Traveling through Venezuela presents various challenges and risks, and safety concerns are significant due to the country’s current socio-political and economic situation. Here are some factors to consider when assessing the safety of travel in Venezuela:
Political and Social Unrest
Venezuela has experienced prolonged political instability, with frequent protests, strikes, and clashes between government forces and opposition groups. This unrest can disrupt travel plans and pose risks to personal safety.
Crime and Security
Venezuela has a high crime rate, including violent crime, kidnappings, and theft. Petty crime such as pickpocketing and mugging is common, especially in urban areas. It is important to remain vigilant, avoid displaying valuables, and stay away from high-risk areas, particularly after dark. When I say “avoid displaying valuables” I mean, leave the house or the hotel without telephone, without your wallet and of course without and jewellery. It’s better to wear neutral clothing and shoes. It’s not like you have to panic but it’s true that the crime rate is high and it’s a violent crime. You might get shot for a pair of shoes so just avoid displaying your wealth.
Economic Conditions
The country faces severe economic difficulties, including hyperinflation, shortages of basic goods, and limited access to healthcare services. These conditions can affect the availability of essential items and the overall travel experience. This means you should bring the basic first aid kit. It’s not easy, if not impossible to find certain medicines, bandages or disinfectants. Food is available but don’t count on super fancy items. Strange but true, chinese shops are the ones with the best stock.
Infrastructure and Services
Due to the economic crisis, Venezuela’s infrastructure, including transportation and healthcare systems, has deteriorated. Power outages and water shortages are common, and public transportation can be unreliable. Ensure you have contingency plans for these challenges. It has happen to me that the busses were 4-5 hours late simply because they broke along the road. If you arrive to the big cities, such as Caracas, after the sunset, make sure you can call your hotel or a reliable taxi. Don’t trust random people who offer a drive.
Health Concerns
Medical facilities in Venezuela are often inadequate, especially outside major cities. As said, it can happen that there is lack of basic items, including medicines. Make sure you are in good health conditions and take extra precautions not to get hurt while hiking. Bring your own medicines and all the items you might need during this trip.
There is also a risk of diseases such as malaria and dengue fever in certain areas. Travelers should take appropriate health precautions, including vaccinations and carrying necessary medications.
Travel Precautions
If you decide to travel to Venezuela, consider the following precautions to enhance your safety:
- Stay Informed: Monitor local news and travel advisories from reliable sources, such as government agencies and international organizations.
- Use Trusted Transportation: Arrange transportation through reputable providers and avoid using public transportation, which may be unsafe.
- Secure Accommodation: Choose hotels or accommodations that have good security measures in place and are located in safer neighborhoods.
- Travel with a Guide: I traveled along with my partner without the necessity of a guide. We also visited couple of friend in Caracas and it all went well. However, many friends felt safer on an organized trip. Once landed in Caracas you can contact a local travel agency and hire a guide who will take care of transportation and accommodation. In addition to the traditional agencies that you will find in town check out these two websites where you will find local freelance guides:Tours by locals and Showaround
- Emergency Plans: Have a plan for emergencies, including knowing the location of your country’s embassy or consulate, and carry emergency contact information.
- Limit Cash and Valuables: Carry only what you need and use credit cards where possible. Avoid displaying expensive items such as jewelry, cameras, and electronics.
Specific Areas
Certain regions in Venezuela are known to be safer for tourists, such as the Los Roques Archipelago and Canaima National Park. These areas have definitely a better security and more infrastructure to support tourism.
Should I go or should I stay?
Go, of course but make sure to take the safety recommendations very seriously. Venezuela offers incredible natural beauty and cultural experiences, the current conditions require travelers to exercise a high degree of caution but it is really worth to travel across this country and meet the locals. Being unstabel and considered very unsafe, not many tourists decide to come here so you will defineetly avoid crowds while being here and you will be able to enjoy the real local experiences. No tourist traps.
Nomadlytics 
Leave a comment