Safety
Venezuela has one of the highest homicide rates in the world, and violent crime — including robbery, carjacking, and kidnapping — is a serious concern in most cities. The US, UK, Canadian, and Australian governments all advise against travel or urge extreme caution. That said, travelers who move carefully, travel in groups, use trusted guides, and avoid flashing valuables do visit and return safely. Know where you are going before you arrive, don't walk unfamiliar areas at night, and arrange all transport through vetted operators.
Caracas carries the highest risk. The western barrios and much of eastern Caracas should be avoided entirely by visitors. Even wealthier eastern districts like Chacao and Altamira require basic street awareness.
Petty crime is common everywhere. Keep phones and cameras out of sight on the street. Avoid using ATMs at night or in isolated locations.
Currency
The official currency is the bolívar (VES). Hyperinflation has rendered it nearly worthless multiple times in the past decade — the government has redenominated the currency three times since 2008. In practice, US dollars are widely accepted and often preferred, especially in tourist areas, posadas, tour operators, and restaurants.
Bring small US dollar bills (ones, fives, tens) as vendors rarely have change for large notes. Euros are accepted in some tourist areas. Card payments are unreliable; bring sufficient cash for your entire trip. ATMs that work for foreign cards are rare.
The official exchange rate and the parallel market rate (referred to locally as the "dólar paralelo") have historically differed significantly. As of early 2026, the official rate has eroded quickly. Exchanging money through trusted contacts is common practice; avoid street changers.
Health
Venezuela is in the middle of a healthcare crisis. Public hospitals suffer from severe shortages of medicines, equipment, and personnel. Private clinics in major cities offer better care but still fall short of international standards. Medical evacuation insurance is strongly recommended.
Bring all prescription medications you need for the entire trip, plus extras. Malaria prophylaxis is recommended for the Amazon regions, Bolivar state, and the Delta. Yellow fever vaccination is required for some border crossings and recommended for jungle travel. Dengue and Zika are present. Drink only bottled or treated water.
Connectivity
Mobile coverage from Movistar, Digitel, and Movilnet is available in major cities and along main highways, but spotty in remote areas. Local SIM cards are cheap and relatively easy to obtain in cities. International eSIM providers also work in urban areas. Electricity supply is unreliable across much of the country — power outages are frequent. Bring a power bank.
Language
Spanish is the official language. English is spoken in some tourist-facing businesses but cannot be relied upon outside major cities. A working knowledge of Spanish will make travel significantly easier and safer.
Embassies
The US Embassy in Caracas suspended operations and the Venezuelan Affairs Unit now operates from the US Embassy in Bogotá. Check your government's consular website before travel to understand what emergency assistance is available to you.