Is It Safe To Visit To Venezuela?

The US State Department has issued a warning to tourists to reconsider their travel to Venezuela due to the country’s high levels of crime, civil unrest, poor health infrastructure, and detention of U.S. citizens without due process or fair trial guarantees. The warning also emphasizes the need for visas for tourist visits of less than 90 days.

Despite these warnings, most sea and air borders with Trinidad and Tobago, Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao have re-opened. The Department advises travelers not to travel to Venezuela due to the significant level of violent crime, unstable political and economic situations, and decline in basic living.

Venezuela is a beautiful yet not safe country, with most private houses and apartments protected with barred doors. The country faces risks of food, water, medicine, and petrol shortages, as well as the potential for violent civil unrest. Pickpockets are mainly found in buses and metro stations, so it is crucial to be attentive to your belongings and be aware of violent crimes and kidnappings.

While Venezuela is considered safer to travel than it used to be, it is still a rough and raw Latin American country with strict rules and regulations. As such, it is essential for tourists to consider their travel plans carefully and avoid visiting Venezuela despite the warnings.

Why is Venezuela crime so high?

Under Hugo Chávez, Venezuela’s institutionality deteriorated, leading to political instability, impunity, and increased violent government language. The murder rate in four years increased from 25 per 100, 000 in 1999 to 44 per 100, 000 in 2003. The Bolivarian Revolution attempted to “destroy what previously existed”, but the murder rate continued to rise. Experts attribute the rise of murders in Venezuela following Chávez to corruption of Venezuelan authorities, poor gun control, and a poor judiciary system.

The Chávez government banned private gun ownership in 2012, but the overall crime rate continued to increase. Crime has grown so pervasive that the military is ordered to avoid public places during nighttime hours due to criminals often attempting to steal their weapons. Escalating violent crime, especially murder, was considered “perhaps the biggest concern” of Venezuelans during the nationwide crisis.

Venezuela had the world’s highest violent-crime rate in 2017, and almost none of reported crimes are prosecuted. The crisis has been obscured by the government’s reluctance to release damning crime statistics. The U. S. Bureau of Diplomatic Security attributes most of the violence to organized street gangs, with factors such as corrupt underpaid police, an inefficient and politicized judicial system, prison system problems, and widespread availability of weapons.

Why is Venezuela high risk?

Travel to Venezuela is advised due to the high level of violent crime, unstable political and economic conditions, and declining living conditions, including shortages of medication, gasoline, and water.

Why do tourists go to Venezuela?

Venezuela is a stunning South American country with numerous reasons to visit. It is one of the cheapest countries to visit, with exchange rates ranging from $100 to over 20 million Venezuelan Bolivar (VEF). The average monthly salary is $25, and the minimum wage is $6. Food and transportation are cheap, making it easy to eat prestigiously in a month with just $100. Most restaurants, bars, and service providers accept US Dollars, eliminating the need for exchanges.

Angel Falls, the tallest waterfall in the world, is located in Canaima National Park and offers stunning scenery and adventures. Activities around the waterfall include hiking, mountain climbing, and kayaking in the Carrao River.

Is it safe to travel to Venezuela alone?

Venezuela’s economic and social crisis has led to high levels of serious crimes, including armed robbery, making travel in the country highly dangerous. To ensure safety, it is recommended to use pickpockets in buses and metro stations, be cautious of violent crimes and kidnappings, and visit popular places. Traveling with trusted locals can provide a quieter experience and ensure a safe journey. It is also advised to be mindful of your belongings and be cautious when visiting popular areas.

Is it safe to travel to Russia?

The US government advises US citizens to avoid travel to Russia due to the destabilization caused by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. In October 2022, the Russian government declared martial law in several border areas with Ukraine, including Bryansk, Kursk, Belgorod, Voronezh, Rostov, and Krasnodar. Consultations at the US Embassy Moscow and Consulate General Vladivostok are suspended, and all consular services should be contacted at the Embassy Moscow.

Is Caracas worth visiting?

Caracas, located 2600 feet above sea level, is known as the “city of eternal spring” due to its pleasant climate. The city boasts a mix of ancient and modern buildings, including the birthplace of Simon Bolivar and its skyscrapers. Famous attractions include the National Pantheon, Miraflores Palace, the Cathedral of Caracas, the Ibrahim Al-Ibrahim Mosque, and the National Theater. Caracas is rich in regional and global cuisines, including Spanish, French, Mexican, Italian, and Asian.

The Spanish influence is particularly noticeable in the La Candelaria neighborhood, a great area for tapas. Bakeries and pastry shops offer international sweets like ensaimadas, milhojas, turrón, and Italian cannoli. To accompany these treats, a tasty cup of expresso or café marrón (latte) is recommended.

Liquors in Caracas cater to all age groups and social classes, including rum, chicha, chichero, carato, and tizana, a fruity sangria substituted by orange juice and grenadine. Caracas is a vibrant city with a mix of cultures and cuisines, making it an unforgettable experience.

Does Venezuela still have tourism?

Venezuela’s tourism industry has seen a significant increase in international tourists, with 1. 25 million foreign visitors arriving in 2023, a 90-percent increase from the previous year. This growth is attributed to several tourism agreements between Venezuela and other countries since 2021, including ongoing work with Poland, Russia, Colombia, and other countries. Vicky Herrera, President of the Venezuelan Association of Travel Agencies (AVAVIT), said that tourists returned to Venezuela out of curiosity and confidence in its destination.

Flight connections have also increased in the last three years, with direct flights between Russia and Margarita, Colombia and Portugal, and new routes to Istanbul and San José in Costa Rica. Hotels and posadas have also revived their activities in Caracas and other areas, with new ones in Canaima, Morrocoy, Margarita, Mochima, and Los Roques. A new Eurobuilding was inaugurated in Lechería, and a British company is renovating the Ambassador Suites in Caracas.

Is Russia safe to visit?

Russian security services have arrested US citizens on false charges, denied fair treatment, and convicted them without credible evidence. They have also opened questionable investigations against US citizens engaged in religious activities. The Russian invasion of Ukraine has destabilized southwestern Russia, leading to martial law in border areas with Ukraine. Under martial law, authorities can set curfews, seize property, and restrict movement. U. S. citizens should avoid travel to these areas.

Russian authorities have questioned, detained, and arrested people for “acting against Russia’s interests”, targeting individuals for posting on social media or supporting anti-Russian groups. The current “LGBT propaganda” law bans discussion of LGBTQI+ related topics, and the Supreme Court labeled the “international LGBT movement” as extremist in November 2023.

Terrorists continue to plan attacks in Russia, targeting tourist areas, transport hubs, markets, government buildings, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, events, schools, and airports. U. S. government employees under Embassy security responsibility are not permitted to travel to the North Caucasus, including Chechnya and Mt. Elbrus.

Can you legally travel to Venezuela?

U. S. citizens are advised to obtain a visa to legally enter Venezuela, as visas are not available upon arrival. Attempting to enter without a visa can result in charges of terrorism and detention for extended periods. The U. S. Department of State strongly advises against traveling to Venezuela and advises citizens remaining in the country to depart immediately. The U. S. Embassy in Caracas suspended operations on March 11, 2019, and cannot provide protection or consular services to U. S. citizens in Venezuela. The U. S. Embassy in Colombia assists U. S.

Is Venezuela cheap for tourists?

Venezuela can be expensive for tourists, especially for tourism-related items like tours, car rentals, and transfers. For instance, a traditional Venezuelan dish called arepa can be found for as little as 20 cents, while nearby dishes may cost $8. This highlights the high cost of living in Venezuela.

How safe is Venezuela for tourists?

To protect yourself in Venezuela, avoid walking in isolated areas, especially at night, as terrorist groups and criminal gangs are active along the country’s borders with Colombia, Brazil, and Guyana. Kidnapping is a serious threat, especially along airport routes and border regions. Monitor the media and other sources for new security risks.