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Getting around Caracas

Public transport: 

Visitors will need to reply on public transport in Caracas to get around as the city's attractions spread far and wide. The clean, cheap and efficient Metro de Caracas (tel: (0212) 206 7741; www.metrodecaracas.com.ve) runs from early morning around 0530 until around 2300. The metro does not cover the whole city.

It has 44 stations and four functional lines, with more planned in coming years. But the same company has a connecting bus network above ground called Metrobús, which can take you on to your final destination. There are plenty of cheap independent buses too, their destinations given in the front window.

For savings in both time and money, pick up a multiabono (multiple ticket) that pays for 10 metro rides of any distance. A multiabono integrado can also be used on Metrobús.

Taxis: 

Every third car is likely to a taxi in Caracas, and fares are inexpensive. You'll be expected to decide a price with the driver before setting off, so have your haggling skills at the ready. It is safest to use official company cabs (white with yellow plates) that sit in ranks outside malls and big hotels rather than the many independent taxis. Companies include Movíl-Enlace (tel: (0212) 577 0922 or 3344), Taxis Altamira (tel: (0212) 267 4253) and Taxis El Rosal (tel: (0212) 952 1019 or 0079).

Car hire: 

Most major national and international car hire companies have offices at the airport and in the city itself. Many top hotels also have a desk or two. You'll need to be at least over 21 years of age to hire a vehicle here; some companies only take drivers over 25. Bad signposting, gridlocked streets and poor driving combine to make driving in Caracas very hard work, though it's a good way to get about beyond the capital.

Car hire companies include Avis (tel: 0800 227 7600; www.avis.com.ve), Budget (tel: (0212) 603 1300 or 1333; www.budget.com.ve) and Hertz (tel: (0212) 355 1197 or 0800 800 0000; www.hertz.com.ve).

Bicycle hire: 

Cycling isn't recommended in Caracas unless you're happy taking your life into your own hands in the chaotic streets. Hiring bikes is also difficult.

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