Venezuela holds extraordinary natural treasures — Angel Falls, the tepuis of Canaima, the Andes and the Caribbean coast — but it’s important to be straightforward about safety. The country is currently in a difficult period, and the major governments advise serious caution: the US State Department rates Venezuela Level 3 — “Reconsider Travel,” with several regions designated Level 4 — “Do Not Travel.” This page gives you an honest picture rather than a sales pitch, so you can make an informed decision and plan responsibly.
The advisories reflect a combination of factors: high rates of violent crime including armed robbery and kidnapping; the risk of arbitrary or wrongful detention; periodic civil unrest; the presence of armed and criminal groups, especially near the borders; and a healthcare system under severe strain, with shortages of medicines and equipment. Consular support is very limited, too — routine US consular services in Venezuela remain suspended, with assistance largely handled through the US Embassy in Bogotá, Colombia. Other governments (UK, Canada, Australia) issue similarly cautious advice.
Several states carry the highest “Do Not Travel” designation, including the Venezuela–Colombia border region and the states of Amazonas, Apure, Bolívar (rural areas), Guárico, Táchira, and much of Aragua. Border zones in particular are affected by armed groups and trafficking and should be avoided entirely.
For anyone considering travel despite the advisories, the precautions are serious ones: arrange everything in advance through a trusted, experienced local operator; keep a very low profile and don’t display valuables; avoid unregulated taxis (particularly from the airport) and ATMs in the open; carry comprehensive insurance including medical evacuation; ensure you have access to your own medicines; and stay continually informed about a fast-changing situation. Independent, unplanned travel is strongly discouraged.
Conditions in Venezuela change quickly, and we won’t send travellers anywhere we consider unsafe. If Venezuela is on your wish list, the responsible first step is a conversation: get in touch with our specialists and we’ll give you a candid, current assessment of what is and isn’t feasible, and suggest spectacular alternatives elsewhere in South America if the timing isn’t right.
For official, up-to-date guidance, US citizens can enrol in the State Department’s free Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) and read the Venezuela travel advisory in full; UK travellers should check the FCDO’s Venezuela advice. Always review the current advisory close to any planned travel, as the situation can shift.
