Safety (Most Important)

• Various international advisories strongly advise against travel to Venezuela. Those who must travel should review the latest safety updates, register their presence with their embassy, and maintain regular communication with family and consular services.
• Keep a low profile — avoid wearing valuable jewellery, using your phone in public, exchanging money on the street, or travelling at night. In the event of an armed robbery, prioritise your safety and never resist.
• Avoid border regions with Colombia and Guyana, as well as certain inland areas. Stay in major cities and well-known tourist destinations.
• Keep copies and digital backups of important documents. Store your passport in your hotel safe and carry only a photocopy when outside.

Money and Payments

• Carry enough new small-denomination US dollar bills (USD 1, 5, 10, 20). Torn or large denomination bills are often not accepted. Divide your cash and store it in multiple secure places for easy access.
• International credit cards are generally not accepted. The Venezuelan bolívar is typically used only for small change and minor purchases. Never exchange money on the street.

Health and Supplies

• Medications and hygiene products may be scarce. Bring a two-week supply of common medications such as fever reducers, stomach remedies, and mosquito repellents.
• If visiting the Amazon region or southern plains, get a yellow fever vaccination in advance and take strong mosquito bite prevention measures.
• Tap water is not considered safe to drink. Purchase bottled water or properly disinfect your drinking water.

Communication and Internet

• Internet access can be unreliable and some international platforms may be blocked. Download offline maps, translation apps, and entertainment before your trip. Print important documents to carry with you.
• Obtaining a local SIM card can be difficult. Short-term visitors should plan to use their phones mainly offline.

Other Details

• Power outlets are Type A/B (US standard). Voltage is 110V.
• Avoid discussing politics, exchange rates, or crime in public. Do not take photos of military or police facilities.
• Use trusted local guides for all bookings, and allow flexibility in your itinerary for unexpected changes in flights or road conditions.

Trip Discipline

• Check in with family or friends at a set time each day. If you miss a scheduled check-in, start the consular assistance process immediately.
• Do not attend street demonstrations, protests, or accept invitations from strangers. Never count money in public.
• Divide your cash into three parts: money for daily expenses, an emergency stash in your luggage, and a reserve in your hotel safe. Check your remaining cash each evening.
• Make key decisions (currency exchange, hiring transport, altering plans) only in person at your hotel or with your guide.
• Hide a USD 20 emergency bill in a concealed part of your luggage as a final safety measure. Never put your safety at risk for money.