Venezuela travel advice

Several large scale protest marches have taken place across Venezuela recently. Large scale demonstrations may turn violent, with little or no warning. You are advised to take particular care to avoid demonstrations

Travellers are advised against all travel to within 80 kms (50 miles) of the Colombian border in the states of Zulia, Tachira and Apure. We advise against all but essential travel to the remainder of Tachira and Apure states. Drug traffickers and illegal armed groups are active in these states and there is a risk of kidnapping. In addition, travellers should take particular care if attempting to cross in to Colombia from any state since border crossings can attract criminal activity. Travellers should only use official crossing points.

The incidence of street crime in Venezuela is high. It is not advisable to carry large amounts of money, wear valuable watches or jewellery or use mobile phones in the street.

There have been muggings and kidnappings by bogus taxi operators at Caracas International Airport (Maiquetia). The road from the airport to Caracas is dangerous. Where possible, journeys on this route should be made in daylight hours. There are significant delays on this route and travellers should allow extra time for the journey to and from the airport. The airport itself can be a dangerous place.

“Express kidnappings” are on the increase. Travellers should exercise caution when arriving in, and travelling around, Venezuela and be aware of the general risks of crime for visitors.

Penalties for handling illicit drugs are amongst the most severe in the Americas.

Political opinion in Venezuela is polarised. Demonstrations may take place with little warning and can turn violent. Many Venezuelans carry guns and the police and Guardia Nacional are heavily armed when involved in crowd control situations. Demonstrations are a regular occurrance in Venezuela. Travellers should exercise caution in Caracas and other major urban centres and avoid large public gatherings.

Cases of Dengue Fever are increasingly common throughout Venezuela and there is presently a confirmed outbreak in Amazonas State in the south of the country. There have been fatalities associated with this outbreak. Dengue is spread by mosquitoes. Travellers are advised to take appropriate precautions.

This advice is based on information provided by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office in the UK. It is correct at time of publishing. As the situation can change rapidly, visitors are advised to contact the following organisations for the latest travel advice:

British Foreign and Commonwealth Office
Tel: 0845 850 2829.
Website: www.fco.gov.uk

US Department of State
Website: http://travel.state.gov/travel