the old towns intact –
San José and La Pastora, for example. Other periods of the country’s history have left substantial monuments; these include the Plaza Bolívar, flanked by the old cathedral and the Archbishop’s residence, the Casa Amarilla and the Capitol (the National Congress) building, erected in 1873 in just 114 days, which has a fine mural depicting Venezuelan military exploits. La Parque Central has high-rise architecture, theatres, museums and galleries. Other places worth visiting include the Panteon Nacional (which contains the body of Simon Bolívar), the Jardín Botánico, the Parque Nacional del Este, and, for recreation, the Country Club. Museums in the capital include the Museo de Bellas Artes, the Museo del Arte Colonial, the Museo del Arte Contemporáneo, the Museo de Transporte and the Casa Natal del Libertador (a reconstruction of the house where Bolívar was born; the first was destroyed in an earthquake). Next door is a museum containing the liberator’s war relics. There is a large number of art galleries, as well as daily concerts, theatrical productions, films and lectures. The city also has a wide range of nightclubs, bars and coffee shops, especially along the Boulevard de Sabana Grande.
Excursions
Mount Avila gives a superb view across the city and along the coast. There are several beaches within 30km (20 miles) of the capital, with excellent ‘taverns’ and restaurants. El Avila National Park has a diverse range of fauna including jaguars, armadillos, red howler monkeys and sloths. The park has its own campsite and hotel. Visitors do need a permit to enter the park.
The North Coast
The 4000km (2800 miles) of Caribbean coastline represents the major tourist destination in the country. The area has numerous excellent beaches and resorts ranging from the comparatively luxurious to the unashamedly opulent, which stretch along the coastline. Maiquetia is one of the best and most popular, offering wide beaches, an extensive range of watersports and some of the best fishing (including an international competition for the giant blue sailfish). There are daily air-shuttles from Maiquetia to Porlamar, on Margarita Island, a popular tourist resort with beautiful beaches, good hotels and extensive shopping centres. Also to the west of Caracas are Macuto, Marbella, Naiguata, Carabelleda, Leguna and Oriaco, all of which boast excellent beaches. To the north of Maiquetia are the idyllic islands of Los Roques.La Guaira is the main port for Caracas. Although now heavily industrialised, the winding hilltop route from the city and the old town are worth visiting. Further west along the Inter-American highway is Maracay with its opera house, bullring and Gomez Mausoleum. Excursions run to Lake Valencia and Gomez’s country house, the Rancho Grande.The coastal resorts of Ocumare de la Costa and Cata can be reached by way of the 1130m (3710ft) Portachuelo Pass through the central highlands. The coastline is dotted with fine beaches and islands, many inhabited only by flamingos and scarlet ibis. Most can be reached by hired boat. Morrocoy, off the coast from Tucacas, is the most spectacular of these – hundreds of coral reefs with palm beaches ideal for scuba diving and fishing. Palma Sola and Chichiriviche are also popular. Ferries run from La Vela de Coro and Punto Fijo to the islands of Aruba and Curaçao. Journeys take about four hours and delays are to be expected.Puerto la Cruz is a popular coastal resort with bars and restaurants and good beaches. It is also a good centre for travelling to remoter beaches. There is the Morro marina development in the Lecherías area adjacent to Puerto la Cruz, and the attractive town of Pueblo Viejo with ‘old’ Caribbean architecture and a Venetian lagoon layout – boats are the only means of transport. The attractiveness of the Puerto la Cruz area means that there has been an increase of foreign investment here in recent years.
Central & Western Venezuela
The Llanos is an expansive, sparsely populated area of grassland east of the Cordillera de Mérida and north of the Orinoco, reaching up to the north coast. The area is the heart of the Venezuelan cattle country and the landscape is flat and only varied here and there by slight outcrops of land. It is veined by numerous slow-running rivers, forested along their banks. The swamps are the home of egrets, parrots, alligators and monkeys. The equestrian skills of the plainsmen can be seen at many rodeos throughout the Llanos, as well as exhibitions of cattle roping and the Joropo, Venezuela’s national dance. Barquisimeto, one of the oldest settlements in Venezuela, is now the country’s fourth-largest city and capital of the Llanos. Its cathedral is one of the most famous modern buildings in the country.Along the Colombian border is the Cordillera de Mérida and, to the east of this range, the Cordillera Oriental. Set in the area between these two ranges are the city of Maracaibo and Lake Maracaibo. Windless and excessively humid, the city and its environs are dominated by the machinery of oil production from the largest oil fields in the world, discovered in 1917. Sightseeing tours are available from here to the peninsula of Guajira to the north, where the Motilone and Guajiro Indians live.Their lifestyle has changed little since the days of the first Spanish settlers. Their houses are raised above the lake on stilts and are in fact the original inspiration for naming the country Venezuela, or ‘Little Venice’.The Cordillera de Mérida are the only peaks in the country with a permanent snowline. Frosty plateaux and lofty summits characterise the landscape and many cities have grown up at the foot of the mountains, combining tradition with modern ways of life, as well as diversified rural and urban scenery. The scenery in this area is extremely varied – lagoons, mountains, rivers, beaches, ancient villages, historical cities, oil camps, sand dunes and Indian lake dwellings on stilts. The Sierra Nevada National Park offers opportunities to ski between November and June but, at an altitude of 4270m (14,000ft), this is recommended only for the hardiest and most dedicated.Mérida, to the south, is today a city of wide modern avenues linking mainly large-scale 20th-century developments, although, wherever possible, relics of the colonial past have been allowed to stand. A university town and tourist centre, it nestles in the Sierra Nevada, overshadowed by Bolívar Peak (5007m/15,260ft) and Mirror Peak (where the world’s highest cable car climbs to an altitude of 4675m/14,250ft). Mérida has modern and colonial art museums and much more worth seeing, including the Valle Grande, the Flower Clock, Los Chorros de Milla, the Lagoons of Mucubaji, Los Anteojos, Tabay, Pogal, Los Patos, San-say and the famous Black Lagoon. A mountain railway runs from the town to Pico Espejo. The view from the summit looks over the highest peaks of the Cordillera and the Llanos. The Andean Club in Mérida arranges trips to Los Nervados, the highest village in the mountains. Again, this is only recommended for the hardy. Other excursions from Mérida include San Javier del Valle, a relaxing mountain retreat, and Jaji, which has some fine examples of colonial architecture.
Eastern Venezuela
The coastal regions to the north of the Guiana Highlands have some fine tourist beaches and resorts. These include Higuerote, La Sabana and also Lecheria, where the San Juan Drum Festival is held during late June.The Guiana Highlands lie to the south of the Orinoco River and constitute half the land area of the country. Their main value is as a source of gold and diamonds. The Orinoco and its delta have been developed as major trade centres. Ciudad Bolívar, formerly known as Angostura, and the home of Angostura bitters, is an old city on the south bank of the Orinoco and still bears traces of its colonial past, although it is currently the centre of modern developments. The Gran Sabana National Reserve is the largest of the Venezuelan plateaux and has an extraordinary array of wildlife. Santa Elena, Guri Dam (a hydroelectric complex supplying electricity to most of Venezuela) and Danto Falls are all worth a visit. Santa Elena de Uairén is a rugged frontier town which holds a Fiesta in August. Mount Roraima, suggested as the site of Conan Doyle’s Lost World, can be climbed on foot. A fortnight’s supplies and full camping equipment should be taken as the trip can take up to two weeks. The nearest village to the mountain is Peraitepin. Tepuy Peak is also worth a visit. Trips can be arranged to the diamond mines at Los Caribes. In Icaban, after a heavy rainfall, it is common to see children searching the slopes for gold nuggets washed down from the slopes.It is possible to arrange trips by boat up the Orinoco River delta to La Tucupita. Canaima (one of the world’s largest national parks, comprising 7,400,000 acres/3,000,000 hectares) is the setting for the spectacular Angel Falls, which carry the waters of the Churum River into an abyss. At 979m (3212ft), they are the highest in the world, a sight no visitor should miss. Trips can be arranged which take in the waterfalls and other nearby attractions, including many rare plants – Canaima has over 500 species of orchid alone. Overnight accommodation is available on the shores of the lagoon.Other national parks in Venezuela are to be found in Bolívar State and the Amazonas Federal Territory, for example, El Cocuy and Autana.
Sport & Activities
Hiking and trekking
Venezuela has over 40 national parks and around 20 nature reserves (monumentos naturales) which, together, cover some 15 per cent of the total land mass. All types of walks, ranging from signposted trails to mountain climbing and jungle paths, are possible. Visitors should note that a permit, issued by central or regional Inparques offices, is required to visit the parks. The well-developed tourist facilities at the Parque Nacional El Avila include around 200km (125 miles) of fairly easy, signposted trails, as well as numerous camping grounds. Most serious trekkers head up to the Venezuelan Andes, stretching some 400km (250 miles) from Táchira on the Colombian border north-eastwards, and offering everything from snow-capped peaks to lush rainforests. The most popular area for mountain trekking and rock climbing is the Sierra Nevada de Mérida, where several of the country’s highest peaks (such as the Pico Bolívar or the Pico Humboldt) and the magnificent Parque Nacional Sierra Nevada are located. Experienced guides (who are strongly recommended for mountaineering) and equipment can be hired in Mérida, the regional tourist hub. Other popular trekking destinations in the area include Los Nevados (reached via an easy trek along a beautiful mountain track); Pico El Aguila (accessible from Valera, which can be reached on a bus ride from Mérida along Venezuela’s highest road); and the Sierra de la Culata (particularly known for its desert-like landscapes). The Mérida region is also noted for its cable car (teleferico), the world’s longest and highest, which runs for 12.6km (7.9 miles) from Mérida to the top of Pico Espejo (4765m/15,629ft), and provides easy access to starting points for mountain treks. Another popular trekking destination is Guyana, in the southeast, a region dotted with Venezuela’s characteristic tepuis (flat-topped mountains with vertical flanks) and home to the country’s most famous natural attraction –
Angel Falls (called Salto Angel in Spanish), the world’s highest waterfall (with an uninterrupted drop of 979m/3212ft, which is about 16 times the height of Niagara Falls). Access to the falls is fairly difficult (there is no road link) and involves a flight to Canaima (the main tourist base, some 50km/31.5 miles northwest of the falls), followed by either another scenic flight in a light aircraft, or a motorised canoe trip to the foot of Angel Falls (which only operates from June to November, the rainy season, and takes approximately two days).
Watersports
One of the most popular destinations for water-based activities is the Isla de Margarita, which lies some 40km (25 miles) off the mainland north of Cumaná (from where a twice-daily ferry provides access to the island), and whose Caribbean climate and 167km- (105-mile) long shoreline (with white sandy beaches) draw increasing numbers of swimming, surfing, snorkelling and diving enthusiasts. These activities are available all along the Caribbean coast (in the northeast of the country), with one destination, the Parcque Nacional Mochima, standing out: it consists of a wealth of islands and islets some of which, such as the Isla de Plata (the most developed), are surrounded by coral reefs. In the northwest, the coastal strip and the numerous offshore islands and coral reefs forming the Parque Nacional Morroy provide ideal snorkelling and diving. Boat trips through the mangrove caños (channels) and to several of the park’s islands (notably to Cayo Sombrero and Chichiriviche, two of the best known) are available. The fishing, both fresh- and salt-water, is good.
Other
Mountain biking and paragliding are widely practised in the Mérida region, while caving enthusiasts may head to the Cueva del Guácharo, the most spectacular of Venezuela’s many cave systems, located three hours by bus from Cumaná. Caracas has South America’s largest and most modern horse racing track –
La Rinconada
– open Saturday and Sunday. Horse riding can be arranged at most tourist spots. Boxing, baseball and football are the most popular spectator sports in Venezuela and can be seen all year round. The indigenous lucha libre wrestling is a weekly event.
Top Things To Do
Top things to do
• Take a scenic flight or motorised canoe trip to the foot of Angel Falls (Salto Angel), the world’s highest waterfall, in the southeast. The falls have an uninterrupted drop of 979m (3212ft), which is about 16 times the height of Niagara Falls. Access to the falls is fairly difficult (there is no road link) and involves a flight to Canaima first (the main tourist base, some 50km (31.5 miles) northwest of the falls). The canoe trip operates from June to November, the rainy season, and takes approximately two days. • Explore Venezuela’s parks. There are over 40 national parks and around 20 nature reserves (monumentos naturales). Parque Nacional El Avila includes around 200km (125 miles) of fairly easy, signposted trails, as well as numerous camping grounds.• Try mountain trekking or rock climbing in the Sierra Nevada de Mérida, where several of the country’s highest peaks (such as the Pico Bolívar or the Pico Humboldt) and the magnificent Parque Nacional Sierra Nevada are located. Experienced guides and equipment can be hired in Mérida, the regional tourist hub. Other popular trekking destinations in the area include Los Nevados (reached via an easy trek along a beautiful mountain track); Pico El Aguila (accessible from Valera, which can be reached on a bus ride from Mérida along Venezuela’s highest road); and the Sierra de la Culata (particularly known for its desert-like landscapes).• Board the world’s longest and highest cable car (teleferico), which runs for 12.6km (7.9 miles) from Mérida to the top of Pico Espejo (4765m/15,629ft), and provides easy access to starting points for mountain treks.•
Swim, surf, snorkel or dive at Isla de Margarita, some 40km (25 miles) off the mainland north of Cumaná. Another good spot is the Parque Nacional Mochima, consisting of a wealth of islands and islets, some of which, such as the Isla de Plata (the most developed), are surrounded by coral reefs.• Take a boat trip through the mangrove caños (channels) of Parque Nacional Morroy in the northwest, or sail to the park’s islands (two of the best known are Cayo Sombrero and Chichiriviche). The fishing, both fresh- and salt-water, is good.• Head underground to the Cueva del Guácharo, the most spectacular of Venezuela’s many cave systems, located three hours by bus from Cumaná.• Enjoy the novelty of skiing in the tropics. The Cordillera de Mérida are the only peaks in the country with a permanent snowline. The Sierra Nevada National Park offers opportunities to ski between November and June but, at an altitude of 4270m (14,000ft), this is recommended only for the hardiest and most dedicated.• Climb Mount Roraima, suggested as the site of Conan Doyle’s Lost World. A fortnight’s supplies and full camping equipment should be taken as the trip can take up to two weeks. • Spend a day at the races. Caracas has South America’s largest and most modern horse racing track –
La Rinconada
– open Saturday and Sunday.• Head for the Caribbean coastal resorts. Maiquetia is one of the best and most popular, offering wide beaches, an extensive range of watersports and some of the best fishing (including an international competition for the giant blue sailfish). There are daily air-shuttles from Maiquetia to Porlamar, on Margarita Island. Also to the west of Caracas are Macuto, Marbella, Naiguata, Carabelleda, Leguna and Oriaco, all of which boast excellent beaches. To the north of Maiquetia are the idyllic islands of Los Roques.• Pass through the 1130m (3710ft) Portachuelo Pass to the coastal resorts of Ocumare de la Costa and Cata. The coastline here is dotted with fine beaches and islands, many inhabited only by flamingos and scarlet ibis. Most can be reached by hired boat. Morrocoy, off the coast from Tucacas, is the most spectacular of these – hundreds of coral reefs with palm beaches ideal for scuba diving and fishing.• Enjoy the popular coastal resort of Puerto la Cruz, a good centre for travelling to remoter beaches. There is the Morro marina development in the Lecherías area adjacent to Puerto la Cruz, and the attractive town of Pueblo Viejo with ‘old’ Caribbean architecture and a Venetian lagoon layout – boats are the only means of transport.
Tourist Information
Nacional Instituto de Turismo (INATUR)Mexico Avenue, Caracas Hilton Hotel, South Tower, Floors 1 and 2, Caracas, VenezuelaTel: (212) 576 1193 or 9032.
Top Things To See
Top things to see
• Begin in the capital, Caracas, typical of the ‘new Venezuela’, despite being one of the oldest established cities in the country (founded in 1567). The city is constantly growing and changing but, among the new developments, there are still areas of the old towns intact –
San José and La Pastora, for example. Other periods of the country’s history have left substantial monuments; these include the Plaza Bolívar, flanked by the old cathedral and the Archbishop’s residence, the Casa Amarilla and the Capitol (the National Congress) building, erected in 1873 in just 114 days, which has a fine mural depicting Venezuelan military exploits. Other places worth visiting include the Panteon Nacional (which contains the body of Simon Bolívar), the Jardín Botánico, the Parque Nacional del Este, and, for recreation, the Country Club.• Tour the capital’s museums, including the Museo de Bellas Artes, the Museo del Arte Colonial, the Museo del Arte Contemporáneo, the Museo de Transporte and the Casa Natal del Libertador (a reconstruction of the house where Bolívar was born; the first was destroyed in an earthquake).• Visit the old town in La Guaira, the main port for Caracas.• Explore Maracay, with its opera house, bullring and Gomez Mausoleum. Excursions run to Lake Valencia and Gomez’s country house, the Rancho Grande.• Catch a rodeo or a display of Joropo, Venezuela’s national dance, in the Llanos. The area is the heart of the Venezuelan cattle country and the landscape is mostly flat. It is veined by numerous slow-running rivers, forested along their banks. The swamps are the home of egrets, parrots, alligators and monkeys.• See the modern cathedral in Barquisimeto, one of the oldest settlements in Venezuela, which is now the country’s fourth-largest city and capital of the Llanos.• Take a sightseeing tour from Maracaibo to the peninsula of Guajira to the north, where the Motilone and Guajiro Indians live. Their lifestyle has changed little since the days of the first Spanish settlers. Their houses are raised above the lake on stilts and are in fact the original inspiration for naming the country Venezuela, or ‘Little Venice’.• See the university town of Mérida, whose sights include the Valle Grande, the Flower Clock, Los Chorros de Milla, the Lagoons of Mucubaji, Los Anteojos, Tabay, Pogal, Los Patos, San-say and the famous Black Lagoon. A mountain railway runs from the town to Pico Espejo.• Visit Ciudad Bolívar, formerly known as Angostura, and the home of Angostura bitters, an old city on the south bank of the Orinoco which still bears traces of its colonial past.• See the extraordinary array of wildlife in the Gran Sabana National Reserve, the largest of the Venezuelan plateaux.
Tourist Information
Nacional Instituto de Turismo (INATUR)Mexico Avenue, Caracas Hilton Hotel, South Tower, Floors 1 and 2, Caracas, VenezuelaTel: (212) 576 1193 or 9032.
Travel - Internal
Air
Almost all large towns are connected with scheduled services operated by domestic airlines, including Aeropostal (website: www.aeropostal.com), Aerotuy (website: www.tuy.com) and Avensa and Servivensa. There are various discount tickets offered by Avensa and Servivensa, including special student and family prices. For further information, contact your local travel agency. Air travel is the best means of internal transport but services are often overbooked and even confirmation does not always ensure a seat. Travellers are advised to arrive at the airport well before the minimum check-in time in order to obtain confirmed seats. Schedule changes and flight cancellations with no advance warning are also likely.Departure tax: VEB14,700.
Sea
Ferries link Puerto La Cruz with Margarita Island (travel time – two hours 45 minutes).
Rail
The East-West Railway travels between Acarigua and Maturin. It is for both passengers and cargo.
Road
On 5 January 2006, the Venezuelan authorities closed the main motorway linking Maiquetia International Airport with Caracas due to the risk of a collapsed bridge. At the time of publishing, it is not clear how long it will remain closed. Traffic drives on the right. Internal roads between principal cities are of a high standard, with 17,050km (10,595 miles) of paved motorways, 13,500km (8400 miles) of macadam highways and 5850km (3635 miles) of other roads. All vehicles must carry a spare tyre, wheel block, jack wrench and special reflector triangle. The quality of roads is variable but the main roads in Caracas and to the interior are good. Some routes have many potholes that have not been filled; on these roads a 4-wheel drive is recommended. In the event of an accident, both vehicles must remain in the position of the accident until a Traffic Police Officer arrives, otherwise insurance companies will be unable to pay claims. Drivers routinely ignore red lights. Petrol pump attendants expect a tip. Bus: There are fairly cheap interurban bus services; quality of travel varies a lot however. Car hire: Self-drive cars are available at the airport and in major city centres but are expensive. Documentation: National driving licences are valid for one year. International Driving Permits are also valid. Drivers must have their licence and insurance documents with them at all times when driving.
Urban
Caracas has a 35-station metro, which is comfortable and inexpensive. Conventional bus services have badly deteriorated in recent years and there has been a rapid growth in the use of por puestos (share-taxis). These are operated by minibus companies and tend to serve as the main form of public transport in Caracas and major cities. Fares charged are in general similar to those on the buses, although they are higher during the evenings and at weekends. Taxis in Caracas are metered but the fare can nonetheless be negotiated with the driver. It is customary not to use meters after midnight; the fare should be agreed before setting out. Taxi fares double after 2000. Taxi rates are posted at the airport. Drivers are not tipped unless they carry suitcases. Travellers are recommended to only take white taxis with yellow number plates or the Black Explorers from the airport. Many hotels book or supply their own limousine service. Motorcycles may not be used in Caracas after 2200.
Travel times
The following chart gives approximate travel times (in hours and minutes) from Caracas to other major cities/towns in Venezuela.AirPorlamar0.45Canaima1.15Cumana0.45Maracaibo1.00
Travel - International
Air
The national airlines are Aeropostal (Alas de Venezuela) (VH) (website: www.aeropostal.com), and Avensa and Servivensa (VC) (website: www.avensa.com.ve), which no longer flies to Europe.
Approximate flight times
From Caracas to London is 13 hours (indirect), to Los Angeles is 10 hours 45 minutes and to New York is five hours.
Main airports
Caracas (CCS) (Simon Bolívar) is 20km (12 miles) from the city (travel time – 30 to 45 minutes). To/from the airport: There is a coach service to the city every 60 minutes (0530-2359). Buses (littoral) are available to the city every 60 minutes (0600-1800). Taxis to the city are available on ranks. Facilities: Duty free shop, bank/bureau de change, bar/restaurant, tourist information and car hire.
Departure tax
VEB73,000 on international flights from all international airports. Transit passengers and children under two years are exempt.
The Visit South America Pass
The Visit South America pass is valid within Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Chile (except Easter Island), Ecuador, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay and Venezuela. Participating airlines include Aer Lingus (EI), American Airlines (AA), British Airways (BA), Cathay Pacific (CX), Finnair (AY), Iberia (IB), LAN (LA) and Qantas (QF). The pass must be bought outside South America in the country of residence. It allows unlimited travel to 34 cities. A minimum of three flights must be booked, with no maximum; the maximum stay is 60 days, with no minimum, and prices depend on the amount of flight zones. For further details, contact one of the participating airlines.
Sea
Main ports: La Guaira (website: www.plcsa.gov.ve), Puerto Cabello (website: www.ipapc.gov.ve), Maracaibo (website: www.puertodemaracaibo.com), Guanta, Porlamar and Ciudad Bolívar (on the Orinoco River). The principal shipping lines operating to Venezuela are: from the USA: Venezuelan Line; from European ports: French Line, Hamburg Süd, Hapag Lloyd, Polish Ocean Lines and the Spanish ships, ‘Cabo San Juan’ and ‘Cabo San Roque’. Cruise ships often make Caracas a port of call.
Exit tax
Exit tax on all air and sea departures, regardless of nationality, of VEB29,400.
Rail
There are no international rail links with neighbouring countries.
Road
Road access is from Colombia (Barranquilla and Medellin) to Maracaibo, and from the Amazon territory of Brazil (Manaus) to Caracas.
Travel Advice
The incidence of street crime in Venezuela is high and rising. There have been muggings and kidnappings by bogus taxi operators at Caracas International Airport (Maiquetia). Political demonstrations may occur at any time in the major cities, possibly leading to localised violence. Travellers should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks, which could be against civilian targets, including places frequented by foreigners. This advice is based on information provided by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office in the UK. It is correct at time of publishing. As the situation can change rapidly, visitors are advised to contact the following organisations for the latest travel advice: British Foreign and Commonwealth Office Tel: (0845) 850 2829. Website: www.fco.gov.uk US Department of State Website: http://travel.state.gov/travel
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VENEZUELA
