Travel Essentials › Venezuela
Travel Essentials
Plugs: Types A and B, 120 V. Emergency: One number for everything 911. Tipping: About 10% in restaurants, often in US dollars; small tips for porters and guides. Tap water: Drink bottled or treated water..
Types A and B, 120 V
| One number for everything | 911 |
About 10% in restaurants, often in US dollars; small tips for porters and guides.
Greetings. Venezuelans are warm and physical; a kiss on one cheek is common between women and between men and women, alongside a handshake.
Conversation. Politics and the economic crisis are sensitive, everyday topics for locals but visitors should let Venezuelans raise them rather than lead with criticism.
Dollars in cash. Carry small, clean US dollar bills; torn or marked notes are often refused, and card payments are unreliable outside upscale venues.
The US and other governments advise against travel to Venezuela due to violent crime, kidnapping risk, arbitrary detention and weak infrastructure, though a March 2026 downgrade eased the advisory from its highest level; conditions vary sharply by area and change quickly.
Fake police/military shakedowns. Men posing as officers flash fake badges and demand to search bags for drugs, then pocket cash; ask to see ID and, if possible, move to a public, populated place.
Airport taxi overcharging. Unofficial drivers inside arrivals quote fares in dollars then demand payment in bolivars at a poor rate; pre-arrange transport through your hotel instead.
Currency exchange short-changing. Vendors sometimes swap a large note for a smaller one while distracting you during change; count money carefully and use apps like Binance rate as a reference.
Women travelers. Venezuelan cities are patriarchal and harassment is usually verbal, but gender-based violence rates are high; women should avoid solo night outings, dress modestly, and use pre-arranged transport.
Legal · Use Caution
Same-sex sexual activity is legal and there are some hate-crime and employment discrimination protections, but same-sex marriage is not recognized and social acceptance is mixed, more tolerant in Caracas than in rural areas.
| Coffee (café) | $1.50 | $1.50 |
| Local bus or metro ride | Bs./varies (approx. $0.75) | $0.75 |
| Mid-range restaurant meal | $12 | $12 |
| Hostel bed / budget room (night) | $15 | $15 |
| Mid-range hotel (night) | $60 | $60 |
| Daily budget, mid-range traveler | $120 | $120 |
2026-09
The dry season from December to April offers the most reliable weather for the Andes, Los Roques and Canaima/Angel Falls, though the country is currently not recommended for travel due to security conditions.